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Full-day private tour of Varanasi with boat rides

14 hoursFrom INR 7742
Full-day private tour of Varanasi with boat rides — Luxury & private things to do in Varanasi

Fourteen hours, private vehicle and guide — sunrise and sunset boat rides on the Ganges, visits to Banaras Hindu University, two temples, and Dhamekh Stupa.

This full-day private tour of Varanasi stretches over approximately fourteen hours, covering key landmarks and experiences along the Ganges River. The day starts with a sunrise boat ride, followed by visits to the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum at Banaras Hindu University and two notable Hindu temples, before heading to Sarnath to view the Dhamekh Stupa, an essential Buddhist site.

After exploring, you'll enjoy a sunset cruise on the Ganges, highlighting the evening aarti ceremony. The tour includes a private vehicle and guide, along with hotel pickup and drop-off to ensure a seamless experience throughout your day.

Places you'll visit

FAQ

Good to know

What's included in this experience?+
• Exclusive transportation • Morning outing and boat journey on the Ganges • Water bottle • English-speaking tour guide • Air conditioning in the vehicle
What's NOT included?+
• Meals and beverages • Lodging • Any admission charges
What should I know before booking?+
• Not advised for individuals with spinal cord injuries • Not suggested for those who are pregnant • Not recommended for people with cardiovascular issues • Participants should possess at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What's the cancellation policy?+
To receive a full refund, cancellation must occur at least 24 hours prior to the planned departure time.
How does pickup work?+
Pickup is available from any hotel in Varanasi, as well as the airport and train station.
What's the itinerary?+
• 5:30 AM - Pickup from your hotel, airport, or train station in Varanasi. After the early morning pickup at 5:30 AM, enjoy a sunrise boat ride on the sacred Ganges River and observe morning rituals taking place by the riverside. • Following this, your guide will lead a brief walking tour through the alleyways of the old city, where you will see Kashi Vishwanath, one of the most revered Hindu temples. • There will be a stop for breakfast (at your own cost) before proceeding to Banaras Hindu University at 10 AM. Established in 1916, it is the largest university campus in Asia. • Explore the campus including the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum and the new Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple), which is an exact replica of the original Vishwanath Temple. • Visit the Mother India Temple, built in 1918, which features an unusual marble relief map of the Indian subcontinent. • At 12:30 PM, you will learn about Varanasi's silk weaving traditions, followed by a break for lunch (own expense). Then, drive approximately eight miles (13 km) to Sarnath to view Dhamekh Stupa, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon. • You will also go to the Archaeological Museum, which contains artifacts dating back to the 3rd century BC (closed on Fridays). • The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, located on the banks of the sacred Ganges River in Varanasi, is a captivating ritual that attracts pilgrims, tourists, and spiritual seekers globally. It is not only a religious event but also a powerful visual and emotional experience that leaves a lasting impact on attendees. • The tour concludes with a return to your hotel around 8 PM.

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