Family Friendly, Shoestring Budget 2-Day Itinerary in Varanasi

Day 1: River Ghats and Temples

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local eatery

Start your day with a delicious traditional Indian breakfast at a local eatery near Assi Ghat, such as kachori sabzi or jalebi.
Assi Ghat is a great starting point to explore the ghats of Varanasi.
INR 200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Assi Ghat and Hanuman Ghat

Begin your exploration by visiting Assi Ghat, the southernmost ghat in Varanasi, and then head to Hanuman Ghat to admire the stunning views of the Ganges River.
You can walk or take a cycle rickshaw to move between ghats.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at a local cafe

Enjoy a simple and authentic Indian meal at a local cafe near Hanuman Ghat. Try dishes like chhole bhature or thali.
There are many budget-friendly options along the ghats.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00PM

Dashashwamedh Ghat and Vishwanath Temple

Visit the iconic Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, and then head to the Vishwanath Temple to seek blessings.
Take a leisurely walk along the ghats to get from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Vishwanath Temple.
INR 50 (optional donation for Ganga Aarti), 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore the bustling markets

Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant markets of Varanasi, such as Godowlia Market, and shop for souvenirs like Banarasi silk sarees or brass items.
You can easily explore the markets on foot.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a local restaurant

End your day with a flavorsome dinner at a local restaurant serving delicious North Indian cuisine, like paneer tikka or thali.
Ask locals for recommendations on nearby eateries.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 2: Sarnath and Ganges River

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a nearby eatery before starting your day.
Start your day by grabbing breakfast at your accommodation.
INR 150, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sarnath

Head to Sarnath, a sacred Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Mulagandha Kuti Vihar, and the Ashoka Pillar.
Take a taxi or auto rickshaw to reach Sarnath from Varanasi.
INR 300 (entry fees), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch with a view

Have a leisurely lunch with a view of the Ganges River at a local restaurant in Sarnath, serving fresh vegetarian dishes.
Choose a restaurant with a riverside seating for a serene experience.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:30PM

Boat ride on the Ganges River

Embark on a memorable boat ride on the Ganges River to experience the breathtaking views of the ghats and witness the spiritual rituals being performed.
You can book a boat ride at the ghats or through your hotel.
INR 200 per person, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Varanasi at leisure

Spend the rest of the evening exploring Varanasi at your leisure. You can visit local markets, try street food, or simply relax by the riverbank.
Feel free to wander around and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Varanasi.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a local restaurant

Enjoy a final dinner in Varanasi at a local restaurant, perhaps trying different street food delicacies like chaat or lassi.
Explore the streets for budget-friendly food options.
INR 300, 1 hour
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