Varanasi

Varanasi is a mesmerizing city with a rich tapestry of culture, spirituality, and history. Here’s a budget-friendly itinerary for two days that will let you soak in the essence of this ancient city without breaking the bank.

Day 1: Exploring the Ghats and Temples

Morning:

• Sunrise at the Ghats: Start your day early by heading to the Ganges River for a breathtaking sunrise. The view of the sun rising over the water is simply magical. You can take a boat ride (around ₹100-₹200) to enjoy the serene atmosphere and see the ghats come to life.
• Breakfast: After your boat ride, grab a hearty breakfast at a local eatery. Try some aloo parathas or kachoris with chai (around ₹50-₹100).

Mid-Morning:

• Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This is one of the most famous temples in Varanasi. Entry is free, but be prepared for security checks. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site, so take your time to soak in the spiritual vibes.

Lunch:

• Local Lunch: Head to a nearby dhaba (local eatery) for a budget-friendly meal. You can try the thali (around ₹150-₹250) which usually includes rice, dal, sabzi, and roti.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Ghats: Spend your afternoon wandering along the ghats. Don’t miss Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat. You can observe the rituals and the daily life of the locals. It’s a great way to experience the culture.

Evening:

• Ganga Aarti: Make sure to return to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the evening Ganga Aarti. It’s a spectacular ceremony with chanting, music, and lights. It’s free to attend, but you might want to arrive early to get a good spot.

Dinner:

• Street Food: After the Aarti, indulge in some street food. Try the famous Banarasi chaat or lassi from a local vendor (around ₹50-₹100).

Day 2: Culture and History

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a simple breakfast at your accommodation or a local café (around ₹50).
• Sarnath Excursion: Take a rickshaw or shared auto to Sarnath (about ₹30-₹50). This is where Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa and the Sarnath Museum (entry fee around ₹20).

Lunch:

• Lunch in Sarnath: There are a few budget-friendly restaurants around Sarnath. Enjoy a simple meal (around ₹100-₹150).

Afternoon:

• Return to Varanasi: Head back to Varanasi and visit the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). The campus is beautiful and has the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum (entry fee around ₹20) which showcases art and artifacts.

Evening:

• Shopping at the Local Markets: Explore the local markets like Vishwanath Gali for some Banarasi silk and handicrafts. Bargain a little to get the best deals!

Dinner:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: End your day with a nice dinner at a budget-friendly restaurant. Try some local dishes like biryani or paneer tikka (around ₹150-₹250).

Tips for Budget Travel:

• Stay in Budget Accommodations: Look for hostels or budget hotels in the Assi Ghat area for a good mix of affordability and accessibility.
• Use Public Transport: Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are budget-friendly ways to get around.
• Stay Hydrated: Keep a water bottle with you and refill it to save on buying bottled water.

There you go! This itinerary will give you a taste of Varanasi’s spiritual essence, vibrant culture, and delicious food—all while keeping your budget in check. Enjoy your trip! 🌟