Full Day Private Guided Tour of Varanasi
Active
10h
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
On a unique one-day private and guided trip, go off on an amazing excursion through the magical city of Varanasi. Get ready to be enthralled by this historic city's captivating fusion of spirituality, history, and lively culture.
Your journey starts when you are greeted at your accommodation by our knowledgeable local guide, who is eager to show you Varanasi's hidden treasures and famous sites. You'll be taken back in time as you enter the busy streets and little lanes and become fully immersed in the rich tapestry of customs and rituals that have formed Varanasi over the years.
Available options
Full Day Private Guided Tour of Varanasi
Pickup included
What's included
water bottle and snacks in the car
Private Ac Transportation
Boat ride at the time of sunset
Pickup and drop as per your requirement
English Speaking Government approved Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
At 05:30 AM (this varies based on when dawn arrives), you will be picked up from your hotel and driven to the riverbank for a boat trip at sunrise. In Varanasi, a boat trip at sunrise is an incredibly enchanting experience. The city comes alive with the sound of singing, prayers, and water splashing as the sun rises over the horizon. You will witness individuals offering prayers, conducting pujas, and taking baths in the Ganges. Step off the boat and onto Manikarnika Ghat after that.
2
Stop 2
Step down at Manikarnika Ghat after that. This riverbank stairway, or ghat, is highly revered in both spiritual and cultural circles. You can see the customary Hindu cremation rites there, which are said to aid deceased souls in achieving moksha, or freedom from the cycle of reincarnation. Experiencing Manikarnika Ghat provides an insight into Varanasi's rich rituals and beliefs. It might not be your usual tourist destination, but it offers a profound and illuminating look into the rich spiritual traditions of this historic city. It's a fascinating location for anybody looking to learn more about Indian culture because it's where the practical and spiritual meanings of life and death collide. Return to the hotel for breakfast after this.
3
Stop 3
Visit Sarnath, a prominent Buddhist pilgrimage destination, later in the day, about noon. It is the location of Lord Buddha's first Dharma sermons upon enlightenment. You will see the serene Deer Park, where Buddha gave his first sermon, tour the historic remains of monasteries and stupas, see relics at the Sarnath Museum, and see the Dhamek Stupa, a treasured Buddhist monument. It is a site of great spiritual and historical significance. Here, you may view the Sarnath Ruins, the Buddha Temple, a sizable Buddha statue, an archaeological museum, a deer park, and more.
4
Stop 4
After that, take a journey to the Ganges Riverbank and enjoy A stroll beside the Ganges River in Varanasi offers a captivating voyage into the core of India's cultural and spiritual legacy. Walking around the historic ghats, one sees daily life entwined with the holy waters, as well as rites and cremations. It's an immersive and unique experience, with the river's constant flow acting as a mirror reflecting the essence of this historic city. After this, take a stroll and take a seat on a private balcony that is right behind the location of the priest's evening aarti ceremony. In order to guarantee that you see the best part of the aarti and hear all of the chanting and mantras, we reserve seats in advance.
5
Take in the magnificent aarti ceremony from your seat, enjoying the greatest view. On the banks of the holy Ganges River, Varanasi hosts the enthralling and profound nighttime aarti ceremony. Typically held in the Dashashwamedh Ghat, it's a magnificent display of fire, melody, and singing. Tourists and devotees assemble to watch the priests give prayers to the river while bells and conch shells play in a rhythmic manner. An incredibly poignant event, the aarti represents the city's love for the Ganges and its rich cultural legacy. Following this, our services will come to an end and you will be returned to the hotel.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch and dinner
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
