From Varansi: Day Tour to Sarnath with Boating and Ganga Aarti

Varanasi , India

From Varansi: Day Tour to Sarnath with Boating and Ganga Aarti

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(8 reviews)

5h - 6h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the spiritual and pious city of Sarnath, the place where Buddha gave his first sermon and one which remains as one of the four key sites of the Buddhist circuit. Explore Varanasi with a boat ride on the Ganges and a heritage walk of the oldest part of the city! Witness the Ganga Aarti, one of the most magical experiences (where the fire is used as an offering by the priests) of the city.

Available options

From Varansi: Day Tour to Sarnath with Boating and Ganga Aarti

Pickup included

What's included

Evening aarti

Chauffeur-driven air-condition vehicle.

Sarnath sightseeing

Boat ride of approximately an hour over the Ganges.

Hotel pick-up and drop

English-speaking live guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world along with Sarnath, the land of Buddha in this day tour which will acquaint you to this land in its absolute raw form!
Your tour will begin with your guide picking you up from your hotel at around 1:00 PM in the day with your first stop at Sarnath. The land where Buddhism flows in its air, this place holds a lot of history and culture to offer. Standing as one of the four key places on the Buddha circuit, the place attracts travelers and pilgrims from around the world!
Visit the different temples like the Tibetan, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Thai along with exploring the deer park (the exact place where Buddha gave his first sermon). Visit the Stupas and the most ancient monastery as your guide equips you with all the history.

Once you are done here, make your way back to Varanasi, where you will start exploring this mystical city with a boat ride at the Ganges! Immerse in the cool breeze of the holy Ganges and witness the many colorful ghats (stone step embankment) as your guide tells you the importance of all.
Post this, get ready to navigate through the narrow alleys of the oldest part of Varanasi, as you go on a Heritage walk in the oldest part of Varanasi in an exclusive Heritage Walk. Feel like a true local as you get acquainted with the culture and heritage of the locals in this part. Your guide will tell you about all the important features and you will also halt to see the Golden Temple (the most important temple for Hindus in Varanasi)

Upon ending this, make your way to one of the ghats for the evening Ganga Aarti. One of the most magical experiences attracting travelers from world-wide, it’s a ritual where priests use fire in the form of oil lamps to seek blessings from mother Ganges.
Following this magical experience, we will call it a day with a scrumptious dinner at a multi-cuisine Indian restaurant where you will get the best food that India is known for! Post

What's not included

Food and drinks (apart from mentioned)

Entry ticket of 300 INR at Sarnath

Gratuities (recommended)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.