Cultural and Spiritual Journey: Exploring Ayodhya and Varanasi in 3 Days

Day 1: Explore Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ram Ki Chai

Start your day with local delicacies like chai and kachori at this popular Ayodhya street vendor, opening from 7am to 11am.
INR50, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit Ram Janmabhoomi Complex

Explore the sacred birthplace of Lord Rama, featuring temples and the newly constructed Ram Mandir. This spiritual site is a must-visit and is open from 6am to 9pm.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Hanuman Garhi Temple

A renowned temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman located atop a hill offering panoramic views of Ayodhya; open from 5am to 8pm.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ram Rasoi

Taste traditional Awadhi thali with vegetarian delights served fresh at this local eatery open from 12pm to 3pm.
INR250, 1h0m

2:30pm

Saryu River Walk and Boat Ride

Enjoy a scenic walk along the banks of the Saryu River and take a peaceful boat ride; boat rides typically operate between 3pm and 6pm.
INR100, 2h0m

5:00pm

Attend Evening Aarti at Dashrath Ghat

Witness the spiritual sunset aarti on the Saryu riverbank, an immersive and serene cultural experience from 5pm to 7pm.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Lotus Cafe

Enjoy a mix of North Indian cuisine in a comfortable setting; open till 10pm.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 2: Travel to Varanasi and Explore

Ayodhya to Varanasi, India on May 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start early with a simple vegetarian breakfast at your hotel before your journey; available from 7am onwards.
INR150, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Varanasi

Travel by car or bus to Varanasi, approximately a 4-5 hour journey covering around 200 km.
INR1500, 5h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Kachori Gali

Enjoy local Varanasi street food such as kachori and jalebi at this famous lane in Varanasi town, open till late evening.
INR200, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the holiest Shiva temples in India, open throughout the day until 11pm; remember to carry valid ID and be prepared for queues.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Check In and Rest at Hotel in Varanasi

Settle into your hotel near the ghats for easy access to evening activities.
Varies, 1h0m

6:30pm

Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony conducted at sunset, a highlight of any visit to Varanasi, starting around 6:30pm.
Free, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery

Relax with continental and Indian fusion dishes in this quiet cafe near the ghats, open till 10pm.
INR500, 1h0m

Day 3: Explore Varanasi

Varanasi, India on May 20, 2025

5:00am

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Start early to catch the sunrise over the ghats and watch pilgrims performing rituals; boat rides are available from 5am to 8am.
INR300, 2h0m

8:30am

Breakfast at Blue Lassi Shop

Try refreshing traditional lassi (yogurt drink) along with light snacks at this popular shop, open from 7am to 11am.
INR100, 0h30m

9:30am

Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU) & Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Explore India's largest residential university campus and the adjoining museum showcasing Indian art and archaeology; open 9am to 5pm.
INR50, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Keshari Restaurant

Enjoy authentic vegetarian North Indian dishes in a traditional setting, open from 12pm to 3pm.
INR350, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Manikarnika and Assi Ghats

Witness the spiritual ceremonies and sights of these ghats; open to visitors throughout the day. Maintain respect for local customs and sensitivities.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Shopping in Varanasi's Silk Market

Browse exquisite Banarasi silk sarees and handicrafts in the local markets, open until 8pm.
Varies, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Taj Tea House

End your journey with a fusion of international and Indian cuisine in a charming cafe setting, open till 10pm.
INR500, 1h0m