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A Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Varanasi

Wednesday, December 27, 2023: Exploring the Ghats

Embark on your Varanasi adventure by experiencing the mesmerizing Ghats along the Ganges River. Start your morning with a boat ride along the river, taking in the panoramic views and witnessing the morning rituals of locals. In the afternoon, visit Dashashwamedh Ghat, the most prominent and lively ghat in Varanasi. Witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening, where spiritual rituals are performed with fire lamps, chants, and incense.

  • Boat Ride on the Ganges: Estimated Cost: INR 500-800 per person, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free Entry, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Free Entry, Time: 1-2 hours
Thursday, December 28, 2023: Discovering Varanasi's Spiritual Side

In the morning, explore the famous temple complex of Kashi Vishwanath, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Afterward, visit the nearby Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, renowned for its spiritual significance. In the afternoon, dive deeper into the spiritual essence of Varanasi by taking a guided tour to the renowned Sarnath, where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon. Spend the evening strolling through the lively streets of the old city, indulging in local street food and shopping.

  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free Entry, Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
  • Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Free Entry, Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
  • Sarnath Tour: Estimated Cost: INR 1,000-1,500 per person, Time: 3-4 hours
  • Explore Old City: Cost: Varies, Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
Friday, December 29, 2023: Cultural Heritage and Workshops

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi by starting your day with a visit to the Ramnagar Fort, known for its stunning architecture. Spend the morning exploring the fort and its museum. In the afternoon, participate in a traditional arts and crafts workshop, where you can learn about silk weaving or try your hand at pottery-making. In the evening, enjoy a classical music and dance performance, immersing yourself in the local culture.

  • Ramnagar Fort: Estimated Cost: INR 100 per person, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Arts and Crafts Workshop: Estimated Cost: Varies, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Classical Music and Dance Performance: Estimated Cost: INR 500-1,000 per person, Time: 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 30, 2023: Varanasi Food Trail

Indulge in the culinary delights of Varanasi by exploring its vibrant food scene. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local eatery, sampling traditional dishes like kachori, jalebi, and lassi. In the afternoon, take a food tour through the bustling lanes of Varanasi, trying various street food items such as chaat, pakoras, and paan. Wrap up the day with a delightful dinner at a rooftop restaurant, enjoying panoramic views of the city.

  • Breakfast at a Local Eatery: Estimated Cost: INR 200-300 per person, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Food Tour: Estimated Cost: INR 1,000-1,500 per person, Time: 3-4 hours
  • Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant: Estimated Cost: INR 800-1,200 per person, Time: 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 31, 2023: Day Trip to Sarnath and Farewell

Spend your final day in Varanasi by revisiting Sarnath. Start your day with a visit to the Dhamek Stupa, one of the most important Buddhist structures. Explore the Archaeological Museum to learn about the history and significance of Sarnath. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic at the tranquil Deer Park, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Bid farewell to Varanasi by witnessing the mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti at Sarnath before heading back to your hotel.

  • Dhamek Stupa: Free Entry, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Archaeological Museum: Estimated Cost: INR 5-10 per person, Time: 1-2 hours
  • Deer Park: Free Entry, Time: 2-3 hours
  • Sarnath Ganga Aarti: Free Entry, Time: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Varanasi, make sure to visit the charming Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most sacred cremation ghats in the city. It offers a unique perspective on the circle of life and death. Another hidden gem is the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which houses an impressive collection of sculptures, miniature paintings, and artifacts from various periods. For a peaceful escape, visit the serene Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and marvel at its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.

For more information on hotel and flight options, check out Kayak.

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