Budget full-day Varanasi tours : for unforgettable experience..
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Budget full-day Varanasi tours : for unforgettable experience..

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(35 reviews)
10h - 12h
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

Varanasi- the most fascinating city, and seeing Varanasi, one can see as much of life here, as the whole India can show. The unique parts of my tours are not just a monuments, but also the life's & religious activities along bank side of River Ganga, the boat ride during sunrise, visit most of the important Ghats, walks in narrow alleys, visit of sacred temples, local markets, 2 Cremations Ground, Ashrams, to meet real Sadhu's and many more hidden wonders..

Available options

Service

Standard <br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>Hygienic local snacks & drink <br/>It depends on number of person

VARANASI DAY TOUR : to feel the soul of Varanasi

Pickup included

Local Sightseeing

Standard: It will very comfortable and easy tour.. <br/>Duration: 10 hours<br/>Hygienic snacks and drinks : At one of nice and famous local hygienic shop.<br/>By road and narrow alleys.. <br/>Standard vehicle : As per number of person..

What's included

1 Boat Ride
Bottled water
All toll-tax and parking..
Monuments Entrance Fee (if any)..

What you'll see

Stop At : Most important Ghats, along the bank side of River Ganga..

We will pickup you from the your Hotel or we can meet at the front of Hotel Ganges Grand and walk towards Dashashwamedh Ghat, the most important spot, where every pilgrims from all around the world comes to dip into the River Ganga. At this Ghat is presumed to be the first historically recorded site associated with the horse sacrifice performed by the Shiva Nagas king around the 3rd century. After we will pass by Shitala Ghat- where exist the temple of Goddess Shitala, the goddess who protects from smallpox and chickenpox. Ahilyabai Ghat- built by queen of Indore during 17th century, and Munshi Ghat- in commemoration of Sridhar Narayan Munshi, a financial minister of the Nagpur State, who resigned his job in 1812, settled in Varanasi to pass his last period of life and finally died here in 1824.

Duration of tour: 1 Hrs.
Admission Ticket is free

Stop At : Munshi Ghat to step on Boat..

Later at the Munshi Ghat, we step on boat- a boat trip during sunrise is essential and a beautiful life experience. The principal attraction of Varanasi is the long string of bathing Ghats, which line the west bank of the River Ganges. Ghats are the steps which lead down to the river from which pilgrims make their sin-cleaning, after dip in the holy River Ganga. Our boat will start to go upstream and then downstream by passing by most important Ghats. After leave the boat tour, you can have short walk along the bank side of River Ganga, walking around here you can get an idea of religious activities and the associated shops selling things for rituals. After we will bring you back to your Hotel for Breakfast and rest or you can have a breakfast at one of nice hygienic local restaurant (at your own expense) and of-course, we will drink together Tea/Chai along the way at local shop ..

Duration of tour : 2 Hrs.
Admission Ticket is free

Stop At : Old city of Varanasi for walking tour in Northern part..

After breakfast, you can experience Heritage Walking tour in the Old City of Varanasi- is a land of many faiths and is a myriad of color, smells & sounds. A cocktail of tastes and a melting pot of beautiful people set among an array of ancient architecture & carvings awaiting for you. It is in Varanasi that you will find all these aspects of India in absolute abundance. When passing through the residential areas, you will feel a sense of community all around you and this spirit exists in every neighborhood. As we will enter the lanes of the northern part of the old city, we will get to peep through the Loacal Markets, shops, and few famous temples (Including Kashi Vishwanath Temple/Golden Temple), and lives of people who have never left the street for years. Seeing the life style of Varanasi is distinct in nature, and referred to as Banarasipan. It is an art of living, both passionate and carefree, what the Varanasi dwellers call Masti (“Joie de vivre”), Mauj (“Delight, festivity”), and Phakarapan (“Care freeness”). During our walks, we can also enjoy a very famous, clean, hygienic, tasty local snacks and drinks – the taste of Varanasi. After tour of old city, we will bring you back to your hotel so you can take some rest. I know that Varanasi is overwhelming with its colors, fragrances and noise so you might need some time off to contemplate the day so far.

Duration of tour : 4 Hrs.
Admission Ticket is free.

Stop At : Dashashwamedh Ghat for Ganga Aarti (an evening prayer)

Later in the evening, i will pickup you, and take you at the Dashashwamedh Ghat, where you will enjoy the evening Ganga Aarti (an evening prayer) is the most popular prayer along the River Ganga and it takes place at Dashashwamedh Ghat every evening. Because it is so famous and popular, everyone starts arriving very early, therefore i will take you there little earlier to get a good position to view the spectacle of Ganga Aarti. After evening prayer, we will finish our day, after offering a ‘Diyas’ (a lamp with flower), to the River Ganga for thanking for beautiful day and to get bless for the next day. Later at the end of tour, you will drop at one of the nice local restaurant for dinner (at your own expense) or to your Hotel.

Duration of tour : 3
Admission Ticket is free.

What's not included

Breakfast, lunch or dinner at your own expenses..
Optional, suggested or unspecified activities..
Personal nature i.e. Tipping & Donation..

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor 4.9
34 reviews
5★
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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

At the front of the hotel or travelers can call or text us on whats app for meeting..

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 18-35
1
Childs
Age 5-13
0
Infants
Age 1-4
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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