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A Week in Varanasi: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

Saturday, September 16: Arrival in Varanasi

Start your trip by arriving in Varanasi, a city known for its spiritual significance and cultural heritage. In the morning, settle into your hotel and rest after your journey. In the afternoon, head to the Ganges River and take a boat ride to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a Hindu ritual of worship. In the evening, explore the vibrant lanes of the old city, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and savor local street food.

  • Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost estimate: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Exploring the Old City: Cost estimate: INR 200 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday, September 17: Sarnath Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site located near Varanasi. In the morning, visit the Dhamek Stupa, a massive structure dating back to ancient times. Explore the ruins of the ancient monasteries and museums that showcase Buddhist art and artifacts. In the afternoon, visit the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Temple and experience the serenity of this spiritual place. In the evening, return to Varanasi and enjoy a boat ride along the Ganges River at sunset.

  • Dhamek Stupa: Cost estimate: INR 20 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Sarnath Archaeological Museum: Cost estimate: INR 5 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Mulagandha Kuti Vihar Temple: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost estimate: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Monday, September 18: Varanasi Walking Tour

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi through a guided walking tour. In the morning, visit the renowned Banaras Hindu University, known for its beautiful campus and the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum. Discover the hidden gems of the city, such as the Manikarnika Ghat and the tranquil Tulsi Ghat. In the afternoon, take a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of the old city, known as the galis, and witness the local way of life. In the evening, attend a classical music and dance performance.

  • Banaras Hindu University: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Manikarnika Ghat: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Tulsi Ghat: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Old City Rickshaw Ride: Cost estimate: INR 200 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Classical Music and Dance Performance: Cost estimate: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, September 19: Varanasi Silk Shopping

Indulge in a day of shopping and experiencing the traditional art of silk weaving in Varanasi. In the morning, visit the Banaras Silk Emporium to witness the intricate process of silk weaving and purchase beautiful silk sarees and fabrics. Explore the bustling markets of Varanasi, such as the Vishwanath Gali and the Thatheri Bazaar, known for their handicrafts and jewelry. In the afternoon, take a heritage walk through the famous Chowk area and marvel at the architectural splendors. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride to witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony.

  • Banaras Silk Emporium: Cost estimate: Varies depending on purchase, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Exploring Vishwanath Gali: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Thatheri Bazaar: Cost estimate: Varies depending on purchase, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Heritage Walk in Chowk: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost estimate: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Wednesday, September 20: Day Trip to Chunar Fort

Embark on a day trip to Chunar Fort, located around 40 kilometers from Varanasi. In the morning, visit the impressive Chunar Fort, which has a rich history dating back to the 11th century. Explore the ancient architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the River Ganges and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature. In the evening, return to Varanasi and relax at your hotel.

  • Chunar Fort: Cost estimate: INR 20 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • River Ganges Boat Ride: Cost estimate: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Thursday, September 21: Varanasi Food Tour

Experience the culinary delights of Varanasi through a delectable food tour. In the morning, visit the famous Kachori Gali and savor the mouth-watering stuffed bread known as kachori. Explore the local food markets, such as the Dal Mandi and the Godowlia Market, where you can taste various street snacks and sweets. In the afternoon, learn to cook traditional Banarasi dishes in a cooking class. In the evening, enjoy a scenic sunset boat ride along the Ganges River.

  • Kachori Gali: Cost estimate: Varies depending on purchase, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Dal Mandi Market: Cost estimate: Varies depending on purchase, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Godowlia Market: Cost estimate: Varies depending on purchase, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Cooking Class: Cost estimate: INR 1000 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost estimate: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Friday, September 22: Varanasi Yoga and Wellness

Indulge in a day of relaxation and rejuvenation in Varanasi. In the morning, participate in a yoga and meditation session at a serene ashram along the banks of the Ganges River. Experience the ancient practices of yoga and discover inner peace. In the afternoon, pamper yourself with an Ayurvedic massage and spa treatment at a wellness center. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk along the river ghats and witness the divine Ganga Aarti ceremony.

  • Yoga and Meditation Session: Cost estimate: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Ayurvedic Massage and Spa Treatment: Cost estimate: Varies depending on package, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Ganges River Ghat Walk: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost estimate: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Varanasi, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Ramnagar Fort, located on the other side of the Ganges River. This magnificent fort offers insights into the royal history of Varanasi and houses a museum showcasing vintage cars and weapons. Another hidden gem is the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India. It features a unique relief map of India carved out of marble. These attractions offer a different perspective of Varanasi and are perfect for a family-friendly visit.

Check here to find the best deals on hotels and flights for your Varanasi trip.

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