3-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Varanasi: Relaxation, City Experiences, and Cultural Immersion

Day 1: Cultural Arrival

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast or a rich platter of pancakes at Aum Cafe, a popular spot with a family-friendly vibe.
Located near the Ganges; an easy walk from most hotels.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ghats

Stroll along the ghats of the Ganges River, where you can witness local rituals and the vibrant morning life that defines Varanasi.
Walking along the riverfront, start from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Savor some traditional Varanasi street food, including chaat and lassi, in this family-friendly eatery known for its local delicacies.
A short 10-minute walk from the Ghats.
INR 700, 1 hour

1:30PM

Sarnath Visit

Venture to Sarnath, the site where Buddha gave his first sermon, and explore the peaceful surroundings and museums.
Take an auto-rickshaw from Varanasi (approx. 30 minutes).
INR 1500 for transport & entry, 3 hours

5:00PM

Evening Aarti Ceremony

Return to Varanasi and experience the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, an enchanting evening ritual that draws people from around the world.
Reach Dashashwamedh Ghat for an ideal viewing spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi Cafe

Relax after a busy day with a cozy family dinner offering both Indian and Western dishes at Varanasi Cafe.
Just a short walk from Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Heritage Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dosa Cafe

Start the day with delicious South Indian food or a continental breakfast at Dosa Cafe, which is family-friendly and offers great views.
Situated near Assi Ghat, easily accessible.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Bhuli Bhulaiya

Explore the narrow maze of lanes within Bhuli Bhulaiya, also known as the 'Labyrinth,' which offers both fun and educational experiences for kids.
Take a local rickshaw to reach the site.
INR 200 for entry, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Benares Hindu University

Wander through the beautiful campus of the prestigious university, notice the architecture and students bustling about.
A short rickshaw ride; ask the driver for the main gate.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Kulhad Pizza

Delight your taste buds with a fusion of local flavors at Kulhad Pizza, an unconventional pizza place served in environmentally friendly clay cups.
Located near the university for a convenient stop.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Silk Weaving Workshop

Engage with local craftsmen and learn about the intricate process of silk weaving, a hallmark of Varanasi.
Transport arranged via the hotel or a local taxi.
INR 1200 for family participation, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Local Markets

Wander through the vibrant local markets to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and silk sarees while soaking in the local culture.
Walk back towards the old city markets.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Brown Bread Bakery

End your day with organic foods and delicious desserts in this quaint family cafe known for its warm atmosphere.
Located close to Assi Ghat.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Leisure and Reflection

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Aum Cafe

Revisit Aum Cafe for another delightful breakfast, featuring their marvelous smoothie bowls for a fresh start.
Located near the Ganges; familiar and convenient.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Morning Boat Ride

Take a tranquil sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, offering fantastic views of the ghats awakening and the world coming to life.
Book a local boatman at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 500, 1 hour

10:30AM

Yoga Session

Join a family-friendly yoga session to rejuvenate your spirit and strengthen family bonds amid the serene surroundings of Varanasi.
Usually offered at local resorts or guesthouses.
INR 1000 for the family, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Tamarind Tree

Enjoy a relaxing lunch in the lush garden setting at The Tamarind Tree, where they serve a variety of vegetarian dishes and refreshments.
Take a cab or auto-rickshaw for about 20 minutes.
INR 800, 1 hour 30 minutes

1:30PM

Visit the Gyanvapi Mosque

Explore the historical Gyanvapi Mosque, a bustling heritage site that tells tales of Varanasi's diverse history.
Easily accessible through local transport.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relaxation at Assi Ghat

Unwind at Assi Ghat, where you can sit by the river and let the children play while you appreciate the iconic view.
Walking distance from any nearby cafe.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Snacks at Banaras Chaat

Grab some local snacks at Banaras Chaat for a light evening refreshment before heading back to your hotel.
Located conveniently on the main road.
INR 400, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Varuna Restaurant

Celebrate your last evening with a delicious farewell dinner, featuring a mix of North Indian and continental cuisine, perfect for the entire family.
Located centrally in Varanasi, easy to reach.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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