5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Ayodhya and Varanasi

Day 1: Discovering Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ram Bhandar

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Ram Bhandar, known for its authentic North Indian dishes and fresh chai.
The restaurant is centrally located in Ayodhya, easy to reach by local transport.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ram Janmabhoomi

Explore the sacred Ram Janmabhoomi, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, a significant pilgrimage site for many.
It's a short walk from Ram Bhandar, approximately 1 km.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Sightseeing at Hanuman Garhi

Climb the 76 steps to Hanuman Garhi, a famous temple dedicated to Hanuman, and enjoy panoramic views of Ayodhya.
About 2 km from Ram Janmabhoomi, easily reachable by auto-rickshaw.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Chaat Bhavan

Enjoy a variety of delicious chaat and local snacks at Chaat Bhavan, perfect for a light lunch.
Located near Hanuman Garhi, a quick auto-ride.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kanak Bhavan

Explore the beautiful Kanak Bhavan temple, known for its intricate architecture and serene surroundings.
Located just 1.5 km away, easy to walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll at Saryu River

Enjoy a tranquil evening stroll along the banks of the Saryu River; the views at sunset are breathtaking.
A 15-minute rickshaw ride from Kanak Bhavan.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Garden Restaurant

End your day with a hearty dinner at The Garden Restaurant, which offers a variety of vegetarian dishes and fresh juices.
Easily accessible via local transport.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Ayodhya, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ram Bhandar

Return to Ram Bhandar for another delightful breakfast before heading out for the day.
Centrally located and easy to navigate to.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Nageshwarnath Temple

Admire the intricacies of Nageshwarnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, steeped in local mythology.
Located just 2 km away from the restaurant, a short rickshaw ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Tulsi Smarak Bhawan

Discover the life and works of poet Tulsi Das at this cultural center with fun activities for families.
A 10-minute ride from Nageshwarnath Temple.
INR 100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Hatti Tasker

Savor traditional vegetarian thali at Hatti Tasker, popular among locals.
Located a short distance away from Tulsi Smarak Bhawan.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Ram Museum

Take your family to the Ram Museum to learn about the history of Ayodhya and its significance.
Approximately 1 km from Hatti Tasker, a quick ride.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Ayodhya Market

Walk through the local market, shop for handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional sweets.
Near the museum, easily walkable.
INR 500 (shopping budget), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sagar Ratna

Indulge in a delightful dinner that includes South Indian fare, sure to please everyone's palate.
Short auto ride from the market.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Ramayana

Start your day with a fulfilling breakfast at the hotel before your journey to Varanasi.
Conveniently located for easy access.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Varanasi

Embark on your journey to Varanasi, taking in the picturesque scenery along the way.
Travel by private vehicle or hire a cab.
INR 3000 (approx. by cab), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Savor delectable chaat and local specialties that will awaken your taste buds.
Located in the heart of Varanasi, easy to find.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Pay tribute at the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a revered Shiva temple attracting visitors from all over.
Just a 15-minute walk from the lunch spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Ghats

Stroll along the iconic ghats of Varanasi, watching daily rituals and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
A short walk from Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Baati Chokha

Savor authentic Bihari cuisine with family-style dining, a must-try experience in Varanasi.
Located near the ghats, easily reachable.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Experience Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at 80 Kebab

Enjoy a spread of kebabs and traditional breakfast items at the popular 80 Kebab.
Well-known eatery in Varanasi, easy to locate.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple

Pay homage at the iconic Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, known for its calming aura.
A 15-minute cab ride from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Banaras Hindu University

Discover the sprawling campus of BHU, and perhaps enjoy some time at the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.
Located close by, a short cab ride.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Dhaba

Relish a mix of North Indian dishes and rice delicacies at this family-friendly dhaba.
Easily accessible by cab.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a trip to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, offering peace and historical insights.
About 10 km from Varanasi, a short cab ride.
INR 200 (entry fee), 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Varanasi Ghats for Evening Aarti

Experience the enchanting evening Ganga Aarti at the ghats, a highlight that should not be missed!
Travel back to the ghats, about 15 minutes by car.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Enjoy delicious Italian cuisine in the heart of Varanasi, providing a lovely ambiance for dinner.
About 10 minutes from the ghats.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Final Day in Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Indulge in freshly baked goods and a healthy breakfast at the cozy Brown Bread Bakery.
Located near the ghats, it's a local favorite.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Witness the unique rituals at Manikarnika Ghat, one of the oldest ghats and a place steeped in tradition.
A short walk from the bakery.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Shopping in Varanasi

Explore bustling markets for beautiful handwoven saris, carpets, and handicrafts—a perfect place to pick up souvenirs.
Nearby Varanasi markets, easy to walk to.
INR 1000 (shopping budget), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Shiva Cafe

Take a break at Shiva Cafe, famous for its great views and laid-back vibe, perfect for families.
A quick cab ride from the market.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Explore the beautiful Tulsi Manas Mandir, dedicated to Lord Rama and known for its stunning architecture.
Approximately 4 km away, an easy cab ride.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Spend your final moments in Varanasi, relaxing at your hotel and reflecting on the trip.
Return to your hotel, a flat fare via cab.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Dum Pukht

Wrap up your trip with a luxurious dinner at Dum Pukht, savoring Mughlai cuisine as a delightful end to your journey.
Located centrally, easy access from the hotel.
INR 1200, 2 hours
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