Varanasi India 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Ghats

Morning

  • Arrive at Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (VNS) or Varanasi Junction Railway Station
  • Take a taxi or rickshaw to your hotel, located near the ghats (riverfront steps)
  • Check-in to Hotel Alka or similar

Afternoon

  • Visit Dasaswamedh Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi
  • Take a stroll along the River Ganges and observe the daily life of locals
  • Explore the nearby Manikarnika Ghat, known for its cremation grounds

Evening

  • Enjoy a sunset view at Assi Ghat, a popular spot for boat rides
  • Try some street food at Kachoris Wala, near Assi Ghat, and indulge in local snacks like kachoris and chai
  • In the evening, take a stroll through the narrow alleys of Varanasi and experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive touts
  • Respect the local culture and dress modestly
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak summer months (April-June) due to extreme heat

Day 2: Temples, Museums, and Food

Morning

  • Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Shiva temples in India
  • Explore the nearby Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which showcases Indian art and culture

Afternoon

  • Stop by Banaras Hindu University (BHU), a prestigious institution with beautiful gardens and architecture
  • Indulge in some local cuisine at Baati Chokha, known for its delicious thalis (platters) and chaat items

Evening

  • Take an evening stroll through the bustling streets of Chowk, a popular shopping district
  • Try some local desserts like rabri or jalebi at Pahalwan Ki Dukan

Tips and Insights

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and respect local customs
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions
  • Don’t forget to try some of the local fruits, like bananas and oranges, from street vendors

Day 3: Day Trip to Sarnath

Morning

  • Take a day trip to Sarnath, a sacred Buddhist site located about 13 km north of Varanasi
  • Visit Dhamek Stupa, a massive stupa built in the 3rd century BC
  • Explore the nearby Sarnath Museum, which houses ancient artifacts and relics

Afternoon

  • Stop by Chaukhandi Stupa, another important Buddhist site in Sarnath
  • Return to Varanasi in the evening and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Ganges

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Gateway Hotel’s GAD Restaurant, which serves delicious Indian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients
  • Take a leisurely walk around the ghats and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere

Tips and Insights

  • Sarnath is an important Buddhist site, so be respectful of the surroundings and customs
  • Don’t forget to try some of the local handicrafts, like Banarasi silk or wooden carvings

Day 4: Local Markets and Departure

Morning

  • Visit Golghar Market, a bustling marketplace selling everything from spices to clothing
  • Explore the nearby Thatheri Bazaar, known for its traditional Indian sweets and snacks

Afternoon

  • Return to your hotel, pack up, and check-out
  • Take a taxi or rickshaw to the airport or railway station for your departure

Tips and Insights

  • Be prepared for aggressive vendors at local markets
  • Don’t forget to bargain and negotiate prices
  • Respect the local environment and try to reduce your plastic usage during your trip

Transportation

  • Taxi: Available at the airport and railway station, or book in advance through services like Ola or Uber
  • Rickshaw: A fun and affordable way to get around the city, but be prepared for bumpy rides
  • Walking: The best way to explore the ghats and narrow alleys of Varanasi

Accommodation

Eating Out

Things to Know

  • Respect local customs and dress modestly
  • Be prepared for crowded streets and aggressive touts
  • Try to avoid traveling during peak summer months (April-June) due to extreme heat