7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Kashi, Banaras, Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana
Friday, December 1: Kashi (Varanasi)
Start your trip by visiting the spiritual city of Kashi (Varanasi). In the morning, take a boat ride along the river Ganges to witness the mesmerizing sunrise and the rituals performed by devotees. Afternoon, explore the narrow lanes of the old city, known as Banaras, and visit famous temples like Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests offer prayers to the holy river.
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Shree Cafe and Bakery, located in the heart of Varanasi. Enjoy delicious pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the authentic North Indian cuisine at Keshari Restaurant. Indulge in flavorful curries, biryanis, and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe, a charming rooftop restaurant with a wide selection of pizzas, pastas, and Indian dishes. Enjoy the panoramic view of the city while savoring your meal. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Saturday, December 2: Banaras (Varanasi)
In the morning, visit the famous Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Explore the sprawling campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, and see the iconic Vishwanath Temple inside the university premises. Afternoon, indulge in shopping for traditional Banarasi sarees and silk products in the local markets. In the evening, enjoy a delightful boat ride on the Ganges and witness the magical Ganga Aarti at one of the lesser-known ghats.
Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Shopping for Banarasi Sarees: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Boat Ride on Ganges: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Banaras is Keshari Restaurant, known for their delicious traditional Indian breakfast dishes such as aloo puri and chole bhature. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 150 per person.
For lunch, head to Baati Chokha, a popular restaurant specializing in authentic Bihari cuisine. Enjoy their signature dish, litti chokha, along with a variety of other regional delicacies. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 250 per person.
In the evening, dine at Dolphin Restaurant, a waterfront eatery offering a stunning view of the Ganges. Indulge in their delectable seafood dishes, especially the river fish preparations. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 400 per person.
Sunday, December 3: Mathura
Start your day with a visit to the sacred city of Mathura, the birthplace of Lord Krishna. In the morning, visit Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi, the temple complex that marks the exact birthplace of Lord Krishna. Explore the temple and soak in the devotional atmosphere. Afternoon, visit the Dwarkadhish Temple and participate in the noon aarti. In the evening, witness the grand Krishna Leela performance, a theatrical dance-drama depicting the life of Lord Krishna.
For a delicious breakfast, head to Radha Rani Bhandar, a popular restaurant known for its traditional Indian breakfast dishes like aloo puri and kachori. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, try Murli Restaurant, which serves a variety of vegetarian dishes including thalis and Indian curries. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Brijwasi Mithai Wala, a well-known restaurant that offers a wide range of delectable Indian sweets and snacks, along with a selection of North Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 250 INR per person.
Monday, December 4: Vrindavan
Explore the enchanting town of Vrindavan, known for its association with Lord Krishna's childhood pastimes. In the morning, visit the iconic Banke Bihari Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna. Witness the mesmerizing Banke Bihari Aarti and seek blessings. Afternoon, visit the Prem Mandir, a beautiful temple complex showcasing intricate carvings and light and sound shows. In the evening, stroll along the banks of Yamuna River and witness the beautiful Krishna Arati at ISKCON Temple.
Head to Govinda's Restaurant for a hearty breakfast of delicious vegetarian dishes. Enjoy their famous thali, which includes a variety of Indian delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try out the popular Madhuvan Restaurant, known for its authentic North Indian cuisine. Feast on their mouthwatering biryanis and kebabs. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at the elegant Balaji Restaurant, offering a wide range of Indian and Chinese dishes. Indulge in their signature butter chicken and enjoy the cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Tuesday, December 5: Barsana
Embark on a day trip to Barsana, a small town known for its colorful Holi celebrations. In the morning, visit the Radha Rani Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna's beloved Radha. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and devotion as you explore the temple complex. Afternoon, immerse yourself in the unique tradition of Lathmar Holi, where women playfully beat men with sticks. Participate in the joyful festivities and enjoy the cultural performances. In the evening, return to your accommodation in Vrindavan.
Lathmar Holi Festivities: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Travel from Barsana to Vrindavan: Estimated Cost - Variable, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Shri Ram Mithai Bhandar, known for its mouthwatering sweets and snacks. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Govardhan Restaurant, a popular vegetarian eatery offering a wide range of North Indian dishes. Enjoy the flavorful thalis and refreshing beverages. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
In the evening, savor the flavors of traditional Indian cuisine at Brijwasi Mithai Wala. Indulge in their delectable vegetarian dishes and sweet treats. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 6: Vrindavan
Spend another day exploring the spiritual town of Vrindavan. In the morning, visit the Krishna Balaram Mandir, one of the most revered temples in Vrindavan. Attend the morning aarti and soak in the divine atmosphere. Afternoon, explore the famous temples like Radha Damodar Temple, Radha Shyamasundar Temple, and Rangaji Temple. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the beautiful gardens surrounding the temples and enjoy the serene ambiance.
For breakfast, head to Govindji's, a popular restaurant known for its delicious variety of vegetarian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try out Little Italy, a vegetarian restaurant with a wide range of Italian dishes. Their pasta and pizza options are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Brijwasi Mithaiwala, a famous local sweets shop that also serves a variety of vegetarian dinner options. Their thali meals and chaat are highly recommended. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Thursday, December 7: Departure
After breakfast, check out from your accommodation and bid farewell to the spiritual towns of Mathura, Vrindavan, and Barsana. Depart for your onward journey with divine memories and a rejuvenated spirit.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
One of the lesser-known attractions in the Mathura region is Nandgaon, a village associated with Lord Krishna's playful pastimes. Visit the Nand Bhavan, a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, and experience the local culture and traditions. Another hidden gem is the Kusum Sarovar in Govardhan, a serene lake surrounded by lush greenery and ghats, perfect for a peaceful retreat. Locals often enjoy picnics and boat rides in this picturesque location.