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A Week in Varanasi: A Family-Friendly Adventure

Thursday, December 21: Arrival and Ganga Aarti

Start your trip by arriving in Varanasi and checking into your hotel. In the morning, take a relaxing boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the beautiful sunrise and the devout pilgrims performing their daily rituals. Afternoon can be spent exploring the narrow lanes of the old city, visiting the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the bustling Dashashwamedh Ghat. In the evening, experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dasaswamedh Ghat, where priests perform rituals to honor the river.

  • Boat Ride on the Ganges River: Cost depends on the type of boat (starts from £10-£15 per person), Time spent: 2 hours
  • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat: Free to observe, Time spent: 1 hour
Friday, December 22: Sarnath and Varanasi Markets

In the morning, visit Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa and the archaeological ruins. Afternoon can be spent wandering through the vibrant markets of Varanasi, including the bustling Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar. Don't forget to try the famous Banarasi silk sarees and explore the local handicraft shops.

  • Sarnath: Entry fee: £2 ($3) per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Vishwanath Gali Market: Prices vary depending on purchases, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Thatheri Bazaar: Prices vary depending on purchases, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 23: Varanasi Ghats and Temples

Start your day by visiting Assi Ghat, one of the most famous ghats in Varanasi. Take a dip in the holy waters and witness the morning rituals. Explore other prominent ghats such as Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat. Afternoon can be dedicated to exploring the various mesmerizing temples in Varanasi, including the Durga Temple and the Tulsi Manas Temple.

  • Assi Ghat: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Manikarnika Ghat: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Harishchandra Ghat: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Durga Temple: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Tulsi Manas Temple: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 24: Ramnagar Fort and Cultural Evening

Visit the historic Ramnagar Fort in the morning, located on the eastern bank of the Ganges River. Explore the museum showcasing artifacts and vintage vehicles. Afternoon can be spent exploring the various cultural and handicraft centers in Varanasi, where you can witness traditional crafts being created. In the evening, enjoy a cultural evening at a local venue, where you can witness classical music and dance performances.

  • Ramnagar Fort: Entry fee: £4 ($5) per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Cultural Centers: Prices vary depending on the venue, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Monday, December 25: Varanasi Food Tour and Shopping

Embark on a culinary journey through Varanasi in the morning, tasting local delicacies such as kachoris, lassi, and paan. Afternoon can be dedicated to shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts at popular markets like Godowlia Market and Lahurabir Market. Don't forget to try the famous local sweets, such as malaiyo and rabri, before concluding your shopping spree.

  • Varanasi Food Tour: Prices vary depending on the tour package, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Godowlia Market: Prices vary depending on purchases, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Lahurabir Market: Prices vary depending on purchases, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Sunrise Boat Ride and Departure

Start your final day with a tranquil sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River, enjoying the calmness and serenity. After the boat ride, head back to your hotel for check-out and depart from Varanasi with beautiful memories of your family-friendly trip.

  • Sunrise Boat Ride: Cost depends on the type of boat (starts from £10-£15 per person), Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While in Varanasi, make sure to explore the lesser-known attractions such as the Ramnagar Fort, which provides a glimpse into the city's rich history. Another hidden gem is the Bharat Kala Bhavan, a museum at the Banaras Hindu University, showcasing an extensive collection of art and archaeological artifacts. Local favorites include eating at the legendary Blue Lassi Shop and watching the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti from a boat on the river.

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