Highlights of the Varanasi & Sarnath (Guided Fullday Sightseeing Tour by Car)

Varanasi , India

Highlights of the Varanasi & Sarnath (Guided Fullday Sightseeing Tour by Car)

Active

(3 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Varanasi has a different experiences to offer; gentle waters of the Ganges, ancient ghats, narrow serpentine alleys of city, the myriad temple spires, ashrams and devotional hymn. We coupled all these with an excursion to Sarnath which allows you to learn how this huge faith was founded and handcrafted the beautiful Highlights of Varanasi & Sarnath Tour in order to understand the true essence of Varanasi, its past, its spiritual journey & the roots of Buddhism.
1. Visit Sarnath's Buddhist Trails, and famous tourist destinations of Varanasi customized based on your requirement.
2. Capture the beauty of ancient ruins, stupas, ancient ghats, narrow serpentine alleys, the myriad temple spires of the city in your lens.
3. Understand a city's existence, diverse architectural style, tradition and religious legacy with lots of wonderful stories.
4. We follow a unique style of ‘infotainment’ to ensure that you enjoy the tour and don't get bored, irrespective of whether you love history or not.

Available options

Premium SUV Car

Premium Duration: 8 hours Snacks Premium SUV Pickup included

Small Car (up to 3 person)

Budget Duration: 8 hours Snacks Sedan Car Pickup included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Snacks

Highly trained and friendly Storyteller/ Guide who can speak English & Hindi

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Sarnath; an important Buddhist pilgrim spot, where Buddha made his first sermon after getting enlightenment. In this excursion to Sarnath is the best way to know how this religion was born and explore one of its holy cities.

We will visit the Sarnath Museum, which is the oldest site museum of Archaeological Survey of India. It houses the collection of Buddhist remains.

Visit the Sarang Nath, dedicated to the god Shiva and whose name also famed as "deer lord".

Stop 4

Visit the Dhamek Stupa as it was the exact spot of Buddha’s first sermon and it reveales the eightfold path leading to nirvana.

Stop 5

Visit the Chaukhandi Stupa - the spot where Buddha was reunited with the panchavargiya bhikshus or his five companions.

Explore this majestic palace which is a combination of architectural excellence and astronomical brilliance constructed by the King of Banaras in the year 1750 AD.

Stop 7

Most of the Varanasi ghats are more than 300 years old and there nearly 88 ghats. Most Popular and oldest ghats of all these are the Dashashwamedh, Manikarnika and Harishchandra Ghat.

Stop 8

Visit the holiest of Shiva temples where main deity is known by the name Vishwanatha meaning the Ruler of the universe. Explore the other small temples in the complex as well as a small well known wisdom well

Visit the the furthest south of the main ghat and Shri Durga Temple

Stop 10

Visit the Burning Ghat where dead bodies are burnt here regularly. It is holiest among the sacred riverfronts, alongside the river Ganga, known for if a dead human cremated, the soul finds salvation/Moksha

Stop 11

Visit the Dashashwamedh Ghat which is the oldest and holiest ghat and heart of the action where the famous Ganga aarti takes place every evening. Walk around the other Ghats of Kashi and learn energy transformation techniques that will help you balance the energy system within you.

Varanasi has a different experience to offer; gentle waters of the Ganges, ancient ghats, narrow serpentine alleys of city, the myriad temple spires, ashrams and devotional hymn—all offer a kind of mystifying experience that is unique to the city of Shiva.

What's not included

Airport or outside city limit transfer

Lunch

Bottled water

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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.