3-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Varanasi

Friday, December 15: Exploring Varanasi

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi, a city known for its religious significance. In the morning, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony during the afternoon at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform rituals with fire and chanting. As the evening sets in, take a boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the beautiful ghats and their rituals.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free to attend, estimated time spent: 1 hour
• Boat ride on the Ganges River: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Saturday, December 16: Sarnath Excursion

Spend your second day exploring the historical site of Sarnath, located just outside Varanasi. In the morning, visit the Dhamek Stupa, a Buddhist monument dating back to 500 CE. Explore the Sarnath Archaeological Museum to discover ancient artifacts and sculptures. In the afternoon, visit the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, a modern Buddhist temple known for its beautiful murals and peaceful ambiance. Enjoy a picnic in Deer Park, where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon.

• Dhamek Stupa: Admission is free, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Sarnath Archaeological Museum: Admission fee of approximately ₹5 (Indian Rupees), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Mulagandha Kuti Vihar: Free to enter, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Deer Park: Free to enter, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, December 17: Varanasi Cultural Experience

On your last day in Varanasi, immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture. Start your morning with a visit to the Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan, an art and archaeological museum within the university campus. In the afternoon, take a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Varanasi's old city, known as the "Banaras Silk City." In the evening, enjoy a traditional music and dance performance at the Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts.

• Banaras Hindu University: Free to enter, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Bharat Kala Bhavan: Admission fee of approximately ₹20 (Indian Rupees), estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Rickshaw ride through the old city: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Shri Ram Centre for Performing Arts: Ticket prices vary, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Varanasi, consider visiting the Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite bank of the Ganges River. This 18th-century fort showcases the grandeur of the bygone era with its architecture and museum. Another hidden gem is the Chunar Fort, located about 45 kilometers from Varanasi. This fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is of historical importance. Families can also enjoy a visit to the Ramnagar Zoo, which is home to various species of animals and birds, providing an educational and fun experience for children.

To check hotel and flight prices for your Varanasi trip, click here.