Ultimate 1-Day Road Trip Itinerary in Banaras

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Banaras, India

6:30AM

Morning Ganga Aarti

Start your day with the spiritual experience of the morning Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where you can witness the peaceful rituals performed by priests against the backdrop of the rising sun.
Take a short walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat from your hotel, or hire an auto-rickshaw if you're staying farther away.
INR 0, 1 hour

7:30AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chaat Cafe

Savor a delicious breakfast featuring the local favorite, chaat, and try the aloo tikki chaat which bursts with flavors.
Located within walking distance from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Sarnath

Head to the nearby site of Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and explore the ancient ruins and the Sarnath Museum.
A 30-minute drive from Banaras, consider hiring a taxi for this trip.
INR 300 (taxi fare), 2 hours

10:30AM

Exploring Sarnath

Explore the Dhamek Stupa and the Ashoka Pillar, which are rich in history and reflect the essence of Buddhism.
All sites are within walking distance in Sarnath.
INR 0, 1 hour

11:30AM

Return to Banaras

Return to Banaras and get ready for the next adventures.
A 30-minute taxi ride back to the city.
INR 300, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Vishnu Tea Emporium

Enjoy a traditional Banarasi thali with a selection of local dishes that will fill your stomach and delight your taste buds.
Located centrally in Banaras, easy to reach by rickshaw.
INR 350, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visit the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, to immerse yourself in its rich culture.
A short auto-rickshaw ride from the lunch spot.
INR 0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Ghats

Stroll along the ghats of the Ganges River, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere and watching life unfold in this ancient city.
Walk along the river, starting from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat.
INR 0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Head to the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) for a glimpse of its beautiful architecture and historical significance.
A short taxi ride from the ghats.
INR 0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Great Indian Restaurant

Finish your day with a scrumptious dinner featuring a mix of traditional and modern Indian dishes, perfect for satisfying appetites.
Located conveniently near BHU, easily reachable by taxi.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Evening Boat Ride on the Ganges

Conclude your day with an enchanting boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the city illuminated at night while the sounds of the aarti fill the air.
Board boats from Dashashwamedh Ghat, available for hire.
INR 500, 1 hour

8:30PM

Return to your accommodation

Head back to your hotel or accommodation to relax after a fulfilling day in Banaras.
Use your hired taxi or auto-rickshaw for a quick ride back.
INR 200, 30 minutes
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