4-Day Family Friendly Foodie Itinerary in Varanasi

Day 1: Cultural Exploration

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Start your day with delectable Aloo Tikki and a glass of fresh lime soda at Kashi Chat Bhandar, known for its vibrant street food atmosphere.
Walk or take a short rickshaw ride to the Ghats.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Ghats

Stroll along the iconic Ghats of Varanasi, including Dashashwamedh Ghat, witnessing the morning rituals and vibrant life of the river.
Walking along the riverfront.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Baati Chokha

Savor traditional North Indian cuisine at Baati Chokha, where you can enjoy the rustic flavors of Litti Chokha.
A short auto-rickshaw ride.
INR300, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Sarnath

Drive to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist site, to explore the Dhamek Stupa and the archaeological museum.
15-30 minute taxi ride.
INR500, 3 hours

5:30PM

Evening Boat Ride

Take a relaxing evening boat ride on the Ganges, watching the sunset over this sacred river.
Walking back to the Ghats.
INR400, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Kashi House

Enjoy a family dinner with a view at The Kashi House, focusing on local vegetarian dishes.
Walking or taking an auto-rickshaw from the Ghats.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Temple Discovery

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pahalwan Lassi

Relish the famous Banarasi Lassi and some local snack items to fuel up for the day ahead.
Walking to the shop nearby.
INR100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Walking; arrive early to avoid lines.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Ramashray

Treat your taste buds to South Indian cuisine at Ramashray, famous for its dosas and filter coffee.
A short rickshaw ride.
INR250, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Durga Temple

Visit the iconic Durga Temple, known for its stunning architecture and mischievous monkeys.
Rickshaw ride or short walk.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Tulsi Manas Temple

Check out the beautiful Tulsi Manas Temple, which reflects the life of Lord Rama and the epic Ramayana.
Walking; it's nearby.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Tea Time at Aum Cafe

Relax with some herbal tea and light snacks while enjoying local art at Aum Cafe.
Walking from the temple area.
INR200, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at A Banarasi Mithi

Indulge in unique Banarasi-style sweets and snacks for dinner at A Banarasi Mithi, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Short rickshaw ride.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Traditional Market Day

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Deena Chaat Bhandar

Start your day with crispy samosas and spicy chaat at Deena Chaat Bhandar, a local favorite.
Walking distance.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Vishwanath Gali

Wander through the bustling narrow lanes of Vishwanath Gali, where you can shop for silk scarves and local handicrafts.
Walking through the market.
Free (Shopping costs vary), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Great Eastern

Dine at The Great Eastern and explore their extensive menu of Indian and continental cuisines.
Short rickshaw ride.
INR600, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Visit the campus of BHU; check out the museum and the beautiful grounds.
Taxi or auto-rickshaw ride.
Free (Museum may charge INR20), 2 hours

3:30PM

Experience a Varanasi Silk Weaving Demonstration

Watch skilled weavers in action and learn about the traditional silk weaving of Varanasi.
Walking to a local workshop.
Free (Donations appreciated), 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening Chaat Sampling at Kashi Chaat Bhandar

Return to Kashi Chaat Bhandar for a fun sampling of their famous chaat items as a family.
Use rickshaw to return.
INR200, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Habbib's Restaurant

Wrap up your day with a family dinner at Habbib's, known for its hearty Mughlai dishes.
Short rickshaw ride.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Spiritual Farewell

Varanasi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Shivala Ghat Cafe

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast overlooking the river with a selection of pancakes and fruit.
Walking distance.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Morning Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat

Witness the mesmerizing morning Aarti ceremony; its vibrant energy is a wonderful family experience.
Walking to the Ghat.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit Assi Ghat

Explore Assi Ghat, a quieter spot along the river, perfect for a family walk and reflection.
Walking or cycling.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Benares Restaurant

Savor some traditional North Indian thali at Benares Restaurant while enjoying local art.
Short rickshaw ride.
INR500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Ganga Viewpoint

Relax and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the scenic Ganga Viewpoint, ideal for family photographs.
Do a little walking nearby.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Final Chaat at Chaat Gali

Conclude your food adventure with a final sampling of street food delicacies at the famous Chaat Gali.
Rickshaw ride back to the market.
INR200, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Varanasi House

Unwind with a farewell dinner featuring local and regional specialties in a heritage homestay ambiance.
Short rickshaw ride.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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