Mornings in Varanasi: 5-Hour Guided Tour with Boat Ride & Temple
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Begin your spiritual journey with a 5:00 AM pickup from your hotel in Varanasi. Travel to Assi Ghat, the southernmost point of the Ganges in the city. Along the way, your expert guide will introduce you to the religious significance of the river in Hindu belief.
At Assi Ghat, watch as pilgrims take holy dips and perform rituals to greet the day. Visit nearby temples to experience traditional Hindu blessings. You’ll then head to a local akhara to see pehalwans engage in traditional mud wrestling—an age-old discipline rooted in Indian culture
Next, board your boat for a serene sunrise ride along the Ganges. Witness life along the ghats—priests performing prayers, locals starting their day, and the moving cremation rituals at Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most sacred ghats in India.
Disembark and walk through the old city’s winding alleys toward the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, adorned with a golden spire and known for its deep spiritual importance. Later Drop To Hotel
Available options
Mornings in Varanasi: 5-Hour Guided Tour with Boat Ride & Temple
Pickup included
What's included
View of Akhada.
Photography.
Hotel pickup and drop-off.
Boat Ride.
Mineral water per person.
Heritage walk.
English Speaking tour guide.
All applicable taxes and service charges.
Dashashwamedh ghat.
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your day at variety of rituals sight called Ghats, we have more than 80 Ghats in Varanasi. Start moving towards Mother Ganges River To look Beautiful Sunrise. It is the only place of in Varanasi where the sun is received as much as celebration no where else on the earth , you will get a boat ride from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat to watch water activities done by Hindus pilgrims like people practicing for indian traditional wrestling known as Akhada, people taking dip in to the Holy river to wash their sins, collecting sacred water, performing Havana, yoga, Aarti, Ceremoney to evoke and greet every natural thing as their God.
2
Passing by Hanuman Ghat Visit Akhada.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Boating down on the Ganges river your next stoppage will be Holiest cremation ground Manikarnika. Learn life and death both together by watching cremation in an open area on Manikarnika Ghat. by walking through the narrow lanes move towards colorful market Godowaliya.
What's not included
Arrival and Departure from the Airport/Railway station is not included.
Any personal expenses during the tour.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
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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
No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
