6-Day Adventure and Cultural Exploration in Varanasi for College Friends

Day 1: Arrival & Local Exploration

Varanasi, India on April 26, 2025

12:00pm

Check-in at Hotel Surya

Settle into a comfortable hotel near the ghats, giving easy access to major attractions.
INR2000, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy authentic local street food with a variety of chaats and snacks, popular among locals and visitors.
INR300, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat

Explore one of the busiest and most sacred ghats on the Ganges River, perfect for photography and immersing in local culture.
Free, 1.5h

4:30pm

Coffee break at Blue Lassi Shop

Refresh yourself with famous banana lassi or a cup of masala chai before an evening stroll.
INR100, 30m

6:00pm

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the magical evening Aarti ceremony with fire offerings and chanting, a highlight of Varanasi.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Savor delicious traditional Bhojpuri cuisine in a lively setting, perfect for group dinners.
INR800, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Boat Ride & Temple Visit

Varanasi, India on April 27, 2025

5:30am

Early Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Cruise along the river to witness sunrise and see spiritual rituals on the ghats. Boats are available from 5:00am to 7:30am.
INR600, 1.5h

8:30am

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Try fresh bakery items and healthy breakfast options with good coffee.
INR350, 1h

10:00am

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the famous gold-domed temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, a must-visit spiritual site.
Free, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Keshari Restaurant

Enjoy a variety of traditional Indian dishes including thalis that offer a taste of local cuisine.
INR600, 1h

2:00pm

Explore the local markets (Chandni Ghat)

Browse through colorful shops selling silk, incense, and souvenirs.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at the hotel or rooftop cafe

Unwind with tea or snacks taking in views of the ghats.
INR200, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Desh Da Dhaba

Taste rustic North Indian dishes in a casual ambiance popular with locals.
INR700, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Sarnath Excursion

Varanasi, India on April 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with fresh fruit and Indian staples.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Day trip to Sarnath

Visit the ancient Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the museum, stupas, and ruins. Open from 8am to 5pm.
INR40, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Sarnath Restaurant

Simple and tasty vegetarian fare near the archaeological site.
INR400, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Varanasi & rest

Relax at hotel to recharge.
Free, 2h

5:30pm

Evening walk along Assi Ghat

Enjoy a quieter ghat with chill vibes popular with young travelers and locals.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Sample a mix of international and Indian dishes with healthy options in a trendy setting.
INR900, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Fort & Shopping

Varanasi, India on April 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day with a hearty Indian breakfast.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the 17th-century fort and museum featuring royal artifacts, open 9am to 5pm.
INR50, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ramnagar local eatery

Eat authentic homemade-style local food near the fort.
INR350, 1h

1:30pm

Shopping at Vishwanath Lane

Shop for famous Banarasi silk sarees, scarves, and handicrafts.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Relax and freshen up at the hotel

Prepare for evening activities.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tadka

Dine at a popular restaurant known for its flavorful North Indian cuisine.
INR850, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: University & Culture

Varanasi, India on April 30, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy morning breakfast with local and international variety.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Explore the sprawling campus, Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and the architecture; campus open till 5pm.
INR20, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy tasty woodfire pizzas and casual international dishes with a hip crowd.
INR700, 1h

2:30pm

Rest at hotel

Recharge after sightseeing.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Attend Classical Music/Dance performance at Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Experience local performing arts in the spiritual atmosphere, shows usually start by 6pm on weekends.
INR500, 2h

8:30pm

Dinner at The Great Kabab Factory

Relish succulent kebabs and Indian grills in an upscale environment.
INR1200, 1.5h
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Easy Morning & Departure

Varanasi, India on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before checkout.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Walk in Tulsi Ghat and nearby lanes

Soak in the last moments of the spiritual vibe with a relaxed walk along the river.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Check out and travel to airport or railway station

Prepare for departure with well-timed transport to leave Varanasi.
INR500 (taxi), 1h
View Hotel Availability