Sacred Varanasi and Sarnath Tour with Evening Aarti Ceremony

Varanasi , India

Sacred Varanasi and Sarnath Tour with Evening Aarti Ceremony

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8h - 9h

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

Embark on a spiritual odyssey through Varanasi and Sarnath, commencing with a 9:00 AM hotel pickup. Traverse the mystical ghats and temples along the Ganges River during a serene walking tour, beholding the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple and other iconic sites like Dashashwamedh Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat. After a glimpse into Varanasi's rich culture, proceed to the New Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the tranquil Sankat Mochan Temple. Journey to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon, exploring the ancient Dhamek Stupa and the Sarnath Archaeological Site and Museum. Conclude your day with the ethereal Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat at 5:00 PM, before returning to your hotel in Varanasi at 7:00 PM. Experience the spiritual essence of these sacred sites on this immersive journey.

Available options

Car Only

Includes: Private Car with Driver.<br/>Pickup included

Car & Guide

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides.
<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide, Entrance & Lunch

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary & Lunch.<br/>Pickup included

Car, Guide & Entrance

Includes: Private Car with Driver + Private Guides + Entrance & activities charges mentioned in the itinerary.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

English speaking local guide, if option selected.

Entrance fees to monuments, if option selected.

Private AC car/van for pick up and drop off from/to your hotel.

Lunch, if option selected.

Government Taxes.

Bottled water in the car.

Detailed itinerary

9:00 AM - Pick up from your hotel in Varanasi

Stop 2

9:30 AM - Walking tour of the ghats and temples along the Ganges river. You will visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples in Varanasi, and also explore other temples such as the Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Harishchandra Ghat, Assi Ghat, and many others. You will get to witness the daily rituals and ceremonies that take place on the ghats and learn about the cultural and historical significance of each temple and ghat.

11:30 AM - Visit the New Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Birla Temple. This temple is located in the BHU campus and is a newer and bigger version of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. It is a beautiful temple with intricate carvings and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

12:30 PM - Lunch break.

1:30 PM - Visit Sankat Mochan Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. This temple is located in a peaceful and serene location and is surrounded by greenery.

Stop 5

2:30 PM - Drive to Sarnath, located around 10 km from Varanasi. This is a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. You will visit the Dhamek Stupa, a massive structure built in the 5th century to commemorate Lord Buddha's teachings. You will also visit the Sarnath Archaeological Site and Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and sculptures from the Mauryan and Gupta periods.

5:00 PM - Return to Varanasi to attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. This is a Hindu ritual performed every evening on the banks of the Ganges river, where priests offer prayers and light lamps to the river. This is a mesmerizing sight and a must-see experience in Varanasi.

7:00 PM - Drop off at your hotel in Varanasi.

What's not included

Camera charges at monuments.

Gratuities and optional activities.

Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Important notes

Please provide up pick up information at least one day before the tour

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.