A Week of Family Fun: Jaipur, Varanasi, and Dwarka
Thursday, October 19: Jaipur
Start your trip in the colorful city of Jaipur. In the morning, visit the magnificent Amer Fort, an architectural masterpiece known for its intricate designs and stunning views. Afterward, explore the bustling local markets, such as Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, where you can shop for handicrafts and traditional Rajasthani attire. In the evening, catch a folk dance performance at Chokhi Dhani, a village-themed resort that offers a taste of Rajasthani culture.
Chokhi Dhani: Cost: INR 700 per person (approx.) Time: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Serving delicious traditional Rajasthani breakfast options, Rawat Mishtan Bhandar is a popular restaurant in Jaipur. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Suvarna Mahal at Taj Rambagh Palace, offering a regal dining experience with a menu showcasing the finest Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 2000 INR per person.
To enjoy a delightful dinner with stunning views of Jaipur, head to 1135 AD, a rooftop restaurant located in Amer Fort. Average cost for a meal is about 1800 INR per person.
Friday, October 20: Varanasi
Embark on a spiritual journey in the holy city of Varanasi. Start your day by witnessing the mesmerizing morning Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the River Ganges. Afterward, take a boat ride along the river to witness the ancient ghats and the lively atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. End the day with a peaceful stroll through the narrow alleys of Varanasi, immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.
Ganga Aarti: Cost: Free Time: 1-2 hours
Boat Ride on Ganges: Cost: INR 200-300 per person (approx.) Time: 1-2 hours
A popular breakfast spot in Varanasi is Bread of Life Cafe, known for its delicious and hearty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, Madhur Milan Cafe is a great choice. They serve a variety of local vegetarian dishes that are both flavorful and affordable. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For dinner, head to Pizzeria Vatika, a cozy restaurant offering a range of delicious pizzas and Italian dishes. The ambiance is charming and the prices are reasonable. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Saturday, October 21: Dwarka
Head to the ancient city of Dwarka, famous for its rich mythological and historical significance. Begin your day by visiting Dwarkadhish Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Explore the nearby Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple and Rukmini Devi Temple. In the afternoon, take a soothing dip in the holy waters of Gomti Ghat and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. Spend the evening witnessing the grand evening aarti ceremony at Dwarkadhish Temple.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Shikara Restaurant, located near Dwarkadhish Temple. This vegetarian restaurant offers a variety of traditional Indian dishes like dosas, idlis, and parathas. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to Shri Krishn Lassi & Kulfi, a popular spot near Nageshwar Jyotirlinga Temple. Indulge in their famous thali meals featuring authentic Gujarati cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a satisfying dinner at Meera's Kitchen, a cozy restaurant near Gomti Ghat. They serve a range of vegetarian and Jain dishes, including their specialty, the Rajasthani thali. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, October 22: Jaipur
Return to Jaipur and spend the day exploring more of the city's attractions. In the morning, visit the enchanting City Palace, a beautiful blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Explore the awe-inspiring Jantar Mantar, an astronomical observatory, and learn about its fascinating instruments. In the afternoon, visit the Albert Hall Museum, housing a diverse collection of artifacts and artworks. End the day with a visit to the serene Birla Mandir, a stunning marble temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.
City Palace: Cost: INR 500 (approx.) Time: 2-3 hours
Albert Hall Museum: Cost: INR 100 (approx.) Time: 1-2 hours
Birla Mandir: Cost: Free Time: 1-2 hours
Monday, October 23: Varanasi
Continue your exploration of Varanasi with a visit to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Discover the ancient ruins, including the Dhamek Stupa and the Mulagandh Kuti Vihar. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the site and learn about the teachings of Lord Buddha. In the evening, witness another captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony, this time at Dasaswamedh Ghat, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of temple bells and chanting.
Sarnath: Cost: Free Time: 3-4 hours
Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat: Cost: Free Time: 1-2 hours
Tuesday, October 24: Dwarka
Explore more of Dwarka's cultural and historical treasures. Start your day by visiting the Dwarka Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Sea. Explore the ancient Dwarka Underwater Archaeology Museum, showcasing the discoveries from the submerged city of Dwarka. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the Gomti River Promenade, enjoying the scenic beauty and tranquility. End the day by indulging in delicious Gujarati cuisine at a local restaurant.
Local Restaurant: Cost: INR 500 (approx.) Time: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, October 25: Jaipur
Conclude your trip in Jaipur by visiting the iconic Hawa Mahal, also known as the Palace of Winds. Admire its stunning facade and learn about its historical significance. Explore the beautiful gardens of Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh, known for their intricate frescoes and peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Jal Mahal, a palace surrounded by the tranquil waters of Man Sagar Lake. End your trip with a visit to the vibrant markets of Jaipur, such as Nehru Bazaar and Chandpole Bazaar, where you can buy souvenirs and handicrafts.
Hawa Mahal: Cost: INR 50 (approx.) Time: 1-2 hours
For breakfast, head to Samode Haveli Heritage Hotel Restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious spread of Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
For lunch, try the rooftop restaurant at Handi, known for its mouthwatering Indian cuisine and stunning views of the city. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, head to Chokhi Dhani, a traditional Rajasthani village-themed restaurant that offers a unique dining experience with live performances and authentic Rajasthani food. The average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Jaipur, don't miss the lesser-known Bagru and Sanganer villages, famous for their traditional block printing and handmade paper industries. These villages offer a unique insight into the local craftsmanship and allow you to witness artisans at work. You can also visit the Monkey Temple (Galta Ji), a serene temple complex nestled amidst hills, where you can interact with friendly monkeys and enjoy panoramic views of Jaipur. These off the beaten path attractions provide a glimpse into the authentic culture of the region and offer memorable experiences for the whole family.