Stop At: Key Ghats along the River Ganga

Guests will be picked up from their hotel or can meet at the front of Hotel Ganges Grand to begin a walk towards Dashashwamedh Ghat, a significant location where pilgrims from around the globe come to bathe in the River Ganga. This Ghat is believed to be the first historically recorded site linked to the horse sacrifice performed by the Shiva Nagas king in the 3rd century. The tour will continue past Shitala Ghat, home to the temple of Goddess Shitala, who is believed to protect against smallpox and chickenpox. Next is Ahilyabai Ghat, constructed by the queen of Indore in the 17th century, followed by Munshi Ghat, which commemorates Sridhar Narayan Munshi, a financial minister of Nagpur State who retired in 1812, settled in Varanasi, and passed away there in 1824.

Tour Duration: 1 Hour
Admission: Free

Stop At: Munshi Ghat for a Boat Ride

At Munshi Ghat, guests will board a boat for a sunrise trip, offering a breathtaking experience. The main attraction in Varanasi is the series of bathing Ghats lining the west bank of the River Ganges. These Ghats are steps leading down to the river, where pilgrims cleanse their sins by bathing in the holy River Ganga. The boat will travel upstream and downstream, passing by the most significant Ghats. After the boat tour, guests can enjoy a short walk along the riverbank, observing religious activities and visiting shops selling ritual items. Guests will then be returned to their hotel for breakfast and rest, or they can choose to have breakfast at a local hygienic restaurant (at their own expense), with a tea/chai stop along the way.

Tour Duration: 2 Hours
Admission: Free

Stop At: Old City of Varanasi for a Walking Tour in the Northern Part

After breakfast, guests can embark on a Heritage Walking Tour in the Old City of Varanasi, a land rich in faiths, colors, smells, and sounds. This vibrant city is a blend of tastes and a melting pot of diverse people, set amidst ancient architecture and carvings. Varanasi offers an abundance of these Indian elements. As guests pass through residential areas, they will experience a strong sense of community. In the northern part of the old city, guests will explore local markets, shops, and famous temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple/Golden Temple, and observe the lives of residents who have remained in the streets for years. The lifestyle in Varanasi, known as Banarasipan, is unique, characterized by passion and carefree living, referred to as Masti (“Joie de vivre”), Mauj (“Delight, festivity”), and Phakarapan (“Carefreeness”). During the walk, guests can enjoy famous, clean, hygienic, and tasty local snacks and drinks, experiencing the flavors of Varanasi. After the tour of the old city, guests will be returned to their hotel for rest. Varanasi’s vibrant colors, fragrances, and sounds can be overwhelming, so some downtime may be appreciated.

Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Admission: Free

Stop At: Dashashwamedh Ghat for Ganga Aarti (Evening Prayer)

In the evening, guests will be picked up and taken to Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the evening Ganga Aarti, a renowned prayer along the River Ganga held every evening. Due to its popularity, attendees arrive early, so guests will be taken there a bit earlier to secure a good viewing spot for the Ganga Aarti spectacle. After the evening prayer, the day will conclude with the offering of ‘Diyas’ (a lamp with flowers) to the River Ganga, expressing gratitude for the beautiful day and seeking blessings for the next day. At the end of the tour, guests will be dropped off at a nice local restaurant for dinner (at their own expense) or returned to their hotel.

Tour Duration: 3 Hours
Admission: Free

• Boat Ride
• Bottled water
• All toll-tax and parking
• Monuments Entrance Fee (if any)

• Breakfast
• Optional, suggested or unspecified activities..
• Personal nature i.e. Tipping & Donation..

Varanasi– the most captivating city. Witnessing Varanasi is akin to beholding the entire spectrum of Indian life. What distinguishes my tours are not merely the architectural landmarks but the dynamic cultural and spiritual practices that unfold by the River Ganga’s shores. This includes the tranquil boat rides at dawn, excursions to the most significant Ghats, explorations through constricted lanes, pilgrimages to hallowed temples, forays into bustling local bazaars, visits to two funeral pyres, sanctuaries, interactions with genuine Sadhus, and the discovery of numerous other marvels kept secret from the common gaze.

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