3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Varanasi

Thursday, August 31: Exploring the Spiritual Heart of Varanasi

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi. In the morning, head to the Ganges River and take a boat ride to witness the mesmerizing morning rituals and ceremonies along the ghats. Afterward, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the afternoon, explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city, filled with vibrant markets, ancient temples, and traditional eateries. In the evening, experience the magical Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform a ritual of worship to the river Ganges amidst chanting and music.

• Ganges River Boat Ride: Approx. INR 200 per person, 2 hours
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free entry, 1-2 hours
• Exploring Varanasi Old City: Free, 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, 1 hour

Friday, September 1: Sarnath and Cultural Delights

On the second day, visit Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site located just outside Varanasi. In the morning, explore the ancient ruins, including the Dhamek Stupa and the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. You can also visit the Sarnath Museum to learn more about the history and significance of this sacred place. In the afternoon, indulge in the flavors of Varanasi by trying local delicacies such as kachori, lassi, and malaiyyo. In the evening, enjoy a classical music and dance performance at the Varanasi Cultural Center, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.

• Sarnath Ruins and Monuments: Approx. INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
• Sarnath Museum: Approx. INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
• Sampling Local Delicacies: Approx. INR 300 per person, 1 hour
• Varanasi Cultural Center: Approx. INR 500 per person, 2 hours

Saturday, September 2: Temples and Silk Weaving

On the final day, explore some of the famous temples in Varanasi and witness the art of silk weaving. Start the morning by visiting the Durga Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, and witness the beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. Next, head to the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, known for its spiritual significance and the presence of playful monkeys. In the afternoon, visit the Banaras Hindu University and explore the Weaver's Village, where you can see traditional silk weaving techniques in action. End your trip with a serene evening boat ride on the Ganges, taking in the breathtaking views of the ghats and the illuminated riverside temples.

• Durga Temple: Free entry, 1 hour
• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Free entry, 1 hour
• Banaras Hindu University and Weaver's Village: Approx. INR 100 per person, 2-3 hours
• Ganges Evening Boat Ride: Approx. INR 300 per person, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Varanasi, don't miss out on the following family-friendly hidden gems and local favorites:

• Ramnagar Fort: Located on the outskirts of Varanasi, this historical fort offers insights into the royal heritage of the region through its museum and stunning architecture.
• Bharat Kala Bhavan: Situated within the Banaras Hindu University, this museum houses a remarkable collection of Indian art, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles.
• Rooftop Restaurants: Enjoy a meal with a view at one of the many rooftop restaurants in Varanasi, offering panoramic vistas of the Ganges and the city.

For hotel and flight prices in Varanasi, you can check out this website.