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This itinerary covers 3 days in varanasi, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

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Plan your perfect 3 days trip to varanasi. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

3-Day Spiritual and Cultural Tour of Varanasi, India

Viewed by 52 travelers

Day 1: Ghats and Temples

Varanasi, India on June 13, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Keshari Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Indian breakfast dishes like poha, jalebi, and chai at this popular local spot. Opens at 7 AM.

INR150, 1h

8:30AM

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges River

Witness the sunrise over the sacred river and the famous ghats as locals perform morning rituals. Boat rides typically start early around 6 AM and continue until late morning.

INR300, 1h

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visit the temple complex and absorb its spiritual atmosphere. Open from 5 AM to 11 PM.

Free, 1h

11:30AM

Walk around Manikarnika and Dashashwamedh Ghats

Observe the busiest cremation ghats and the older Dashashwamedh Ghats, learning about their significance in Hindu beliefs.

Free, 1h30m

1:00PM

Lunch at Blue Lassi Shop

Try refreshing lassis, snacks like samosas, and light Indian meals at this iconic spot near the ghats. Open till 7 PM.

INR200, 1h

2:30PM

Rest at hotel

Take a break to relax and recharge for the evening activities.

Free, 2h

5:00PM

Attend the Ganga Aarti Ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the mesmerizing evening fire ritual on the riverbank performed by priests, showcasing devotion and spirituality. Ceremony starts at 6 PM.

Free, 1h

7:00PM

Dinner at Mandu Kitchen

Dine on authentic Awadhi and North Indian cuisine including delicious kebabs and curries in a cozy setting. Open till 11 PM.

INR700, 1h30m

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Day 2: Sarnath and Markets

Varanasi, India on June 14, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy fresh bakery products and coffee in this charming café, open from 7 AM, known for its organic and wholesome menu.

INR300, 1h

9:00AM

Visit Sarnath Archaeological Site

Explore the birthplace of Buddha's first sermon, including stupas, ruins, and the Sarnath Museum, open 9 AM to 5 PM.

INR50, 3h

12:30PM

Lunch at Sativa - The Vegan Café

Dine on healthy, plant-based dishes and fresh juices in a peaceful garden setting. Open 11 AM to 6 PM.

INR600, 1h

2:00PM

Explore Varanasi’s Local Bazaars

Shop for Banarasi silk sarees, handicrafts, and street food in markets like Vishwanath Gali and Thateri Bazaar.

Free, 2h

4:30PM

Tea at The Peacock Rooftop Café

Relax with a cup of chai and panoramic views of the city and river, open till 9 PM.

INR250, 1h

6:30PM

Evening Walk Along Assi Ghat

Enjoy the lively atmosphere, street performers, and local food vendors along this popular ghat.

Free, 1h30m

8:00PM

Dinner at Taj Nadesar Palace

Experience fine dining with traditional Indian flavors in this luxury heritage hotel restaurant. Open for dinner till 11 PM.

INR1200, 1h30m

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Day 3: Culture and Departure

Varanasi, India on June 15, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Lotus Lounge, BrijRama Palace

Enjoy a serene breakfast by the river with organic and western options available. Opens at 7 AM.

INR500, 1h

9:00AM

Visit Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Explore a rich collection of Indian paintings, Hindu and Buddhist sculptures, and artifacts. Museum hours 10 AM to 5 PM.

INR40, 2h

11:30AM

Explore Ramnagar Fort

Tour this 18th-century fort and museum with royal artifacts and an impressive collection of vintage cars. Open 9 AM to 5 PM.

INR80, 1h30m

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Ganges

Relax with a fusion menu of continental and Indian dishes in a calm atmosphere. Open till 3 PM.

INR400, 1h

2:30PM

Free Time for Souvenir Shopping or Rest

Spend your last hours in Varanasi picking up souvenirs or resting at your hotel before departure.

Free, 2h

4:30PM

Departure from Varanasi

Head to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.

Varies, Varies

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Itinerary created by Plantrip Team June 13, 2025 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Step 1 Outline Preview:

3-Day Spiritual and Cultural Tour of Varanasi, India

Day 1: Ghats and Temples

7:30AM

8:30AM

10:00AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Sarnath and Markets

7:30AM

9:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

4:30PM

6:30PM

8:00PM

Day 3: Culture and Departure

7:30AM

9:00AM

11:30AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

4:30PM

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