Private Full-Day Varanasi Tour including Sarnath and Boat Ride on the Ganges

Tour one of the oldest cities on earth - Varanasi (or Benares or Kashi - as it is known locally). The hustle & bustle of this spiritual city is an experience in itself. Visit temples & one of the oldest universities in the world. Follow your guide to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon. Return to Varanasi to see a mesmerising Aarti (prayer ceremony) on the riverbank of Ganges river from your private boat. Hotel pickup and drop-off in a private air-conditioned vehicle included, & evening boat ride included.

1. 1

   Sarnath

   2 hours

   Sarnath, 10km from Varanasi, is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage centers. After attaining the Enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, it was here that Lord Buddha preached his first sermon, sanctified as Maha Dharm Chakra Pravartan. The great Dhamekh Stupa and several other structures stand testimony to the importance the place enjoyed at that time. The Chaukhandi Stupa is the place where, during his first visit to Sarnath, Lord Buddha met his first five disciples. The area is a treasure trove of archaeological findings such as Dharmrajika Stupa and Mulgandhkuti Vihar. The smooth glistening pillar established by Emperor Ashoka in 273-232 B.C. marks the foundation of the Buddhist Sangha, and the Lion Capital atop this pillar is now India's National Emblem. Its reputation as a center of Buddhist learning spreads far and wide and is a revered location and a great attraction for tourists from across the world.

2. 2

   Sarnath Museum

   30 min

   The Archaeological Museum at Sarnath, established in 1910 by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), was created to preserve artefacts discovered during excavations at the site. The idea was initiated by Sir John Marshall, then Director-General of ASI, and the design was commissioned to James Ransome, consulting architect to the Government of India. The museum houses five galleries and two verandahs, displaying artefacts from the 3rd century BCE to the 12th century CE. Highlights include the Gupta-period image of Buddha preaching and the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka. Other exhibits feature terracottas, animal and human figures, decorated bricks, pottery, and Jain Tirthankara images. The complex also includes an archaeological park and a souvenir shop. Closed on Fridays.

3. 3

   Sankat Mochan Temple

   30 min

   The Sankat Mochan Temple is one of the oldest temples in the city dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is situated on the banks of River Assi, near from the Benaras Hindu University (BHU). The name “Sankat Mochan“ means reliever of troubles. It was founded by Tulsidas, a great saint and author of the Ramacharitamanasa, the Hindi version of the Hindu epic Ramayana; which was originally written by Valmiki. The temple is located about 6.8 km from the railway station and bust stand of Varanasi and 3 km from the BHU.

4. 4

   Banaras Hindu University

   Pass by

   Bharat Ratna Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, a renowned freedom fighter founded Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in the year 1916. Dr. Annie Besant also played an important role in the formation of this Central University. Over a period of time, it has developed into one of the greatest centers of learning in India. The BHU has produced many great freedom fighters and Nation builders. It has immensely contributed to the progress of the nation through a large number of renowned scholars, artists and scientists. Its campus is spread over 1300 acres. It has well maintained roads (crossing each other at right angle), extensive greenery, a temple, an airstrip and buildings, which are an architectural delight.

5. 5

   Durga Temple

   30 min

   Durga Temple is located adjacent to Durga Kund. The temple is dedicated to the Goddess Durga and was built in the 18th Century. The temple was constructed in the North Indian Style with multi-tiered Shikhara (towers). An attractive pond known as the Durga Kund is built on the right side of the temple. It is believed that the idol of Goddess Durga appeared on its own in the temple. During the times of Navratri, a large number of Hindu devotees visit this temple. The temple lies in the south of the city, away from the Ghats. It is located at a distance of 2 km from BHU and 6.3 km from Varanasi Cantonment.

6. 6

   New Vishwanath Temple

   1 hour

   Shri Vishwanath Mandir also known as Vishwanath Mandir, Vishwanath Temple, New Vishwanath Temple and Birla Temple is one of the most famous temples and biggest tourist attractions in the holy city of Varanasi. The temple is situated in Benaras Hindu University and is dedicated to the Lord Shiva.

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Maximum group size is 8 people
• Both women and men must wear clothing covering both knees and shoulders

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