Varanasi 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Varanasi Itinerary: A Spiritual Journey

This itinerary focuses on experiencing the cultural and spiritual richness of Varanasi.

Day 1: Immerse Yourself in the Ghats

  • Morning: Arrive in Varanasi and check into your chosen accommodation (see “Where to Stay” section).

    • Things to Know:

      • Varanasi is known for its spiritual significance and bustling ghats.

  • Afternoon:

      * **Explore the Ghats:** Stroll along the **Ganges River**, witnessing the ancient rituals and daily life that unfold on these sacred steps. Start at **Dashashwamedh Ghat**, the most vibrant ghat, and explore the surrounding ones like **Manikarnika Ghat** (the cremation ghat) and **Assi Ghat**.

  * **Witness the Ganga Aarti:**  Experience the mesmerizing evening ceremony at **Dashashwamedh Ghat**, where priests offer a colorful and spiritual ceremony with fire, music, and chanting.
      * **Where to go:**

          * **Ganga River**: The heart of Varanasi. Find a spot along the ghats for a peaceful sunset view and the vibrant evening Ganga Aarti.

          * **The Ghats of Varanasi** are a series of stone steps that lead down to the river, and they offer a unique glimpse into the daily life and religious practices of the city.
      * **Stay:**

      * **Budget:**  
          * **Hostel Ganges Guest House:** A popular choice for backpackers, offering clean dorms and friendly service.
          * **Zostel Varanasi:** Stylish hostel with a social atmosphere and rooftop views.
      * **Mid-range:** 
          * **Ganges View Hotel:** Comfortable rooms with river views and access to the Ganges.
          * **Hotel Surya:** A good balance of comfort, price, and location.

  • Where to eat:

    • Kashi Chaat Bhandar: Enjoy Varanasi’s famous street food, like the “Golgappa” (crispy fried balls filled with spiced water and potatoes) at this bustling eatery.
    • Banaras Food Court: Sample a variety of local delicacies in a clean and hygienic setting.

Things to know:

  • Food stalls near the Ghats: You’ll find delicious street food options along the ghats, but be sure to choose those that look clean and have fresh ingredients.
  • *Try “Banarasi Paan”: This is a must-try in Varanasi! The city is known for its unique and flavorful paan preparations.

Where to stay:

  • Consider staying near the Ganges River for easy access to the river and the spiritual atmosphere it offers (e.g., Ganges View Guest House, Hotel Kashi).
  • Look for accommodations in the “Old City” area for a more immersive experience and a chance to witness traditional rituals.

Things to do:

  • Attend the morning or evening boat ride on the Ganges. This is a classic way to start or end your day in Varanasi, experiencing the city’s spiritual heart from a different perspective.
  • Explore the ancient temples: Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most important Shiva temples in India, and the Vishalakshi Temple for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
  • Experience the morning Ganga Aarti: This ritual is performed at various ghats, starting with a smaller ceremony at sunrise.

Evening:

Things to know:

  • Be respectful of the religious rituals: Avoid making noise during the ceremonies.
  • Photography is often restricted during the evening Ganga Aarti.

Day 2: Culture and Cuisine

  • Morning:

    • Explore the ancient streets and alleyways of Varanasi, “the oldest living city in the world”. Get lost in the labyrinthine streets, filled with history and spirituality.
    • Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Dashashwamedh Ghat.

  • Afternoon:

    • Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the ghats: Explore the ghats and experience the local life.

  • Take a cooking class: Learn to cook authentic Indian dishes like aloo puri or kachori chaat, which are popular in Varanasi. This is a great way to learn about local cuisine.

  • Visit the “Burning Ghats”: Witness the ancient and sacred tradition of cremation along the Ganges River.

    • Things to do:

      • Walk through the narrow alleyways and cobbled streets: Experience the traditional handicrafts scene at a local workshop.
      • Enjoy the sunset views: Find a spot along the ghats for a peaceful moment.
      • Learn about Hinduism: Visit a Hindu temple or religious site and observe the rituals.

  • Evening:

    • Attend a performance of the “Kashi Pan”: Experience a traditional Indian performance on the Ganges River

  • Where to eat:

    • Banaras Hindu University (BHU) BHU Guest House: Enjoy delicious vegetarian food and experience the vibrant culture of this institution.

  • Things to know:

  • Visit the “Manikarnika Ghat” at night: Witness the ancient rituals performed by the priests, which are a powerful symbol of the cycle of life and death.

  • Attend a classical Indian music concert: Experience the calming sounds of sitar, tabla, or bansuri.

Day 3: Exploring the City’s Soul

  • Morning: Visit Sarnath, the ancient Buddhist site where Buddha preached his first sermon.

  • Explore the Varanasi Ghats:

    • Learn about the history and significance of the ghats.
    • Watch locals bathing, performing prayers, and offering flowers to the Ganges at the morning Ganga Aarti.

  • Visit a local market: Experience the hustle and bustle, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the “Chowk” market, known for its traditional Varanasi goods.

  • Try a Banarasi Thandai: This is a delicious milk drink with nuts, spices and rose petals, perfect for a hot day.

    • Visit the ghats: Enjoy the views and experience the morning rituals.

Things to do:

  • Explore the ancient temples along the banks of the Ganges.
  • Learn about the “Ganga Aarti” ceremony: Visit during the day to see the preparations for the evening ceremonies.
    • Enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges: See the sunset and experience the beauty of Varanasi from the water.

Things to know:

  • The ghats are a spiritual hub, with many used for religious rituals, bathing, and cremation ceremonies.
  • Be respectful of the “Burning Ghats”: Avoid interrupting the rituals taking place and be mindful of the mourners.

Other things to consider:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water or juice, especially when visiting the bustling ghats.
  • Visit a local market: The vibrant markets near the Ganges are a must-see, with vendors selling everything from silk saris to fresh flowers.
  • Try a Banarasi Thandai: This delicious milk drink is made with a variety of spices and nuts and is a great way to experience the local culture.
  • Explore the ghats by boat: Take a boat ride on the Ganges River to see the ancient ghats from a different perspective.
  • Learn about the history of the Varanasi: The city has a rich spiritual and cultural heritage, with many temples dedicated to various deities.

Things to know:

  • Dress respectfully: Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when visiting the holy ghats.

  • Carry a reusable water bottle: Fill it up at filtered water stations or from reputable sources.

  • Use sunscreen and stay in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.

Bargain for prices: This is common practice in markets, so don’t be afraid to negotiate.

  • Consider staying at:

  • Hotel Ganges Ganges Guest House: A peaceful retreat with a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city and the river.

  • Ganga Kinare: Experience the magic of the “Burning Ghats” - it’s a fascinating location but can be overwhelming for some.

Be sure to:

  • Cover your head and shoulders: Wear a scarf or shawl when visiting the Ghats, especially during ceremonies.

  • Shop at local markets:

Ghats you can explore:

  • Ganges View Restaurant: Enjoy a delicious meal of “Banarasi paan” (a traditional Varanasi dish) while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Where to eat:

    • Try a local street food:
      • Chai at the Chai Stall: You can enjoy a refreshing cup of tea from a nearby stall and experience the “chai culture” of the city.

  • Explore the vibrant arts and crafts scene: Varanasi is famous for its silk weaving, brassware, jewelry, and other handicrafts.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Respectful behavior:

    • Be mindful of cultural sensitivities:
      • The Ghats are a sacred place for Hindus and are often used for religious ceremonies, bathing, and prayer.**

  • Remember to:

    • Bring cash for bargaining:

Enjoy the city’s vibrant:

  • Markets offer a great way to experience the local culture.
  • Explore the markets in the evening to avoid the heat and see the “Ghats” come alive at night with the “morning Ganga Aarti”.

Remember to stay safe by:

  • Being aware of your surroundings:

  • Avoid pickpockets and scammers:

Enjoy the arts and crafts:

  • Buy from reputable shops:

  • Shopkeepers in Varanasi often offer discounts for buying in bulk:

  • Bring a reusable bag:

Enjoy the “Ganga Aarti” experience:

  • Buy local goods:

  • Remember to bargain, but do it respectfully:

Tips:

Remember:

  • Prices are negotiable, so don’t be afraid to haggle.

  • Carry a flashlight if you plan on visiting the “Ghats” in the evening.

  • Visit the Manikarnika Ghat:

  • Experience the hustle and bustle:

  • This is a sacred place for Hindus, and it is considered rude to take photos during the ceremony.

  • Be respectful of the mourners: Remember that this is a time and place of deep reverence for death.

  • Respect local customs:

  • Dress modestly when visiting the ghats or temples.

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you may be walking on uneven surfaces.

  • Stay hydrated, drink plenty of water, especially in the summer.

Enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges River:

  • Enjoy the beautiful scenery and vibrant atmosphere of the “Ganges” in the evening.
  • Bring a camera or phone to take photos:

Remember that while taking photos is a common practice at the Ghats, it is important to:

  • Be mindful of the mourners during the “Burning ghat” ceremony.
  • Avoid interrupting the rituals, which are often performed at dusk and involve elaborate offerings and prayers.