2-Day Private Varanasi Tour Including Sunrise & Sunset Boat Ride

Varanasi , India

2-Day Private Varanasi Tour Including Sunrise & Sunset Boat Ride

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About this experience

Varanasi - also known as Kashi (City of Life) and Benares, the spiritual capital of India. It's a particularly auspicious place to die, since expiring here offers moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death), making Varanasi the beating heart of the Hindu universe. Most visitors agree it's a magical place. Visit the most important temples in Varanasi including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple, Sankat Mochan Temple, Mother India Temple (Bharat Mata Mandir), Visit the the biggest Campus University in Asia Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Enjoy rickshaw (Tricycle) ride passing through the busy streets and bazaars of Varanasi. Witness the mesmerizing evening Áarti Ceremony' thanks giving ceremony to Mother Ganges. Enjoy the Morning Sunrise Boat Ride on Ganges and witness morning riverside rituals, Walk through the narrow old lanes of Varanasi. Enjoy traditional Silk Weaving art of Varanasi, Visit Sarnath where lord Buddha gave his first sermon.

Available options

Tour Cost Using 4* Hotels

Includes: 4-star Hotel + Breakfast + Private Vehicle + Tour Guide + Entrance Fees + Boat Ride + Rickshaw Ride + Bottled water<br/>Pickup included

Tour Cost Using 5* Hotel

Includes: 5-star Hotel + Breakfast + Private Vehicle + Tour Guide + Entrance Fees + Boat Ride + Rickshaw Ride + Bottled water<br/>Pickup included

Tour Cost Without Hotel

Includes: Private Vehicle + Tour Guide + Entrance Fees + Boat Ride + Rickshaw Ride + Bottled water<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Breakfast in hotel of stay (If booked with option including Hotels)

Professional private local tour guide

Overnight accommodation on twin sharing (If booked with option including Hotels)

Entrance fees of sights (where applicable)

Transport by air-condition private vehicle

Breakfast

Morning and evening Boat Ride (Hand Rowed Boat) on Ganges

Evening Rickshaw (Tricycle) ride to reach Ganges Ghat

Unlimited Bottled water throughout the tour

Walking tour in old city of varanasi

What's not included

Food and drinks unless specified

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Dress code - Temples is a sacred house of God and a place of daily worship. To preserving its sanctity and spiritual ambiance one must follow the below dress code within temple complex: Upper Wear: Must cover the shoulders, chest, navel, and upper arms Lower Wear: Must be at least below knee-length Remove footwear outside the temple. Socks are fine, you can keep wearing them.

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Please note: The Archaeological Museum in Sarnath is closed on Fridays

Mandatory Gala Dinner on X-mas and New Year Eve at hotel of stay is not included and will be charged extra

During rainy season (July till Sep) every year, boat ride is subject to availability of Ganges River overflow

Important notes

• Dress code - Temples is a sacred house of God and a place of daily worship. To preserving its sanctity and spiritual ambiance one must follow the below dress code within temple complex:

Upper Wear: Must cover the shoulders, chest, navel, and upper arms

Lower Wear: Must be at least below knee-length

Remove footwear outside the temple. Socks are fine, you can keep wearing them.
• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
• Hotel pickups commence prior to this time
• Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.
• Please note: The Archaeological Museum in Sarnath is closed on Fridays
• Mandatory Gala Dinner on X-mas and New Year Eve at hotel of stay is not included and will be charged extra
• During rainy season (July till Sep) every year, boat ride is subject to availability of Ganges River overflow

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.