Family Friendly Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Banaras, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya

Day 1: Exploring Banaras

Banaras, India

8:00AM

Visit Assi Ghat

Start your day with a serene boat ride at Assi Ghat, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of the Ganges River.
Assi Ghat is a 20-minute walk from the main city center.
INR 100, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Head to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the holiest temples in India, and witness the beautiful architecture and rituals.
Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a short 10-minute walk from Assi Ghat.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar

Enjoy a traditional Banarasi lunch at Deena Chat Bhandar known for its delicious street food.
Deena Chat Bhandar is located near the temple area.
INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a trip to Sarnath, an important Buddhist site, and explore the ancient ruins and the famous Dhamek Stupa.
Sarnath is a 30-minute drive from the city center.
INR 50 entrance fees, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe with a blend of Indian and Italian cuisine options.
Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe is in the main city area.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Discovering Prayagraj

Prayagraj, India

9:00AM

Visit Triveni Sangam

Begin your day by visiting the sacred confluence of three rivers at Triveni Sangam and take a boat ride to see the meeting point.
Triveni Sangam can be reached by a short boat ride from the main ghat area.
INR 50 for boat ride, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Bhalla Ji Canteen

Enjoy a simple yet delicious vegetarian meal at Bhalla Ji Canteen, known for its local flavors and budget-friendly prices.
Bhalla Ji Canteen is located near the Triveni Sangam.
INR 150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Anand Bhavan

Visit Anand Bhavan, the ancestral home of the Nehru-Gandhi family, now a museum showcasing the history of the Indian independence movement.
Anand Bhavan is a short drive from Triveni Sangam.
INR 20 entrance fees, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shop at Katra Market

Head to Katra Market for some souvenir shopping and local handicrafts at reasonable prices.
Katra Market is easily accessible from Anand Bhavan by local transport.
Variable as per shopping, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ahilya Fort

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at Ahilya Fort, offering a range of North Indian delicacies with a beautiful view of Prayagraj.
Ahilya Fort is a short distance from the market area.
INR 250, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Exploring Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India

9:00AM

Visit Ram Janmabhoomi

Start your day by visiting the historic site of Ram Janmabhoomi, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, and explore the temple complex.
Ram Janmabhoomi is a short walk from the main city center.
Free entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Gupta Ji Chai Wale

Indulge in a light lunch at Gupta Ji Chai Wale, known for its aromatic chai and snacks, perfect for a quick bite.
Gupta Ji Chai Wale is located near the temple area.
INR 100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Hanuman Garhi

Visit Hanuman Garhi, a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location.
Hanuman Garhi is a short drive or climb from the city center.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Kanak Bhawan Temple

Explore the beautiful Kanak Bhawan Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, known for its intricate carvings and vibrant architecture.
Kanak Bhawan Temple is a short distance from Hanuman Garhi.
Free entry, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sitaram Bazaar

Enjoy a traditional dinner at Sitaram Bazaar, offering a variety of street food and local delicacies at affordable prices.
Sitaram Bazaar is the main market area in Ayodhya.
INR 200, 1 hour
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Day 4: Day of Culture in Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India

9:00AM

Visit Tulsi Smarak Bhawan

Explore Tulsi Smarak Bhawan, a museum dedicated to the renowned poet Goswami Tulsidas, known for his epic work on Lord Rama.
Tulsi Smarak Bhawan is a short walk from the main city center.
INR 50 entrance fees, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shri Janmdatri Bhojanalaya

Enjoy a traditional vegetarian meal at Shri Janmdatri Bhojanalaya, offering authentic Ayodhya cuisine in a simple setting.
Shri Janmdatri Bhojanalaya is a short distance from the museum.
INR 150, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Nageshwarnath Temple

Explore the ancient Nageshwarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance.
Nageshwarnath Temple is a short drive from the city center.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll in Ayodhya Riverside Park

Take a leisurely stroll in Ayodhya Riverside Park, offering a peaceful escape with views of the river and lush greenery.
The park is near the temple area and easily accessible on foot.
Free entry, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Shri Ram Katha Sthal

Indulge in a special dinner at Shri Ram Katha Sthal, a serene place to experience the spiritual essence of Ayodhya through its food and ambiance.
Shri Ram Katha Sthal is a short distance from the park.
INR 300, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Back to Banaras

Banaras, India

9:00AM

Explore Durga Temple

Begin your day by visiting the elegant Durga Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga, known for its unique architecture and religious significance.
Durga Temple is a short walk from the city center.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pahalwan Lassi Bhandar

Savor a refreshing lassi and light snacks at Pahalwan Lassi Bhandar, a famous spot for delicious traditional beverages.
Pahalwan Lassi Bhandar is located near the temple area.
INR 100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Explore the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University, known for its educational legacy and architectural beauty, including the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.
Banaras Hindu University is a short drive from the temple area.
Free entry, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shop at Godowlia Market

Head to Godowlia Market for some last-minute shopping, from silk sarees to traditional jewelry, at budget-friendly prices.
Godowlia Market is easily accessible from the university by local transport.
Variable as per shopping, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Blue Lassi

Treat yourself to a variety of delicious lassis at Blue Lassi, a must-visit spot for authentic Banarasi lassi flavors.
Blue Lassi is in the main market area of Varanasi.
INR 150, 1 hour
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Day 6: Cultural Immersion in Banaras

Banaras, India

9:00AM

Visit Banaras Ghats

Explore the numerous ghats along the Ganges River, witnessing the unique blend of spirituality, culture, and daily life along the waterfront.
The ghats can be explored on foot or by boat from the main ghat area.
Free entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Indulge in a traditional North Indian meal at Baati Chokha, known for its Rajasthani cuisine and delectable flavors.
Baati Chokha is located near the main ghat area.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Bharat Mata Temple

Explore Bharat Mata Temple, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India, showcasing a relief map of the country made of marble.
Bharat Mata Temple is a short distance from the ghats.
INR 20 entrance fees, 1 hour

4:00PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Galli

Discover traditional handicrafts and souvenirs at Vishwanath Galli, a shopper's paradise with a wide range of local products.
Vishwanath Galli is near the temple area and easily accessible on foot.
Variable as per shopping, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kachori Gali

Treat yourself to crispy kachoris and local snacks at Kachori Gali, a popular street food hub in Banaras.
Kachori Gali is a bustling food street near the main temple.
INR 100, 1 hour
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Day 7: Final Day in Banaras

Banaras, India

9:00AM

Visit Jantar Mantar

Explore Jantar Mantar, an observatory with ancient astronomical instruments, offering a glimpse into India's scientific heritage.
Jantar Mantar is a short walk from the main city center.
INR 50 entrance fees, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Shop at Lahurabir

Spend some time shopping at Lahurabir for local souvenirs and handicrafts before heading back home.
Lahurabir is a vibrant shopping area in Banaras.
Variable as per shopping, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at IMLY

Enjoy a fusion meal at IMLY, known for its modern twist on traditional Indian street food, perfect for a unique dining experience.
IMLY is located in the city center.
INR 250, 1 hour

3:00PM

Final Walk at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Conclude your trip with a peaceful walk at Dashashwamedh Ghat, observing the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony for a spiritual farewell to Banaras.
Dashashwamedh Ghat is a short walk from the main market area.
Free entry, 1.5 hours
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