Private Cultural Walking Tour of Varanasi with Guide
Active
2h - 3h
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
The whole tour will be accompanied by a government-trained official guide who will show you Old city, colourful market, Crematoriums, Golden Shiva temple(outside), Dashashmedh ghat and different types of rituals.
Ghat means steps leading down to the river, there are some palaces situated on the bank of river Ganges, you will see some of those from outside. During the tour, you will get an explanation about Hinduism and its practices, caste system, marriage system, Holy Cow etc.
I assure you will have a safe and hassle-free experience.
The whole idea of this is to give you more in less time so that you can understand Varanasi.
This guided walking tour can be beneficial as it allows you to learn about the history, culture, and significance of the places you visit from a knowledgeable guide. It's an immersive way to experience the traditions and spirituality that make Varanasi a unique and profound destination.
Available options
Private Cultural Walking Tour of Varanasi with Guide
Pickup included
What's included
Bottle of water 500ml per person
Experienced Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Varanasi is known as the oldest living city of the world, while walking in the old city you will feel and understand how people are living in the old city by generation to generation in the same place.
First of all, you will see a big and colourful crowded market where local people come to buy daily needs. Then you will have a long walk in the narrow lane to see old houses, shrines and The Golden Temple of Shiva(outside only).
Varanasi is the holy city of Hindus and it's a great pilgrimage centre, around 15000 pilgrims come every day to take bath in The Ganges river and to visit this Golden temple.
While walking in the old city you will feel this is the most important place in Varanasi.
2
Here you will see the wooden temple of Shiva with some erotic sculpture.
3
Stop 3
In Manikarnika Ghat you will see The Hindu way of cremation. This is a cremation ground where every day around 150 bodies are cremated in public.
4
Most of the Hindu pilgrims come here to take a bath and do prayer with priests, some pilgrims offer floating candles and some take off their hair to do rituals for ancestors.
This is the most happening place in Varanasi, every evening around 12000 people gather here to take part in Aarti prayer.
5
This is less crowded crematorium so you can see the whole cremation process peacefully e.g.
* How family members are buying wood, which types of wood it is.
* Process of making funeral pyre and lighting fire.
6
Market situated in the narrow lane with several small colourful shops were always crowded with locals.
What's not included
Nepali Temple (Kathwala Temple)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.9
16 reviews
5★
15
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1
3★
0
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
In front of Hotel Ganges Grand, Godowlia(Centre of the city)
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
