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A Week in Banaras: A Family Friendly Itinerary

Saturday August 19: Arrival in Banaras

Welcome to Banaras! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and getting settled. Use Kayak to find the best hotel deals. In the morning, explore the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest sites in Hinduism. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Ganges River and witness the mesmerizing evening Aarti ceremony. End your day with a visit to Dashashwamedh Ghat and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Cost Estimate - Entrance is free, but there may be charges for special ceremonies - Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Ganges River Boat Ride: Cost Estimate - Starts from INR 200 per person - Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Cost Estimate - Free - Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday August 20: Cultural Exploration

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Banaras. Start your morning with a visit to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the ruins, visit the famous Dhamek Stupa, and soak in the peaceful ambiance. In the afternoon, visit the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Take a walk through the campus and admire the intricate architecture. In the evening, attend a classical music or dance performance at the Bharat Kala Bhavan.

  • Sarnath: Cost Estimate - Entrance is free - Time Spent: 3-4 hours
  • Banaras Hindu University: Cost Estimate - Free - Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Bharat Kala Bhavan: Cost Estimate - Ticket prices vary - Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Monday August 21: Explore Ancient Temples

Embark on a temple trail today. Begin your day by visiting the Durga Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga. Admire the beautiful architecture and seek blessings. In the afternoon, visit the Tulsi Manas Temple, known for its walls adorned with verses from the Ramcharitmanas. Conclude your temple tour with a visit to the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and participate in the evening aarti.

  • Durga Temple: Cost Estimate - Free - Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Tulsi Manas Temple: Cost Estimate - Free - Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Cost Estimate - Free - Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday August 22: Banaras Food Delights

Indulge in the delicious flavors of Banaras today. Start your morning with a visit to the famous Kachori Gali and savor the mouthwatering kachoris and jalebis. In the afternoon, explore the bustling lanes of Godowlia Market and treat yourself to local street food like chaat, lassi, and paan. In the evening, experience a traditional Banarasi thali at one of the city's authentic restaurants.

  • Kachori Gali: Cost Estimate - Varies based on items purchased - Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Godowlia Market: Cost Estimate - Varies based on items purchased - Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Banarasi Thali: Cost Estimate - Starts from INR 200 per person - Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday August 23: Day Trip to Ramnagar Fort

Take a day trip to the historic Ramnagar Fort, situated on the opposite bank of the Ganges River. Explore the magnificent fort, visit the museum showcasing vintage cars, and witness the daily evening aarti at the Ramnagar Ghat. Don't forget to enjoy a boat ride to reach the fort and admire the scenic views along the way.

  • Ramnagar Fort: Cost Estimate - Entrance fee is between INR 15-50 - Time Spent: 3-4 hours
  • Boat Ride: Cost Estimate - Starts from INR 100 per person - Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday August 24: Varanasi Silk Shopping

Explore the famous silk weaving industry of Varanasi today. Begin your day with a visit to the Silk Weaving Centre and learn about the intricate process of creating Banarasi silk sarees. Shop for beautiful silk products at the local markets like Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar. In the evening, attend a silk weaving demonstration and witness the skilled artisans at work.

  • Silk Weaving Centre: Cost Estimate - Free - Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Vishwanath Gali: Cost Estimate - Varies based on items purchased - Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Thatheri Bazaar: Cost Estimate - Varies based on items purchased - Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Friday August 25: Morning Boat Ride and Ghat Exploration

Experience the spiritual essence of Banaras with an early morning boat ride along the Ganges River. Witness the sunrise and the rituals performed by devotees. After the boat ride, visit various ghats like Assi Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Harishchandra Ghat. Observe the cremation rituals at Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most sacred cremation grounds in India.

  • Boat Ride: Cost Estimate - Starts from INR 200 per person - Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Assi Ghat: Cost Estimate - Free - Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Manikarnika Ghat: Cost Estimate - Free - Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Harishchandra Ghat: Cost Estimate - Free - Time Spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Banaras, don't miss exploring the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city, known as the "galis." These lanes are filled with hidden gems like small temples, local shops selling unique handicrafts, and traditional eateries serving local delicacies. Take a walk along the Manikarnika Gali and discover the vibrant street art and murals. You can also visit the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, and the stunning Ramnagar Palace, known for its exquisite architecture.

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