Welcome to the spiritual city of Banaras (also known as Varanasi)! Begin your journey by checking in at your hotel and settling in. In the morning, visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Immerse yourself in the divine ambiance as you offer prayers and witness the Aarti ceremony. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the sacred Ganges River, passing by the famous ghats (steps leading to the riverbanks) and observing the rituals taking place. In the evening, explore the bustling markets of Banaras, like the Vishwanath Gali, known for its silk sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts.
Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site located just a short distance from Banaras. In the morning, visit the Dhamek Stupa, which marks the spot where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the nearby Sarnath Archaeological Museum, housing a vast collection of ancient sculptures and artifacts. Enjoy a delicious vegetarian lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, a modern Buddhist temple known for its beautiful gardens. Spend the evening at leisure, strolling along the tranquil gardens of Sarnath.
Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Banaras on this day. Start your morning with a visit to the renowned Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Explore the beautiful campus and its attractions like the Bharat Kala Bhavan, which houses an impressive collection of Indian art. In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional Banarasi lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, witness a mesmerizing Kathak dance performance at the Sankat Mochan Temple. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful sunset boat ride on the Ganges, capturing breathtaking views of the city.
Today, delve into the narrow lanes and historical landmarks of the old city of Banaras. Begin your morning with a visit to the Ramnagar Fort, an ancient fortification situated on the banks of the Ganges. Explore its museum, which displays a captivating collection of vintage cars, weaponry, and royal artifacts. In the afternoon, savor the delicious street food of Banaras, especially the famous Banarasi paan. Visit the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most sacred cremation sites in the city, to gain insights into Hindu funeral rituals. End the day by witnessing the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Dasaswamedh Ghat.
On your last day in Banaras, indulge in some shopping for souvenirs and traditional Banarasi silk products. In the morning, explore the famous markets of Thateri Bazaar and Godowlia Market, known for their handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Banaras. Afterward, visit the Tulsi Manas Mandir, a temple dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its beautiful wall carvings depicting the epic Ramayana. Bid farewell to Banaras and head back to your hotel to collect your belongings before departing.
While exploring Banaras, don't miss the opportunity to visit the hidden gems and local favorites loved by both tourists and locals. Take a peaceful stroll through the picturesque Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple Garden, a serene oasis away from the city's hustle-bustle. Visit the Assi Ghat in the early morning to witness the mesmerizing sight of devotees performing yoga and meditation rituals. Don't forget to try the delectable street food specialties at Lanka Market, such as kachori sabzi and thandai. These off the beaten path attractions will add unique experiences to your family-friendly trip.
Before planning your trip to Banaras, make sure to check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.