Essential 3-Day Varanasi Itinerary: Spiritual and Cultural Exploration

Day 1: Ghats and Temples

Varanasi, India on May 2, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Blue Lassi

Enjoy traditional Indian lassi and light breakfast items at this popular spot, ideal for an energizing start before sightseeing.
INR50, 0h30m

8:00am

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Take an early morning boat ride from Dashashwamedh Ghat to catch the sunrise and witness spiritual rituals along the riverbanks, a quintessential Varanasi experience.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva; note the temple is open from 6:00am to 11:00pm daily.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Walk along the Ghats

Stroll along Manikarnika and Assi Ghats to observe daily life, rituals, and cremation ceremonies that highlight Varanasi's spiritual significance.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Kashi Chaat Bhandar

Savor local street food specialties like chaat and kachori in this vibrant eatery near the ghats, open till evening.
INR150, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Campus

Explore the lush campus and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum to see a rich collection of Indian paintings and artifacts; open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
INR50, 2h0m

5:00pm

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the renowned Ganga Aarti ceremony conducted at sunset, illuminating the river with flames and chants; starts at 6:30pm daily.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with options for both Indian and Italian cuisine, just a short walk from the ghats, open until 10:00pm.
INR400, 1h0m
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Day 2: Sarnath Tour

Varanasi, India on May 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Taste of Sarnath

Start your day with freshly prepared Indian breakfast items focusing on local flavors, situated near Sarnath entrance.
INR100, 0h45m

8:00am

Visit Sarnath Archaeological Site

Explore the ancient site where Buddha gave his first sermon including the Dhamek Stupa and other ruins; open 6:00am to 6:00pm.
INR50, 2h0m

10:30am

Sarnath Museum

Visit this museum to see exceptional Buddhist art and relics, showcasing the heritage of the area; open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
INR30, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Mango Tree

Dine on a serene rooftop garden setting offering a mix of Indian and international dishes, open from 11:00am to 3:00pm.
INR500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Sarnath Buddhist Temple Complex

Visit modern monasteries and temples from various Buddhist traditions, reflecting the area's spiritual diversity; open until sunset.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return to Varanasi and Rest

Take time to rest and refresh at your accommodation after the morning's explorations.
N/A, 1h30m

6:00pm

Evening Walk in Old Varanasi Streets

Wander through the bustling markets for handicrafts, textiles, and local snacks in the cooler evening hours.
Free, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Enjoy traditional Bihari dishes in an authentic ambiance, open till 10:00pm.
INR350, 1h0m
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Day 3: Riverside and Culture

Varanasi, India on May 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy healthy and organic meals with a view of the Ganges, offering international and local breakfast options from 8:00am.
INR300, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore this 17th-century fort and palace on the eastern bank of the river, including its museum with royal artifacts; open 9:00am to 6:30pm.
INR40, 2h0m

11:30am

Walk through Banaras Silk Weaving Workshops

Discover traditional silk weaving and shop for exquisite Banarasi sarees directly from local artisans.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Baaraat Cafe

Relax and enjoy fusion cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere, open from 12:00pm to 4:00pm.
INR450, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Visit this temple famous for its engraved marble walls displaying the Ramcharitmanas, the epic poem by Tulsidas; open 5:00am to 12:00pm and 3:30pm to 8:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Relax at the Ganges Riverside Parks

Spend a peaceful late afternoon at parks like Bharat Kala Bhavan or local riverside spots to unwind before departure.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Melt in Your Mouth

Dine on gourmet Indian cuisine with stellar views of the ghats; open until 10:30pm.
INR600, 1h30m
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