Family-Friendly Itinerary for Varanasi

Saturday, December 23, 2023: Exploring the Spiritual Side

Start your trip in Varanasi by immersing yourself in its rich spiritual heritage. Begin your morning with a boat ride along the Ganges River, witnessing the mesmerizing ghats, including Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat. In the afternoon, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and experience the divine atmosphere. As the evening sets in, attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dasaswamedh Ghat, a captivating ritual of light and devotion.

• Boat Ride on the Ganges: Estimated Cost - INR 500 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Estimated Cost - Free (donations accepted), Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat: Estimated Cost - Free (donations encouraged), Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• If you're looking for a delicious and hearty breakfast, head to Madras Cafe, known for their authentic South Indian cuisine. Enjoy their famous idlis and dosas, and the average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
• For a satisfying lunch, visit Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe. Indulge in their wood-fired pizzas and refreshing salads, all made with fresh local ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Spice Route. This restaurant offers a wide range of Indian and international dishes, with a focus on spices and flavors. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.

Sunday, December 24, 2023: Cultural Immersion

Embark on a cultural journey today by exploring the narrow alleys and bustling markets of Varanasi. In the morning, visit the Banaras Hindu University, established in 1916, known for its beautiful campus and iconic Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum. Afterward, indulge in a traditional Varanasi breakfast, relishing the local delicacies. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant markets of Varanasi, such as the Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar, where you can find unique handicrafts and silk products. In the evening, enjoy a classical music and dance performance at the famous Sankat Mochan Temple.

• Banaras Hindu University and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Traditional Varanasi Breakfast: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Exploring Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar: Estimated Cost - Varies, Estimated Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Classical Music and Dance Performance at Sankat Mochan Temple: Estimated Cost - Free (donations encouraged), Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday, December 25, 2023: Day Trip to Sarnath

Take a day trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site near Varanasi. In the morning, explore the Dhamek Stupa, a massive cylindrical structure marking the spot where Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Archaeological Museum to witness ancient Buddhist artifacts and sculptures. In the afternoon, visit the Chaukhandi Stupa, known for its beautiful carvings. Experience tranquility at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, a modern monastery complex. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk in the Deer Park, where Buddha taught his first disciples.

• Dhamek Stupa: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Sarnath Archaeological Museum: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Chaukhandi Stupa: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 30 minutes
• Mulagandha Kuti Vihar: Estimated Cost - Free (donations encouraged), Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Deer Park: Estimated Cost - Free, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, December 26, 2023: Varanasi Silk and Ghats

Delve into the world of Varanasi's renowned silk industry today. In the morning, visit a silk weaving center to learn about the intricate process of silk making. Explore the vibrant Varanasi Silk Market, where you can purchase exquisite silk sarees and fabrics. In the afternoon, head to the beautiful Assi Ghat and take a rejuvenating boat ride towards Manikarnika Ghat, observing the rituals and cremation ceremonies from a distance. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat, a tranquil and lesser-known spot for the ceremony.

• Silk Weaving Center: Estimated Cost - Free (donations encouraged), Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Varanasi Silk Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Boat Ride from Assi Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat: Estimated Cost - INR 300 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Ganga Aarti at Assi Ghat: Estimated Cost - Free (donations encouraged), Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour

Wednesday, December 27, 2023: Varanasi Food Trail

Indulge in the culinary delights of Varanasi today. Start your morning with a filling breakfast of traditional Kachori Sabzi and Jalebi from a local eatery. Explore the various street food stalls in Varanasi, sampling mouthwatering snacks like Pani Puri and Papdi Chaat. In the afternoon, visit a famous local restaurant to savor the iconic Banarasi Paan, a refreshing after-meal treat. In the evening, enjoy a dinner cruise on a traditional boat, relishing delectable local cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the Ganges.

• Traditional Breakfast: Estimated Cost - INR 150 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 1 hour
• Street Food Tasting: Estimated Cost - INR 200 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours
• Banarasi Paan: Estimated Cost - INR 50 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 30 minutes
• Dinner Cruise on the Ganges: Estimated Cost - INR 1000 per person, Estimated Time Spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Aside from the popular attractions, Varanasi has some hidden gems and local favorites. Consider visiting the Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite bank of the Ganges, to explore its stunning architecture and museum. For a peaceful retreat, visit the nearby Chunar Fort, known for its historical significance and panoramic views of the surroundings. Don't miss out on trying the famous Banarasi Paan at the iconic Ram Asre Sweet Shop, a local favorite that has been serving delicious paan for generations.

To check hotel and flight prices in Varanasi, click here.