Full-day Varanasi tours pack spiritual and cultural highlights into a single, well-organized day. The best options start at dawn with a Ganges River boat ride, followed by temple visits and an excursion to Sarnath’s Buddhist ruins. Standard group tours cost around $34 per person, while private tours run about $250 – both including transportation, guides, and entry fees.
I’m especially fond of tours that combine the morning aarti ceremony with breakfast at a local home – it’s these authentic touches that make the experience memorable. The half-day heritage walks are another great choice, particularly for photography enthusiasts.
Let’s explore the top-rated Varanasi tours worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Full-day private tours in Varanasi provide an immersive experience, covering spiritual and cultural highlights including boat rides on the Ganges, temple visits, and the Buddhist site of Sarnath.
- Tour packages are competitively priced, starting from $33.76 per person, and include private transportation, local guides, and all necessary entrance fees.
- Key tour experiences include the morning rituals at the Ganges ghats, the Ganga Aarti ceremony, and guided visits to the Sarnath Museum showcasing Buddhist art.
- Tours offer opportunities for cultural exploration, with insights into the local heritage, storytelling, and experiences like shopping and tasting local cuisine.
- Tour options cater to different interests, such as a full-day trip to Bodhgaya or small group experiences for a more personalized exploration of Varanasi.
Varanasi Full Day Tour With Boat Ride
This full-day private tour in Varanasi, India offers travelers a comprehensive experience exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural traditions.
Recommended by 100% of visitors, the tour features an early morning boat ride on the sacred River Ganga. Travelers will also visit ancient Hindu temples and a Buddhist stupa at Sarnath.
The itinerary is customizable based on interests. Included in the tour are round-trip transfers, an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking guide. Breakfast and entry fees for monuments are provided.
With a 5.0 overall rating from 11 verified reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an in-depth exploration of Varanasi.
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Varanasi in One Day- A Full Day Tour Covering The City
Varanasi, one of India’s holistic treasures, unfolds its captivating essence through a comprehensive full-day tour. Priced at $250 per person, this 12-hour private group tour with a licensed guide offers an immersive exploration of the holy city.
The day begins with an early morning visit to the Ganges ghats, where travelers can witness local rituals and pilgrims bathing. The itinerary also includes a stop at the significant Buddhist site of Sarnath, as well as tours of prominent temples.
The tour culminates with the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashvamedh Ghat in the evening. Comfortable transportation, all entry fees, and a knowledgeable guide ensure a seamless and enriching experience.
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Private Full Day Varanasi Experience
Set out on a captivating private tour that immerses you in Varanasi’s rich heritage and spiritual allure.
The Private Full Day Varanasi Experience is a comprehensive offering, recommended by 100% of travelers with a 5.0 rating. Enjoy the city’s iconic sights, from the serene Sarnath to the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony.
An air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide, and all-inclusive amenities ensure a seamless and comfortable experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a lowest price guarantee, this tour provides excellent value.
Whether you’re seeking culture or a hassle-free day in Varanasi, this private experience is an exceptional choice.
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Full Day Tour of Varanasi
The Full Day Tour of Varanasi immerses visitors in the city’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage. This 8-hour tour covers iconic landmarks and hidden neighborhoods, offering an authentic cultural experience.
Travelers can expect a personalized group size of up to 8 participants, led by a live English-speaking guide. The itinerary highlights significant sites like Harishchandra Ghat, Ramnagar Fort, and Kabirchauramath.
Included amenities such as a tuk-tuk ride, refreshments, and hotel transfers ensure a seamless experience. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and crowded streets.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour provides a convenient and immersive way to discover the essence of Varanasi.
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Full Day Private Trip to Bodhgaya From Varanasi
This full-day private trip from Varanasi to Bodhgaya allows visitors to enjoy the profound spiritual legacy of Buddhism.
Operated by S.A.M Tours & Travels, the tour includes a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and private transportation. Priced from $188 per person, the experience covers entrance fees, food, drinks, and gratuities.
Travelers embark on their journey at 6 AM from Varanasi cantonment, returning to the same point by the end of the day. With a 5.0 rating based on reviews, this tour provides an in-depth exploration of Bodhgaya, one of the most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites.
Most travelers can participate, though those with serious medical conditions should consult the operator.
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From Varanasi: Full Day Varanasi Tour Package With Cab
Visitors seeking to enjoy the spiritual essence of Varanasi can opt for the comprehensive Full Day Varanasi Tour Package with Cab. Priced from $33.76 per person, the tour offers a full-day experience, with a morning boat ride on the Ganges and guided visits to iconic sites like the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, Banaras Hindu University, and Dashashwamedh Ghat.
The tour also includes the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony and free time for shopping. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of private AC transportation with pickup and drop-off at their preferred location in Varanasi.
This tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Varanasi’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
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Full Day Guided City Tour of Varanasi in AC Car With a Local
A full day guided city tour of Varanasi allows visitors to enjoy the 2,000-year history of this sacred city.
Operated by Yo Tours, the $108.91 per group (up to 3) tour includes hotel pickup, bottled water, lunch, entrance fees, and a souvenir.
Guests can explore Varanasi’s rich history in industry, trade, agriculture, government, and religion, while engaging in conversations with a local storyteller/guide.
The private tour offers great local tips and recommendations.
However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
With an overall rating of 4.0 from 1 review, the tour’s only downside is the noted poor lunch quality.
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Full Day Private Tour With Sarnath & Ganga Aarti
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Varanasi’s sacred sites and cultural heritage can opt for the Full Day Private Tour with Sarnath & Ganga Aarti.
This 12-hour tour provides a personalized experience, with a guide leading visitors to key landmarks like Manikarnika and Dashashwamedh Ghats, Sarnath, and the Banaras Hindu University.
The tour includes a visit to the Sarnath Museum, home to significant Buddhist art and artifacts. Guests can choose from pickup locations at the airport or Assi Ghat, and enjoy a buffet lunch.
With a group size limited to 15, flexible booking, and free cancellation, this tour offers an immersive discovery of Varanasi’s rich heritage.
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Full Day Private Guided Tour of Varanasi
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Varanasi’s spiritual and cultural highlights, the Full Day Private Guided Tour offers an immersive experience. Priced from $106 per person, this private tour includes private AC transportation, a boat ride at sunset, and an English-speaking, government-approved guide.
Lunch and dinner are also provided, along with water and snacks. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart conditions, most travelers can participate.
With a 4.5 rating based on 2 reviews, the tour provides a hassle-free way to discover Varanasi’s rich heritage. Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation and rescheduling are available up to 24 hours prior.
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Full Day Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath & Ganga Aarti
This full-day Varanasi temple tour offers an immersive experience, providing visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the city’s spiritual and cultural highlights.
Priced at $33.64 per person, the 12-hour tour includes visits to iconic temples like Kashi Vishwanath, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir, and Birla Temple.
Travelers can also witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremonies at sunrise and on the Ganges River.
The tour includes a guided visit to Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon, and a boat cruise with masala tea.
With free cancellation and no upfront payment, this tour is a convenient and flexible option for visitors to Varanasi.
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Full Day City Tour of Varanasi Visit Sarnath Including Evening Ganga Aarti
A comprehensive full-day city tour of Varanasi allows visitors to enjoy the spiritual and cultural heart of the city.
The tour includes visits to Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon, and the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, a captivating ritual along the Ganges River.
Travelers will enjoy private transportation, monument entrance fees, a rickshaw ride, and a buffet lunch.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, with confirmation received at booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Priced at SEK 1,147.35 per person, this full-day experience provides an excellent overview of Varanasi’s iconic sights and traditions.
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Varanasi Full Day Tour
Varanasi’s spiritual essence comes alive through its full-day tour, offering visitors a comprehensive immersion into the city’s iconic sights and revered traditions.
Priced at $92.56 per person, the 8-hour experience includes a boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise, visits to renowned temples, and the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony.
With a live English-speaking guide leading small groups of up to 8 participants, the tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Varanasi’s cultural and religious heritage.
Complimentary transportation, water, and early morning pickup from select locations ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, making this full-day tour an ideal way to discover the heart of this sacred city.
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08 Hours : Private Full Day City Tour of Jaipur
Frequently, travelers embark on a private full-day city tour of Jaipur to enjoy the vibrant culture and rich heritage of the Pink City.
The tour includes an English-speaking professional guide, private transportation with hotel pick-up and drop-off, and entrance fees to monuments. Mineral water is provided in the car, though tips for the driver and guide aren’t included.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with back problems or heart conditions, and infants must sit on laps as infant seats are unavailable. Priced from $90.00 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a reserve now, pay later option.
With a 5-star rating based on 1 review, this tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the wonders of Jaipur.
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Full Day City Tour of Varanasi With Boat Ride and Evening Aarti Ceremony
Set out on a captivating full-day tour of Varanasi, where you’ll learn about the city’s sacred rituals and vibrant culture.
This private tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, local guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Explore the city’s highlights, such as a boat ride on the Ganges River and the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Enjoy included lunch and skip the lines with your pre-paid entrances.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours and a lowest price guarantee, this tour offers convenience and value.
Note that Sarnath is closed on Fridays, and infants must sit on laps during the tour.
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From Varanasi: Varanasi & Sarnath Full Day Guided Car Tour
Explore the sacred sites of Varanasi and the historic city of Sarnath on this comprehensive full-day guided car tour. Priced at $32.86 per person, the tour covers key highlights, including the Sarnath Museum, the grounds where Buddha gave his first sermon, and the renowned temples of Varanasi.
You’ll also experience a boat cruise along the Ganges River and witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony. With an expert guide, private transportation, and complimentary water, this tour offers an immersive cultural experience.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and driver, though the value-for-money rating could be higher. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes this tour a flexible option for your Varanasi visit.
Read our full review: From Varanasi: Varanasi & Sarnath Full Day Guided Car Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Varanasi offers a wide range of full-day tours to explore its rich cultural heritage. Travelers can choose from boat rides along the Ganges, visits to historic temples and ghats, and excursions to nearby sites like Sarnath. These tours provide a comprehensive introduction to the city’s spirituality, architecture, and traditions. With so many options, visitors can easily find a full-day itinerary that suits their interests and schedule.