Family Fun in Varanasi: A 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Varanasi

Varanasi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chaat Bhandar

Start your day with delicious street food at this famous chaat corner known for its crispy aloo tikki and refreshing lassi.
Located near the Assi Ghat, easily accessible by a short auto-rickshaw ride from most city hotels.
INR200, 1 hour

8:30AM

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Take a scenic boat ride on the holy Ganges River to witness the morning rituals along the ghats, perfect for family bonding and stunning photographs.
Board your boat at Assi Ghat, where numerous local boatmen are available.
INR1000 for the boat, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Sarnath

Explore Sarnath, the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon, featuring serene Buddhist stupas and museums, perfect for educational exploration.
Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from Varanasi to Sarnath, about a 30-minute drive.
INR200 for auto-rickshaw, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Brown Bread Bakery

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch with fresh organic food and the best baked goods in town, making it an ideal spot for a healthy break.
Head back to Varanasi city center; the cafe is easily found near Assi Ghat.
INR800, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Experience the spirituality of Varanasi by visiting this iconic Hindu temple, where you can witness the vibrant rituals and architecture.
A short auto-rickshaw ride away, you can join the locals in the atmosphere of devotion.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll through the Old City

Wander the narrow alleys of the Old City, filled with shops selling silk, handicrafts, and street food, ensuring it’s a sensory adventure for the whole family.
Walk from the temple into the bustling markets of the Old City.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, a magical evening experience where lamps are lit in reverence to the river, captivating for all ages.
Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat which is accessible by foot from the Old City.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Aum Cafe

Close your day with a delightful dinner featuring a range of cuisines catering to everyone’s taste, perfect for families.
Situated near Assi Ghat, it’s a convenient option after the Aarti.
INR1000, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Varanasi Tea Cafe

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast featuring different varieties of Indian tea and local specialties.
Easily reachable from your hotel by a short walk or auto-rickshaw ride.
INR350, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Manikarnika Ghat

Explore the famous cremation ghat and learn about its significance, providing a profound cultural experience for families with older kids.
Take an auto-rickshaw ride to the ghat; be respectful of the local customs and practices.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Silk Weaving Workshop

Visit a local silk weaving workshop to see how Varanasi’s famous silk sarees are made; an educational experience that kids will find fascinating.
Pre-arrange a visit to avoid any inconvenience; workshops are scattered around the city.
INR500 for the tour, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Lotus Lounge

Savor an international menu offering Indian favorites and Mediterranean dishes, appealing to the whole family’s taste buds.
Located near the ghats, it’s a convenient stop after your workshop.
INR900, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore the Assi Ghat park

Relax and play at the park by the Assi Ghat where children can enjoy the open space while parents unwind by the riverside.
Walk from the restaurant to the nearby park along the riverbank.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Banaras Hindu University

Stroll through the beautiful campus of one of Asia's largest residential universities; it’s perfect for a family photo session.
A short auto-rickshaw ride will take you to the university's entrance.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shopping at Varanasi’s Local Markets

Finish your day by shopping for souvenirs like silk items, handicrafts, and religious artifacts in Varanasi’s colorful local markets.
Head back towards the old city, where a variety of shops await for a complete shopping experience.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi's Veshno Dhabha

Conclude your trip with a hearty dinner featuring traditional North Indian cuisine, perfect for families craving local flavors.
Located conveniently in the city, it’s a great family-friendly environment.
INR800, 1 hour
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