Between Life and Death The Hidden World of the Aghori

Varanasi , India

Between Life and Death The Hidden World of the Aghori

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About this experience

Step off the usual paths of Varanasi and enter the mysterious world of the Aghori, one of India’s most secretive and misunderstood spiritual orders. Your guide, Golu, once lived among them, giving you rare insight into a world few outsiders ever see.

Golu shares the truth behind their myths — their cremation ground rituals, devotion to Shiva, and their radical pursuit of spiritual freedom by embracing what others avoid. He brings to life a world where darkness and divinity exist side by side, and where ideas of purity and impurity lose all meaning.

You will visit places connected to the Aghori and learn about their sacred practices, symbols, and philosophy. While meeting an Aghori cannot be guaranteed, the knowledge you gain will stay with you long after the tour ends.

This is more than a tour — it is a rare chance to explore the edges of life, death, and spiritual transcendence, guided by someone who has truly experienced it firsthand.

Available options

Between Life and Death The Hidden World of the Aghori

What's included

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

At Manikarnika Ghat, the most sacred cremation site in Varanasi, funeral pyres burn day and night as families perform last rites for their loved ones — a powerful meeting point of life, death, and devotion.
Here, the Aghori meditate and perform rituals among the ashes, seeking spiritual liberation by confronting mortality and transcending the boundaries of purity and fear.

Baba Mashan Nath Mandir is an important site in Varanasi for the Aghori tradition. Located near the cremation grounds, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and serves as a place of meditation, rituals, and spiritual practice for those following the Aghori path. Visitors gain insight into the philosophy of confronting mortality, transcending fear, and seeking liberation. The temple’s atmosphere is both intense and serene, offering a rare glimpse into a side of Varanasi’s spirituality that few outsiders ever experience.

Baba Keenaram Ashram, the spiritual center and birthplace of the Aghori tradition. Dedicated to Baba Keenaram, the revered saint believed to be the first Aghori, this sacred place offers insight into their philosophy, rituals, and devotion to Lord Shiva. The ashram’s peaceful yet powerful atmosphere reveals the heart of a path that embraces both darkness and divinity in search of ultimate truth.

What's not included

Meals

Available languages

Guide guide

HI EN

Important information

Service animals allowed

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.