5-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Itinerary for Varanasi, India

Day 1: Cultural Immersement

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day with delicious aloo kachori and puri at this popular local eatery, loved by families.
Located close to the ghats, walk to the Ganges from here to explore.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Experience one of the most revered temples in India, where the family can learn about the rich Hindu traditions.
Walk from the breakfast location.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Ghats

Stroll along the Ganges, witnessing the spiritual practices and families bathing in the holy river.
Continue along the riverbank on foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aum Cafe

Enjoy some family-friendly, vegetarian pasta and smoothies in this cozy café overlooking the Ganges.
Head towards the café, walkable from the ghats.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a short trip to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and explore the peaceful surroundings.
Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Sarnath, around 10km away.
INR500 taxi, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at BrijRama Palace

Dine like royalty with authentic Banarasi cuisine, and enjoy views of the river from the heritage hotel.
Return to Varanasi center by taxi.
INR1200, 2 hours
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Day 2: Spiritual Adventure

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Enjoy fluffy pancakes and freshly squeezed juice to fuel your day ahead.
Walk to The Breakfast Club from your hotel.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Attend the Ganga Aarti

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, an extraordinary spectacle that the family will remember.
Take a rickshaw or walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Learn about the ancient traditions of cremation in Hindu culture; remember to approach the topic gently with kids.
Short walk to the next ghat.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Varanasi Cafe

Savor a mix of Indian and continental dishes with plenty of options for kids.
Head towards the ease of access near the ghats.
INR500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Visit this ancient fort that houses a museum; fascinating for kids to explore the royal heritage.
Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the fort, about 14km away.
INR400 taxi entry free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mangi Ferra Cafe

Enjoy a variety of choices from Indian to Italian, a great spot for families to unwind.
Return to the city center by taxi.
INR800, 2 hours
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Day 3: Historical Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Varanasi House

Enjoy some fresh fruit and traditional Parathas for a hearty start to your day.
Make your way to Varanasi House near Assi Ghat.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Take a family stroll around the sprawling campus known for its stunning architecture and gardens.
Head towards BHU, about 4km; can be reached by rickshaw.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Discover Indian arts and artifacts at this renowned museum, offering a glimpse of diverse cultures.
Continue at BHU; the museum is within the campus.
INR100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi Food Factory

Indulge in some delectable, nutritious meal options suitable for kids and parents alike.
Short taxi ride from BHU.
INR600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Learn about the holy epic Ramayana at this beautifully constructed temple dedicated to Lord Rama.
Just a 10-minute rickshaw ride from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore the local markets

Take some time to shop for local crafts and sweets, allowing kids to choose souvenirs.
Head back to the main markets by auto-rickshaw.
Cost varies, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ganesh Restaurant

Offer the family a delightful mix of North Indian and Chinese delicacies for your evening meal.
Close to the market area.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature and Relaxation

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Starbucks

Start with some refreshing smoothies and sandwiches to energize you for the day.
Located near the Ganges; easy walk from your accommodation.
INR650, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cycle Ride to Assi Ghat

Rent bicycles for a scenic ride to Assi Ghat, where the family can enjoy the view of the river.
Cycle easily towards Assi through the lanes.
INR100 per cycle, 1 hour

11:00AM

Relax at Assi Ghat

Engage in some fun family activities like playing frisbee or just relaxing by the water's edge.
Relax by the river; no transportation needed.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Veggie

Enjoy a hearty lunch with a variety of salads, rice, and freshly made chapatis.
Head back rickshaw from Assi Ghat.
INR500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Rent a family boat for a gentle cruise on the Ganges; engaging and educational for kids.
Book a boat ride near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR800, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Evening Market

Explore local handicrafts and street food; let the kids try different snacks.
Walk to the nearby market area.
Cost varies, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Tandoor Villa

Try out varied North Indian kebabs and curries that kids will surely love.
Easily reachable by rickshaw.
INR900, 2 hours
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Day 5: Final Day Fun

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at India Coffee House

Relish the iconic South Indian breakfast, including dosas and idlis to kickstart your last day.
Located in the city center.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Varanasi Zoo

A perfect family outing to observe and learn about different species in a green environment.
Take a taxi to the zoo, roughly 5 km away.
INR250, 2 hours

11:30AM

Enjoy boating in Assi River

A fun way to conclude your trip; the children will be thrilled to take in the views.
Head back to Assi Ghat.
INR600, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Blue Lassi

A vibrant spot for lassis and light snacks, delightful for families to refresh after a busy morning.
Short walk from the riverbank.
INR400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Local Temples (Sankat Mochan)

Assure some spiritual roaming in this famous temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, engaging the kids in its mythological tales.
Rickshaw ride to the temple.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Wrap up at local cafes

Relax one last time at your favorite cafe, letting the kids savor their favorite treats.
Walk around to find a pleasant local café.
Cost varies, 2 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Pizzeria

Gather with the family for some comforting pizza and pasta to celebrate your wonderful trip.
Close to the area, reachable by foot.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
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