Assi to Manikarnika Walking Tour: Varanasi Ghats & Lanes

Varanasi , India

Assi to Manikarnika Walking Tour: Varanasi Ghats & Lanes

Active

(7 reviews)

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

✅ What Makes This Tour Unique
Discover Varanasi on a deep, immersive walk from Assi Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat, covering the city's most sacred riverfront and its hidden narrow lanes. This experience blends spirituality, history, culture, and real local life—something no car tour can offer.
✅ Walk through Varanasi’s iconic ghats—from peaceful Assi to the eternal flames of Manikarnika
✅ Experience living traditions like yoga, morning rituals, and temple heritage
✅ Explore hidden alleys that reveal ancient stories, local homes, shrines, and daily life
✅ Witness powerful spiritual sites including the Harishchandra and Manikarnika cremation grounds
✅ See royal and architectural treasures such as Chet Singh Fort, Darbhanga Palace & Peshwa-era ghats
✅ Understand the soul of Kashi through legends of saints, poets, kings, and divine myths
✅ Perfect for photography & culture lovers, offering unmatched sunrise, riverfront, and heritage views

Available options

Varanasi Spiritual Walk

Pickup included

What's included

Professional English speaking Guide [For Safe & Honourable tourism we provide only incensed Guide]

Professional guide in other language [French/ German, Spanish/ Italian] on demand and availability

Detailed itinerary

Begin your walk at the southernmost ghat of Varanasi, known for Subah-e-Banaras, morning rituals, and the serene confluence of Assi and Ganga. A perfect start to feel the spiritual rhythm of Kashi.

Visit the sacred place where saint-poet Tulsidas composed the Ramcharitmanas. Explore its peaceful riverfront, akharas, and cultural significance.

Stop 3 Pass by

Walk through the colorful steps leading to the Kedareshwar Temple. Absorb the devotional atmosphere and South Indian architectural style.

Witness one of Varanasi’s ancient cremation ghats, associated with King Harishchandra and the concept of truth, dharma, and liberation.

See the historic Chet Singh Fort, once a powerful stronghold during the battle with the British. Enjoy views of the riverfront and its royal past.

Admire the Maratha-era architecture of Raja Rao Balaji’s 1720 Peshwa Haveli. A quiet, scenic place perfect for photography and peaceful walking.

Stop 7 Pass by

Marvel at the majestic Darbhanga Palace with its royal balconies overlooking the Ganges—one of the most photogenic spots in Varanasi.

Stop 8

Experience the vibrant heart of Varanasi where legends of Lord Brahma meet the city’s famous Ganga Aarti and spiritual energy.

Walk through Mir Ghat, known for its ancient temples and narrow winding lanes that showcase the traditional lifestyle of old Banaras. A fascinating blend of rituals and local culture.

Explore Lalita Ghat, home to the Nepali-style Lalita Devi Temple and iconic wooden pagoda architecture built by Nepal’s royal family. A peaceful cultural gem along the river.

Stop 11

End your journey at the most sacred cremation ground in Hinduism. Home to the eternal flame said to be lit by Lord Shiva, this ghat represents the ultimate truth of life, death, and liberation.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off by private vehicle [If needed] at $:10/ Per person Extra Direct Payment

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

A maximum of 6 people per booking

Meeting point

Near Ganga Seva Nidhi Office

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Not recommended for pregnant women

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

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.