Family-Friendly 2-Day Itinerary in Varanasi, India

Day 1: Explore Culture

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery, known for its organic ingredients and delicious baked goods.
Located in the Assi Ghat area, it's a short rickshaw ride from most hotels.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sarnath

Take a 30-minute drive to Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon, to explore its ancient stupas and the stunning Dhamek Stupa.
Travel by pre-arranged taxi or auto-rickshaw.
INR50 (entry fee for the museum), 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Gateway Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at The Gateway Hotel’s restaurant, offering Indian and international cuisine and a beautiful ambiance.
Easily accessible by taxi from Sarnath.
INR1000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Varanasi Ghats

After lunch, head to the famous Ganga Ghats where you can stroll along the riverbanks and experience the vibrant local life.
Follow the directions of your rickshaw driver, or use Google Maps.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Take a Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience a serene boat ride on the Ganges river that provides stunning views of the Ghats at sunset.
Board a boat from any of the Ghats; there are many operators available.
INR500 per boat, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Savor the local street food specialties at Kashi Chat Bhandar, perfect for families wanting to try authentic Varanasi snacks.
Walk or take a rickshaw to the restaurant near the Ghats.
INR600, 1 hour

7:30PM

Watch the Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Conclude your day by witnessing the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, filled with music, chanting, and colorful lights.
Follow the crowds from your dinner location to the Ghat, it's a short walk.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: History & Heritage

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Aum Cafe, known for its hippie vibe and healthy options perfect for the whole family.
Travel by rickshaw; it’s close to the Assi Ghat.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most important temples in Hinduism.
Take a rickshaw to the temple; be ready for security checks.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Narrow Lanes of Varanasi

Wander through the narrow, bustling streets of Varanasi to discover local shops, artisans, and traditional markets.
Walk from the temple into the heart of the old city.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Varuna Restaurant

Refuel with a hearty lunch at The Varuna Restaurant, which offers a variety of dishes suitable for families.
A short rickshaw ride from the old city area.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Travel to Ramnagar Fort, located on the opposite bank of the Ganges, to explore the museum and take in beautiful river views.
Catch a boat from a nearby Ghat or take a taxi.
INR200, 2 hours

4:30PM

Book Shopping at Vishwanath Gali

After exploring the fort, head back to the city for shopping in Vishwanath Gali, known for its silk and handicrafts.
Return by boat or taxi, then walk to the shopping area.
Free to browse; costs vary based on purchases, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Enjoy a traditional Bihari meal at Baati Chokha, featuring local specialties and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Short rickshaw ride from Vishwanath Gali.
INR900, 1.5 hours
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