Varanasi full day guided tour | Ranked 1 Tour Operator on Viator

Experience the essence of Varanasi in a single unforgettable day with our meticulously curated one-day tour. This condensed journey is designed to provide you with a taste of the city's rich culture and spirituality. Here are some highlights: Sunrise Boat Ride: Begin your day with a serene boat ride on the Ganges River at sunrise, where you can witness the mesmerizing rituals and offerings along the ghats. Sarnath Excursion: Explore Sarnath, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site, to learn about its historical and spiritual significance. Walk Through Old Alleys: Stroll through the narrow, ancient alleys of Varanasi, witnessing the city's vibrant street life and discovering hidden gems. Aarti Ceremony: Conclude your day with the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony, a mesmerizing spectacle of devotion at the ghats that illuminates the city's spiritual heart.

1. 1

   Dasaswamedh Ghat

   1.5 hours

   You shall be picked up from your Hotel at 0530 AM [This changes depending on sunrise time] and taken to river bank for sunrise boat ride. A sunrise boat ride in Varanasi is a truly magical experience. As the sun rises over the horizon, the city comes to life with the sound of chanting, prayers, and the splashing of water. You will see people bathing in the Ganges, performing pujas, and offering prayers. After this get off the boat and step on Manikarnika Ghat.

2. 2

   Manikarnika Ghat

   1 hour

   After this step down at Manikarnika Ghat. This ghat, or riverside stairway, is known for its deep spiritual and cultural importance. It's where you'll witness the traditional cremation rituals performed by Hindus, which are believed to help departed souls achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. Visiting Manikarnika Ghat offers a glimpse into the profound customs and beliefs of Varanasi. While it may not be a typical tourist attraction, it's a powerful and insightful experience into the rich spiritual traditions of this ancient city. It's a place where the spiritual and practical aspects of life and death converge, making it a fascinating destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Indian culture. After this return back to hotel for breakfast.

3. 3

   Sarnath

   3 hours

   Later in day around Noon, visit to Sarnath - is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. It's where Lord Buddha first preached the Dharma after attaining enlightenment. You will explore ancient ruins of monasteries and stupas, visit the Sarnath Museum to view artifacts, witness the peaceful Deer Park where Buddha delivered his first sermon, and visit the Dhamek Stupa, a revered Buddhist monument. It's a place of profound historical and spiritual importance. You will see here Ruins of Sarnath, Budhha Temple, large Buddha statue, Archaeological museum and deer park etc.

4. 4

   Ganges River

   1 hour

   After this drive to river bank of Ganges and enjoy A walk along the Ganges River in Varanasi which is a mesmerizing journey through the heart of India's spiritual and cultural heritage. Strolling the ancient ghats, one witnesses rituals, cremations, and daily life intertwined with the sacred waters. The ever-flowing river serves as a mirror reflecting the soul of this ancient city, making it a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. Later after this walk and settle down in a private balcony located just behind the place where priest perform evening aarti ceremony. We reserve seats in advance to ensure you get the best view of aarti and hear all the chanting and Mantra's.

5. 5

   Ganga Aarti

   1 hour

   Witness the grand aarti ceremony with best view from your seat. The evening aarti ceremony in Varanasi is a captivating and spiritual ritual that takes place on the ghats of the sacred Ganges River. Usually conducted at the Dashashwamedh Ghat, it is a grand spectacle of fire, music, and chanting. Devotees and tourists gather to witness the priests offering prayers to the river, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of bells and conch shells. The aarti is a deeply moving experience, symbolizing the city's devotion to the Ganges and its rich cultural heritage. After this you shall be dropped back to hotel and our services will end here.

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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