4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Varanasi in August 2023

1. Day 1: Exploring the Ghats
   15 minutes (2.4 km) from Varanasi Airport

   Start your day with a sunrise boat ride along the Ganges River, offering a spectacular view of the ghats. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and the most important temple in the city. Afternoon, explore the Sarnath Archaeological Site, which is 13 km from the city. Evening, attend the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

2. Day 2: Ramnagar Fort and Museum
   30 minutes (8 km) from Dashashwamedh Ghat

   Start your day with a visit to the Ramnagar Fort and Museum, located on the opposite bank of the Ganges. The museum houses a collection of vintage cars, swords, guns, and more. Afternoon, visit the Banaras Hindu University and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. Evening, enjoy a stroll through the narrow lanes of the old city and savor some of the delicious street food.

3. Day 3: Varanasi Silk Emporium and Manikarnika Ghat
   20 minutes (6 km) from Banaras Hindu University

   Start your day with a visit to the famous Varanasi Silk Emporium, which offers a wide variety of silk sarees and dress materials. Afternoon, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges and take in the stunning view of the city. Evening, visit the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred ghats, and witness the cremation rituals.

4. Day 4: Bharat Mata Temple and Banaras Ghats
   20 minutes (5 km) from Manikarnika Ghat

   Start your day with a visit to the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India and showcasing a giant relief map of the country. Afternoon, explore the Banaras Ghats, take a dip in the holy water of the Ganges, and witness the daily life of the locals. Evening, shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at the local markets.

Recommendations

Aside from the itinerary, you may also want to explore the following: Visit the Tulsi Manas Temple, which is known for its stunning murals and engravings, and the New Vishwanath Temple, which is a replica of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Take a side trip to the Chunar Fort, located 40 km from the city, and explore its rich history. To maximize your fun, hire a dedicated guide for your entire trip, who can provide you with interesting insights and stories about the city. Lastly, make sure to try some of the local delicacies, such as kachori, chaat, and malaiyo.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1-2 hours, free admission)
• Sarnath Archaeological Site (2-3 hours, ₹ 300 per person)
• Ramnagar Fort and Museum (2-3 hours, ₹ 50 per person)
• Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum (1-2 hours, ₹ 20 per person)
• Varanasi Silk Emporium (1-2 hours, prices vary)
• Boat ride on the Ganges (1-2 hours, ₹ 200-500 per person)
• Manikarnika Ghat (1-2 hours, free admission)
• Bharat Mata Temple (1-2 hours, free admission)
• Shopping at local markets (1-2 hours, prices vary)
• Total Estimated Costs: ₹ 570-950 per person*

*Excluding hotel and flight expenses. Prices are subject to change.