Banaras (Varanasi) Trip Budget – A Complete Cost Guide
Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India. Located on the banks of the Ganges River, it attracts pilgrims, spiritual seekers, and travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re planning a budget-friendly pilgrimage or a comfortable vacation, understanding the Varanasi trip budget will help you manage expenses efficiently.
In this guide, we provide a detailed breakdown of the Kashi travel cost, including accommodation, food, transportation, sightseeing, and miscellaneous expenses for different types of travelers.
Banaras (Varanasi) Trip Budget
- Get an in-depth breakdown of your Banaras (Varanasi) trip budget, covering accommodation, food, transport, and sightseeing options.
- Plan your Banaras (Varanasi) pilgrimage with a clear budget guide, ensuring a memorable experience without overspending on essentials.
Estimated Varanasi Trip Budget (Per Person for 3 Days)
| Expense Type | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
| Accommodation (3 Nights) | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | ₹3,000 – ₹6,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹20,000 |
| Food | ₹600 – ₹1,200 | ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 | ₹5,000+ |
| Transport (Local Travel) | ₹500 – ₹1,000 | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | ₹5,000 |
| Sightseeing & Activities | ₹1,000 – ₹2,000 | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹7,000+ |
| Miscellaneous (Shopping, Tips, Extras) | ₹500 – ₹1,500 | ₹2,000 – ₹4,000 | ₹5,000+ |
| Total Estimated Cost (3 Days) | ₹4,100 – ₹8,200 | ₹11,000 – ₹20,500 | ₹32,000+ |
🔹 Note: Costs may vary depending on the season, hotel availability, and personal preferences.
1. Accommodation Cost in Varanasi
Varanasi offers a range of accommodations, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Prices depend on location, amenities, and season (peak seasons: festivals like Dev Deepawali, Kartik Purnima, and Makar Sankranti).
Budget Stay Options (₹500 – ₹1,000 per night)
- Shiva Ganga Guest House (₹600/night)
- Mishra Guest House (₹800/night)
- Zostel Varanasi (Hostel Stay) (₹500/night for dorm beds)
Mid-Range Hotels (₹1,500 – ₹3,000 per night)
- Hotel Alka (₹2,000/night)
- Ganpati Guest House (₹2,500/night)
- BrijRama Palace (Heritage Stay) (₹6,000+/night)
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Luxury Hotels (₹5,000 – ₹15,000 per night)
- Taj Nadesar Palace (₹12,000/night)
- Suryauday Haveli on Shivala Ghat (₹7,000/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 delicious street food and traditional cuisine. You can eat well at low prices, but there are also high-end restaurants offering fine dining experiences.
Budget Food Options (₹200 – ₹400 per meal)
- Kachori Sabzi at Ram Bhandar (₹50 per plate)
- Chaat at Kashi Chaat Bhandar (₹100 per serving)
- Lassi at Blue Lassi Shop (₹80 – ₹150 per glass)
Mid-Range Restaurants (₹500 – ₹1,000 per meal)
- Baati Chokha (Authentic UP Cuisine) – ₹800 for two
- Shree Café (Riverside Dining) – ₹700 for two
Luxury Dining (₹2,000+ per meal)
- Taj Nadesar Palace Restaurant – ₹3,000 per person
- Varuna Restaurant at The Gateway Hotel – ₹2,500 per person
📌 Tip: Don’t miss Banarasi Paan (₹30 – ₹100 per piece).
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3. Transport Cost in Varanasi
Varanasi has auto-rickshaws, cycle-rickshaws, and taxis, but the old city is best explored on foot due to its 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.
4. Sightseeing & Activity Costs in Varanasi
Top Attractions & Their Entry Fees
| Place | Entry Fee | Recommended Time |
| Kashi Vishwanath Temple | Free (VIP Darshan: ₹300) | 1-2 hrs |
| Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat | Free (Boat Ride: ₹200 – ₹500) | 1 hr |
| Sarnath (Buddhist Site) | ₹20 (Indians), ₹300 (Foreigners) | 2-3 hrs |
| Manikarnika & Harishchandra Ghat | Free | 1 hr |
| Ramnagar Fort | ₹50 | 1-2 hrs |
📌 Tip: Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat for a mesmerizing experience.
5. Miscellaneous & Shopping Expenses
Varanasi is famous for Banarasi silk sarees, Rudraksha malas, and handicrafts.
Estimated Shopping Costs
- Banarasi Silk Saree – ₹2,000 – ₹20,000
- Handicrafts & Brassware – ₹500 – ₹5,000
- Rudraksha Mala – ₹200 – ₹1,500
📌 Tip: Shop at Godowlia Market & Thateri Bazaar for the best deals.
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Varanasi Trip Budget for Different Durations
| Trip Duration | Budget Trip | Mid-Range Trip | Luxury Trip |
| 2 Days / 1 Night | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹7,000 – ₹12,000 | ₹25,000+ |
| 3 Days / 2 Nights | ₹4,500 – ₹8,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹18,000 | ₹35,000+ |
| 5 Days / 4 Nights | ₹7,500 – ₹12,000 | ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 | ₹50,000+ |
Final Thoughts
A Varanasi trip can be done on any budget, from a backpacker’s adventure (₹4,000 – ₹8,000 for 3 days) to a luxurious stay (₹30,000+ for 3 days). By choosing affordable accommodation, local transport, and budget-friendly food, you can explore the spiritual and cultural beauty of Kashi without overspending.
🚩 Jai Kashi Vishwanath! May your journey be memorable and divine! 🙏
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