Varanasi in a Day Ancient Temples Sarnath and Ghats
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Varanasi in a Day Ancient Temples Sarnath and Ghats

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(16 reviews)
10h - 12h
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About this experience

Early morning you will be taken for a boat ride on the Ganges. It is a mystical and spiritual experience as you watch people offering water to the Sun God and devotees taking a holy dip in the Ganges. you will visit all the famous Ghats of Varanasi via boat and come back to the hotel for breakfast. After breakfast, see the “Temple Tour” most religious Kashi Vishwanath temple, the Bharat Mata temple, Sankat Mochan , Manas Mandir, and BHU. At noon you will be taken for an excursion to Sarnath. Sarnath is the place where Buddha delivered his first sermon to his disciples. The attractions at Sarnath are the Buddha temples, the Dhamekha stupa, the Chaukhandi stupa, and the archaeological museum, return to the hotel. Evening, get ready to experience one of the most memorable moments of your life, as you will be taken to the River Ganges. Enjoy Ganga Aarti. Get a glimpse of the spiritualism at the Ganga Ghats. Enjoy the Ganga Aarti from top After all you can retire for the night.

Available options

Transport & Guide Only Service

Pickup Included:: This Option Includes Transport and Guide Service with Transfers.<br/>Pickup included

All Inclusive Tour (Transfers)

Pickup included: This option includes transport, driver, guide, entrance fees, and 5* Meal. Pickup included<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Meal (if option selected)
Monument entry fees (if option selected)
Boat ride in the morning (subject to weather conditions)
Mineral water
Govt Approved Guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off Private air-conditioned transportation
Personalized full-day excursion

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Early Morning pick up from your hotel at 05 Am and start your day with sun rise boat ride. Boat ride on the Ganges river for sunrise from the main Ghats as called Dashaswamedh Ghat to Harishchandra ghat then down to manikarnika ghat. boat ride start when the sun is about to comes up the skyline this is the main attraction of Varanasi. before that will see other activity at Ghat. Very lively atmosphere makes it one of the best places to visit in India. very admirable and unforgettable along the Ganges river. A boat ride on the River sounds lovely! It can be a peaceful and refreshing way to start the day. As for other activities and rituals. You might consider enjoying a picnic by the riverside, meditating or participating in some yoga or stretching exercises. You could also explore local tradition or customs to make your morning even more enriching and meaningful. Just remember to appreciate the beauty of nature and take in the peacefulness of the River surrounding. Enjoy your day

2

Kashi Vishvanath Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. The temple stands on the western bank of the holy river Ganga, and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva temples.

3

Stop for breakfast (own expense), then head to Banaras Hindu University at 10am. Established in 1916, BHU is the largest university campus in Asia

4
Stop 4

Sarnath is a place located 10 kilometres north-east of Varanasi near the confluence of the Ganges and the Varuna rivers in Uttar Pradesh, India. The deer park in Sarnath is where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma, and where the Buddhist Sangha came into existence through the enlightenment of Kondanna

5
Stop 5

The Ashoka Pillars in India are structures erected by the Mauryan King Ashoka between  268 to 232 BC across the Indian subcontinent. They are a representation of his dynamic rule and conquests across India. While most of the pillars have either withered away or destroyed by his future rulers, 20 pillars still stand tall in India. The pillars are the earliest known stone scriptures in India and demonstrate the culture of the advanced Mauryan civilization

6
Stop 6

Dhamek Stupa is one of the most important sights in Sarnath and its mostly due to its antiquity and significance of being the exact spot of Buddha’s first sermon. It was here that he revealed the eightfold path leading to nirvana. The stupa is composed of a cylindrical tower that rises around 43m and the diameter of the monument is a formidable 28m. The arched niches halfway on the monument may have once held statues of the Buddha. There are lovely elaborate carvings halfway on the monument on some sides.

7

Later just before sunset, you are going to get the most memorable moment of your life, because you will be taken to the River Ganges and embark to witness the Ganga aarti ceremony with Boat Ride (if option) a grand event that starts at 7.00 pm and you 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 pleasant memories of the trip. We will drop you at the hotel.

What's not included

Tips for your driver and guide
Kashi Vishwanath donations

Available languages

Guide guide
DE JA EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
16 reviews
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Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
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