Varanasi , India

Guided Sarnath Visit from Varanasi

Active

(1 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Sarnath Half-Day Tour (Pick-up at 12 PM – Drop at 5 PM)
Explore the sacred city of Sarnath on this enriching half-day tour. Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup at 12:00 PM in a comfortable private car with a professional driver. Accompanied by an English-speaking tour guide, visit key Buddhist sites including the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Sarnath Museum. Learn about the site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. Refreshments include bottled water and a stop for traditional Indian tea. The tour concludes with a drop back to your hotel by 5:00 PM, making it a perfect cultural experience in just one afternoon.

Available options

Guided Sarnath Visit from Varanasi

Pickup included

What's included

Tea

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Photography.

Mineral water per person.

English Speaking tour guide.

All applicable taxes and service charges.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Sarnath – The sacred site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon and Buddhism began.

Stop 2

The Ashoka Pillars are iconic monuments erected by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE across the Indian subcontinent, bearing inscriptions that promote moral values, non-violence, and harmony. The pillar at Sarnath, crowned by the Lion Capital — now India’s national emblem — is a powerful reminder of India's ancient commitment to peace and dharma.

Stop 3 Pass by

Chaukhandi Stupa is an ancient Buddhist monument that commemorates the place where Lord Buddha first met his five disciples after attaining enlightenment. Originally built as a terraced stupa during the Gupta period, it was later crowned with an octagonal tower by the Mughals, blending Buddhist and Islamic architectural elements. It stands as a symbol of the beginning of the Buddha’s teachings.

Stop 4

The Dhamek Stupa is one of the most revered Buddhist monuments in Sarnath, built at the very spot where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon to his five disciples after enlightenment. Towering at 43.6 meters, the stupa stands as a symbol of the birth of Buddhism and attracts pilgrims and history lovers from around the world. Its finely carved stonework and spiritual aura make it a must-visit site in the Buddhist circuit.

What's not included

Any personal expenses during the tour.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A dress code is required to enter places of worship.

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.

Not wheelchair accessible.

Important notes

You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

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.