Varanasi, India-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Spiritual Heart of India

Morning

  • 6:00 AM: Start your day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River (₹200-300 per person). This will give you a serene and peaceful experience, watching the city wake up.
  • 7:30 AM: Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi. Take a stroll along the riverbank and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Head to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (shrines of Lord Shiva) in India. Be prepared for a crowded and chaotic experience, but it’s worth it.
  • 2:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at Lotus Lounge, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Ganges River. Try their veg thali (₹250).

Evening

  • 5:00 PM: Explore the narrow alleys and streets of Old Varanasi, getting lost in the historic quarter.
  • 7:00 PM: Watch the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a spectacular display of lights, music, and spirituality.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel Alka (₹2,500-5,000 per night): A comfortable hotel with clean rooms and a rooftop restaurant.
  • Maha Bodhi International Meditation Centre (₹800-1,500 per night): A peaceful and serene option for those looking for a spiritual retreat.

Tips

  • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive touts.
  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and ghats.
  • Try to avoid taking pictures of locals without their permission.

Day 2: Exploring the Cultural Heritage

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Take a stroll through the beautiful campus and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the Weaver’s Village, where you can see artisans weaving traditional Banarasi sarees.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Head to Ramnagar Fort, a historic fort located on the opposite bank of the Ganges River. Take a guided tour (₹150) and enjoy the stunning views of the city.
  • 3:30 PM: Visit Sarnath Museum, which houses a rich collection of artifacts and relics from the Buddhist era.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy a traditional Indian dinner at Ganga Fuji Restaurant (₹500-800 per person).
  • 8:00 PM: Take a stroll along the riverbank, enjoying the cool evening breeze.

Transportation

  • Auto-rickshaws are widely available and cost around ₹100-200 for short distances.
  • Cycle-rickshaws are also an option, but be prepared to haggle over prices.

Day 3: Exploring the Local Markets

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit Golghar, a historic market place where you can find everything from spices to handicrafts.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the Thatheri Bazaar, a colorful market selling traditional Banarasi items like sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at Blue Lassi, a popular restaurant serving traditional Indian cuisine (₹200-300 per person).
  • 2:30 PM: Visit Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest ghats in Varanasi, where you can see Hindu cremations taking place.

Evening

  • 5:00 PM: Take a farewell sunset boat ride on the Ganges River (₹200-300 per person).
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at The Pizzeria (₹500-800 per person), serving delicious wood-fired pizzas.

Other Tips and Information

  • Varanasi is a city that operates on its own pace, so be prepared to adjust your expectations.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and ghats.
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak summer months (May-June) when temperatures can soar up to 45°C.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Varanasi!