Thursday, December 21: Exploring the Spiritual Capital
Begin your family-friendly adventure in Varanasi by immersing yourselves in the spiritual atmosphere of this holy city. In the morning, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, take a relaxing boat ride on the sacred Ganges River to witness the mesmerizing evening Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Wrap up the day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of traditional Varanasi cuisine.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Ganges River Boat Ride: ₹500-₹1000 per boat, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Dashashwamedh Ghat Aarti Ceremony: Free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Dinner at a local restaurant: ₹500-₹1000 per person
Friday, December 22: Historical Exploration
Embark on a historical journey through Varanasi's rich past. Start your day by visiting the ancient site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the ruins and visit the Sarnath Museum to learn about the origins of Buddhism. In the afternoon, head to the Ramnagar Fort, a magnificent 18th-century fort on the banks of the Ganges River. Enjoy a guided tour and witness the evening sound and light show that brings the fort's history to life.
Sarnath: Entrance fee ₹20 for Indians, ₹250 for foreigners, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Sarnath Museum: Entrance fee ₹5 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Ramnagar Fort: Entrance fee ₹15 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Sound and Light Show at Ramnagar Fort: ₹50-₹100 per person, show duration 1 hour
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Shree Cafe, located near Sarnath. This cozy cafe offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including fresh juices, sandwiches, and traditional Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, try Ganga View Restaurant, situated by the Ganges River. Enjoy stunning views while feasting on a range of Indian and international cuisines, including vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Banares Haveli Restaurant. This rooftop restaurant overlooking the Ghats offers a diverse menu of Indian delicacies, including tandoori specials, curries, and desserts. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, December 23: Cultural Immersion
Immerse your family in the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi. Begin your day by exploring the narrow lanes of the old city, known as the Galis. Witness the traditional craftsmanship of silk weaving at a local workshop and shop for exquisite Banarasi silk sarees. In the afternoon, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan, a museum showcasing a vast collection of ancient Indian art. End the day with a delightful classical music and dance performance at the Kathak Kendra.
Old City Galis: Free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Banarasi Silk Weaving Workshop: Cost varies depending on purchases, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Bharat Kala Bhavan: Entrance fee ₹10 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Start your day at Madhur Milan Café, a cozy breakfast spot known for its delicious South Indian and North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Great Kabab Factory, where you can indulge in a wide variety of succulent kebabs and other North Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Enjoy a memorable dinner at Zaffran, a popular restaurant offering a range of delectable Mughlai and Awadhi dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, December 24: Nature and Relaxation
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a day in nature. Start your morning with a visit to the Sarnath Deer Park, where you can observe various species of deer in a serene setting. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery. In the afternoon, head to the Ramnagar Water Sports Complex and indulge in a variety of water activities such as boating and jet skiing. End the day by watching a beautiful sunset from the Assi Ghat.
Sarnath Deer Park: Entrance fee ₹10 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Picnic Lunch: Cost varies depending on preferences
Ramnagar Water Sports Complex: Activity prices vary, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunset at Assi Ghat: Free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, December 25: Day Trip to Chunar Fort
Embark on a day trip to the magnificent Chunar Fort, located around 40 kilometers from Varanasi. Explore the ancient fort, which has witnessed the rule of various dynasties. Take in the panoramic views of the Ganges River from the fort's ramparts. Enjoy a riverside picnic lunch before heading back to Varanasi. In the evening, indulge in some shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs at the local markets.
Chunar Fort: Entrance fee ₹25 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Riverside Picnic Lunch: Cost varies depending on preferences
Shopping at Local Markets: Cost varies depending on purchases, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Varanasi Food Trail
Embark on a culinary adventure and explore the flavors of Varanasi. Start your day with a traditional breakfast of kachori and jalebi at a local eatery. In the afternoon, savor the city's famous street food, including chaat, lassi, and paan. Attend a cooking class to learn the secrets of authentic Varanasi cuisine. End the day with a dinner cruise on the Ganges River, enjoying a delectable spread of local delicacies.
Traditional Breakfast: Cost varies depending on preferences
Street Food: Cost varies depending on preferences
Cooking Class: Prices vary, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Dinner Cruise on the Ganges: ₹1000-₹2000 per person
Wednesday, December 27: Wellness and Serenity
Take a day to rejuvenate and immerse yourselves in wellness activities. Begin with a yoga and meditation session at a serene ashram. Indulge in a relaxing Ayurvedic spa treatment to rejuvenate your mind and body. Enjoy a healthy lunch at a vegetarian restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and soak in the tranquil ambiance. End your trip with a memorable evening Aarti ceremony at the Tulsi Ghat.
Yoga and Meditation Session: Prices vary, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Ayurvedic Spa Treatment: Prices vary, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Healthy Lunch at a Vegetarian Restaurant: ₹500-₹1000 per person
Tulsi Manas Temple: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Tulsi Ghat Aarti Ceremony: Free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varanasi, make sure to visit the hidden gem of Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred cremation ghats. You can also take a boat ride to explore the tranquil beauty of the Chunar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna. Another local favorite is the Dumraon Palace, a magnificent historic palace that showcases the architectural grandeur of the bygone era. These off-the-beaten-path attractions offer a unique glimpse into Varanasi's culture and natural beauty.