One Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Banarasi in July 2023

1. 9:00 AM: Ghats of Varanasi
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Banarasi Downtown

   Start your day by exploring the famous Ghats of Varanasi. Witness the spiritual rituals, take a boat ride along the Ganges River, and soak in the serene atmosphere. It's a fascinating experience that offers a glimpse into the religious and cultural significance of this ancient city.

   • Boat Ride: Rs 200, 1 hour
2. 11:00 AM: Banaras Hindu University
   20 minutes (2.5 miles) from Ghats of Varanasi

   Visit Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Take a stroll through the campus, admire the beautiful architecture, and explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which houses a vast collection of Indian art and artifacts.

   • Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Rs 100, 1-2 hours
3. 2:00 PM: Sarnath
   30 minutes (6 miles) from Banaras Hindu University

   Head to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site located near Varanasi. Explore the ruins of ancient monasteries, visit the Dhamek Stupa, and learn about the teachings of Buddha at the Sarnath Museum.

   • Sarnath Museum: Rs 20, 1-2 hours
4. 5:00 PM: Dashashwamedh Ghat
   20 minutes (4 miles) from Sarnath

   Return to Varanasi and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. This divine ritual involves chanting, incense, and oil lamp offerings to the river Ganges. It's a truly enchanting and spiritual experience.

   • Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free, 1 hour

Recommendations

If you have more time, consider exploring the following attractions:

• Ramnagar Fort: Visit the magnificent fort located on the eastern bank of the Ganges. It showcases a blend of Mughal and Indian architectural styles. Entrance fee: Rs 50.
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Explore one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It's a place of immense spiritual significance. Entry is free, but there might be long queues.

For day trips, you can consider visiting nearby destinations like Allahabad (approx. 3 hours by road) or Chunar Fort (approx. 1.5 hours by road). These places offer historical and cultural experiences beyond Varanasi.

To get the most out of your visit, try to bargain while shopping in local markets, try authentic Varanasi street food, and take evening walks along the ghats to witness the city's vibrant atmosphere.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices here.