Full day Private Guided Tour of Sarnath from Varanasi

Varanasi , India

Full day Private Guided Tour of Sarnath from Varanasi

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About this experience

Experience Sarnath where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, Chaukhandi Stupa a shrine for the relic of Buddha, murals and frescoes of the Buddhist temple of Mulagandha Kuti Vihar A scenic boat ride in the morning on the Ganges is another highlight of this day tour to Sarnath from Varanasi.

Available options

Full day Private Guided Tour of Sarnath from Varanasi

Pickup included

What's included

Indian lunch

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entrance charges

Guide

Detailed itinerary

We start the day with a boat ride over the Ganges and get a glimpse of live in this ancient city across its various ghats.

Stop 2

We will visit Sarnath, the most famous pilgrimage for Buddhists in India. Lord Buddha gave his first sermon here after attaining enlightenment in the year 528 BC. The great Mauryan Emperor Ashoka built magnificent stupas and monasteries in this area in the 3rd century BC. He also erected a column 15.24 m in height which had four lions and this was later adopted as the national emblem of India.

Dhamek Stupa is the most impressive structure here in Sarnath. The Stupa commemorates the first discourse of the Buddha which was on the ‘Wheel of Law’. The wheel reflects the world with its eternal existence due to our desires and cravings.

Stop 4

We next visit Chaukhandi Stupa a shrine for the relic of Buddha. This Stupa was built during the Gupta period between the 4th to 6th Century to highlight the site where Lord Buddha and his first disciples met traveling from Bodh Gaya to Sarnath. During the time of Akbar, the Mughal Emperor it was modified to its present shape by building the octagonal tower. These modifications were carried out to commemorate the visit of Humayun, the father of Akbar.

Mulagandha Kuti Vihar is a relatively new Buddhist temple. The highlight of this temple is its murals and frescoes. It stands as a contrast to the ruins of ancient Sarnath all around it. An interesting aspect of this temple complex is a Bodhi tree, which is supposedly a descendant of the tree beneath which Lord Buddha achieved enlightenment.

What's not included

Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The total duration (8 hours) includes the transportation duration.

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.