3 day itinerary for Varanasi, Sarnath, Allahabad, Prayagraj

Itinerary

A trip to Varanasi, Sarnath, and Allahabad (Prayagraj) is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the rich culture, spirituality, and history of India. Here’s a family-friendly itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural experiences over three days.

## Day 1: Varanasi Exploration

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a local café. Try some traditional Indian breakfast options like poha or aloo paratha.
• Ganga Aarti: Head to the ghats early in the morning to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti. The early morning boat ride on the Ganges is a serene experience, and you can see the city waking up.

Mid-Morning:

• Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple: After the boat ride, visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Make sure to check the temple timings and dress appropriately.

Lunch:

• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Try some Banarasi chaat or a thali for a taste of local flavors.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Ghats: Spend the afternoon strolling along the ghats. Visit Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Assi Ghat. You can also take a short break at a café overlooking the river.

Evening:

• Ganga Aarti (again!): If you missed the morning Aarti, the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a must-see. The atmosphere is electric with chanting, music, and the flickering lights of the diyas.

Dinner:

• Head to a family-friendly restaurant for dinner. Try some local delicacies like Biryani or Lassi.

## Day 2: Sarnath and Prayagraj

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
• Travel to Sarnath: After breakfast, take a short drive to Sarnath (about 30 minutes from Varanasi).

Mid-Morning:

• Visit Sarnath: Explore the Dhamek Stupa, the Ashoka Pillar, and the Sarnath Museum. This is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, and the peaceful surroundings are perfect for a family stroll.

Lunch:

• Have lunch at a local restaurant in Sarnath. There are some nice eateries that offer vegetarian options.

Afternoon:

• Travel to Prayagraj: After lunch, head to Prayagraj (approximately 2.5 hours by car). Enjoy the scenic drive!

Evening:

• Triveni Sangam: Upon arrival, visit the Triveni Sangam, where the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers meet. You can take a boat ride here, which is a fun experience for the family.

Dinner:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Prayagraj. Try some regional specialties.

## Day 3: Allahabad (Prayagraj) and Return to Varanasi

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at your hotel.
• Visit Anand Bhawan: Explore Anand Bhawan, the ancestral home of the Nehru-Gandhi family. The museum here is fascinating and offers insights into India’s freedom struggle.

Mid-Morning:

• Explore Allahabad Fort: Visit the historic Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar. The fort offers stunning views of the Sangam and is a great place for family photos.

Lunch:

• Have lunch at a nearby restaurant. You can try some local sweets