Varanasi-4-day-itinerary

4-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Spiritual Heart of Varanasi

Varanasi, an ancient city on the banks of the holy Ganges River, offers a captivating blend of spirituality, culture, and history. This itinerary will guide you through its enchanting alleys, vibrant ghats, and sacred rituals.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Zostel Varanasi, The Dorm Diaries
  • Mid-range: Hotel Ganges Grand, BrijRama Palace
  • Luxury: Taj Nadesar Palace, The Gateway Hotel Ganges

Transportation:

  • Within Varanasi: Auto-rickshaws are readily available and affordable. Cycle rickshaws offer a slower, more immersive experience.
  • From Airport/Train Station: Pre-book a taxi or use app-based services like Ola/Uber.

Day 1: Arrival & Ghats Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Varanasi (airport code VNS) or by train. Check into your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Stroll along the iconic ghats (steps leading to the river), starting with Dashashwamedh Ghat, known for its evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. Witness the mesmerizing ritual of fire offerings and chanting.
  • Evening: Enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges at sunset, soaking in the serene atmosphere and witnessing devotees performing rituals.

Dinner: Relish authentic Varanasi delicacies like Kachori Sabzi and Banarasi Thandai at “Blue Lassi” or “Ram Bhandar”.

Day 2: Spiritual Immersion & Cultural Exploration

  • Morning: Wake up before dawn and experience the sacred ritual of bathing in the Ganges.
  • Late Morning: Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Shiva temples in India.
  • Afternoon: Explore the narrow lanes of old Varanasi, browsing through shops selling silk sarees, handicrafts, and religious artifacts.

Evening: Attend a classical music or dance performance at Bharat Kala Bhavan or any other cultural center. Dinner: Indulge in a traditional Thali meal at “The Tasting Room” or enjoy vegetarian street food like Pani Puri and Dahi Vada.

Day 3: Beyond the City Walls

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Sarnath, the ancient Buddhist site where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit the Dhamekh Stupa and the Tibetan Monastery.
  • Afternoon: Return to Varanasi and explore Manikarnika Ghat, the cremation ghat, observing the cycle of life and death in Hindu tradition.

Evening: Relax with a cup of masala chai at one of the rooftop cafes overlooking the Ganges. Dinner: Try local sweets like Ghewar and Malaiyo at “Ksheer Sagar” or “Baba Sweets”.

Day 4: Farewell Varanasi

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe.
  • Late Morning: Visit the Ramnagar Fort, the former residence of the Maharaja of Varanasi.

Afternoon: Depart from Varanasi, carrying with you the memories and experiences of this ancient city.

Things to Know:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
  • Be prepared for crowds and heat, especially during peak season (October-March).
  • Photography is restricted in some areas, so be respectful of local customs.
  • Learn a few basic Hindi phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.

Tips:

  • Bargain while shopping, but do it respectfully.
  • Drink bottled water and avoid consuming street food from unhygienic stalls.
  • Carry sufficient cash as not all places accept cards.

Other Things of Interest:

  • Take a yoga or meditation class to experience the spiritual side of Varanasi.
  • Visit the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus, known for its beautiful architecture and gardens.
  • Explore the silk weaving workshops in the city and witness the traditional craft.