Varanasi: Half-Day Tour with Boat Ride & Traditional Breakfast
Active
5h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the beauty of Varanasi on a morning boat ride on the Ganges River. Watch the sunrise, see the Manikarnika Ghat, and learn about the city's history.
- Watch the sunrise over the Ganges River from a boat in Varanasi
- See the Manikarnika Ghat, the most revered crematorium in the city
- Learn about the history of the city as you pass by 55 of the main ghats
- Enjoy a traditional cup of chai before boarding the boat for the ride
- Witness the Arti ceremony and havan, one of the oldest Hindu rituals
Available options
Tour Guide Only
Guide: With this price, you will get a Professional Tour Guide Only.<br/>Pickup included
Tour with All Inclusive
All Inclusive: Hotel Pickup and Drop-off by Tuk-Tuk Rikshaw - Professional Tour Guide - Boat Ride - Masala Chai & Traditional Breakfast.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Tour Guide Service (Approved by Ministry of Tourism)
Boat Ride (As per Price selection)
All tolls and taxes.
Private Air Conditioned Car with driver.
Bottled water
Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-off.
Masala Chai & Traditional Breakfast (As per Price selection)
Detailed itinerary
1
Witness soulful morning rituals, chanting, and classical music as the sun rises over the Ganges. Locals perform yoga and prayer — a divine start to your day.
2
Stop 2
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride from Assi Ghat to Dashashwamedh Ghat. Watch life unfold along the riverbanks — saints meditating, devotees bathing, and temples ringing with bells.
3
Visit the legendary temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Experience the sacred aura of India’s holiest shrine. (Subject to security & entry rules).
4
Stroll through Godowlia Market, full of aromas, colors, and holy souvenirs — from Rudraksha beads to Banarasi silk.
5
A unique temple dedicated to Mother India with a marble relief map of the country instead of idols.
6
Explore two of the most revered temples in Varanasi, representing devotion and divine energy.
7
After finishing half Day sightseeing, come to your hotel and your tour will be end here.
What's not included
Any kind of tipping / gratuities
Any kind of hard drinks served during lunch.
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
1 reviews
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4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Recommended for Solo Traveler
Recommended for Group Traveler
Recommended for Newly Married Couples
Recommended for Senior Citizen
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
