5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Varanasi: City Adventures, Nature, and Culinary Delights

Day 1: Exploring The Ghats

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day with kachoris and aloo sabzi at this famous local eatery that offers a taste of authentic Varanasi street food.
Walking distance from most hotels in the area.
INR150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the serenity of the Ganga River and see the morning rituals taking place at one of the most famous ghats in Varanasi.
Walk 5 minutes from breakfast spot.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Enjoy a picturesque boat ride along the Ganges, observing the rituals and life along the riverbank.
Boat services available at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi Home Cook

Savor homemade meals at this local restaurant where the menu changes daily based on fresh local produce.
20-minute walk from the ghat.
INR300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Sarnath

Take a short ride to Sarnath, the site of Buddha's first sermon, and discover the ancient ruins and museums.
30-minute taxi ride from lunch spot.
INR50 (entry fee), 3 hours

5:30PM

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony as priests perform rituals with fire and chants to honor the river.
Return to Dashashwamedh Ghat via taxi.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Baithak Cafe

End your day with a delicious dinner overlooking the river, trying out some of their vegetarian specialties.
5-minute walk from the ghat.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dosa Cafe

Enjoy South Indian delights at this popular spot, with their crispy dosas stealing the show.
10-minute walk from the hotel.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most revered temples in India dedicated to Lord Shiva.
15-minute walk from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Walk Through The Old City

Stroll through narrow lanes filled with shops and stalls selling colorful bangles, textiles, and beautiful handicrafts.
Wander around the temple vicinity.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Blue Lassi

Feast on a variety of lassis and local dishes while relaxing in this vibrant café.
10-minute walk from the Old City.
INR250, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Learn about the importance of this cremation ghat and its significance to Hindu mythology.
15-minute walk from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Attend a Pottery Class

Join a family-friendly pottery class and create your own souvenirs with guidance from local artisans.
Nearby pottery village, taxi ride.
INR800 (for the whole family), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Dum Pukht

Indulge in a culinary experience featuring traditional Awadhi cuisine in a fine-dining setting.
15-minute taxi ride from pottery class.
INR1200, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature and Wildlife

Varanasi, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Ganga Cafe

Try their signature breakfast platter that features local delicacies and fresh fruit juice.
5-minute walk from the hotel.
INR250, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit the Varanasi Bird Sanctuary

Explore lush surroundings and observe migratory birds in their natural habitat.
30-minute taxi ride from the cafe.
INR30 (entry fee), 2 hours

11:00AM

Nature Walk

Take a guided nature walk to learn more about local flora and fauna.
Offered by the Bird Sanctuary.
INR100 (for the guide), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Hotel Surya

Enjoy a meal with a picturesque view and taste local dishes made with fresh ingredients.
15-minute taxi ride from the Bird Sanctuary.
INR600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Aam Ghat

Visit Aam Ghat for a peaceful and quiet environment along the river, ideal for relaxation.
30-minute taxi ride from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Cooking Class Experience

Learn to cook traditional Indian dishes in a fun family cooking class.
Arrange with a local cook near Aam Ghat area.
INR1000 (family package), 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The River View Restaurant

Dine at a restaurant with stunning views of the Ganges while enjoying authentic Indian cuisine.
Short drive from the cooking class location.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Spiritual Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Green Roof Cafe

Savor a healthy breakfast that includes fresh smoothies and baked goods in a relaxing atmosphere.
10-minute walk from the hotel.
INR350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Discover this beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama, representing the rich history and culture of Varanasi.
Taxi ride from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Attend Meditation Session

Participate in a family-friendly guided meditation session to relax and rejuvenate.
Nearby meditation center.
INR500 (for the family), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at India Family Restaurant

Enjoy a friendly atmosphere with options like biryani and paneer dishes that everyone will love.
15-minute taxi ride from the meditation center.
INR350, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Assi Ghat

Spend time at Assi Ghat, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the vibrant local culture.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Spiritual Craft Workshop

Create your own traditional crafts that represent the spiritual culture of India.
Local workshops available at Assi Ghat.
INR800 (for the whole family), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pind Balluchi

Wrap up the day with a feast that highlights a variety of North Indian flavors in a rustic village-themed setting.
15-minute taxi ride from Assi Ghat.
INR600, 2 hours
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Day 5: Relaxation and Shopping

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at BrijRama Palace

Start the final day with a regal breakfast featuring delicacies and a scenic view of the Ganges.
Located along the riverfront.
INR500, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Varanasi Silk Weaving Center

Learn about the ancient craft of silk weaving and shop for beautiful sarees and scarves.
15-minute taxi ride from the palace.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Gali

Explore this narrow alley packed with shops offering local handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
5-minute walk from the silk center.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Shree Cafe

Indulge in some refreshing snacks and light meals to recharge after shopping.
10-minute walk from Vishwanath Gali.
INR300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Banaras Hindu University

Tour one of India's oldest universities to learn about its rich history and cultural significance.
15-minute taxi ride from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Lawn Restaurant

Conclude your trip with a delightful dinner featuring both local and international cuisines in a relaxed garden setting.
20-minute taxi ride from university.
INR800, 2 hours
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