Banaras (Varanasi) Trip Cost for 2 Days – Budget & Expense Guide
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the most spiritually significant cities in India. Whether you’re visiting for a quick pilgrimage, cultural exploration, or a short getaway, it’s important to plan your expenses to make the most of your 2-day trip.
This guide provides a detailed cost breakdown for different types of travelers—budget, mid-range, and luxury, covering accommodation, food, transport, sightseeing, and miscellaneous expenses.
Banaras (Varanasi) Trip Cost for 2 Days
- Planning a 2-day Banaras trip? Get a complete cost breakdown for accommodation, food, transport, and sightseeing.
- Discover the ideal Varanasi trip budget for 2 days to enjoy a spiritual yet pocket-friendly getaway.
Estimated Varanasi 2-Day Trip Cost (Per Person)
| Expense Type | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
| Accommodation (1 Night) | ₹700 – ₹1,500 | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 | ₹7,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Food | ₹500 – ₹1,000 | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | ₹5,000+ |
| Transport (Local Travel) | ₹300 – ₹700 | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 | ₹4,000+ |
| Sightseeing & Activities | ₹500 – ₹1,500 | ₹2,500 – ₹5,000 | ₹8,000+ |
| Miscellaneous (Shopping, Tips, Extras) | ₹500 – ₹1,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹6,000+ |
| Total Estimated Cost (2 Days) | ₹2,500 – ₹5,700 | ₹9,000 – ₹18,500 | ₹30,000+ |
🔹 Note: Prices vary based on the season, travel style, and personal preferences.
1. Accommodation Cost in Varanasi
Your choice of stay significantly impacts your trip budget. Here are some options based on different budgets:
Budget Stay Options (₹700 – ₹1,500 per night)
- Shiva Ganga Guest House (₹800/night)
- Mishra Guest House (₹1,000/night)
- Zostel Varanasi (Hostel Stay) (₹700/night for dorm beds)
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Mid-Range Hotels (₹2,000 – ₹4,000 per night)
- Ganpati Guest House (₹2,500/night)
- Hotel Alka (₹3,000/night)
Luxury Hotels (₹7,000 – ₹15,000 per night)
- Suryauday Haveli on Shivala Ghat (₹7,000/night)
- Taj Nadesar Palace (₹12,000/night)
📌 Tip: If you want a view of the Ganga River, book a hotel near Dashashwamedh Ghat or Assi Ghat.
2. Food Cost in Varanasi
Varanasi is famous for its street food and traditional delicacies. Here’s an estimate of meal expenses:
Budget Food Options (₹200 – ₹400 per meal)
- Kachori Sabzi at Ram Bhandar – ₹50 per plate
- Litti Chokha at Baati Chokha – ₹150 per plate
- Chaat at Kashi Chaat Bhandar – ₹100 per serving
Mid-Range Restaurants (₹500 – ₹1,000 per meal)
- Shree Café (Riverside Dining) – ₹700 for two
- Brown Bread Bakery – ₹900 for two
Luxury Dining (₹2,000+ per meal)
- Varuna at The Gateway Hotel – ₹2,500 per person
- Taj Nadesar Palace Restaurant – ₹3,000 per person
📌 Tip: Don’t miss Banarasi Lassi & Paan (₹50 – ₹150).
3. Transport Cost in Varanasi
Varanasi has auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis, but the old city is best explored on foot due to narrow lanes.
Local Transport Costs
| Transport Type | Approx. Fare |
| Auto-Rickshaw (within city) | ₹50 – ₹200 |
| Cycle-Rickshaw | ₹30 – ₹100 |
| Private Cab for a Day | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 |
| Boat Ride on Ganges | ₹200 – ₹1,000 |
📌 Tip: Always negotiate rickshaw fares before boarding.
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4. Sightseeing & Activity Costs in Varanasi
Here’s a 2-day sightseeing plan with entry fees and approximate costs:
Day 1 – Spiritual & Cultural Exploration
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Free, VIP Darshan: ₹300)
- Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat (Free, Boat Ride: ₹200 – ₹500)
- Manikarnika & Harishchandra Ghat (Free)
Day 2 – Heritage & Shopping
- Sarnath (Buddhist Site) (₹20 for Indians, ₹300 for foreigners)
- Ramnagar Fort (₹50)
- Shopping at Godowlia Market (₹500 – ₹5,000)
📌 Tip: Attend the evening Ganga Aarti for a spiritual experience.
5. Shopping & Miscellaneous Expenses
Varanasi is known for its Banarasi silk sarees, brassware, and Rudraksha malas.
Estimated Shopping Costs
- Banarasi Silk Saree – ₹2,000 – ₹20,000
- Brass Idols & Handicrafts – ₹500 – ₹5,000
- Rudraksha Mala – ₹200 – ₹1,500
📌 Tip: Bargain while shopping at local markets like Godowlia & Thatheri Bazaar.
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Final Thoughts – Is a 2-Day Banaras Trip Affordable?
Yes! You can explore Varanasi on any budget.
🔹 Budget Trip (₹2,500 – ₹5,700 per person):
✔ Stay in hostels or budget guesthouses
✔ Eat at street food stalls
✔ Use public transport and walk
🔹 Mid-Range Trip (₹9,000 – ₹18,500 per person):
✔ Stay in a mid-range hotel
✔ Dine at good restaurants
✔ Take guided tours
🔹 Luxury Trip (₹30,000+ per person):
✔ Stay at a heritage or 5-star hotel
✔ Fine dining experiences
✔ Private cab and premium sightseeing tours
📌 Tip: The best time to visit Varanasi is during winter (October – March) when the weather is pleasant.
🚩 Jai Kashi Vishwanath! May your journey be memorable and divine! 🙏
FAQs
1. What is the cheapest way to travel around Varanasi?
The most budget-friendly way to explore Varanasi is by walking, as many attractions are within the old city. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are affordable options for short distances, but always negotiate fares before starting your ride.
2. Can I visit all major attractions in Varanasi within 2 days?
Yes! A well-planned itinerary allows you to visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Sarnath, Ramnagar Fort, and experience the famous Ganga Aarti—all within two days.
3. How much should I budget for shopping in Varanasi?
Shopping costs vary based on your preferences. Small souvenirs like Rudraksha malas start at ₹200, while Banarasi silk sarees can cost between ₹2,000 and ₹20,000. Bargaining is common in local markets like Godowlia.
4. What is the best time to visit Varanasi for a budget-friendly trip?
The best time is during the off-season (April–September) when hotel prices are lower. However, winter (October–March) offers the most pleasant weather for sightseeing.
5. Are there any hidden costs I should be aware of?
Be prepared for additional expenses like VIP darshan fees at temples, tips for boat rides, or entry fees at some historical sites. Always clarify prices before booking any service to avoid overpaying.
