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Exploring Varanasi and Lucknow: A Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary

Friday, December 22: Arrival in Varanasi

Welcome to Varanasi! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afternoon calls for a boat ride along the Ganges River, where you can witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. In the evening, take a stroll through the vibrant lanes of Varanasi and indulge in local street food.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free entry, approximately 2 hours
  • Ganges River Boat Ride: INR 200-500 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Exploring Varanasi's Streets: INR 200-500 for food, 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 23: Varanasi Exploration

Start your day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to experience the city waking up. After breakfast, visit the Sarnath archaeological site, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the ancient ruins and visit the Sarnath Museum. In the evening, attend a classical music or dance performance at the famous Bharat Kala Bhavan.

  • Sunrise Boat Ride: INR 200-500 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Sarnath Archaeological Site: INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan: Ticket prices vary, check schedule, 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 24: Varanasi to Lucknow

Check out from your hotel in Varanasi and depart for Lucknow. In Lucknow, start your day by visiting the Bara Imambara, an architectural marvel and a symbol of Lucknow's rich history. Spend the afternoon exploring the British Residency, a historical landmark associated with the 1857 Indian Rebellion. In the evening, enjoy a stroll through Hazratganj, Lucknow's popular shopping district.

  • Bara Imambara: INR 50 per person, 2-3 hours
  • British Residency: INR 200 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Hazratganj: Prices vary based on shopping, 2-3 hours
Monday, December 25: Lucknow Heritage Tour

Embark on a heritage tour of Lucknow by starting your day with a visit to the magnificent Rumi Darwaza, an iconic gateway. Explore the Chota Imambara, a stunning Shia Muslim shrine known for its grand architecture. Afterward, visit the Lucknow Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals and a perfect place for family fun. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk at Ambedkar Memorial Park.

  • Rumi Darwaza: Free entry, 1-2 hours
  • Chota Imambara: INR 25 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Lucknow Zoo: INR 60 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Ambedkar Memorial Park: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
  • Cafe Saifi: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Saifi, known for its cozy atmosphere and a variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
  • Oudhyana: Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Oudhyana, a fine dining restaurant offering authentic Lucknowi cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
  • Marksmen: Enjoy a delightful dinner at Marksmen, a family-friendly restaurant offering a range of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Italian. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Lucknow Food and Shopping

Indulge in the culinary delights of Lucknow by starting your day with a visit to the iconic Tunday Kababi, known for its melt-in-your-mouth kebabs. Afterward, explore the bustling Aminabad Market, where you can shop for traditional Lucknowi chikan embroidery and other handicrafts. In the afternoon, visit the Bara Chauraha and take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the colonial-era streets. Enjoy an evening boat ride on the picturesque Gomti River.

  • Tunday Kababi: Prices vary based on order, 1-2 hours
  • Aminabad Market: Prices vary based on shopping, 2-3 hours
  • Horse Carriage Ride: INR 200-500, 1-2 hours
  • Gomti River Boat Ride: INR 100-200 per person, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Departure

On your final day, enjoy breakfast at your hotel and take some time to explore the local area. Reflect on the wonderful memories made during your trip to Varanasi and Lucknow. Depart for your onward journey with a heart filled with beautiful experiences and a desire to return someday.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Varanasi and Lucknow, don't miss out on visiting the Assi Ghat in Varanasi, a serene and less crowded ghat where you can witness local rituals and yoga practices. In Lucknow, visit the Janeshwar Mishra Park, a sprawling green space perfect for picnics and outdoor activities. These hidden gems provide a glimpse into the local culture and offer a refreshing break from the popular tourist spots.

Check here to find the best hotel and flight prices for your trip to Varanasi and Lucknow!

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