5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Varanasi, India

Day 1: Immersion in Culture

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Start your day with a delightful breakfast featuring freshly baked breads and organic dishes that are healthy and fulfilling.
Head towards the bakery located by Assi Ghat.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sarnath

Explore the historic site of Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon after enlightenment, and visit the museums and ruins.
Take an auto-rickshaw from Assi Ghat to Sarnath.
INR 200, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy a taste of authentic local chaat, where your family can sample various street food items safely in a restaurant setting.
Return to the main city area and visit this popular eatery.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience a tranquil boat ride on the Ganges, providing the family a breathtaking view of the ghats and temples.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat to find boat operators.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Ghats

Stroll along the ghats, observing life by the river and the stunning architecture, particularly the evening aarti ceremony preparation.
Walk along the riverfront from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Assi Ghat.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi Dhaba

Finish the day with a hearty Indian dinner at Varanasi Dhaba, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and extensive menu.
Easily walk from Assi Ghat to the nearby restaurant.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Spiritual Explorations

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gulariya Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast at Gulariya, perfect for trying local favorites such as puris and aloo bhaji.
Located near the main Ghat area, a short rickshaw ride away.
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Take in the spirituality of one of the most famous Shiva temples in India, a must-see cultural experience.
It's within short walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Silk Weaving Workshops

Witness the age-old tradition of silk weaving in Varanasi, visiting workshops where beautiful saris are crafted.
An easy walk to the nearby weaving factories.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Coffee Day

Grab a casual lunch with coffee and light bites that are homely and refreshing.
Back to the main streets, find this well-known chain.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Bharat Mata Temple

Marvel at the impressive map of India carved in marble and learn more about the country’s history and culture.
Travel by auto-rickshaw to the temple.
INR 50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Family Photoshoot at the Ghats

Capture family moments against the beautiful backdrop of the river while experiencing the local vibe.
Return to any of the ghats you like.
INR 2000 (photographer fee), 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Great Eastern Restaurant

Enjoy delicious North Indian cuisine, ideal for families, showcasing both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
A short auto-rickshaw ride back to the city center.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Local Flavors and History

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Chaat Ghar

Sample tasty and crunchy chaat dishes in a cheerful setting, a popular breakfast choice for locals.
Easily accessible by foot from your stay.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Drive to Ramnagar, explore the historical fort which houses the royal family's museum and gives insight into Banaras' history.
Around 30 minutes in an auto-rickshaw.
INR 200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi Kitchen

Enjoy a family friendly meal featuring traditional thalis, offering a taste of Varanasi in one platter.
Return back to the main city area.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Varanasi Ghats

Continue your exploration of the ghats, perhaps visiting less touristy ones like Manikarnika Ghat for authenticity.
A pleasant walk along the water.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Manikarnika Ghat

Witness the ancient practice of cremation conducted here, learning about local rituals associated with death and the afterlife.
Walk to the adjacent ghat.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Watch the Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Gather by the Dashashwamedh Ghat to experience the spiritually uplifting Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunset.
Return to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Aum Cafe

End your day with a delightful meal in a family-friendly cafe known for its relaxed atmosphere and tasty pizzas.
A short walk or rickshaw ride away.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Engaging Experience

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at South Indian Vibes

Start your day with delicious Dosas and Idlis, a great family breakfast experience.
Located relatively close to the ghats.
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Explore this beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama and situated amidst vibrant gardens, perfect for children to roam.
A short rickshaw drive away.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Benaras Hindu University

Stroll through the campus and see the impressive architecture of this reputed university.
Quick auto-rickshaw ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria

Enjoy mouthwatering pizzas and pasta, appealing to kids and adults alike.
Head back towards the city center.
INR 900, 1 hour

1:00PM

Art and Craft Workshop

Engage in a family art workshop where you can try your hand at local crafts with guidance from artists.
Book in advance for local workshops.
INR 1500, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Varanasi Observatory

Explore the ancient astronomical observatory and learn about the stars and planets in an engaging way.
Auto-rickshaw drive to the observatory.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Leisure Time at the Ghat

Spend some time relaxing by the ghat, enjoying the picturesque views and atmosphere.
Head to the nearby ghats by foot.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Mangi Ferra

Dine at this eco-friendly restaurant that serves a mix of Indian and international cuisine, excellent for families.
Easy walk across the city area.
INR 1300, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relaxing Farewell

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Netram Creations

Indulge in coffees and the variety of breakfasts to fuel your day as you prepare for your departure.
Located conveniently near the river.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Take a walk around the local bazaars to scoop up handcrafted items, textiles, and spiritual memorabilia to take home.
Nearby bazaars can be accessed by foot.
Variable, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Varanasi Dashashwamedh Ghat

One last review of the beautiful riverside for a family farewell photo against the majestic setting.
Return to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Pehelwan Dhaba

Savor the rich flavors of local curries and tandoor items perfect for the whole family.
Quick auto-rickshaw to this popular dhaba.
INR 900, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Take some time to relax and wind down at your hotel before your departure.
Return to your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Depart from Varanasi

Take with you cherished memories of your family adventure in one of the oldest living cities in the world.
Head to the transport terminal for your departure.
Travel cost varies, Time varies
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