Full-Day Private Tour in Varanasi
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Full-Day Private Tour in Varanasi

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(2 reviews)
8h - 10h
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

Explore India’s spiritual capital of Varanasi and learn about Hinduism on a private tour. Take a boat along the Ganges River and learn about why it's so sacred to Hindus. Visit the holy site of Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon, followed by a guided walk of Varanasi’s old streets and alleys. Watch the sacred ritual of Aarti from the ghat or the water to conclude your tour.

Available options

Full-Day Private Tour in Varanasi

Pickup included

What's included

Water Bottle
Entrance Fees To Sarnath and to all the gharts and temples will be included

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Later after this, drive to the river bank and step into one of the oldest streets to enjoy a walking tour. A guided walk in Varanasi's old streets and through thousands of years old alleys, and holy temples will leave you mesmerized. Discover the sacred and oldest living culture of this ancient city by getting yourself into these old streets. A walk that promises surprises at every step is extremely rich in its insights and sights. A lot more learning experiences are to come when you onto this. Question to your Varanasi guide to know the depth of each place, you cover during this Varanasi walking tour. This Varanasi walk takes place in the Northern part of the Ghats and will give real insights into Varanasi. With this walking tour, one would be able to see Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Famous Food Streets of Varanasi, Kachuri Gali, the Perfume Market, the Flower Market, the Silk Market, the Souvenirs Market, and many countless things.

2
Stop 2

After Visiting Sarnath we will take you for a “City tour”., Drive to the riverside and enter one of the oldest streets to enjoy a walking tour. A guided walk in the old streets of Varanasi and through millennia-old alleys, and sacred temples will leave you enchanted. Come across the oldest lifestyles of this ancient city by getting into these old streets. A walk that promises to surprise you at every step is rich in scenery and scenery Ask your guide a question to know the profoundness of each place you illuminate during this walking tour of Varanasi. If you face this, you will have a lot of experience Amble around the oldest city of the world, visit one of the most sacred Hindu Temples (Bharat Mata Temple ) most religious( Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Shri Annapurna temple) BHU Sankat Mochan, walk through the narrow lanes and also explore ancient mosques.

3
Stop 3

The Dhamekha stupa and other imposing structures adorn this holy site where Buddha first preached his message. Sarnath in Varanasi, is the place where Buddha chose to deliver his first sermon. It makes Sarnath one of the most venerated Buddhist places. Besides Buddhism, Sarnath is also connected with Jainism. There are many Buddhist monuments and edifices at Sarnath. Some of the important Buddhist monuments at Sarnath are the Dhamekha stupa, the Dharmarajika stupa & the Chaukhandi stupa, and monasteries and temples of different schools of Buddhism from Japan, China, Thailand, Burma, and others.

4

Later in the evening, you are going to get the most memorable moment of your life, because you will be taken to River Ganges and embark on a private boat to witness the Ganga aarti ceremony, a grand event starts at 5.00 pm and your experience a great rapture during this process at Dasashwamedh Ghat. Aarti, written as Aarti, is a Hindu ritual performed by a group of young clergymen well garbed in silk saffron and white robes holding lamps which are waves in a synced motion with the sound of bells drums cymbals, and chanting some Sanskrit mantras takes up a specific spot in the Ghat and start the rituals by offering flowers to the river Ganga and light is offered to one or more deities. In India, Hindus worship the Ganges River as a goddess. After this, you will return back to the hotel, and services will end here. The tour ends with happy memories .

What's not included

Meals
All transportation cost, And Boat riding cost with be charged

Available languages

Guide guide
EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

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Tripadvisor 5.0
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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
the remaining 1 hour will be for the travel for each attractions

Meeting point

I will tell the travelers exact location nearby the hotel or Ganga Ghats where we can easily meet and I will tell them my exact location where I will be available to pick them.

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 11-64
1
Infants
Age 1-10
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 3
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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