• Varanasi Boat Ride and Cruise - Guests will be collected from their hotel early in the morning and transported to the banks of the River Ganges for a boat ride. Enjoy the sunrise and observe the morning rituals performed by pilgrims on the riverside steps. Afterwards, embark on a walking tour of the nearby lanes, which often lead to a temple.
• Banaras Hindu University - After breakfast, travel to the century-old Banaras Hindu University situated on the city’s outskirts.
• Bharat Kala Bhavan - Explore the expansive campus and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, an art and archaeological museum located within the campus. Also on the campus is an exact replica of the original Vishwanath Temple.
• Bharat Mata Temple - Continue the journey to the Mother India Temple, constructed in 1918. Unlike traditional temples with statues of Gods and Goddesses, this temple features a large marble relief map of the Indian subcontinent. Additionally, learn about Varanasi’s silk weaving traditions.
• Sarnath - In the afternoon, travel to the town of Sarnath, located 6 miles from Varanasi. Sarnath is where Buddha delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa and the Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts dating back to the 3rd century B.C.

As dusk falls, return to Varanasi and meander along the banks of the

• Ganga Aarti - River Ganges to witness the magnificent Ganga Aarti. The entire atmosphere resonates with chants and hymns that accompany the daily ritual of lighting lamps and offering prayers to the River Ganges. As the prayer concludes, people light small lamps and set them afloat on the river.

At the conclusion of the tour, guests will be returned to their hotel.

• Boat cruise on the River Ganges
• Local English-speaking guide
• Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Bottled water

• Food and drinks, unless specified
• Gratuities

Located along the River Ganges, Varanasi holds the title of the most sacred city to Hindus. Experience a day tour of Varanasi, starting with an early morning river cruise on the Ganges to observe the religious practices of the city’s pilgrims. Explore the renowned Kashi-Vishwanath temple and Asia’s largest University campus. Tour the town of Sarnath, the site where Buddha delivered his initial sermon, and finish your day by attending the stunning evening services, known as Ganga Aarti, by the River Ganges.

Your tour includes:

• Dawn boat trip on the River Ganges
• Discovery of Banaras Hindu University
• Visit to the Mother India Temple
• Exploration of the town of Sarnath
• Participation in the Ganga Aarti evening prayers by the River Ganges
• Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Archaeological Museum in Sarnath remains closed on Fridays.

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