8-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Varanasi: Explore Spiritual Wonders & Local Culture

Day 1: Arrival & Local Explore

Varanasi, India on March 23, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day with traditional Varanasi breakfast options like Kachoris and Jalebi at this local favorite.
Located near the ghats, it's easily accessible once you arrive in the city.
INR 300, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Kashi Shri Vishwanath Temple

Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere at one of the most famous and important temples in India.
A short rickshaw ride from the breakfast spot will get you to the temple.
Free Entry, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a family-friendly meal featuring pizzas, sandwiches, and delicious desserts.
Easily reachable by taxi from the temple, this cafe is popular for its ambiance.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience the serene vibes of Varanasi from the waterways on a family boat ride.
Head to the Dashashwamedh Ghat to board the boat.
INR 600, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony as priests perform rituals invoking the river goddess.
Stay at Dashashwamedh Ghat for a prime viewing spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Banaras House

Wrap up your day with delicious North Indian cuisine served in a heritage setting.
A short taxi ride from the ghats.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India on March 24, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Mangi Ferra Café

Savor a delightful breakfast with fresh, locally sourced produce and artisanal bread.
Located in the heart of Varanasi, within easy reach.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Sarnath

Explore the historical site where Buddha gave his first sermon, featuring the Dhamek Stupa and museums.
Take a pre-booked taxi to Sarnath, approximately 10 km from Varanasi.
INR 300 (Entry Fee), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Cafe Coffee Day - Sarnath

Enjoy a quick and familiar meal at this popular chain known for its coffee and snacks.
Located near the entrance of Sarnath, easy to spot.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit the Tibetan Temple

Experience the tranquility of the nearby Tibetan Temple featuring impressive architecture.
A short relaxing walk from the main Sarnath site.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore Local Markets

Stroll through local markets like Vishwanath Gali to pick up souvenirs and traditional handicrafts.
Return to Varanasi by taxi.
Varies, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Palace on Ganges

Enjoy a luxurious dining experience with a stunning view of the Ganges River.
Located close to the ghats, easily accessible.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Temple Tours

Varanasi, India on March 25, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Kashi Vishwanath Temple Cafe

Fuel up with light snacks and thick chai at this dedicated cafe near the temple.
Conveniently located right next to the temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Visit Durga Temple

Marvel at the ancient architecture and vibrant hues of the Durga Temple, known for its famous red color.
A short auto-rickshaw ride from Kashi Vishwanath.
Free Entry, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Walk to Sankat Mochan Temple

Take a peaceful walk to Sankat Mochan Temple, a popular destination among locals.
Walking distance from Durga Temple, approximately 1 km.
Free Entry, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Varuna Restaurant

Savor traditional thali meals offering an assortment of local dishes.
Located along the way back to the city center, easy to find.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit New Vishwanath Temple

Explore this architectural marvel set within Banaras Hindu University campus.
A taxi ride will take you to the university campus.
Free Entry, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore the Banaras Hindu University Campus

Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the beautiful campus and its serene surroundings.
Continue exploring on foot after visiting the temple.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Great Indian Thali

Wrap up the day with a sumptuous thali that showcases the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine.
A comfortable taxi ride back to the city center.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Spiritual & Educational Insights

Varanasi, India on March 26, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Revitalize with your favorite dishes from Day 1 for a familiar start.
Located near the ghats.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Ramnagar Fort

Travel to Ramnagar Fort, a beautiful historical fort on the Ganges overlooking the river.
A 30-minute taxi ride from the city.
INR 200, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at the Fort's Famous Bhojanalay

Indulge in local delicacies served within the fort premises.
Easily accessible within the fort.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit the Fort Museum

Discover the royal artifacts and historical collections in the fort.
Located adjacent to the dining area.
INR 100 (Entry Fee), 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Return to Varanasi & Relax

Head back to your accommodation for a little downtime before exploring again.
A taxi will take you back.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Evening Ghats Walk

Enjoy a stroll along the ghats to soak in the evening ambiance and watch the sunset.
Easily accessible from your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner on a Houseboat

Experience unique dining on a houseboat with local cuisine while floating on the Ganges.
Pre-booking necessary, and they will pick you up from the ghats.
INR 2000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Nature and Relaxation

Varanasi, India on March 27, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Open Hand Café

Enjoy a delicious meal with a great cafe atmosphere and healthy options.
Located in the old city, easily reachable.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Assi Ghat

Spend the morning soaking in the peaceful surroundings of Assi Ghat.
A short taxi ride will take you there.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Yoga Session at Assi Ghat

Join a family yoga session to unwind and enjoy some relaxation.
Look for local instructors offering sessions near the ghat.
INR 500 (Group Class), 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Varanasi's Kebab Corner

Enjoy smoky kebabs and tandoori dishes, a local favorite for lunch.
Located near Assi Ghat.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Explore the significant cremation ghat and witness the age-old traditions.
A flexible walking distance from Assi Ghat.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Gardens of Raj Ghat

Relax in the peaceful gardens along the riverbank, providing a perfect way to unwind.
A short taxi ride will take you to Raj Ghat.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Spice Grove

Indulge in an array of Indian dishes featuring local spices and flavors.
Take a taxi to reach the restaurant.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Adventure & Fun

Varanasi, India on March 28, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Daanapani Café

Delight in an eclectic breakfast menu with various international and Indian options.
Located in the main area, an easy walk.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Wonder La Water Park

A fun-filled day at this popular water park with rides catering to all ages.
Taxi to the water park, approximately 20 km from Varanasi.
INR 800 (Entry Fee), 4 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at the Water Park

Enjoy quick bites available at the park's reliable eateries.
On-site, no travel needed.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Return to Hotel for Rest

Head back to the hotel for some rest before evening plans.
Taxi back to Varanasi.
INR 300, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Visit the Local Pottery Village

Engage with local artisans and see the unique pottery styles being crafted.
Arrange for a taxi to take you there.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Varanasi Kitchen

Taste a mix of traditional and modern dishes in an inviting atmosphere.
Short cab ride to dinner spot.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Shopping & Leisure

Varanasi, India on March 29, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Ram Bhandar

Dig into traditional breakfast yaaw/plus extra servings of chai.
Located in the main market area.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Local Silk Shops

Discover the rich heritage of Varanasi silk and invest in unique silk products.
Located in the main bazaar area.
Free Entry, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit the Tribal Cultural Museum

Learn about tribal arts and crafts of India within this engaging museum.
Taxi ride to the museum, about 5 km away.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Ganga Café

Relax with delightful local specialties and snacks while overlooking the river.
Located on the riverbank.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Relax at the Hotel

Enjoy some leisure time, perhaps catching up on some reading or writing.
Return to your hotel and unwind.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Final Evening at the Ghats

Take a last stroll to the ghats and savor the atmosphere one last time.
Easy walk from your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Farewell Dinner at Varanasi Kashi Restaurant

Enjoy a warm final meal featuring the best dishes that Varanasi has to offer.
Close to the ghats, a short taxi ride.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Departure

Varanasi, India on March 30, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as you prepare for departure with family.
Enjoy the hotel amenities for the last meal.
Included, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Check-out & Departure

Pack your bags and help ensure the kids don’t leave any treasures behind, head to the airport with fond memories.
Arrange transportation through the hotel.
Varies, 1 hour
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