Heritage Walking Tour in Varanasi
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Heritage Walking Tour in Varanasi

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(18 reviews)
2h
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

Welcome to Varanasi Tours, your gateway to the spiritual heart of India! Our company specializes in crafting unforgettable journeys to Varanasi, one of the oldest and most sacred cities in the world.

From mystical Ganges boat rides to immersive cultural experiences, we offer tailor-made itineraries that showcase the rich history, vibrant culture, and spiritual essence of Varanasi. Let us guide you on a transformative journey through this enchanting city, where every moment is filled with awe and wonder.

Available options

Heritage Walking Tour in Varanasi

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle
Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

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Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva. It is located in Vishwanath Gali, in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple is a Hindu pilgrimage site and is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines. The presiding deity is known by the names Vishwanath and Vishweshwara literally meaning Lord of the Universe

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Walking tour in Varanasi along the ghats (riverbank) in Morning
₹2,913 · 5.0
(1)
Free cancellation
Dashashwamedh Ghat Rd, Ghats of Varanasi, Godowlia, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221001
7.4 km
Map of dashashwamedh ghat
Open 24 hours

Wikipedia
https://hi.m.wikipedia.org › wiki
दशाश्वमेध घाट
दशाश्वमेध, वाराणसी में गंगातटवर्ती सुप्रसिद्ध स्थान है जिसका धार्मिक और ऐतिहासिक महत्व है। काशीखंड के अनुसार शिवप्रेषित ब्रह्मा ...
About
Dashashwamedh Ghat is a main ghat in Varanasi located on the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh. It is located close to Vishwanath Temple. There are two Hindu legends associated with the ghat: according to one, Brahma created it to welcome Shiva, and in another, Brahma Performed 10 Ashwamegha Yajna, Dasa-Ashwamedha yajna. Evening Arati is very famous here

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Earlier known as Someswara Ghat, Man Mandir Ghat was built in 16th century CE by Raja Man Singh of Amer and was renamed after him. He also built a magnificent palace here and is known for its exquisite ornate window carvings. It is now maintained by Archaeological Survey of India. One can get a panoramic view of all the ghats of Varanasi from the terrace of this palace. An observatory, popularly called as Jantar Mantar, is established atop the Man Singh Palace in 1710 CE by Sawai Jai Singh II.

Situated on the western bank of River Ganga, the ghat is dotted with many temples including Rameshwara Temple, Sthuladanta Vinayaka and Someswara temples. Someswara Temple is the exact replica of the Someshwara lingam in Somanath of Gujarat. Many Hindu devotees visit this Ghat to offer prayers to Someshwar.

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The Dom community has traditionally been the custodian of cremation grounds. The Doms are keepers of the sacred fire, which is never allowed to die down, and are the cremators of the dead. The CHIEF cremation undertakers at Manikarnika and Harishchandra ghats in Varanasi are called ‘Dom Raja’. Also called ‘Choudhary’, they consider themselves descendants of Kalu Dom, who worked as a cremation undertaker during the regime of Raja Harishchandra, a king in ancient times. It is said that if the person being cremated is to achieve moksha, the fire for dead's funeral pyre must be taken from the Dom Raja.

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Shri Samrajeswar Pashupatinath Mahadev Mandir, also known as the Nepali Mandir . Kanthwala Mandir and Mini Khajuraho (Kanthwala in Hindi means wooden), is one of the oldest and most famous temples in the holy city of Varanasi. This temple has great religious importance in Hinduism and is dedicated to the Lord Shiva. Constructed in the 19th century A.D by the King of Nepal, the temple is made of terracotta, stone and wood and is replica of the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu

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Stop 6

Manikarnika is one of the holiest[1] cremation grounds among the sacred riverfronts (ghats), located on the Ganges, in the city of Varanasi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. In Hinduism, death is considered a gateway to another life marked by the result of one's karma. It is believed that a human's soul attains moksha, and hence breaks the cycle of rebirth when cremated here

Available languages

Audio guide
HI EN
Guide guide
HI EN
Written guide
HI EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
18 reviews
5★
18
4★
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3★
0
2★
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1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Google map location of the meeting point is - St. Thomas church,girjaghar, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

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

Adults
Age 25-40
1
Childs
Age 5-13
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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