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A Week in Varanasi: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

Friday, December 22

Start your trip in Varanasi by exploring the mesmerizing Dashashwamedh Ghat in the morning. Witness the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony, where priests perform a ritual of offering prayers to the holy river Ganges. Afterward, take a boat ride along the river to get a closer look at the ghats and experience the spiritual ambiance. In the afternoon, visit the Sarnath Archaeological Museum to learn about the rich history of Buddhism. Wrap up your day with a walk through the bustling streets of Godowlia, filled with shops, street food stalls, and local markets.

  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free, 1 hour
  • Boat Ride on Ganges: INR 200-300 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Sarnath Archaeological Museum: INR 5-10 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Godowlia Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 23

On your second day, visit the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple in the morning. Explore the temple complex and witness the religious rituals performed by devotees. Afterward, head to the nearby Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the largest residential universities in Asia. In the afternoon, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum located within the BHU campus, housing a vast collection of art and archaeological artifacts. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Assi Ghat while enjoying the picturesque sunset views.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Banaras Hindu University: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: INR 20-40 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Assi Ghat: Free, 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 24

Start your day by visiting the serene and peaceful Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple. Participate in the morning prayers and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Afterward, head to the Ramnagar Fort, located on the banks of the Ganges. Explore the fort's architecture and the museum showcasing vintage cars, weapons, and artifacts. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride to Manikarnika Ghat, one of the main cremation ghats, to witness the unique funeral rituals. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance of classical music and dance at the famous Shri Ram Centre.

  • Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Ramnagar Fort: INR 10-20 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Boat Ride to Manikarnika Ghat: INR 100-200 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Shri Ram Centre: INR 200-500 per person, 2-3 hours
Monday, December 25

Embrace spirituality on your fourth day by visiting the Tulsi Manas Temple in the morning. Explore the temple dedicated to Lord Rama and read verses from the Ramcharitmanas, an epic Hindu scripture. Afterward, head towards the Chunar Fort, located around 30 kilometers from Varanasi. Discover the historical significance of the fort and enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings from its ramparts. In the afternoon, take a short trip to the Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary and witness the diverse flora and fauna. Wrap up your day with a visit to the famous Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple.

  • Tulsi Manas Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Chunar Fort: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Chandraprabha Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 50-100 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 26

Explore the religious diversity of Varanasi by starting your day with a visit to the Alamgir Mosque, an architectural marvel. Experience the peaceful environment of this sacred place. Afterward, head to the Tibetan Temple, popularly known as the Sarnath Temple, to seek blessings and witness the beautiful Tibetan architecture. In the afternoon, take a trip to the nearby Chaukhandi Stupa and Dhamek Stupa, both significant Buddhist monuments. Conclude your day by witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at the Darbhanga Ghat.

  • Alamgir Mosque: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Tibetan Temple (Sarnath Temple): Free, 1-2 hours
  • Chaukhandi Stupa: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Dhamek Stupa: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Darbhanga Ghat: Free, 1 hour
Wednesday, December 27

Spend your sixth day exploring the spiritual and cultural side of Varanasi. Begin your morning with a visit to the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India. Admire the unique architecture and panoramic views of the city from the temple's top floor. Afterward, head towards the famous Benaras Hindu University (BHU) for a guided campus tour. In the afternoon, visit the Durga Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, and seek blessings from Goddess Durga. Conclude your day by enjoying a traditional Banarasi silk shopping experience in the bustling markets of Varanasi.

  • Bharat Mata Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Benaras Hindu University: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Durga Temple (Monkey Temple): Free, 1-2 hours
  • Shopping in Varanasi Markets: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 28

Wrap up your family-friendly trip to Varanasi by exploring the beautiful Ramnagar Gardens in the morning. Enjoy the serene environment, lush greenery, and scenic landscapes. Afterward, head towards the famous Man Mandir Observatory to witness the astronomical instruments used for celestial observations. In the afternoon, take a boat ride to the picturesque Rajghat Bridge and capture memorable photographs. Conclude your trip by witnessing the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Ravidas Ghat.

  • Ramnagar Gardens: INR 10-20 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Man Mandir Observatory: INR 5-10 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Boat Ride to Rajghat Bridge: INR 200-300 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Ravidas Ghat: Free, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Chunar Sandstone Caves, located near the Chunar Fort. These ancient caves are adorned with intricate carvings and provide a unique glimpse into the region's history. Another hidden gem is the Ramgarh Taal, a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery where you can enjoy boating and picnic activities with your family. Locals also love exploring the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city, known as the Kashi Vishwanath Gali, to experience the authentic charm and discover local shops selling traditional handicrafts and street food delights.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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