Whispers of Varanasi A Guided Walk into the Divine and Boat Ride

Varanasi , India

Whispers of Varanasi A Guided Walk into the Divine and Boat Ride

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About this experience

Discover the spiritual heart of Varanasi on this intimate walking tour led by Omvity's experts. Begin your day at Assi Ghat, witnessing the enchanting Subah-e-Banaras ceremony with Vedic chants and yoga by the Ganges. Wander through the ancient lanes of South Varanasi, visiting sacred sites like the Lolark Kund and Tulsi Ghat Akhara, home to traditional wrestlers. Enjoy a cozy break for chai and local snacks. The experience culminates with a guided boat ride on the Ganges, offering insight into daily life and sacred rituals. Explore temples like the Nepali Temple and the Vishalakshi Temple, enriched by stories from your knowledgeable guides.

- Morning gathering at Assi Ghat for the Subah-e-Banaras ceremony
- Walk through the historic streets featuring ancient shrines and rituals
- Guided boat ride on the Ganges, observing local customs and beliefs
- Visit significant temples with engaging stories from expert local guides

Available options

Whispers of Varanasi A Guided Walk into the Divine and Boat Ride

What's included

Bottled water

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Begin your day at Assi Ghat with the tranquil Subah-e-Banaras ceremony. Witness a spiritually charged atmosphere filled with Vedic chanting, live classical music, and open-air yoga — all unfolding along the banks of the sacred Ganga. It’s a powerful, serene introduction to Varanasi’s living traditions and morning energy.

After leaving Assi Ghat, we walk through the historic lanes of South Varanasi to reach Tulsi Ghat, home to spiritual traditions and Varanasi’s legendary wrestling akharas (training grounds). Watch traditional pehelwans (wrestlers) practice their centuries-old art. Nearby lies Lolark Kund, a sacred stepped well believed to bless couples with fertility. Your guide will share the legends and rituals associated with this revered site. If you’re feeling hungry, we’re happy to pause for a local breakfast stop — and of course, we’ll enjoy a refreshing cup of chai along the way.

Stop 3

Location: Boarding from Tulsi Ghat or Assi Ghat, depending on water levels
Board a traditional wooden boat for a tranquil morning ride on the Ganges. As we drift along the river, take in scenes of daily life — yoga, prayers, bathing, chai stalls, and laundry by the water. Your guide will explain the sacred importance of the Ganga and point out iconic sites from the river, including multiple ghats and temples.

Stop 4

Manikarnika Ghat (View from Boat)
rom the river, observe the sacred Manikarnika Ghat, Varanasi’s main cremation ground, where the eternal flame burns 24/7. This deeply spiritual site is central to Hindu beliefs about life, death, and moksha (liberation from rebirth). Your guide will explain cremation customs and the philosophies that shape Varanasi’s relationship with death — always with cultural sensitivity and respect.

Disembarking near Lalita Ghat, we visit the Nepali Temple — a wooden pagoda-style Shiva temple built in traditional Kathmandu architecture. Known for its erotic carvings and peaceful ambiance, the temple offers insight into the artistic and spiritual connections between Nepal and Varanasi.

This revered Shakti Peetha is believed to be where Goddess Sati’s earrings fell. The Vishalakshi Temple radiates feminine divine energy and is part of a spiritual triad with temples in Madurai and Kanchipuram. Experience local devotion, temple rituals, and hear stories of goddess worship still alive in the heart of Kashi.

Stop 7

The tour concludes at Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the most iconic and vibrant riverfronts in Varanasi. Named after a legendary horse sacrifice performed by Lord Brahma, this ghat is the spiritual and cultural heart of the city. From here, guests are free to explore on their own, enjoy the local market, or explore the market.

What's not included

Meals

Anything not mentioned in the Inclusion

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 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

Please meet us at the main steps of Assi Ghat, near the large tree facing the river. Our guide will be waiting there wearing an Omvity lanyard and badge, holding a signboard with your name. Kindly arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time for a smooth beginning.

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.