Varanasi India 6 Day Itinerary

Varanasi 6-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Ghat Exploration

  • Check-in at your hotel (suggested: Tulsi Ganges) located in the heart of Varanasi.
  • After freshening up, start your journey with a boat ride on the holy river Ganga to witness the magical Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat (evening) and Assi Ghat (morning).
  • Lunch at Blue Lassi - a popular eatery serving North Indian cuisine.
  • Visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of Hinduism’s holiest shrines, and explore other nearby temples such as Annapurna, New Vishwanath, and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple.

Day 2: Old City Exploration

  • Breakfast at your hotel or a local chai shop in the lanes.
  • Visit the ancient Benaras Hindu University and explore its museums.
  • Lunch at Kachori Gali - a small alley with several eateries serving delicious kachoris, samosas, and lassi.
  • Explore the bustling markets of Varanasi such as Thatheron Bazaar, Chowk, Vishwanath Lane, and Gillet Street for traditional silk fabrics and handicrafts.
  • Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery - a quaint cafe serving delicious Italian, Continental, and Indian cuisine.

Day 3: Temples, Museums, and Silk Weaving

  • Breakfast at your hotel or a local eatery.
  • Visit the famous Durga Temple, Monkey Temple (Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple), and the Jantar Mantar Observatory.
  • Lunch at Shivpuri Mughlai Paratha Wale - a legendary restaurant famous for its parathas and biryanis.
  • Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Art Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Indian art and sculptures.
  • Explore the Sarnath Deer Park and the ruins of ancient Buddhist monasteries.
  • Dinner at Dum Dum Biryani House - a popular spot for mouthwatering biryanis and North Indian dishes.

Day 4: Excursion to Sarnath and Ramnagar Fort

  • Breakfast at your hotel or a local eatery.
  • Visit the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath (10 km from Varanasi) for its Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and archaeological museum.
  • Lunch at a local restaurant in Sarnath.
  • Return to Varanasi and visit the Ramnagar Fort Museum - home to an impressive collection of royal artifacts, armor, and paintings.
  • Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery (again!) or another restaurant of your choice.

Day 5: Morning Rituals and Departure Preparation

  • Early morning boat ride to witness the sunrise and various rituals at the ghats.
  • Breakfast at your hotel or a local eatery.
  • Spend the rest of the day packing, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Varanasi.
  • Lunch at Blue Lassi or another restaurant.
  • Check out from your hotel and transfer to the Varanasi Airport/Railway Station for your departure.

Tips & Things to Know:

  1. Be respectful of religious customs and traditions during your visit.
  2. Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples.
  3. Always negotiate prices before hiring a rickshaw or taxi.
  4. Carry plenty of bottled water and sunscreen during the day.
  5. Try street food at your own risk - some eateries may not maintain strict hygiene standards.
  6. Avoid visiting Varanasi during major Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Holi, or Kumbh Mela, as it can be extremely crowded.
  7. Consider hiring a guide for a more enriching and informative experience.