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Full-day sightseeing tour of Varanasi

4.3· 116 reviews10 hoursFrom INR 6500
Full-day sightseeing tour of Varanasi — Day trips things to do in Varanasi

A comprehensive day in Varanasi, including a Ganges boat ride, temple visits, Sarnath excursion, and evening Ganga Aarti.

This full-day tour offers a thorough exploration of Varanasi, starting with an early morning boat ride on the Ganges. Witness the spiritual rituals as locals pay homage to the Sun God and take holy dips. Post-boat ride, enjoy breakfast back at the hotel before setting out to visit key temples, including Kashi Vishwanath, Bharat Mata, Sankat Mochan, and Manas Mandir.

After the temple tour, head to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visit the significant sites such as the Dhamekha stupa, Chaukhandi stupa, and the archaeological museum. In the evening, return to the Ganges for the Ganga Aarti, an unforgettable spiritual experience at the ghats. The tour encapsulates the essence of Varanasi's religious heritage throughout the day.

Places you'll visit

FAQ

Good to know

What's included in this experience?+
• Admission tickets to monuments (if chosen) • Professional tour guide • Dedicated air-conditioned vehicle for the entire duration of the activity • Possible boat ride experience • Traditional thali lunch (if chosen) • Bottled water and cookies
What's NOT included?+
• Gratuities for the guide and driver are not included (optional).
What should I know before booking?+
• Accessible for wheelchair users • Infants and toddlers can use a pram or stroller • Nearby public transport is available • Specialized car seats for infants can be provided • Transportation services are wheelchair accessible • All locations and surfaces are accessible for wheelchair users • Not advised for individuals with weak cardiovascular health • Appropriate for all levels of physical fitness
What's the cancellation policy?+
To receive a complete refund, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the planned departure time.
How does pickup work?+
Pickup can be organized based on the guest's preference, whether it be from a hotel, airport, or another location specified by the traveler.
What's the itinerary?+
• Early morning pickup from your hotel at 5 AM to begin the day with a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River, transitioning from Dashaswamedh Ghat to Harishchandra Ghat and then to Manikarnika Ghat. The boat ride commences as the sun rises, highlighting one of Varanasi's main attractions. Prior to this, other activities around the Ghat can be enjoyed. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a notable location in India. An early boat ride provides a serene and refreshing start to the day. Additional activities may include having a riverside picnic, engaging in meditation or yoga, or exploring local traditions to enhance the morning experience while appreciating the natural beauty and tranquility of the river. • Kashi Vishvanath Temple, a renowned Hindu temple devoted to Lord Shiva, is situated in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The temple is located on the western bank of the Ganges River and is regarded as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, considered the holiest temples dedicated to Shiva. • A breakfast stop will follow (at your own cost) before proceeding to Banaras Hindu University at 10 AM. Founded in 1916, BHU is the largest university campus in Asia. • Sarnath, located 10 kilometers northeast of Varanasi, is where the Ganges and Varuna rivers converge. This site includes the deer park where Gautama Buddha first conveyed the Dharma, leading to the formation of the Buddhist Sangha through Kondanna's enlightenment. • The Ashoka Pillars, erected by King Ashoka between 268 and 232 BC across the Indian subcontinent, symbolize his expansive reign and victories throughout India. Although many pillars have deteriorated or were destroyed by later rulers, 20 still remain intact, representing the earliest stone inscriptions in India and showcasing the advanced culture of the Mauryan civilization. • Dhamek Stupa is a significant landmark in Sarnath, recognized for its historical importance as the location of Buddha’s first sermon. The stupa features a cylindrical tower rising about 43 meters, with a diameter of 28 meters. Its midway arched niches might have once held Buddha statues, and intricate carvings are visible on various sides of the monument. • Just before sunset, a memorable moment awaits at the River Ganges with the opportunity to witness the Ganga aarti ceremony from a boat (if selected). This grand event, starting at 7:00 PM at Dashashwamedh Ghat, involves a group of young priests dressed in saffron and white silk robes performing a ritual with synchronized movements of lamps accompanied by bells, drums, cymbals, and chanting of Sanskrit mantras while offering flowers to the Ganga. Hindus regard the Ganges River as a goddess. Following this, you will return to your hotel, concluding the services. The trip ends with lasting memories.

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