Varanasi 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Varanasi

Day 1 - Arrival & Ghat Exploration

  • Arrival: Reach Varanasi by air (Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport) or rail (Varanasi Junction). Transfer to your hotel. Suggested stay: Taj Ganges, Oberoi Ganges, or Golden Temple.

  • Activities: Visit the famous ghats - Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat. Witness the Ganga Aarti in the evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

  • Where to Eat: Enjoy a meal at Blue Lounge, famous for its rooftop views and North Indian cuisine.

  • Things to Know: Respect local customs and traditions, especially during religious rituals. Wear modest clothing when visiting temples.

Day 2 - Temples & Silk Weaving

  • Activities: Visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple. Explore the local area, Banaras Hindu University, and the unique silk weaving centers.

  • Where to Eat: Try traditional Benarasi food at Kachori Gali.

Day 3 - City & Sarnath

  • Activities: Morning boat ride on River Ganges. In the afternoon, visit Sarnath where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Return to Varanasi for an evening spent at the ghats.

  • Where to Eat: Dine at Ved Bharti, serving organic and traditional food.

Day 4 - Ramnagar Fort & Museum

  • Activities: Visit the Ramnagar Fort, home to the royal family of Varanasi. Explore the museum showcasing a variety of artifacts related to local history and culture.

  • Where to Eat: Lunch at Ghat Restaurant, offering a great view of Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Day 5 - Exploring Rural Varanasi (Optional)

  • Activities: Take a day trip to villages like Ramnagar, Maharaj Ki Antriya Wala Bazaar, and Sankata for an authentic rural experience.

  • Where to Eat: Have lunch at a local village restaurant or home-cooked meal with a local family (organize this through your hotel or a tour operator).

Day 6 - Morning Boat Ride & Shopping

  • Activities: Start the day early with a boat ride on the Ganges, witnessing the morning rituals. Spend the afternoon shopping for Banarasi silk sarees, brassware, and copper items at local markets like Thatheron Bazaar or Vishwanath Lane.

  • Where to Eat: Dine at Benaresi Cafe for some Italian cuisine with a unique twist.

Day 7 - Departure

  • Activities: Spend your last hours in Varanasi peacefully, maybe visiting your favorite ghat or shopping for souvenirs. Prepare for departure later in the day.

  • Transportation: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available for travel within the city. For airport transfers, pre-book with your hotel or a reliable service provider.

Tips

  • Carry cash as many places do not accept cards.
  • Avoid drinking tap water and opt for bottled water instead.
  • Dress modestly and remove shoes when entering temples.
  • Haggle at markets but be respectful of the sellers.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Enjoy the spiritual energy of Varanasi and take time to reflect and connect with yourself.