Banaras Family Friendly 7-Day Itinerary

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Banaras Hindu University is Deena Chat Bhandar, known for its delicious variety of chaat dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 100 per person.
• For lunch, try Vishnu Tea Stall, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering vegetarian thali. Average cost for a meal is about INR 150 per person.
• For dinner, head to Baba Lassi, a humble roadside eatery famous for its refreshing lassi and delectable vegetarian kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about INR 200 per person.

Sunday, December 3: Arrival in Banaras

Welcome to Banaras! Start your trip by exploring the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat in the morning. Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony as the sun sets in the evening. Enjoy a boat ride along the Ganges River to soak in the spiritual atmosphere. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: Morning and Evening.

• Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free, Morning
• Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free, Evening
• Boat Ride on the Ganges: INR 200-500, Evening

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot near Dashashwamedh Ghat is Kashi Chai wala, known for their delicious local breakfast items like kachori and samosa. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
• For lunch, try out Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, a rooftop restaurant with a stunning view of the city. They serve a variety of cuisines including Italian and Indian. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Indulge in a vegetarian thali at Shree Rajbhog for dinner. This restaurant offers a traditional Indian dining experience with a wide range of authentic dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.

Monday, December 4: Sarnath Excursion

Embark on a day trip to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Sarnath Museum in the morning. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon at the Deer Park, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Estimated cost: INR 500-1000. Time spent: Full day.

• Dhamek Stupa: Free, Morning
• Mulagandha Kuti Vihar: Free, Morning
• Sarnath Museum: INR 100, Morning
• Deer Park: Free, Afternoon

Tuesday, December 5: Varanasi Heritage Walk

Embark on a guided heritage walk through the narrow lanes of Varanasi. Explore the hidden alleys, ancient temples, and traditional markets. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, and the famous Assi Ghat. Immerse yourself in the cultural beauty of the city. Estimated cost: INR 500-1000. Time spent: Morning and Afternoon.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free, Morning
• Tulsi Manas Temple: Free, Morning
• Assi Ghat: Free, Morning/Afternoon
• Heritage Walk: INR 500-1000 (guided), Morning/Afternoon

Wednesday, December 6: Banaras Hindu University & Ramnagar Fort

Explore the renowned Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus in the morning. Visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum and marvel at its extensive collection of art and artifacts. In the afternoon, head to Ramnagar Fort, a majestic fort located on the banks of the Ganges. Discover the museum inside the fort showcasing vintage cars, weapons, and royal artifacts. Estimated cost: INR 200-500. Time spent: Morning and Afternoon.

• Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Free, Morning
• Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: INR 50-100, Morning
• Ramnagar Fort: INR 50-100, Afternoon
• Museum inside Ramnagar Fort: INR 50-100, Afternoon

Thursday, December 7: Village Tour & Silk Weaving

Embark on a village tour to experience the rural charm surrounding Banaras. Visit a traditional handloom weaving center and witness the intricate process of silk weaving. Interact with local artisans and learn about the rich textile heritage of the region. Enjoy a rustic lunch in the village and immerse yourself in the local culture. Estimated cost: INR 1000-1500. Time spent: Full day.

• Village Tour: INR 1000-1500 (includes transportation and lunch), Full day
• Silk Weaving Center: Free, Morning

Friday, December 8: Day Trip to Chunar Fort

Embark on a day trip to the historic Chunar Fort, located on the banks of the River Ganges. Explore the well-preserved fort, climb to the top for panoramic views, and learn about its fascinating history. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque surroundings. Estimated cost: INR 500-1000. Time spent: Full day.

• Chunar Fort: INR 200-300, Full day
• Picnic Lunch: INR 200-500, Afternoon

Saturday, December 9: Shopping and Departure

Spend your last day exploring the bustling markets of Banaras. Visit the famous Vishwanath Gali and Godowlia Market to shop for traditional Banarasi silk sarees, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Enjoy a delicious local meal before heading to the airport for your departure. Estimated cost: INR 500-1000. Time spent: Morning and Afternoon.

• Vishwanath Gali: Free, Morning
• Godowlia Market: Free, Morning
• Local Meal: INR 300-500, Afternoon

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Banaras, make sure to visit the hidden gem known as Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred cremation ghats in the city. It provides a unique insight into the rituals associated with death in Hindu culture. Additionally, don't miss out on trying the local street food delicacies like kachori, chaat, and the famous Banarasi paan.

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