Varanasi · Uttar Pradesh
Varanasi on a Budget: A 3-Day Itinerary
Ghats, aarti and Sarnath for ₹4,500–7,500 — the spiritual capital, cheaply.
Guide by MRIGAN
VARANASI — 3-Day Budget Trip 🪔
Day 1
📍 Sunrise boat ride on the Ganga
📍 Walk the ghats (Assi to Manikarnika)
📍 Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh
Day 2
📍 Kashi Vishwanath Temple
📍 Old-city gullies & street food
📍 BHU campus & New Vishwanath temple
Day 3
📍 Sarnath (where Buddha first taught)
📍 Sarnath museum & stupa
Budget (per person, excl. travel to Varanasi)
Hostel dorm: ₹350–700/night
Food: ₹250–500/day
Boat ride (shared): ₹100–200
Local transport: ₹150–350/day
✅ Total: ₹4,500–₹7,500 per person
Travel tips
- Take a shared sunrise boat rather than a private one — same magic, a fraction of the price.
- Reach the aarti early for a front spot, or watch it from a boat.
- Eat kachori-sabzi, tamatar chaat, malaiyo (winter) and a Blue Lassi lassi.
- Dress modestly for temples and keep an eye on your belongings in the crowded ghats.