3-Day Budget Itinerary from Guwahati to Varanasi: Culture, Spirituality & Local Flavors

Day 1: Travel & Ghats Exploration

Guwahati - Varanasi, India on May 31, 2025

5:00AM

Travel to Varanasi

Begin early morning journey via budget-friendly train or bus. Ticket costs around INR 700-1000 and journey takes about 12 hours.
INR700, 12h0m

5:00PM

Check-in Budget Accommodation

Settle into a guesthouse or hostel near the Ghats with nightly rates between INR 300-600 for comfort and proximity.
INR500, 0h30m

6:00PM

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Attend the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony performed at sunset, a must-see free cultural experience lasting about 1 hour.
Free, 1h0m

7:30PM

Dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner with traditional chaat and refreshing lassi, well-loved by locals and tourists alike.
INR100, 1h0m

Day 2: Temples & Historical Sites

Varanasi, India on June 1, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Lassi

Start with a tasty and affordable breakfast featuring fresh fruit lassis and local snacks, costs under INR 60.
INR50, 0h45m

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Take a one-hour boat ride priced around INR 200 to witness the spiritual morning rituals at the Ghats.
INR200, 1h0m

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the iconic temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, an important religious site with free entry and serene atmosphere.
Free, 1h30m

11:00AM

Sarnath Excursion

Travel by shared auto or bus (INR 50) to Sarnath to explore the Buddhist ruins and museums, entry fees included in travel budget.
INR50, 3h0m

2:00PM

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Enjoy an affordable vegetarian thali at a roadside dhaba for approximately INR 150 to recharge after sightseeing.
INR150, 1h0m

3:30PM

Walk Through Old City Markets

Stroll around markets selling fabrics and handicrafts, perfect for cultural insights and budget souvenirs, free to walk.
Free, 2h0m

6:00PM

Dinner at Annapurna Restaurant

Relish classic North Indian dishes in this economical eatery with meal prices around INR 200.
INR200, 1h0m

Day 3: Fort & Markets

Varanasi, India on June 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ram Lassi

Relish a hearty breakfast of traditional lassis and snacks, with costs under INR 60, gateway to local flavors.
INR50, 0h45m

9:00AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the historic Rajput fort/festival grounds located on the banks of the Ganges, entry approximately INR 25, open from 9AM-5PM.
INR25, 2h0m

11:30AM

Local Market Shopping

Explore local artisan markets for last-minute affordable souvenirs and handicrafts; browsing is free, shopping as per choice.
Free, 1h30m

1:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Enjoy traditional Bihari cuisine at reasonable prices, with hearty meals for around INR 150.
INR150, 1h0m

2:30PM

Relax by the Ghats / Prepare for Departure

Spend peaceful moments by the Ganges or pack before departure. This helps conclude your Varanasi experience gently.
Free, 2h0m

4:30PM

Tea & Snacks at Local Stall

Savor a final taste of local chai and snacks costing about INR 50 before heading out.
INR50, 0h30m