Five-Day Spiritual Journey Through Varanasi, Ayodhya, Vrindavan, and Barsana

Day 1: Varanasi Spiritual Start

Varanasi, India on June 2, 2025

7:30am

Assi Ghat Sunrise Boat Ride

Experience a serene sunrise boat ride along the Ganges River to witness early morning rituals and the spiritual awakening of Varanasi by the riverbanks.
INR500, 1h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy traditional Varanasi snacks like kachori sabzi and chai at this iconic eatery loved by locals, open from 7am to 2pm.
INR150, 45m

10:30am

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, renowned for its stunning architecture and deep spiritual significance.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Relish the rustic flavours of traditional Bhojpuri cuisine in a cosy setting, open from 12pm to 4pm.
INR300, 1h

3:00pm

Sarnath Visit

Take a short trip to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon; explore the archaeological museum and peaceful ruins.
INR200, 3h

6:30pm

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the captivating evening Ganga Aarti ceremony with chants, lamps, and devotional music, a highlight of Varanasi's spiritual atmosphere.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at The Palate

Dine at The Palate offering a fine selection of Indian and continental dishes, open until 10pm.
INR700, 1h30m

Day 2: Ayodhya Devotion

Ayodhya, India on June 3, 2025

6:00am

Travel to Ayodhya

Drive from Varanasi to Ayodhya, approximately 4 hours, encouraging an early start to maximise sightseeing time.
INR1500 (cab), 4h

10:30am

Breakfast at local eatery

Try local delicacies like malpua and jalebi at a traditional Ayodhya breakfast spot.
INR200, 45m

11:30am

Visit Ram Janmabhoomi Temple

Explore the sacred birthplace of Lord Rama, a site of immense religious importance and pilgrimage.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Ram Ki Paidi Restaurant

Taste authentic Awadhi cuisine including kebabs and biryani at this popular spot open till 3pm.
INR400, 1h

2:45pm

Hanuman Garhi Temple

Visit this iconic temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, prominent for its impressive fort-like structure and religious fervour.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Saryu River Walk

Stroll along the peaceful banks of the Saryu River, soaking in local devotional life and temples lining the river.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Evening Aarti at Saryu Ghat

Participate in or observe the evening Aarti, an enchanting spiritual ritual performed on the river steps.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Cafe Coffee Day

Relax with a light dinner and refreshments in a casual cafe environment, open until 10pm.
INR300, 1h

Day 3: Vrindavan Devotional Highlights

Vrindavan, India on June 4, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Vrindavan

Set off early for the 2.5-hour journey from Ayodhya to Vrindavan to maximise your day exploring the holy town.
INR1200 (cab), 2h30m

10:00am

Breakfast at Brijwasi Sweets

Enjoy local sweets and a light breakfast known for its delicious peda and lassi, open from 7am.
INR150, 30m

10:30am

Banke Bihari Temple

Visit one of the most famous temples in Vrindavan dedicated to Lord Krishna, noted for its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful idol.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Visit ISKCON Temple

Explore the magnificent ISKCON Temple, an architectural marvel and important devotional site promoting Krishna devotion worldwide.
Free, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Govinda’s Restaurant

Relish pure vegetarian prasadam meals served in a peaceful spiritual environment, open till 3pm.
INR350, 1h

3:00pm

Yamuna River Walk

Take a meditative walk along the Yamuna River where many devotees come for rituals and spiritual solace.
Free, 1h

4:30pm

Prem Mandir Visit

Visit the stunning Prem Mandir temple known for its intricate carvings and beautiful gardens, open 8am-8pm.
INR40, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Punjabi Rasoi

Enjoy wholesome North Indian cuisine with a cosy ambiance, open until 9pm.
INR500, 1h

Day 4: Barsana’s Spiritual Essence

Barsana, India on June 5, 2025

7:30am

Travel to Barsana

Drive the short 1-hour journey from Vrindavan to Barsana, the birthplace of Radha, to immerse in its spiritual charm.
INR800 (cab), 1h

8:30am

Breakfast at local dhaba

Fuel up with simple local breakfast fare like parathas served with yogurt and pickles.
INR100, 30m

9:00am

Visit Radha Rani Temple

Explore this sacred temple dedicated to Goddess Radha, known for its impressive architecture and devotional atmosphere.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Barsana Hill Climb

Climb the holy hill on which Barsana rests, taking in views and visiting smaller shrines along the path, a spiritually uplifting experience.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at local restaurant

Enjoy traditional vegetarian dishes like dal bati and kadhi in the heart of Barsana.
INR300, 1h

2:30pm

Attend local devotional music session

Experience live bhajans and kirtans, immersing in the rich devotional culture unique to Barsana (check schedule locally).
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Relax at Barsana Market

Browse the local markets selling handcrafted religious items, textiles, and sweets.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Drive back to Varanasi

Return to Varanasi (5-6 hour journey) to prepare for departure next day; consider departing early to arrive by late night.
INR2000 (cab), 5h30m

8:00pm

Light Dinner on the way

Stop at roadside dhaba for a quick, light meal such as tea and snacks.
INR150, 30m

Day 5: Reflective Departure

Varanasi, India on June 6, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Blue Lassi

Enjoy a refreshing breakfast with the iconic Blue Lassi drinks and light snacks, open from 8am.
INR200, 45m

10:00am

Explore Varanasi Markets

Spend a relaxed morning wandering the vibrant markets of Varanasi for souvenirs like silk scarves, incense, and religious artefacts.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar

Savour famous chaat and light street food classics in this legendary Varanasi eatery, open till 3pm.
INR150, 1h

2:00pm

Departure

Prepare for your onward journey, having immersed yourself in a deeply spiritual exploration of these sacred towns.
Varies, Varies