4-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Banaras

Friday, November 17: Arrival in Banaras

Welcome to Banaras, also known as Varanasi, one of the oldest and holiest cities in India. Begin your trip by checking into your hotel and settling in. In the morning, visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, to seek blessings for your journey. Afterward, explore the famous ghats alongside the sacred River Ganges. Take a boat ride during sunset to witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• River Ganges Ghats: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Ganga Aarti Ceremony: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, November 18: Spiritual Exploration

Embark on a spiritual journey in Banaras today. Begin your morning with a boat ride on the Ganges to experience the serene ambiance. Afterward, visit Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the Dhamekh Stupa and the Sarnath Museum to learn about Buddhism's rich history. In the evening, visit the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets of the city.

• Boat Ride on the Ganges: Cost - INR 200-300 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Sarnath: Cost - INR 100 per person (entrance fee to Dhamekh Stupa), Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Bharat Mata Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Sunday, November 19: Cultural Extravaganza

Immerse yourself in Banaras' rich cultural heritage today. Start your day by visiting the Banaras Hindu University, known for its beautiful campus and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. Next, explore the bustling streets of the old city and witness the famous street markets, pottery workshops, and silk weaving centers. In the evening, delight in classical music and dance performances at a local venue.

• Banaras Hindu University: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Cost - INR 100 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Exploring Old City: Cost - Free (shopping expenses as per personal preference), Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Cultural Performances: Cost - INR 500-1000 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, November 20: Temples and Cuisine

Devote your last day in Banaras to exploring more temples and savoring the local cuisine. Start by visiting the Durga Temple and the Tulsi Manas Temple, known for their beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings. Indulge in a vegetarian thali lunch at a traditional restaurant, savoring authentic Banarasi flavors. In the afternoon, explore the markets and shop for traditional Banarasi silk sarees, handicrafts, and artifacts. End your day with a peaceful evening walk along the ghats.

• Durga Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Tulsi Manas Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Vegetarian Thali Lunch: Cost - INR 200-300 per person, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Shopping in Markets: Cost - As per personal preference, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions in Banaras, consider visiting the Ramnagar Fort, a stunning fort-palace on the banks of the Ganges. Another hidden gem is the Ramnagar Museum, which houses a collection of vintage cars, antique costumes, and ancient manuscripts. Locals also love exploring the narrow alleyways of the old city, known as the galis, where one can witness the authentic essence of Banaras. Don't miss trying the local street food, such as kachori, jalebi, and the famous Banarasi paan, for a true culinary adventure.

For hotel and flight prices in Banaras, you can check here.