10-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Varanasi: Nature, Culture, and Relaxation

Day 1: Arrival and Explore

Varanasi, India

10:00AM

Check-In at Hotel

Settle in at your family-friendly hotel, such as the 'Taj GVK Hotels & Resorts', which provides comfortable amenities for a relaxing stay.
Transfer from Varanasi Airport to your hotel via taxi.
INR 2500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a relaxed lunch at this popular café known for its healthy options and fresh baked goods amidst a charming atmosphere.
Short walk from hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Walk Along the Ghats

Stroll along the iconic ghats of Varanasi, soaking in the peaceful ambiance and watching the local culture unfold.
Walking distance from lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience a serene boat ride on the Ganges, taking in stunning views of the sunset and city from the water.
Ride to the river from ghats.
INR 800, 1 hour

6:00PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual that captivates visitors with its devotional music and traditions.
At Dashashwamedh Ghat, nearby the boat ride.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Taste local delicacies like chaat and lassi at this popular eatery, known for its vibrant ambiance and quick service.
Short walk from the ghat.
INR 500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Excursion

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast buffet at the hotel.
Onsite at the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sarnath

Explore the historical site of Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and take a tour of the impressive museum.
Hire a taxi from the hotel to Sarnath.
INR 1000, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aum Cafe

Enjoy a vegetarian meal at this café in Sarnath, known for its calm environment and organic food.
Post-visit, walk to the café.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Return to Varanasi

Head back to Varanasi and relax before evening activities.
Hire a taxi back.
INR 1000, 1 hour

4:30PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Gali

Wander through the narrow streets of Vishwanath Gali to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Walking distance from the hotel.
Free (shopping at your discretion), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Varuna Restaurant

Indulge in a variety of North Indian dishes at this family-friendly restaurant known for its warm service.
Short walk from the shopping area.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Explore Varanasi's Heritage

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savour a delightful breakfast featuring local flavours at the hotel restaurant.
Onsite at the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a sacred Hindu temple that offers rich historical insights and architecture.
Walking distance from hotel.
Free (though donations welcome), 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Old City

Take a guided tour through the enchanting alleys of the Old City, filled with temples, shops, and culture.
Walking tour starts nearby the temple.
INR 500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Kashi Cafe

Enjoy a mix of Western and Indian dishes at a café with a relaxed atmosphere and friendly vibe.
Return to a nearby café after the walking tour.
INR 700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Benares Hindu University (BHU)

Visit the prestigious BHU and enjoy the beautiful campus and its sculptures.
Hire a rickshaw to BHU from the café.
INR 300, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum

Explore the impressive art collection at this renowned museum within BHU, showcasing Indian heritage.
Walking distance within BHU.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Dosa Cafe

Savor southern Indian cuisine in a casual setting that appeals to families.
Rickshaw back to the city.
INR 600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Nature and Relaxation

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a healthy breakfast, perfect for energising your day ahead.
Onsite at the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Witness the traditional Hindu cremation ceremonies at Manikarnika Ghat, an experience rich in cultural significance.
Walk from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Relax at Assi Ghat

Spend time at Assi Ghat, perfect for family picnics and watching the river's flow.
Take a short rickshaw ride.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Open Hand Cafe

Enjoy a laid-back lunch with a focus on healthy, organic meals and views of the Ganges.
Walking distance from Assi Ghat.
INR 700, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Explore the beautiful temple dedicated to Hanuman, nestled within serene gardens.
Hire a cycle rickshaw to the temple.
INR 200, 2 hours

4:00PM

Afternoon Tea and Relaxation at the Hotel

Return to the hotel for some leisure time by the pool or a cup of tea.
Rickshaw back to the hotel.
Varies, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Evening Nature Walk at Sarnath

Enjoy a gentle nature walk in the peaceful surroundings of Sarnath as the sun sets.
Hire a taxi to Sarnath.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Dhaka Restaurant

Taste authentic Indian dishes at this inviting restaurant loved for its family-friendly environment.
Taxi back to Varanasi.
INR 600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Cultural Delights

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast before another exciting day.
Onsite at the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama, where the Ramcharitmanas was written, surrounded by lush gardens.
Take a rickshaw from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Cultural Performance at the Temple

Experience a live cultural performance often held in the temple premises, showcasing local music and dance.
Enjoy the events and activities within the temple area.
INR 300, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Pehelwan Restaurant

Satisfy your hunger with traditional North Indian thalis at a well-regarded local spot.
Rickshaw to this restaurant.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Ramnagar Fort

A historical fort offering insight into the royal past of Varanasi and stunning views of the Ganges.
Hire a taxi to the fort.
INR 500, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Fort’s Museum

Delve into the museum's collection of artifacts, costumes, and weapons from the royal family.
Walk through the fort to reach the museum.
INR 200, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Hotel

Relax and freshen up back at your hotel after a day of exploration.
Taxi back to the hotel.
INR 500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Great Indian Thali

Experience an elaborate thali dinner, filled with various local dishes to enjoy with the family.
Short drive from the hotel.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Adventure and Fun

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with diverse breakfast options at your hotel.
Onsite at the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Varanasi Zoo

Children will enjoy the diverse wildlife and natural habitats at the Varanasi Zoo.
Hire a taxi to the zoo.
INR 300, 2 hours

11:30AM

Nature Trail Walk

Enjoy a guided nature trail near the zoo through local flora and fauna.
Walking distance from zoo.
INR 150, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Old Varanasi

Savour classic Varanasi dishes in a cozy setting that the whole family will enjoy.
Taxi from nature trail area.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tulsi Ghat

Explore Tulsi Ghat, often less crowded, offering a peaceful area for walks and relaxation.
Rickshaw to the ghat.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Boating Adventure

Enjoy a family-friendly boating experience on the Ganges, an exciting way to view Varanasi.
On site at Tulsi Ghat.
INR 400, 1 hour

5:30PM

Ice Cream at Rabri Shop

Treat the family to authentic Rabri, a traditional Indian dessert, at a popular local shop.
Short walk to the shop.
INR 200, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Lallgarh Restaurant

Conclude the day with a delightful meal featuring Indo-Chinese cuisine at this family favourite.
Rickshaw back to the restaurant.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Spiritual Day

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy another delicious breakfast prepared for you at the hotel.
Onsite at the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Morning Yoga Session

Participate in a family-friendly yoga session at one of the ghats, guided by a local instructor.
Walking distance from hotel.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Durga Temple

Explore the revered Durga Temple notable for its distinct architecture and spiritual significance.
Rickshaw ride from yoga session.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Aangan Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal featuring cuisine from North India prepared with fresh ingredients.
Rickshaw to the restaurant.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Participate in a Meditation Workshop

Join a family-friendly meditation workshop focusing on mindfulness by a local practitioner.
Short ride to meditation centre.
INR 800, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit the Nepali Temple

Explore the intricately carved Nepali Temple known for its stunning woodwork and spiritual ambiance.
Rickshaw from meditation center.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Return to Hotel and Relax

Unwind in the comfort of your hotel while reflecting on the day's spiritual activities.
Rickshaw back to the hotel.
INR 150, 30 minutes

7:30PM

Dinner at Baithak Restaurant

Enjoy delightful Indian dishes with a peaceful view of the Ganges, a fitting way to conclude your day.
Walking distance from hotel.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Art and Craft Day

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast at the hotel, featuring local specialities.
Onsite at the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Art and Craft Workshop

Participate in a family-friendly workshop to learn local art forms and crafts from skilled artisans.
Short drive to workshop location.
INR 800, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi Spice

Enjoy an array of spicy and delicious local dishes at this vibrant restaurant.
Short walk from workshop location.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Local Markets

Venture into local markets to see vibrant produce and interact with local vendors.
Walking distance from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Banaras Hindu University Art Gallery

Explore the art gallery which highlights the works of local artists and provides a cultural showcase.
Rickshaw or walk as needed.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hotel

Spend some leisure time at the hotel before dinner.
Rickshaw back to the hotel.
INR 150, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at The Sea Shells Restaurant

Enjoy dinner overlooking the Ganges while tasting both Indian and continental dishes.
Walk from hotel to restaurant.
INR 900, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Family Fun Day

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Relish a hearty breakfast spread to kickstart your day.
Onsite at the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Aam Bagan Park

Let the kids play and enjoy a leisure stroll through this beautiful public park.
Taxi to the park.
INR 400, 1 hour

11:00AM

Cycling Adventure

Rent cycles and explore the nearby countryside or lakes for a fun activity with the entire family.
Arrange cycle rentals at the park.
INR 300, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Spice Bazaar Restaurant

Savour delectable Indian fare at this lively restaurant designed for families.
Taxi back to the city.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Manas Mandir

Explore this temple complex adorned with serene decorations and surrounded by nature.
Rickshaw to Manas Mandir.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Hotel

Return to your hotel and unwind after a fun-filled afternoon.
Rickshaw back.
INR 150, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Taste of India

End your day with a delightful dinner featuring North Indian cuisines.
Short walk from hotel.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Departure Day

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
Onsite at the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Free Time for Last-Minute Shopping

Take this time to revisit your favourite local shops for last-minute souvenirs.
Walking distance to local markets.
Varies, 2 hours

12:00PM

Check-Out from Hotel

Complete your check-out and prepare for your departure.
Prepare for transportation to the airport.
Free, 30 minutes

12:30PM

Transfer to Airport

Head to Varanasi Airport for your onward travel.
Taxi from hotel.
INR 2500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability