• Ganges River - Begin the day with an early morning hotel pick-up at 6 AM for a sunrise boat ride.

Experience a boat ride on the Ganges River at sunrise, starting from the main Ghats, known as Dashashwamedh Ghat, to Harishchandra Ghat, and then down to Manikarnika Ghat. The boat ride begins as the sun rises over the horizon, a major attraction in Varanasi. Before this, observe the lively activities at the Ghats. The vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit location. The early morning light casts a magical glow over the river and its ghats, offering a unique perspective as the sky transitions from darkness to light, painting the surroundings in shades of orange and pink. Pilgrims and locals gather along the ghats to perform their morning rituals, including taking a holy dip in the river, offering prayers, and participating in Aarti. The chants, bells, and fragrance of incense enhance the spiritual ambiance. Witness locals starting their day, children playing, and people practicing yoga.

• Banaras Ghats - The Banaras Ghats in Varanasi are a legendary stretch of riverfront steps along the sacred Ganges River, renowned for their spiritual, cultural, and historical significance. There are approximately 84 ghats, each with its own unique story and charm, such as Dashashwamedh Ghat, famous for the epic evening Aarti, and the two main cremation ghats, Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat, believed to grant moksha to those cremated there. These ghats are not just beautiful sights; they are vibrant hubs where pilgrims bathe, perform rituals, and witness ancient funeral traditions, making Varanasi a truly vibrant and mystical place to explore.

• Dasaswamedh Ghat - Before sunset, proceed to the main Ghat to attend the Arti ceremony, known as the evening Arti ceremony. This Hindu prayer is very colorful and fascinating, promising to energize due to the large crowd. Typically, prayers in Hinduism are conducted privately, but this one is performed for the welfare and prosperity of humanity and is open to the public. It is conducted by seven priests every day after sunset, using incense sticks for aroma, sandalwood powder for climate purity, multi-oil lamps for light, camphor to purify the air, and peacock feathers for precious air, among other elements. Afterward, return to the hotel.

• Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple (Golden Temple) - The temple’s origins are believed to date back over 3,000 years, as mentioned in ancient texts. The temple underwent several reconstructions due to invasions and destruction over the centuries. In the 18th century, the temple was rebuilt by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple remains a central pilgrimage site, attracting millions of devotees and tourists. It is also called the Golden Temple because it contains 820 kg of gold.

• Durga Temple - After the boat and heritage walk, proceed to the very energetic and colorful Durga Temple, dedicated to Mother Durga. It is also known as the Monkey Temple because, in the past, there were many monkeys, but they have since left due to a lack of food. The temple, in red and golden colors, offers an energetic and historical experience. Return to the hotel for breakfast around 8:45 or 9:00 AM.

• Manikarnika Ghat - The ghat is believed to have existed for thousands of years, with references in ancient texts. It is a prominent cremation ground where bodies are cremated to achieve moksha or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. According to mythology, the ghat is associated with the deities Shiva and Parvati. Legend states that when Parvati lost her earring, it fell into the Ganges at this site. Shiva, in search of it, is said to have created a whirlpool, hence the name Manikarnika. Overall, Manikarnika Ghat is a focal point of spirituality, culture, and tradition in Varanasi, symbolizing the profound relationship between life, death, and the divine in Hindu beliefs. Every day, a minimum of 200 bodies are cremated there, with the process occurring around the clock. Bodies are brought from all corners of India because it is believed to be a place of liberation from the cycle of rebirth. There is a single pyre for each body.

• Ganga Aarti - Ganga Aarti is one of the most mesmerizing and soulful rituals to witness in Varanasi. It is a beautiful evening ceremony where Hindu priests perform a fire ritual to worship the holy river Ganga, usually at Dashashwamedh Ghat or other ghats in Varanasi. Ganga Aarti typically starts around 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM, but timings can vary slightly depending on the season and sunset. Priests chant Vedic mantras, play conch shells, bells, and drums, and wave large fire lamps (diyas) in a synchronized, rhythmic motion while offering prayers to the Ganga River. It is like a spiritual concert. The Aarti symbolizes the purification of the soul and is believed to wash away sins. People gather to watch, sing along, and even participate by offering flowers or lamps to the river. Dashashwamedh Ghat is the most popular and vibrant place.

• Sarnath - Sarnath is a serene and sacred place just a short 13 km drive from Varanasi. It is the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, after attaining enlightenment. It is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide and for anyone interested in spirituality or history. Key attractions in Sarnath include:

  • Dhamek Stupa: This massive, ancient stupa is the main attraction, built where Buddha preached his first sermon.
  • Mulagandhakuti Vihara: A beautiful temple with frescoes and a statue of Buddha.
  • Sarnath Archaeological Museum: Home to numerous ancient relics, including the famous Lion Capital of Ashoka, featured on Indian currency.
  • Ashoka Pillar: The iconic lion-topped pillar, a symbol of India.
  • Jain Temple and Tibetan Temple: Ideal for exploring different faiths, these temples are also located in Sarnath.

• Private air-conditioned car for full day
• Government-approved professional tour guide
• Private chair on rooftop balcony for Evening Aarti ceremony
• All fees and taxes included
• Private morning boat for sunrise ride

• Gratitudes ( tips )
• Everything which is not mentioned in inclusions

Visitors with limited time who desire a comprehensive experience of Varanasi can take advantage of an encompassing one-day tour. The excursion begins with a pre-dawn 5 am pickup, leading to a visit to the primary ghat. Guests will engage in a privately conducted rowboat journey to intimately witness the morning ceremonies, witness the sunrise, and partake in sacred dips in the Ganges. The tour provides a panoramic view of the ghats, ranging from Dasaswamedh Ghat to Harishchandra Ghat, and progresses to Manikarnika Ghat, the world’s largest cremation ground where daily a minimum of 200 bodies are cremated. Following this, the tour meanders through the twisting alleys and venerable temples of the ancient city. After breakfast around 10 am, the tour continues to Sarnath, a pivotal site in Buddhism where the Buddha delivered his inaugural sermon to his earliest followers. The day concludes with an opportunity to observe the vibrant Evening Aarti ceremony from a rooftop vantage point, an ideal spot to fully appreciate the event. Guests benefit from the expertise of a seasoned guide, whose heartfelt dedication and forthright approach ensure a deeply engaging and genuine presentation of the city’s multifaceted heritage.

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