Varanasi, India-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Ghats and City

  • 8:00 AM: Start your day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River (₹300-₹500 per person). Watch the city come alive as you glide past the various ghats.
  • 9:30 AM: Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat (free entry), one of the most iconic and sacred ghats in Varanasi. Take a stroll along the ghat, and interact with the locals.
  • 11:00 AM: Head to Kashi Vishwanath Temple (₹10 per person) to visit one of India’s twelve Jyotirlingas.
  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at Ganga Aarti Restaurant, which offers traditional Indian cuisine with a view of the Ganges. Try their signature dish, the “Kachoris”! (₹200-₹500 per meal)
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Banaras Hindu University campus, home to the beautiful Vishwanath Mandir and the peaceful Man Mahal.
  • 5:00 PM: Relax at your hotel or take a stroll along the ghats as you enjoy the sunset.

Where to Stay:

For Day 1, consider staying at:

  • Hotel Surya, a budget-friendly option with a great view of the city (₹800-₹1,200 per night)
  • The Gateway Hotel Ganges Varanasi, a mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms and a lovely garden (₹2,000-₹3,500 per night)

Transportation:

To get around Varanasi, use:

  • Rickshaws (₹20-₹50 per ride) or cycle rickshaws (₹10-₹20 per ride)
  • Tuk-tuks (₹100-₹200 per ride)
  • Local buses and auto-rickshaws for longer distances

Tips:

  • Be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting temples and ghats.
  • Try to avoid eating at touristy restaurants; opt for small eateries or street food stalls instead.
  • Learn a few basic Hindi phrases like “Namaste” (नमस्ते) and “Dhanyavad” (धन्यवाद).
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking frequently.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

  • 8:00 AM: Attend the early morning Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat (free entry). Witness the grand ritual where priests worship the Ganges.
  • 9:30 AM: Visit the Tibetan Temple, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Varanasi. Explore its beautiful courtyard and gardens.
  • 12:00 PM: Lunch at Ravi’s Restaurant, which serves delicious Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan cuisine (₹200-₹500 per meal).
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Varanasi Museum (₹10 per person), home to an impressive collection of ancient artifacts.
  • 4:00 PM: Explore the narrow alleys of Varanasi’s old city, taking in the sights and sounds.

Transportation:

Use:

  • Local buses and auto-rickshaws for shorter distances
  • Tuk-tuks (₹100-₹200 per ride) or cycle rickshaws (₹10-₹20 per ride)

Day 3: Excursions

  • 8:00 AM: Take a day trip to the nearby Sarnath archaeological site (₹25 per person). Visit the Dhamekh Stupa, the ruins of the ancient city, and the museum.
  • 12:30 PM: Lunch at Dhabha, a simple eatery near Sarnath serving delicious North Indian cuisine (₹100-₹200 per meal).
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the Ramnagar Fort (₹10 per person), the summer palace of the Maharaja of Benares. Explore its beautiful gardens and architecture.
  • 5:00 PM: Return to Varanasi for a relaxing evening.

Where to Stay:

For Day 3, consider staying at:

  • Hotel Surya, a budget-friendly option with a great view of the city (₹800-₹1,200 per night)
  • The Gateway Hotel Ganges Varanasi, a mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms and a lovely garden (₹2,000-₹3,500 per night)

Day 4: Relaxation

  • 9:00 AM: Spend your last morning in Varanasi exploring the city’s quieter areas or visiting any attractions you missed earlier.
  • 11:30 AM: Check out of your hotel and head to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.

Tips:

  • Don’t forget to take a moment to reflect on your experiences during your stay in Varanasi.
  • If you have time, try to catch a sunrise boat ride again before leaving the city.