Explore the Spiritual Heart of India: 3-Day Varanasi Itinerary

Day 1: Sacred River Experience

Varanasi, India on April 15, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Bread of Life

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bread of Life, famous for their fresh pastries and comforting coffee. A quintessential spot to fuel up before exploring.
INR250, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat

Head over to Dashashwamedh Ghat, the most famous ghat in Varanasi, where you can witness locals performing rituals and offerings. It's an essential spiritual experience.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Enjoy a serene boat ride on the Ganges River to view the ghats from the water. This tranquil experience is best enjoyed in the morning light.
INR300, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered temples in India. Note that the dress code is strict, so plan accordingly.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Savor some local street food specialties at Kashi Chat Bhandar, known for its chaat and lassi. A great spot to taste the local flavors.
INR150, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Sarnath

Take a short drive (30 minutes) to Sarnath, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site where Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa and the Archaeological Museum.
INR50, 3 hours

6:00PM

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Return to Varanasi for the captivating evening Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where you can experience the spiritual fervor as prayers are sung to the river.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Dilliwala

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Dilliwala, known for its north Indian cuisine, including biryanis and kebabs. A satisfying end to a busy day.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Buddhist Heritage

Sarnath, India on April 16, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Corner

Grab breakfast at The Corner, popular for its American breakfast options, including pancakes and omelets, to gear up for the day ahead.
INR300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Sarnath Museum

Visit the Sarnath Museum that has an extensive collection of Buddhist artifacts, sculptures, and relics, showcasing the rich history of Buddhism.
INR20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Thai Temple

Check out the Thai Temple, known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings. It's a peaceful spot for reflection and admiration.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Ganga View Restaurant

Relish authentic Indian dishes with a stunning view of the Ganges at Ganga View Restaurant, making for a perfect lunchtime setting.
INR500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Dhamek Stupa

Explore the iconic Dhamek Stupa at Sarnath, a monument built in the 6th century AD and an important site for Buddhist pilgrims worldwide.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Varanasi and Stroll the Old City

Return to Varanasi and wander through the narrow lanes of the Old City, witnessing local life, shops, and historical architecture.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Vishal’s

Enjoy casual dining at Vishal’s, where you can experience authentic vegetarian Indian cuisine that supports local farmers.
INR350, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Insights

Varanasi, India on April 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Kickstart your day at Aum Cafe, a cozy spot known for its organic breakfast options, including fresh juices and wholesome dishes.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Visit Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest cremation ghats, to understand the cultural significance of life and death in Varanasi.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Banaras Hindu University

Take a tour around the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia, and appreciate its lush surroundings.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a light and healthy lunch at Brown Bread Bakery, known for its homemade breads and organic offerings that are perfect for a refreshing meal.
INR300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Gyanvapi Mosque

Explore the Gyanvapi Mosque, located adjacent to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, to understand the historical connections between different religions in Varanasi.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Last-minute Shopping at Thatheri Bazaar

Spend the afternoon shopping at Thatheri Bazaar for local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs to take home. Experience the local market culture.
Variable, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Kashi Kitchen

Finish your trip with a memorable dinner at The Kashi Kitchen, known for its fusion dishes that highlight local ingredients and culinary traditions.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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