Family-Friendly Varanasi Itinerary

Day 1: Spiritual Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on River Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride along the River Ganges, witnessing the spiritual rituals and daily life of locals.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat and hire a boat. It's a 10-minute walk from most hotels in the main city area.
500 INR, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most famous and sacred temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, experiencing the rich culture and architecture.
Take a 15-minute walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat to reach the temple.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a delicious vegetarian meal at this popular eatery known for its fresh salads, sandwiches, and baked goods.
From Kashi Vishwanath Temple, take a 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride to reach the bakery.
400 INR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Sarnath Excursion

Visit the ancient site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon, and explore the ruins and museum.
Sarnath is a 30-minute drive from Varanasi city center. Hire a cab or take a guided tour.
200 INR (entry fees), 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Evening Aarti Ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual with lamps and prayers, by the banks of the Ganges.
Walk back to Dashashwamedh Ghat from Sarnath or take a taxi back to the city center.
Free, donations appreciated, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and Bharat Kala Bhavan

Explore the BHU campus, visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, and admire the university's architecture and greenery.
BHU is a 15-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the city center.
100 INR (museum entry), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Relish wood-fired pizzas and other Italian delights in a cozy garden setting at this unique cafe.
From BHU, take a 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride to reach the cafe.
600 INR, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore the historic Ramnagar Fort, known for its museum, vintage cars, and traditional architecture.
Ramnagar Fort is a 20-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the city center.
150 INR (entry fees), 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Godowlia Market

Shop for traditional Banarasi sarees, handicrafts, jewelry, and street food at this bustling local market.
Godowlia Market is a 15-minute auto-rickshaw ride from Ramnagar Fort.
Variable based on purchases, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Varanasi, India

10:00AM

Explore Ramnagar Gardens

Spend the morning amidst nature at Ramnagar Gardens, a serene park with lush greenery and peaceful surroundings.
Ramnagar Gardens are adjacent to Ramnagar Fort, easily accessible by foot.
50 INR (entry fees), 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Shree Cafe

Indulge in a vegetarian feast at Shree Cafe, known for its organic food, fresh juices, and tranquil ambiance.
Shree Cafe is a short walk from Ramnagar Gardens.
300 INR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Chunar Fort

Take a scenic drive to Chunar Fort, perched on a hill overlooking the Ganges, and explore the historic fortification.
Chunar Fort is a 1.5-hour drive from Varanasi. Hire a taxi or join a guided tour.
100 INR (entry fees), 2-3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a relaxing evening meal at Open Hand Cafe, offering a mix of Indian and international cuisine with a view.
Return to Varanasi city center from Chunar Fort and walk to Open Hand Cafe.
500 INR, 1-2 hours
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