Comprehensive 3-Day Cultural and Spiritual Itinerary in Varanasi, India

Day 1: Ghats and Spirituality

Varanasi, India on April 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kashi Chai Wala

Start your day with authentic Kashi-style chai and light snacks in this popular local tea stall near the ghats, perfect for an energizing breakfast before exploring.

INR50, 0h30m

8:00am

Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges

Witness the magnificent sunrise while cruising the holy Ganges river, offering unparalleled views of the ghats and morning rituals of pilgrims. The boat ride typically lasts around 1.5 hours.

INR600, 1h30m

10:00am

Walk Along the Dashashwamedh Ghat

Explore one of the oldest and most vibrant ghats in Varanasi, witnessing everyday religious activities and local life by the river.

Free, 1h

11:00am

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Experience one of India's most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, with rich history and spiritual importance. Note temple opens from 5:30am to 11:00pm.

Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Blue Lassi

Savor traditional lassi and light snacks at this popular spot in Varanasi, known for its refreshing beverages after a morning of sightseeing.

INR150, 0h45m

1:30pm

Rest at Hotel

Take some time to relax and rejuvenate at your hotel after a busy morning before afternoon exploration.

Varies, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore Manikarnika Ghat

Observe the most famous cremation ghat on the Ganges, offering profound insight into local customs around life and death in Varanasi.

Free, 1h

4:30pm

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its inscriptions of the Ramcharitmanas on red sandstone walls, open until 7:00pm.

Free, 1h

6:00pm

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the spectacular evening prayer ceremony on the banks of the Ganges, a vibrant and moving cultural highlight of Varanasi, starts at 6:30pm.

Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy delicious wood-fired pizzas and other Indian fusion dishes in a relaxed garden setting, a nice break from typical cuisine.

INR500, 1h

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Day 2: Temples and Museums

Varanasi, India on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Baati Chokha

Try traditional Bihari breakfast dishes including litti chokha in this well-known local restaurant.

INR120, 0h45m

9:00am

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Campus Walk

Explore the sprawling university campus including the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum which features Indian art, sculptures and textiles. The museum opens from 10:00am to 4:30pm (closed Mondays).

INR100, 2h

11:30am

Visit Ram Nagar Fort and Museum

Situated on the eastern bank of the Ganges, this historic fort displays royal collections and antiques. It's open from 9:00am to 5:00pm, closed Wednesdays.

INR150, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Gulaal

Enjoy authentic Indian cuisine with a rooftop view overlooking the city, perfect for a midday break.

INR400, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

This revered temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman is peaceful and open from early morning until late evening.

Free, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Assi Ghat

One of the southernmost ghats, featuring peaceful riverfront views and local vendors, ideal for evening strolls.

Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

This cozy cafe is famous for its healthy and organic food options, perfect for dinner after a full day.

INR350, 1h

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Day 3: Sarnath Historical Tour

Varanasi, India on April 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast at your hotel to start your day comfortably before heading out.

Varies, 0h45m

8:30am

Travel to Sarnath

Sarnath is about 10 km from Varanasi and takes roughly 30 minutes by road.

INR300 (taxi), 0h30m

9:00am

Visit Sarnath Archaeological Site

Explore the ruins where Buddha gave his first sermon, including the famous Ashoka Pillar. The site is open from 8:00am to 6:00pm.

INR30, 2h

11:30am

Visit Sarnath Museum

The museum houses artifacts excavated from the site including exquisite sculptures from ancient India. It operates from 10:00am to 5:00pm, closed Fridays.

INR20, 1h