Varanasi Cultural and Historical Day Tour

Varanasi , India

Varanasi Cultural and Historical Day Tour

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10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a spiritual and cultural journey through Varanasi, one of the world's oldest and holiest cities. Begin your day with a visit to the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, followed by a stroll through the bustling narrow lanes that capture the essence of Varanasi's vibrant life.

Explore the Bharat Mata Temple, dedicated to Mother India, featuring a unique marble map of undivided India. Discover the ancient Buddhist site of Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, and explore its stupas and archaeological museum. After a traditional lunch, tour the expansive Banaras Hindu University and the iconic New Vishwanath Temple.

Conclude your day with a visit to the historic Ramnagar Fort, home to a museum displaying vintage cars, royal palanquins, and ancient weapons. This full-day tour offers a deep dive into the spiritual, cultural, and historical heart of Varanasi.

Available options

Driver

Private Tour: In this option, we provide a driver and transportation. Pickup included

All Inclusive

Lunch Private Tour: In this option, we provide a driver, guide, monument entrance fees, and lunch at a local restaurant. Pickup included

Entrance Fees

Duration: 10 hours Private Tour: In this option, we provide a driver, guide, transportation, and monument entrance fees. Pickup included

Guide

Private Tour: In this option, we provide a driver, guide, and transportation. Pickup included

What's included

Bottled Water

Hotel Pickup & Drop-off

All Tolls, Taxes, and Parking Fees

English-Speaking Guide (If you select the option)

Monuments Entrance Fees (If you choose the option)

Lunch at a local restaurant (If you select the option)

Experienced Driver

Detailed itinerary

Start the day with a visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Explore the temple complex and understand its significance in Hinduism.

Next, visit the Bharat Mata Temple, which has a unique marble map of undivided India.

This temple is dedicated to Mother India and is a significant spot for patriotic feelings.

Drive to Sarnath, located about 10 km from Varanasi. Sarnath is a major Buddhist site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.

Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum to learn about the history and importance of this site.

After lunch, head to Banaras Hindu University, one of the largest residential universities in Asia.

Explore the campus and visit the New Vishwanath Temple located within the university grounds.

Visit the Ramnagar Fort, situated on the eastern bank of the River Ganges. This 18th-century fort is the residence of the Kashi Naresh, the king of Varanasi.

The fort also houses a museum with a rare collection of vintage cars, royal palanquins, and ancient weapons.

As the sun sets, prepare to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

This spiritual ceremony is a must-see when in Varanasi, where priests perform rituals with chants, lights, and offerings to the Ganges River.

What's not included

Boat Ride

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is a spiritual and cultural hub on the banks of the Ganges River. Known for its ancient temples, vibrant ghats (riverfront steps), and rich cultural heritage, it offers a profound experience of India's spiritual traditions and historical depth.

Top Attractions

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a major pilgrimage site. The temple's golden spire and intricate architecture are awe-inspiring.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Dasaswamedh Ghat

One of the most famous ghats in Varanasi, Dasaswamedh Ghat is a bustling hub of activity. It's known for its evening Ganga Aarti, a spectacular ritual of worshipping the Ganges River.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (boat rides cost INR 200-500)

Sarnath

A significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. It's home to several ancient stupas, temples, and museums.

Historical Half day Free (entry fees for some sites)

Manikarnika Ghat

One of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat is primarily used for cremation ceremonies. It's a profound and moving experience to witness the rituals here.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Founded by Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is one of India's most prestigious universities. The campus is vast and beautiful, with museums, temples, and lush gardens.

Educational 2-3 hours Free (entry fees for some sites)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kachori

A deep-fried, spiced pastry filled with a mixture of lentils, onions, and spices. It's a popular street food item in Varanasi.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Peda

A sweet made from condensed milk and sugar, often flavored with cardamom. Banarasi peda is famous for its rich and creamy texture.

Dessert Vegetarian

Malaiyo

A traditional Banarasi sweet made from reduced milk, sugar, and saffron. It's often served during festivals and special occasions.

Dessert Vegetarian

Chaat

A savory snack made with a variety of ingredients like potatoes, onions, chickpeas, and tangy tamarind sauce. It's a popular street food item.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Boat rides on the Ganges River Exploring narrow alleys and hidden temples Meditation and yoga sessions Attending the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat Visiting ancient temples and historical sites Swimming in the Ganges River (not recommended due to pollution) Attending winter festivals and fairs Visiting historical sites and museums

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and participating in various festivals. The city is lively with tourists and pilgrims.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Hindi
Widely spoken: English, Bhojpuri
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Varanasi is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing, scams, and petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings, and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Use common sense and stay alert
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be cautious of strangers and touts

Getting there

By air

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport • 24 km from city center

By train

Varanasi Junction, Manduar Diara

By bus

Varanasi Bus Stand, Sarnath Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Varanasi. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Varanasi Sarnath Cantt (Cantonment)

Day trips

Sarnath

10 km from Varanasi • Half day to full day

Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, known for its ancient stupas, temples, and museums. It's a peaceful and historically rich area, offering a contrast to the bustling old city of Varanasi.

Chunar

55 km from Varanasi • Full day

Chunar is a historic town known for its ancient fort, located on the banks of the Ganges River. The fort offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding countryside.

Rajghat

20 km from Varanasi • Half day

Rajghat is an ancient site located on the banks of the Ganges River, known for its historic significance and scenic beauty. It's a peaceful and serene place to visit, offering a break from the bustling city of Varanasi.

Festivals

Diwali • October or November (dates vary by lunar calendar) Maha Shivaratri • February or March (dates vary by lunar calendar) Ganga Mahotsav • November (dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide to navigate the city's narrow alleys and hidden temples.
Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat for a spectacular and moving cultural experience.
Try local street food and sweets, but be cautious and choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
Use common sense and stay alert to avoid scams, pickpocketing, and petty crime.