3-Day Cultural and Spiritual Journey in Varanasi, India

Day 1: Spiritual Ghats Walk

Varanasi, India on June 10, 2025

6:00am

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Start the day with an early morning boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the sunrise and morning rituals on the ghats, a quintessential Varanasi experience.
INR500, 1h30m

8:00am

Breakfast at Blue Lassi

Enjoy traditional North Indian breakfast items like kachori and lassi at this well-known local spot famed for refreshing drinks and quick bites.
INR150, 0h45m

9:00am

Explore Dashashwamedh Ghat

Walk along this most prominent ghat featuring vibrant morning scenes and preparations for the nightly Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visit this famous Shiva temple located very close to the ghats, offering deep spiritual insight and rich architecture.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Try local street food specialties like chaat and petha at this popular eatery that serves authentic Varanasi flavors.
INR200, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Explore this museum that houses an impressive collection of Indian paintings, Hindu and Buddhist sculptures, and textiles.
INR40, 2h

5:00pm

Relax Tea Break at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy fresh bakery items and organic teas at this cozy spot loved by tourists and locals alike.
INR150, 0h45m

7:00pm

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the mesmerizing nightly fire ritual performed by priests on the ghats, a must-see cultural spectacle available daily.
Free, 1h

8:30pm

Dinner at Lotus Lounge, Taj Ganges

Dine in style with a selection of Indian and international cuisines overlooking the river in the luxury hotel setting.
INR1500, 1h30m
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Day 2: Temple and Market Tour

Varanasi, India on June 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Baati Chokha

Enjoy a traditional Bihari breakfast with baati, chokha, and fresh tea, a simple yet authentic meal to start the day.
INR180, 0h45m

8:30am

Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Visit this revered temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, famous for its peaceful environment and spiritual significance.
Free, 1h

10:00am

Tour Tulsi Manas Mandir

Explore this beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama, featuring scriptures of Ramcharitmanas inscribed on its walls.
Free, 45m

11:00am

Shopping at Vishwanath Gali Market

Wander this bustling street market for souvenirs like silk scarves, incense, jewelry, and handicrafts.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Have a light, healthy lunch with baked goods and salads in a tranquil setting.
INR250, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore this historic fort and museum on the eastern bank of the Ganges, showcasing royal artifacts and stunning views.
INR80, 2h

5:00pm

Evening Walk at Assi Ghat

Relax with a serene riverside walk at this quieter ghat where locals gather for yoga and social activities.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Deena Chat Bhandar

Taste some of the best street food in Varanasi with an array of chaats, kebabs, and sweets in a lively ambiance.
INR300, 1h
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Day 3: Sarnath Excursion

Sarnath, near Varanasi, India on June 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a hearty buffet breakfast at your hotel in Varanasi to fuel the day trip ahead.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Travel to Sarnath

Take a short 30-minute drive to the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon.
INR400 taxi fare, 0h30m

8:30am

Visit Sarnath Archaeological Museum

See artifacts from ancient Buddhist sites and learn about the history and significance of Sarnath.
INR100, 1h

9:30am

Explore Dhamek Stupa and Monastic Ruins

Walk around the impressive Dhamek Stupa and nearby ruins that mark the place of Buddha’s first teachings.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Visit Mulagandha Kuti Vihar

Admire the Buddhist temple’s stunning murals and peaceful gardens, reflecting classical Buddhist art.
Free, 45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Sarnath Deer Park Restaurant

Enjoy light Indian meals in this well-reviewed restaurant near the archaeological sites.
INR300, 1h

1:30pm

Return to Varanasi

Drive back to Varanasi city center to relax or explore more at your leisure.
INR400 taxi fare, 0h30m

2:00pm

Free Time / Shopping

Use this time to revisit markets or relax by the ghats before departure.
Free, 3h

5:30pm

Early Dinner at Patatukaa

Wrap up your trip with a delicious, contemporary Indian dinner at this popular modern restaurant in Varanasi.
INR800, 1h30m
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