3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Varanasi

Sunday, October 29: Exploring the Spiritual Side

Begin your trip to Varanasi by immersing yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of this ancient city. In the morning, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the religious rituals and pay your respects at this sacred site. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the river Ganges and observe the evening Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. As the evening sets in, explore the narrow lanes of the old city, where you can find local shops selling traditional handicrafts and delicious street food.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Boat Ride on the Ganges: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Exploring the Old City: Estimated Cost - varies (for shopping and food), Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Head to Blue Lassi for a variety of delicious and refreshing lassi flavors, perfect for a quick and fulfilling breakfast. Average cost for a meal is about 80-100 INR per person.
• Savor traditional Indian thali at Baati Chokha, a popular lunch spot known for its authentic flavors and generous portions. Average cost for a meal is about 150-200 INR per person.
• Treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at Bati Chokha Restaurant, which offers a wide range of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 300-500 INR per person.

Monday, October 30: Cultural Immersion

On the second day, delve deeper into Varanasi's rich cultural heritage. Start your morning with a visit to the Sarnath Archaeological Museum where you can explore the ancient artifacts and sculptures related to Buddhism. In the afternoon, visit the Ramnagar Fort, known for its stunning architecture and a museum displaying the royal collections. In the evening, enjoy a classical dance performance or a cultural show at the Bharat Kala Bhavan, located inside the Banaras Hindu University campus.

• Sarnath Archaeological Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 10 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Ramnagar Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 15 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Bharat Kala Bhavan: Estimated Cost - Varies (depending on the show), Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, October 31: Peaceful Retreat

On your final day, spend some time in tranquility and connect with your inner self. Start your morning by visiting the famous Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, known for its peaceful ambiance. In the afternoon, head to the Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, and explore the beautiful garden surrounding it. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Assi Ghat and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. Bid farewell to Varanasi with a boat ride under the starry sky.

• Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Tulsi Manas Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Assi Ghat and Ganga Aarti: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have extra time in Varanasi, consider exploring the following hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India, showcasing a relief map of the country. Explore the charming Durga Temple known for its vibrant red color and intricate architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the delectable street food of Varanasi, especially the lip-smacking Chaat and Lassi available at various street stalls. These hidden gems and local favorites will give you a more authentic and memorable experience of the city.

For hotel and flight prices in Varanasi, you can check this link.