Ultimate 3-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Varanasi's Tourist Attractions and Ghats

Day 1: Gates of the Ganges

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Morning Boat Ride

Kickstart your day with a tranquil boat ride at sunrise along the Ganges River, witnessing the morning rituals performed at various Ghats including Dashashwamedh and Assi.
Head to Assi Ghat for boat hire services, lasting about 2 hours.
INR 200 per person, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

After the boat ride, visit the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a significant pilgrimage site renowned for its stunning architecture.
Easily accessible by foot from Dashashwamedh Ghat; be ready for some crowd.
Free entry, donations accepted, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chaat Bhandar

Indulge in traditional Varanasi street food such as chaat and panipuri at this popular eatery located near the temple.
Just a short walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
INR 150 per person, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Manikarnika Ghat

Visit the famous cremation ghat, observing the burning pyres and understanding the Hindu beliefs surrounding death and rebirth.
Short walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple, keep respect in mind.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Gyanvapi Mosque

Explore this historical mosque located adjacent to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, representing the uniquely intertwined religious history of Varanasi.
Easily reachable by foot.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Attend Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Experience the breathtaking ritual of Ganga Aarti as priests perform prayers with traditional lamps in front of the river.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat for prime seating; arrive early to grab a good spot.
Free to attend, donations appreciated, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Dum Pukht Biryani

Relish a delicious dinner featuring Awadhi cuisine specializing in dum biryani at this well-reputed restaurant.
Located in the city, easy to reach by auto-rickshaw.
INR 600 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Temple Trail

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Sarnath

Travel to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon; explore the ruins, ancient stupas, and visit the Sarnath Museum.
Take an auto-rickshaw to Sarnath, approximately 12 km from Varanasi.
INR 100 per person, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Dhamek Kitchen

Enjoy a simple vegetarian meal at this cafe near Sarnath, offering local and Indian dishes in a serene setting.
Adjacent to Sarnath attractions, easily walkable.
INR 300 per person, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Dhamek Stupa and Chaukhandi Stupa

Explore these ancient Buddhist stupas, rich with history and surrounded by serene parkland.
Short walks from the cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to the city and visit Tulsi Manas Temple, known for its beautiful marble architecture and serene atmosphere.
Auto-rickshaw back to the city, easy to find.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Pay heed to the spiritual atmosphere at this temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, frequented by devotees seeking blessings.
A short auto-rickshaw ride from Tulsi Manas Temple.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi Palace

Enjoy a delightful North Indian dinner in this family-friendly restaurant catering to a range of tastes.
Located near the university, easy to reach.
INR 500 per person, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Explore this historic fort and its museum featuring royal paraphernalia, vintage cars, and informational exhibits.
Take an auto-rickshaw to Ramnagar, about 14 km from Varanasi.
INR 100 per person, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Local Silk Weaving Areas

Visit workshops where the famous Varanasi silk sarees are hand-woven; watch artisans at work and shop for souvenirs.
Return to Varanasi city; workshops are located within close proximity.
Free to explore; buying is optional, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy organic dishes and beverages in a cozy setting that supports local communities.
Located in the city center; accessible by auto-rickshaw.
INR 300 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Shopping at Godowlia Market

Explore Varanasi's vibrant market for a variety of souvenirs, clothing, and local handicrafts.
Take a short walk from the cafe to reach the market.
Shopping budget based on preference, 2 hours

6:00PM

Attend a Classical Dance Show

Witness a mesmerizing classical dance performance at a cultural center showcasing local talent.
Book tickets ahead of time at major venues like Ramlila Theatre.
INR 500 per person, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Shree Cafe

Enjoy a relaxed dining experience on a rooftop with a view of the flowing Ganges, offering a mix of Indian and international dishes.
Located back near the Ghats, perfect for a concluding meal.
INR 400 per person, 1-1.5 hours
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