One Day Magic in Varanasi: Temples and Ghats

Day 1: Temples and Ghats

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar, famous for its traditional Banarasi breakfast including kachoris and jalebis.
Located near the Assi Ghat; a short walk to start your day.
INR 200, 1 Hour

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience a serene boat ride on the Ganges River at dawn, witnessing the rituals and morning activities on the ghats, providing a spiritual and memorable experience.
Grab a boat from Assi Ghat for stunning views.
INR 500, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

After your boat ride, visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, rich in history and devotion.
It's a short walk to the temple from the ghats.
Free, 1 Hour

11:00AM

Explore Manikarnika Ghat

Take a stroll to Manikarnika Ghat, the main cremation ghat of Varanasi, where you can witness the profound rituals and the continuous cycle of life and death.
Walk along the riverfront; it's an iconic part of Varanasi.
Free, 1 Hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a satisfying lunch at Brown Bread Bakery, known for its fresh, organic dishes and a lovely garden ambiance, offering a mix of cuisines including Indian and Italian.
A short rickshaw ride away from the ghats.
INR 600, 1 Hour

2:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a taxi to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha delivered his first sermon, featuring ancient ruins, stupas, and the Sarnath Museum.
It's approximately 10 km from Varanasi; a great historical trip.
INR 300 (for local taxi), 3 Hours

5:30PM

Return to Varanasi and Explore Durga Temple

Head back to Varanasi and visit the Durga Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, known for its striking architecture and picturesque surroundings.
A 30-minute taxi ride back to Varanasi.
Free, 1 Hour

7:00PM

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

End your beautiful day by witnessing the majestic Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a grand spiritual ceremony held every evening that draws large crowds.
Easily reachable by foot from the nearby temples.
Free, 1 Hour

8:30PM

Dinner at Vaatika Cafe

Conclude your day with dinner at Vaatika Cafe, loved for its diverse menu featuring both Indian and continental dishes, set in a charming and tranquil ambiance.
A short walk from the ghat area.
INR 500, 1.5 Hours
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