Varanasi-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Places to Go:

  • Arrive at Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport (VNS) or take a train to Varanasi Junction
  • Check-in at your accommodation and freshen up
  • Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva
    • Take a stroll along the ghats on the banks of the Ganges River
  • Explore the narrow streets and alleys of the old city

Activities:

  • Take a sunset boat ride on the Ganges River ( approx. ₹100-150 per person)
  • Watch the evening prayer ceremony at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Where to Eat:

  • Sankat Mochan - a simple, yet delicious eatery serving traditional Indian cuisine
    • Must try: Thali (a mix of rice, lentils, and vegetables)

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Surya or Ganga Hotel for comfortable stays in the heart of Varanasi

Things to Know:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially during prayer ceremonies
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos on the streets

Transportation:

  • Tuk-tuks (auto-rickshaws) are readily available for transportation within the city
    • Negotiate prices before you start your journey

Day 2: Ghats and Palaces

Places to Go:

  • Visit the Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi
    • Watch the evening prayer ceremony at the nearby Vishwanath Temple
  • Explore the Ramnagar Fort and its beautiful gardens ( approx. ₹20-50 per person)
  • Take a stroll along the Man Mandir Ghat, famous for its intricate carvings

Activities:

  • Visit the Varanasi Museum to learn about the city’s history and culture
    • Explore the exhibits on ancient India, art, and artifacts (approx. ₹20-50 per person)

Where to Eat:

  • The Flying Elephant - a modern Indian restaurant serving innovative dishes

Tips:

  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples or mosques

Transportation:

  • Take a tuk-tuk or walk along the ghats for transportation within the city

Day 3: Excursions

Places to Go:

  • Visit Sarnath, a sacred Buddhist site ( approx. ₹50-100 per person)
    • Explore the ruins of the ancient monastery and temples
    • Watch the sunset at the Sarnath Temple

Activities:

  • Take a yoga class or meditation session in the morning
  • Learn about the city’s history and culture with a local guide

Where to Eat:

  • The Chatter House - a cozy restaurant serving international cuisine

Transportation:

  • Take a tuk-tuk or taxi for transportation within the city (approx. ₹50-100)

Things to Know:

  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples or mosques
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos on the streets

Day 4: Spiritual Experiences

Places to Go:

  • Visit the Manikarnika Ghat, a cremation site along the Ganges River
    • Watch the sunrise at the nearby Vishwanath Temple

Activities:

  • Participate in a spiritual yoga or meditation session in the morning
  • Learn about Hinduism and its significance with a local guide

Where to Eat:

  • Sankat Mochan - a simple, yet delicious eatery serving traditional Indian cuisine

Tips:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting temples or mosques
  • Take time to reflect on your experiences and learn from the locals

Transportation:

  • Take a tuk-tuk or walk along the ghats for transportation within the city

Day 5: Cultural Immersion

Places to Go:

  • Visit the Ganga Aarti, a ceremony performed by priests at the Dashashwamedh Ghat
    • Watch the evening prayer ceremony at the nearby Vishwanath Temple

Activities:

  • Attend a traditional Indian dance performance or music concert
  • Learn about local crafts and artisans with a visit to the Varanasi Market (approx. ₹20-50 per person)

Where to Eat:

  • The Flying Elephant - a modern Indian restaurant serving innovative dishes

Transportation:

  • Take a tuk-tuk or walk along the ghats for transportation within the city

Things to Know:

  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting temples or mosques
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos on the streets

Day 6: Departure

Places to Go:

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs at the Varanasi Market (approx. ₹20-50 per person)
    • Visit any last-minute attractions or landmarks

Activities:

  • Reflect on your experiences and memories from the past six days
    • Share stories with fellow travelers and locals

Where to Eat:

  • Sankat Mochan - a simple, yet delicious eatery serving traditional Indian cuisine

Tips:

  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting temples or mosques
  • Take time to reflect on your experiences and learn from the locals