• Sarnath - Begin your journey with a convenient pick-up from your centrally located hotel in Varanasi at 10am. Meet your knowledgeable local guide and embark on an extraordinary tour of the city. Travel to Sarnath, the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. It is believed that Buddha journeyed to Sarnath to reunite with his five companions - Koudanna, Vappa, Bhaddiya, Mahanama, and Asvajiya, sharing his newfound wisdom with them.

Your guide will explain the importance of various sites in the sacred city of Sarnath as you first visit the Chaukhandi Stupa, originally constructed in the 4th century during the Gupta Dynasty. Explore the Dhamekha Stupa, situated in a deer park, thought to have been built by King Ashoka in 249 BCE.

• Dhamek Stupa - Continue to the significant ruins of the Dharmarajika Stupa, the original location that housed Buddha’s relics before its destruction by Jagat Singh in 1794. View the impressive Ashoka pillar and delve into Buddhism at a unique archaeological museum dedicated to the culture and religion. Listen as your guide shares fascinating stories and legends about Buddhism, then proceed to the Mulagandhakuti Vihara Temple. This beautiful temple, constructed by the Sri Lankan Mahabodhi Society, is one of the most renowned Buddhist temples in the city.
• Dasaswamedh Ghat - Observe the standing Buddha statue and return to Varanasi. As evening falls, the city prepares for the Ganga Aarti ceremony, a meticulously choreographed ritual performed at the Daswamedha Ghat, celebrating the sacred River Ganges. The atmosphere is filled with the peace of burning lamps, flowers, and incense. Experience this timeless tradition as your local guide shares insights into Hindu mythology. After the ceremony concludes, you will be returned to your hotel.

• Evening Ganga aarti
• Professional guide
• Hotel pickup and drop-off in Varanasi
• Transport by private vehicle

• Lunch
• Boat ride
• Food and drinks, unless specified
• Gratuities

Believed to be one of world’s oldest living cities, Varanasi is the spiritual capital of India. Located on the banks of Ganges River, the city boasts of its 5000-year-old history. Explore Varanasi in the company of an expert local guide and capture its many colors. Visit Sarnath, the place where Gautama Buddha gave his first lecture after attaining enlightenment and learn about Buddhism and its teaching in Sarnath Archeological Museum. Participate in the highly choreographed evening prayer ceremony at the Daswamedha Ghat and get an insight into Hinduism.

• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.