Vibrant Varnasi: A 4-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary
Thursday, October 26: Exploring the Ghats
Begin your unforgettable journey in Varanasi by immersing yourself in the spiritual aura of the city. Start your morning with a boat ride along the holy Ganges River, witnessing the sunrise and the mesmerizing view of the ghats. Afterward, visit the Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the most prominent and oldest ghats in Varanasi, and witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. Conclude the day by strolling through the narrow lanes of the old city, experiencing its vibrant energy and indulging in delicious street food.
Boat Ride on the Ganges: Cost estimate: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Dashashwamedh Ghat: No cost, Time spent: 1 hour
Exploring Old City: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, where you can enjoy scrumptious wood-fired pizzas and a variety of breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Savor the flavors of traditional Indian cuisine at the iconic Kashi Chat Bhandar for lunch. They are famous for their delicious chaat, samosas, and lassi. The average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Ganges View Restaurant, offering a breathtaking view of the Ganges River. Enjoy a wide range of Indian and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Friday, October 27: Temples and Cultural Heritage
Embark on a day of spiritual exploration by visiting some of the famous temples in Varanasi. Begin with a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and experience its architectural grandeur. Next, head to the Sarnath Archaeological Site, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, and explore the fascinating ruins and museums. In the evening, enjoy a classical music and dance performance at the Bharat Kala Bhavan, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: No cost, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sarnath Archaeological Site: Cost estimate: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Bharat Kala Bhavan: Cost estimate: INR 500 per person, Time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Madhur Milan Cafe, a popular local eatery known for its delicious and affordable Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the vegetarian thali at Sankatha, a cozy restaurant serving authentic Varanasi cuisine. The thali includes a variety of dishes and costs around 250 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Keshav's Rooftop Restaurant, offering stunning views of the Ganges River and a menu featuring both Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, October 28: Varanasi Silk and Sarnath
On this day, delve into the world of exquisite Banarasi silk, renowned for its fine craftsmanship. Begin your morning by visiting the Banaras Silk Weaving Center, where you can witness the intricate process of silk weaving. Explore the bustling markets of Varanasi, such as Vishwanath Gali and Thateri Bazaar, where you can shop for beautiful silk sarees and other traditional handicrafts. In the afternoon, revisit Sarnath to delve deeper into its historical significance and explore the beautiful Dhamek Stupa.
Banaras Silk Weaving Center: No cost, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Shopping in Varanasi: Cost estimate: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Exploring Sarnath and Dhamek Stupa: Cost estimate: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Madhur Milan Cafe, a popular local spot known for its delicious traditional Indian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try Bona Restaurant, which offers a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes with a focus on traditional North Indian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Amritsari Kulcha Junction, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic Punjabi cuisine, especially their signature Amritsari Kulcha. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Sunday, October 29: Varanasi Zoo and Ramnagar Fort
Conclude your family-friendly journey in Varanasi by visiting the Varanasi Zoo, a delightful experience for children and animal lovers alike. Marvel at the diverse range of wildlife and enjoy the serene ambiance of the zoo. In the afternoon, take a short trip to Ramnagar Fort, situated on the banks of the Ganges River. Explore the fort's architectural beauty, visit the museum housing vintage cars, and enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the river.
Varanasi Zoo: Cost estimate: INR 50 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Ramnagar Fort: Cost estimate: INR 200 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Boat Ride on the Ganges: Cost estimate: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 1 hour
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Varanasi, don't miss out on the opportunity to visit the charming village of Chunar, located about 40 kilometers away. Known for its pottery and historical Chunar Fort, this hidden gem offers a glimpse into rural life and an escape from the bustling city. Another local favorite is the Assi Ghat, a peaceful and less crowded ghat where you can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere. It's a great place for a morning yoga session or simply to soak in the tranquility.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability on Kayak.com.