A Family-Friendly Itinerary in Varanasi

Friday, September 15: Exploring the Old City

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history and spirituality of Varanasi. In the morning, visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples. Take a boat ride on the Ganges River in the afternoon and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. In the evening, explore the narrow lanes of the Old City, known as the "Galiyan," and savor delicious street food.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Ganges River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Exploring the Old City: Estimated cost - Varies based on purchases, Time spent - Flexible

Saturday, September 16: Sarnath and Cultural Immersion

Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the morning, visit the Dhamek Stupa and explore the ruins of ancient monasteries. Discover the rich history of Buddhism at the Sarnath Museum. In the afternoon, engage in a hands-on experience of traditional Indian crafts at the Varanasi Weavers' Center. Enjoy an enchanting Kathak Dance performance in the evening.

• Dhamek Stupa: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1.5 hours
• Sarnath Museum: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 1.5 hours
• Varanasi Weavers' Center: Estimated cost - Varies based on purchases, Time spent - 2 hours
• Kathak Dance Performance: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, September 17: Sunrise Boat Ride and Temples

Witness the mystical beauty of Varanasi at dawn with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River. Observe the morning rituals and ceremonies along the ghats. After the boat ride, visit the Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and the Durga Temple, known for its unique architectural style. In the evening, enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the rooftop of a riverside restaurant.

• Sunrise Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Tulsi Manas Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Durga Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Rooftop Restaurant: Estimated cost - INR 800 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Monday, September 18: Day Trip to Ramnagar Fort and Varanasi Zoo

Take a day trip to Ramnagar, just across the Ganges River. Explore the magnificent Ramnagar Fort, which houses a museum showcasing royal artifacts. Enjoy a picnic in the lush gardens of Ramnagar Fort. In the afternoon, visit the Varanasi Zoo, home to a diverse range of animals, including tigers, elephants, and peacocks. Interact with rescued sloth bears at the Sloth Bear Rescue Center.

• Ramnagar Fort: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Varanasi Zoo: Estimated cost - INR 50 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• Sloth Bear Rescue Center: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, September 19: Varanasi Silk and Ghat Walk

Indulge in a shopping spree for exquisite Varanasi silk sarees and fabrics in the morning. Visit the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, displaying an impressive collection of art and artifacts. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the ghats, observing the religious ceremonies and soaking in the spiritual ambiance of Varanasi. End your trip with a sunset boat ride on the Ganges River.

• Silk Shopping: Estimated cost - Varies based on purchases, Time spent - 2 hours
• Banaras Hindu University and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Ghat Walk: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Sunset Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Ramnagar Akhada, a traditional wrestling arena, where you can witness local wrestlers practicing their skills. Explore the narrow lanes of Bengali Tola, known for its vibrant street art and local handicrafts. Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of Banarasi Paan, a traditional betel leaf preparation, available at various Paan shops throughout the city.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices on Kayak.com.