Family-Friendly Itinerary: Discover Varanasi and Ayodhya

Day 1: Explore Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast of dosas and filter coffee at the iconic Indian Coffee House.
Located near the river, it's a short walk to the Ghats after breakfast.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat

Stroll along the Dashashwamedh Ghat, where you can witness the morning rituals and take in the serene river atmosphere.
Walk to the Ghat as it's nearby.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges, perfect for family bonding and sightseeing.
Book a boat at the Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 800, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy a fulfilling lunch with family at Kashi Chat Bhandar, famous for its local chaats.
Head to this local favorite, about 15 minutes walk from the Ghats.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a short trip to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and explore its majestic stupas and museums.
Hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw for a 30-minute ride.
INR 300 for entry, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Banaras Hindu University

Visit the sprawling campus of Banaras Hindu University and marvel at its beautiful architecture.
Return to Varanasi city center by taxi.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, a beautiful and spiritual experience.
Get back to the Ghat which is walking distance from your earlier activities.
Free, 1 hour

8:30 PM

Dinner at The Tamarind Tree

End the day with a delicious dinner at The Tamarind Tree, which offers a mix of local and international cuisine.
Just a 10-minute drive away in the city.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Experiences in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Try wholesome bread and muffins at Brown Bread Bakery for a delightful start.
The bakery is situated near Assi Ghat, easily accessible.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Assi Ghat

Walk along Assi Ghat, enjoy the lively environment while watching locals and travelers unwinding by the river.
A lovely stroll from the bakery.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit the Gyanvapi Mosque

Explore the historical Gyanvapi Mosque, directly across from Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
A short 15-minute walk from Assi Ghat.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Varanasi Kachoris

Savor some delicious kachoris and sabzi, a local specialty at this beloved eatery.
A 10-minute auto-rickshaw ride from the mosque.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Explore Banaras Silk Weaving

Visit a local silk weaving workshop and learn about the history and craftsmanship of Banarasi silk sarees.
A 20-minute taxi ride from lunch spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Discover the serene Tulsi Manas Mandir, beautifully constructed and dedicated to Lord Rama.
A short taxi ride from the textile workshops.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Walking Tour of Varanasi

Engage in a guided evening walking tour of Varanasi's back alleys, immersing yourself in local life and culture.
Meet the guide at the Tulsi Manas Mandir.
INR 1200, 2 hours

8:30 PM

Dinner at Open Hand Shop & Cafe

Enjoy a cozy dinner with beautiful ambiance featuring a mix of Indian and global dishes.
A quick taxi ride from your walking tour.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Café Varanasi

Enjoy a versatile breakfast at The Café Varanasi, great for families.
15-minute taxi ride from your hotel.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Travel to Ayodhya

Make your way to Ayodhya, which is approximately a 2.5-hour train or taxi ride.
Head to the train station or your pre-booked taxi.
INR 1500 (train ticket), 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Ramayana Restaurant

Upon arrival, head for a traditional lunch at Ramayana Restaurant, known for its authentic North Indian cuisine.
5-minute drive from the station.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Ram Janmabhoomi

Explore the sacred site of Ram Janmabhoomi, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama.
Just a quick 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Hanuman Garhi Temple

Visit Hanuman Garhi Temple, a prominent place of worship where you can climb a few steps to get spectacular views.
A short drive from Ram Janmabhoomi.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Visit Kanak Bhawan

Discover Kanak Bhawan, known for its exquisite architecture dedicated to Lord Rama and Sita.
Continue your journey by car for a quick visit.
Free, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Relax at the Sarayu River

Spend some leisurely time by the Sarayu River, soaking in the scenic beauty and tranquility.
Walk along the riverbanks which is easily accessible.
Free, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Dinner at Ram Piya Restaurant

Conclude your day with a delightful meal featuring local specialties at Ram Piya.
Just a short distance from the river.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Sita Rasoi

Start your day with a home-styled breakfast of parathas and tea at Sita Rasoi.
A quick taxi ride or walk depending on your stay location.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Nageshwarnath Temple

Wander around the historic Nageshwarnath Temple, one of the oldest temples in Ayodhya.
Take a 10-minute taxi ride from your breakfast spot.
Free, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Explore Treta Ke Thakur

Visit the sacred site of Treta Ke Thakur, known for its beautiful temple and heritage.
Another short drive or a possible walk from the previous temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Awadh Cuisine

Savor authentic Awadhi dishes and enjoy a delightful family lunch.
A 10-minute drive from Treta Ke Thakur.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Guptar Ghat

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Guptar Ghat, a beautiful spot on the banks of the Sarayu River.
Short drive to the serene ghat.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit the Tulsi Smarak

Pay your respects at the Tulsi Smarak, dedicated to the great poet Tulsidas.
A short drive away.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Leisure at Saryu River

Unwind by the banks of the Saryu River with the family, an excellent spot for photos.
You can walk back to the river from the smarak.
Free, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Maan Mandir

Conclude your day with dinner at Maan Mandir, serving delectable vegetarian dishes.
Nearby, just a short taxi ride.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a convenient breakfast at your hotel before heading back to Varanasi.
N/A
INR 500, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel Back to Varanasi

Make your return trip to Varanasi, enjoying the scenery along the way.
Travel by train or hire a taxi.
INR 1500 (train ticket), 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Once back, pay a visit to the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, an iconic landmark.
Get a taxi from the station.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Chowk

Savor a rich vegetarian lunch at The Chowk, a well-known eatery in the Old City.
A short walk from the temple.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Explore Manikarnika Ghat

Walk to the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest and most active cremation ghats, to understand the cultural significance.
Easy walking distance from The Chowk.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Shopping at Vishwanath Gali

Spend your afternoon shopping at Vishwanath Gali, where you can buy local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Nearby and easily accessible.
Varies, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Relax at Assi Ghat

Finish your journey by relaxing at Assi Ghat, watching the sunset along the Ganges.
A short taxi ride away.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Great Kabab Factory

Celebrate the end of your trip with a special dinner at The Great Kabab Factory, offering an array of kebabs.
A short taxi ride from Assi Ghat.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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