5-Day Family-Friendly Food and City Experience Road Trip in Varanasi

Day 1: Exploring the Ghats

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day with delicious Aloo Puri and Chole, a local favourite.
Located in the old city, easily accessible by foot.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat

Walk along this famous ghat, known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of the Ganges.
Take a short walk from your breakfast spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Boat Ride on the Ganges

Experience the tranquillity of the Ganges with a scenic boat ride, perfect for all ages.
Boat rides are available at the Dashashwamedh Ghat.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Savour authentic Bihari cuisine, including Baati and chokha, a must-try family meal.
A short rickshaw ride from the ghat.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Assi Ghat

Spend the afternoon at this serene ghat, perfect for kids to play and families to relax.
Easy access by rickshaw from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening Ganga Aarti

Witness the mesmerizing evening aarti, a spiritual and captivating family experience.
Head back to Dashashwamedh Ghat for the ceremony.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Kashi House

Enjoy a family-style dinner with a variety of Indian dishes to choose from.
A short walk from the ghat.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Lassi

Indulge in a variety of fruit lassis for a refreshing start to the day.
A short walk from your accommodation.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Short walk or rickshaw from breakfast.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the narrow lanes of Varanasi

Wander through the charming lanes filled with shops selling local handicrafts and silk.
Easy walking distance from the temple.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Varanasi Cafe

Try their special thali featuring a variety of local dishes.
Accessible on foot from the shopping area.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Banaras Hindu University

Explore the sprawling campus, and the beautiful Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
Hire a rickshaw for convenience.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Sarnath

Take a short drive to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
Hire a taxi from BHU.
INR 500, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Great Indian Thali

Relish a traditional thali meal with a variety of specialty dishes.
Same location in Sarnath.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Historical Day Trip

Sarnath, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sarnath

Start your day with a hearty breakfast buffet at your hotel.
At your accommodation in Sarnath.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Sarnath Museum

Visit the museum to learn about the rich history of Buddhism and the artifacts on display.
Walk to the museum from your hotel.
INR 250, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit Dhamekh Stupa

Admire the ancient stupa built in the 5th century commemorating Buddha’s first sermon.
Walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Bodhi Restaurant

Enjoy a wholesome meal featuring a mix of Indian and international dishes.
Located near the stupa.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Ashoka Pillar

Discover the iconic lion capital of Ashoka, a symbol of India’s heritage.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Varanasi

Travel back to Varanasi to continue your exploration.
Hire a taxi from Sarnath.
INR 500, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Stroll along the Ghats

Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the ghats, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Access points are available along the waterfront.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Manikarnika Restaurant

Savour traditional Indian cuisine with a focus on Varanasi specialities.
Located along the riverbank.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Culinary Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day

Kick start your day with a classic breakfast combo of toast and coffee.
Multiple locations throughout Varanasi.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cooking Class in Varanasi

Participate in a family-friendly cooking class to learn about local cuisine and prepare traditional dishes.
Check with local tour operators for classes available.
INR 2000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Blue House

Relish a diverse selection of Indian dishes and street food snacks.
Easy access after the cooking class.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Mandir

Explore this beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Rama, known for its intricate marble carvings.
Take a rickshaw for convenience.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Durga Temple

Explore this ancient temple, one of the most important in Varanasi.
Short rickshaw ride from Tulsi Manas Mandir.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Evening Shopping and Stroll

Walk through the local markets to pick up sweets and souvenirs.
Easy access on foot from the temple area.
Variable, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Varanasi House

Enjoy a final family meal with an array of dishes encompassing both North and South Indian cuisines.
Located conveniently in the city.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relax and Reflections

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation before starting a relaxed day.
At your accommodation in Varanasi.
INR 500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Silk Weaving Centre

Explore the art of traditional silk weaving, a skill Varanasi is famed for.
A short rickshaw ride from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Varanasi Art Gallery

Spend time at the gallery to appreciate local art and crafts created by local artisans.
Easily accessible by foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Vaatika Cafe

Treat the family to some pizza and fresh salads in a lush garden setting.
Nearby the art gallery.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Witness the traditional cremation ceremonies that occur, providing insight into the local culture.
A walk from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Final Evening Boat Ride

Enjoy one last peaceful boat ride on the Ganges, capturing the beauty and essence of Varanasi.
Book through local operators at the ghat.
INR 500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Damu's Place

End your Varanasi adventure with a festive dinner celebrating your family’s journey.
Located in the city centre.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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