Varanasi , India

Varanasi Highlights. 1 Day Tour

Active

(13 reviews)

10h

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

Do you have one day to experience Varanasi? We create a program that suits you perfectly! Our goal is to provide you with a unique experience!
From early morning until night, we will be your host, friend and guide, and together we will tour the most emblematic places of the city and we will discover corners and alleys that do not appear in the guides and others that are not easily accessible to non-locals. We will make this a memorable journey within the holy Indian city of Varanasi! Join us!

Available options

Varanasi Highlights. 1 Day Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Local transportation

Whenever you need a break, we can enjoy a chai, a lassi or a mineral water

Boat ride

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Before dawn rise, we will start our day with a boat ride from Varanasi's main and busiest ghat, Dashashwamedh. You will feel overwhelmed by the beauty of the sunrise and the magic light that bathes the historical palaces and temples on the banks, enjoying for sure witnessing local life and photographing the vibrant activity, full of colour and tradition, on the ghats: pilgrims and locals taking the sacred bath, praying, doing ceremony, washing clothes, chatting. Shadus, Babas… A gift for senses!

Stop 2

After going to your hotel for a short nap, I will pick you up again and we will continue exploring Varanasi. We begin the second part of the tour at Manikarnika, where death is celebrated. Above the main burning ghat of Varanasi, one of the holiest cremation sites along the Ganges River, from the best place to observing and photographing, I will explain to you in detail about the Hindu sacred rituals of death. From there, we will head to the old town to discover the small and colourful alleys of the center, historical palaces, sacred temples, traditional ashrams, bazaar and local markets...

Time for lunch! it's time to regain strength after a long walk… I will recommend you a good place for taste a jummy indian meal or for drinking the best lassi of the city. When your stomach gets happy I will bring you by tuk tuk on our next stop: the traditional silk weaving. There we will scooting the muslim area, learning about the silk weaving, you can see how is the process of creating and also the beautiful final products...

Stop 4

And again time to come back to the river for a boat ride on sunset. Light and ghats at that time are also a dream, people and activities are different at the morning time so you will enjoy witnessing local life and photographing. A new experience for your senses is waiting for you!

Stop 5

We will finish the day with one of the most spectacular sights in Varanasi: The Ganga Aarti Ceremony. This is a godly spiritual ritual on the banks of the Ganges River. There, Hindu priests celebrate a beautiful and sacred ritual in honor of Mother Ganges, accompanied by songs of praise and surrounded by thousands of pilgrims who come from far every evening in order to get the Goddess’s blessing who its believed that pours on each individual present there when the ritual is completed.

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

13 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

"contacting by phone call or message"

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.