Family Trip Itinerary: Explore Varanasi and Ayodhya from August 14 to 17, 2025

Day 1: Arrival and evening stroll

Varanasi, India on August 14, 2025

4:00pm

Arrival and Check-in

Arrive late afternoon in Varanasi and check into a family-friendly hotel such as Taj Ganges or BrijRama Palace, which are close to the ghats and offer comfort and heritage ambiance.
INR3000-6000 per night, 1h0m

6:00pm

Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Witness the spectacular evening Ganga Aarti, a beautiful ritual involving fire and chants, held every evening at about 6:30pm at Dashashwamedh Ghat. It's a mesmerizing spiritual experience for the whole family.
Free, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Kashi Chat Bhandar

Enjoy authentic local vegetarian cuisine with a wide variety of chaats and street food specialties at this popular eatery, open until 10pm.
INR200-500 per person, 1h0m
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Day 2: Full day Varanasi tour

Varanasi, India on August 15, 2025

7:00am

Boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise

Start the day early with a peaceful sunrise boat ride along the Ganges River to observe the early morning rituals and views of ghats and temples. Boats operate typically from 6:00am to 9:00am.
INR300-500 per boat, 1h0m

8:30am

Breakfast at Blue Lassi Shop

Try the famous refreshing lassis paired with some light breakfast items like kachori or sabudana vada at this iconic spot near the ghats.
INR100-200 per person, 0h30m

9:30am

Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Explore this revered Shiva temple, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and an important pilgrimage site. Note that temple timings are from 6:00am to 11:00am and 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore Ramnagar Fort

Situated on the opposite bank of the Ganges, this 17th-century fort and palace offer a glimpse into royal history and houses a museum with vintage cars, weapons, and artifacts. Open 9am to 5pm.
INR50 per person, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at the rooftop restaurant at the Gateway Hotel Ganges

Enjoy a relaxing lunch with family featuring Indian and international cuisine with a panoramic view of the river and city.
INR800-1500 per person, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Sarnath Archaeological Site and Museum

Travel 10 km from Varanasi to visit Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit the archaeological ruins and museum open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
INR50 per person, 2h0m

6:00pm

Return to hotel and rest

Relax and freshen up after a full day of sightseeing.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Open Hand Café

Dine on organic and eclectic meals with vegetarian options in a cozy environment popular with families, open until 10pm.
INR400-800 per person, 1h0m
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Day 3: Travel and explore Ayodhya

Ayodhya, India on August 16, 2025

7:00am

Depart Varanasi for Ayodhya by car

Start the approximately 4.5-5 hour drive (around 200km) to Ayodhya in the morning for a comfortable family journey.
INR3500-5000 for private car, 5h0m

12:30pm

Check-in and Lunch at hotel Ramkot or similar

Settle in at a family-friendly hotel in Ayodhya. Have lunch featuring traditional Awadhi dishes on-site or nearby.
INR1000-2000 per person, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Ram Janmabhoomi Complex

Explore the sacred site believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama, including the grand temple complex and surrounding attractions. Open generally 6:00am to 8:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Hanuman Garhi Temple

Visit this impressive temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a must-see in Ayodhya, with beautiful views. Open till evening around 7:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relaxing walk along Saryu River

Enjoy a serene family walk along the riverbanks, observing daily rituals and sunset views.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Grand Hotel Ayodhya

Taste local Awadhi cuisine and family-friendly dishes at this well-regarded hotel restaurant open until 10pm.
INR800-1500 per person, 1h0m
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Day 4: Ayodhya sightseeing and departure

Ayodhya, India on August 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at the hotel to start the day energetic and ready for sightseeing.
Included, 0h45m

8:30am

Visit Kanak Bhawan

Tour this ornate palace temple dedicated to Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, known for its beautiful architecture. Open 6:00am to 8:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

10:00am

Explore Treta Ke Thakur

Visit a prominent temple said to be the site where Lord Rama performed the Ashwamedha Yajna, showcasing impressive carvings and spiritual significance.
Free, 1h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Kesar Heritage Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Awadhi cuisine in a comfortable setting before you prepare for departure.
INR700-1200 per person, 1h0m

1:00pm

Visit Guptar Ghat

Discover this tranquil ghat on the Saryu River, believed to be the spot where Lord Rama took Jal Samadhi, perfect for family photos and quiet reflection.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Return/Departure

Prepare for your onward journey or return home, with memories of a spiritual and family-friendly trip through Varanasi and Ayodhya.
Varies, Travel time varies
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