History, Mysticism & Religions of Kashi (Guided Fullday Sightseeing Tour by Car)

Varanasi , India

History, Mysticism & Religions of Kashi (Guided Fullday Sightseeing Tour by Car)

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About this experience

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. We have picked up all the spilled pieces of history & mysticism together & hand crafted this tour, an unmatched experience with awesome stories to understand a city's existence, diverse architectural style, tradition and religious legacy.

1. Experience the history that represent from where they stand with our English speaking guide on this sightseeing tour by car.
2. Eyewitness the mystic Ganga Aarti and watch the setting of the sun at the horizon and mesmerize with the stunning beauty of colorful old buildings and ashrams.
3. Enjoy evening walk around Manikarnika Ghat viewing city's most wonderful scenes with great conversation to understand the importance of Kashi and various faiths.
4. Local Food Tasting (Complimentary)

Available options

Sedan Car

Budget Duration: 8 hours Snacks Sedan Car Pickup included

SUV Car

Premium Duration: 8 hours Snacks Premium SUV 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

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 3

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.

Explore the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, which is renowned for its rich collection of Indian paintings date back to between 11th century and 20th century.

Stop 5

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 7 Pass by

Visit the oldest ghat in Varanasi situated near the Vishwanath temple and is famous for its evening aarti.

Stop 8 Pass by

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

Eyewitness the mystic Ganga Aarti; one of the five rituals performed for the worship of sacred river Ganga. njoy evening boat ride around Manikarnika Ghat viewing city's most wonderful scenes with great conversation to understand the importance of Kashi and faith in the God

What's not included

Airport or outside city limit pickup and drop

Lunch

Bottled water

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

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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.