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5 Days in Varanasi: Unveiling the Spiritual and Cultural Wonders

Aditya Pore

Aditya Pore

19 Jan 2024

Embark on a soul-stirring journey through the ancient city of Varanasi, where spirituality and culture intertwine. Immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions as you explore iconic landmarks, indulge in local delicacies, and witness mesmerizing rituals along the sacred Ganges River.

Trip to Varanasi

Day 1Museums, Temples, and Authentic Cuisine
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$107

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$ 3

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
University museum focused on art & archeology, with sculptures, paintings, jewelry, textiles & more.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
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$20
14 - 17 min

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Directions

Shri Satyanarayan Tulsi Manas Mandir
Stately Hindu temple with white marble construction, landscaped gardens & numerous engravings.
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
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$10
34 - 41 min

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Directions

Ashoka Pillar
Glass enclosure containing sandstone remains of an ancient column built by Emperor Ashoka.
11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
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$5
3 - 4 min

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Directions

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
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$36
26 - 32 min

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Directions

Sri Annapurna
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
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$36
Day 2Ghat Hopping and Culinary Delights
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$90

Dashashwamedh Ghat
Bustling riverside steps down to the Ganges River, used for religious rituals daily.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
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Free
6 - 9 min

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Directions

Nepali Temple
Commissioned by an exiled 19th-century Nepalese king, this terracotta temple is dedicated to Shiva.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
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$10
6 - 9 min

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Directions

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
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$36
2 - 3 min

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Directions

New Star Hotel
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
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$44
Day 3Forts, Mosques, and Serene Cafes
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$93

·

$ 2

Ramnagar Fort
Sandstone fort & royal residence with a museum that has vintage cars, costumes, an armory & more.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
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$8
32 - 39 min

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Directions

Gyanvapi Mosque
Venerable mosque on a historic site featuring traditional architecture with columns & domes.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
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$5
12 - 17 min

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Directions

Sri Annapurna
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
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$36
10 - 12 min

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Directions

Raga Cafe
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
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$44
Day 4Sacred Temples and Riverside Reflections
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$90

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple
Landmark riverside temple to Shiva, known for its 18th-century gold-plated spire and sacred well.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
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Free
5 - 8 min

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Directions

Manikarnika Ghat - Manikarnika Mahashamshan Ghat
One of the city's oldest ghats, this iconic site is a storied spot for traditional Hindu cremations.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
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$10
8 - 11 min

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Directions

New Star Hotel
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
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$44
2 - 3 min

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Madhur Milan Cafe
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
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$36
Day 5Stupas, Buddhist Temples, and Gastronomic Delights
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$112

·

$ 1

Chaukhandi Stupa
This historical Buddhist stupa features a sizable mound with a brick base & octagonal tower.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
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$5
11 - 16 min

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Directions

Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath
Circular stone 43m-tall Buddhist shrine with bird & script carvings, dating back to 500 CE.
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
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$15
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Sarnath Buddhist Temple
Expansive Buddhist temple complex with a museum, multiple shrines & an archaeological excavation.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
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$8
29 - 35 min

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Directions

Raga Cafe
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
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$44
9 - 14 min

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Directions

Phulwari Restaurant and Sami Cafe
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
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$40

Budget breakdown: $498 In total

Activities & Food:$492
Transport:$6