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5 Days in Varanasi: Unveiling the Spiritual Capital of India

Kaushik Pandya

6 Dec 2023

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Embark on a soul-stirring journey through the ancient city of Varanasi, where spirituality and culture intertwine. Immerse yourself in the vibrant chaos of the ghats, witness mesmerizing rituals on the banks of the Ganges, and savor delectable local cuisine. Discover hidden gems, explore historic landmarks, and experience the essence of India's spiritual heart.

Trip to Varanasi

Tours & Activities

Viator Tours

Day 1Unveiling Varanasi's Heritage and Culinary Delights

+

$94

·

$ 4

Capsicum

7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

•

$15

10 - 12 min

~

Directions

Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

University museum focused on art & archeology, with sculptures, paintings, jewelry, textiles & more.

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM

•

$25

23 - 28 min

~

Directions

Nepali Temple

Commissioned by an exiled 19th-century Nepalese king, this terracotta temple is dedicated to Shiva.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

•

$13

30 - 36 min

~

Directions

Ashoka Pillar

Glass enclosure containing sandstone remains of an ancient column built by Emperor Ashoka.

12:30 PM - 1:00 PM

•

$6

3 - 4 min

~

Directions

Green Hut Restaurant

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

•

$15

6 - 9 min

~

Directions

Vaishali Restaurant

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

•

$20

Day 2Divine Encounters and Serenity by the Ganges

+

$47

·

$ 2

Filo Cafe

7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

•

$5

2 - 3 min

~

Directions

Dashashwamedh Ghat

Bustling riverside steps down to the Ganges River, used for religious rituals daily.

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

47 - 57 min

~

Directions

Gyanvapi Mosque

Venerable mosque on a historic site featuring traditional architecture with columns & domes.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

$6

8 - 12 min

~

Directions

Sri Sharad Bahar

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

•

$30

9 - 14 min

~

Directions

The Ram Bhandaar

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

•

$5

Day 3Fortresses, Stupas, and Gastronomic Adventures

+

$62

·

$ 4

Pahelawan Lassi Bhandar

7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

•

$20

11 - 14 min

~

Directions

Ramnagar Fort

Sandstone fort & royal residence with a museum that has vintage cars, costumes, an armory & more.

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$10

40 - 48 min

~

Directions

Chaukhandi Stupa

This historical Buddhist stupa features a sizable mound with a brick base & octagonal tower.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

$6

10 - 15 min

~

Directions

Vaishali Restaurant

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

•

$20

10 - 12 min

~

Directions

Hotel Sarnath

2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

•

$5

Day 4Spiritual Awakening and Riverside Charm

+

$73

Brown Bread Bakery

7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

•

$15

3 - 4 min

~

Directions

Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Landmark riverside temple to Shiva, known for its 18th-century gold-plated spire and sacred well.

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

4 - 6 min

~

Directions

Manikarnika Ghat - Manikarnika Mahashamshan Ghat

One of the city's oldest ghats, this iconic site is a storied spot for traditional Hindu cremations.

11:30 AM - 1:30 PM

•

$13

3 - 4 min

~

Directions

Fagin's Restaurant

2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

•

$15

4 - 5 min

~

Directions

Ganpanti Restaurant

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

•

$30

Day 5Exploring Ancient Marvels and Indulging in Authentic Delicacies

+

$65

·

$ 4

Baati Chokha

7:30 AM - 8:30 AM

•

$5

27 - 33 min

~

Directions

Dharmarajika Stupa

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$6

2 - 3 min

~

Directions

Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath

Circular stone 43m-tall Buddhist shrine with bird & script carvings, dating back to 500 CE.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

•

$19

9 - 14 min

~

Directions

Sarnath Buddhist Temple

Expansive Buddhist temple complex with a museum, multiple shrines & an archaeological excavation.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

•

$10

10 - 12 min

~

Directions

Hotel Sarnath

2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

•

$5

11 - 14 min

~

Directions

Jai Bhole Lassi

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM

•

$20

Budget breakdown: $351 In total

Activities & Food:$339

Transport:$12