Family Friendly 3-Day Varanasi Itinerary on a Low Budget

Day 1: Varanasi City Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride on River Ganges

Start your day with a serene boat ride on the River Ganges, witnessing the spiritual rituals and daily life along the ghats.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat and hire a boat. It's a 10-minute walk from the main city area. The activity lasts about 1.5 hours.
INR 200 per person, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most famous and sacred temples in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Take a 15-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the ghat to the temple.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar

Enjoy delicious and affordable street food at this local favorite eatery.
Walk to Deena Chat Bhandar from the temple, it's only a 5-minute walk.
INR 100 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Assi Ghat and Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Stroll along the peaceful Assi Ghat and visit the Tulsi Manas Temple known for its beautiful marble architecture.
Take a 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the city center to Assi Ghat.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Lane

Shop for souvenirs, traditional clothes, and local handicrafts at this bustling lane near the main temple area.
Walk from Assi Ghat to Vishwanath Lane, around a 20-minute walk.
Variable, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Shree Cafe

Relish a budget-friendly dinner with a mix of Indian and International cuisines at this cozy cafe.
Walk to Shree Cafe from Vishwanath Lane, it's a 10-minute walk.
INR 300 per person, 1 hour
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Day 2: Sarnath Excursion

Sarnath, India

9:00AM

Visit Dhamek Stupa and Chaukhandi Stupa

Explore the ancient Buddhist stupas which hold great historical and religious significance.
Take a 30-minute taxi ride from Varanasi to Sarnath.
INR 50 entry fee for both sites, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sarnath Cafe

Enjoy a simple and affordable meal at this local cafe near the stupas.
Walk to Sarnath Cafe from the stupas, it's a 5-minute walk.
INR 150 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Sarnath Archeological Museum

Discover the rich collection of artifacts and sculptures showcasing the history of Sarnath.
The museum is located within walking distance from the stupas.
INR 5 entry fee, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to Varanasi to relax and unwind after a day of exploration.
Take a taxi back to Varanasi, it's a 30-minute ride.
INR 300, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a peaceful dinner with a view of the Ganges at this lovely rooftop cafe.
Walk to Vaatika Cafe from your accommodation, it's a 10-minute walk.
INR 250 per person, 1 hour
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Day 3: Ganges River Experience

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Yoga by the Ganges

Start your day with a rejuvenating yoga session by the river, amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Join a yoga class at a center near the ghats, a 15-minute walk from most accommodations.
INR 200 per person, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat

Explore the famous cremation ghats of Varanasi and witness the circle of life and death.
Take a 20-minute walk from the yoga center to the ghats.
Free entry, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a healthy and pocket-friendly meal at this cafe known for its organic food and great ambiance.
Walk to Open Hand Cafe from the ghats, it's a 10-minute walk.
INR 200 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Boat Ride to Varanasi Sandstone Temples

Embark on a boat ride to see the beautiful sandstone temples along the Ganges, a unique architectural experience.
Hire a boat from Dashashwamedh Ghat for a guided tour. It's a 5-minute walk from the cafe.
INR 300 per person, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Godowlia Market

Explore the bustling market for souvenirs, clothes, and local crafts at bargain prices.
Take a 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the ghats to Godowlia Market.
Variable, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Blue Lassi

Indulge in the famous lassis at this iconic spot offering a variety of flavors.
Walk to Blue Lassi from the market, it's a 5-minute walk.
INR 100 per person, 1 hour
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