Family Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in Varanasi

Day 1: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

9:00AM

Breakfast at Brown Bread Bakery

Start your day with organic and wholesome breakfast at one of Varanasi's popular eateries that offers a range of freshly baked goods.
Located in the Bhangagaon area, a short auto-rickshaw ride from most hotels.
INR 400, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Sarnath

Take a trip to Sarnath, where Buddhists believe Buddha gave his first sermon; it’s a serene destination full of historical significance.
Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw for a 30-minute ride to Sarnath.
INR 50 (entry fee), 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Gardenia Café

Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring Indian and continental cuisine at this family-friendly café in Sarnath.
Close to the Sarnath ruins, easy walk after visiting.
INR 600, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the spectacular and traditional Ganga Aarti as the sun sets, with music and ritual lighting creating a magical experience.
Head back to Varanasi by taxi (30-min ride) and walk to Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Kashi Chat Bhandar

Taste some delectable street food and chat options that are safe and perfect for the whole family.
A short walk from the ghat area.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 2: Local Experiences

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pahelwan Lassi

Sample the famous lassi (a local yogurt drink) and parathas at this iconic local spot loved by families.
Located a short walk from popular hotels.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Banaras Hindu University

Wander around one of the largest universities in India, which has beautiful architecture and an open-air museum.
Take an auto-rickshaw for a 10-minute ride.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dum Pukht

Savour exquisite Awadhi cuisine in a regal setting that the whole family can enjoy.
Taxi ride back towards the city centre (20-minute ride).
INR 800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit to Bharat Mata Temple

Take your family to this unique temple dedicated to Mother India, featuring a map of undivided India carved in marble.
A short drive of about 15 minutes from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Experience a Glassmaking Workshop

Visit a local glass factory to see craftsmen create intricate glass items, an exciting learning experience for kids.
Arranged through a local guide; about a 20-minute drive.
INR 500, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi Kebab

Relish an array of kebabs and North Indian dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Located back in the city centre.
INR 700, 1 hour
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Day 3: Religious Discoveries

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Cafe

A welcoming café offering a range of healthy breakfast options, perfect for families.
Short walk from hotels in the ghats region.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visit the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, an essential experience in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Located nearby; accessible by foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Thaal Restaurant

This family-friendly eatery offers delicious thalis, a great way to experience a variety of dishes.
Close to the temple; easy walk.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Gyan Kupor Well

A significant site with interesting local legends that the kids will surely enjoy learning about.
Short walk from restaurant.
INR 100, 1 hour

3:30PM

Take a boat ride on the Ganges

Experience the amazing views of the ghats and local life along the river with a peaceful boat ride.
Start from Dashashwamedh Ghat; arranged through local boatmen.
INR 600 (for the family), 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Aum Cafe

Unwind with a casual family dinner in a laid-back atmosphere, enjoying various dishes that cater to all tastes.
A short walk from the ghat area.
INR 600, 1 hour
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Day 4: Art and Adventure

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Vishnu Tea Emporium

Start your morning with delightful teas and light snacks while absorbing the local culture.
Located in the heart of Varanasi, easily reachable.
INR 350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit to Benares Hindu University Botanical Garden

Laze around at this lush garden where kids can learn about different plants while enjoying the outdoors.
Taxi ride of about 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Blue Lassi

Indulge in sweet and savoury lassis alongside a light lunch with an artistic vibe.
Head back to the main area by taxi.
INR 400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Create Art at a Local Workshop

Join a family-friendly workshop to create art using local techniques and materials – a fun and creative experience!
Pre-arranged, typically near the ghats.
INR 1,000, 3 hours

5:30PM

Visit the Weaving Factory

Explore the local weaving industry and see how beautiful Banarasi sarees are made, a captivating experience for everyone.
About 15 minutes from the workshop by taxi.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Tamarind Tree

Wrap up the day with an exquisite dinner in a unique ambiance that caters to families.
Near the central city area.
INR 700, 1 hour
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Day 5: Farewell Varanasi

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Shreee Maya

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of traditional dishes perfect to fuel your last day in Varanasi.
A well-known breakfast spot in the city.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ramnagar Fort

Discover the ancient fort and museum on the outskirts of Varanasi, perfect for a final glimpse of local history.
Taxi ride of about 30 minutes.
INR 200, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Open Hand Shop

Eat at this charming café that supports local artisans and offers simple yet delightful meals.
Return about 30 minutes to the city centre.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Last Minute Shopping at Vishwanath Gali

Stroll through this vibrant market, picking up souvenirs and handmade crafts to remember your trip.
Located in the old city, accessible on foot.
Free - spending varies, 2 hours

4:30PM

Departure

Wrap up your family adventure in Varanasi, collect your belongings from your hotel, and depart with cherished memories.
Arrangements for transport to the airport or railway station can be made at the hotel.
Varies, 1 hour
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