Private Half-Day Varanasi Walking Tour and Tuk-Tuk Ride at Sunrise
Active
3h - 4h
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
Walk on the steps of Ghats of Varanasi along with holy Ganges river with your personal guide. Enjoy a Tuk-Tuk ride to the holy city. Watch the pilgrims of the holy city in this jaw dropping one-of-a-kind 4-hour experience.
Available options
Private Tour
Enjoy the walk on the major Ghats of Varanasi along with Holy River Ganges with your personal Guide and city expert. Ride on Tuk-Tuk to commute in the holy city crowded with pilgrims.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Walking tour on the Ghats of Varanasi
Private guide
Ride on a Tuk-Tuk
Visit to old bazaars of Varanasi
Detailed itinerary
1
Varanasi is a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh dating to the 11th century B.C. Regarded as the spiritual capital of India, the city draws Hindu pilgrims who bathe in the Ganges River’s sacred waters and perform funeral rites
2
Start the day with meeting city expert Guide in the hotel lobby. The Guide will assist and arrange for Tuk -Tuk from outside the hotel. Drive in Tuk Tuk from hotel in Varanasi to one of the vary famous Assi Ghat.
Situated at the confluence of Ganga and Asi rivers, Assi Ghat is the southernmost Ghat in Varanasi, where pilgrims bathe before paying their homage to Lord Shiva in the form of huge lingam situated under a peepal tree. Assi Ghat also constitutes the southern end of conventional city.
Start your walking tour from here with your private guide who will assist to interpret and translate language either side while you enjoy the local interaction with Sadhus, Priests and pilgrims. Enjoy the stories while you walk from one ghat to another.
3
Stop 3
Ghats in Varanasi are riverfront steps leading to the banks of the River Ganges. The city has 87 ghats. Most of the ghats are bathing and puja ceremony ghats, while a few are used exclusively as cremation sites.
Most Varanasi ghats were built after 1700 AD, when the city was part of Maratha Empire. The patrons of current ghats are Marathas, Shindes (Scindias), Holkars, Bhonsles, and Peshwes (Peshwas). Many ghats are associated with legends or mythologies while many ghats are privately owned.
4
Stop 4
From Dashashwamedh Ghat walk into the streets of old Varanasi to enjoy the hustle -bustle of the crowded bazaars before you take a break at a Silk Shop. Enjoy the demonstration of Silk making, very famous Block Printing and other ancient technique of making fabrics. Savor some street delicacies like samosas, lassi, paan, masala chai etc befor returning back to the hotel.
Your guide will drop you back to the hotel in Tuk Tuk at the end.
5
Stop 5
Manikarnika Ghat is one of the holiest cremation grounds among the sacred riverfronts, alongside the river Ganga, in the city of Varanasi in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. In Hinduism, death is considered as a gateway to another life marked by the results of one's karma
What's not included
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Moderate amount of walking involved on uneven road it is advised to wear comfortable shoes
Important notes
Private Varanasi Walking trip and Tuk-Tuk Ride:
Walk on the steps of Ghats of Varanasi along with holy Ganges river with your personal guide. Enjoy a Tuk-Tuk ride to the holy city. Watch the pilgrims of the holy city in this jaw dropping one-of-a-kind experience.
What's Included:
• Private guide
• Walking tour on the Ghats of Varanasi
• Ride in a Tuk-Tuk
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Visit to the old bazaars of Varanasi
• Fuel, parking fees, surcharges and taxesWhat's Not Included:
• Gratuities (optional)
• Food and drinksWhat to Remember:
• Moderate amount of walking involved on uneven roadPick up Time - 6 AM From Hotel Lobby.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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