The day tour to Sarnath combines cultural exploration and spiritual experiences, offering travelers a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of Varanasi. This immersive 11-hour journey includes visits to sacred temples and stupas, a scenic boat ride on the Ganges River, and the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunset. With knowledgeable guides providing historical insights, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the captivating essence of this ancient city and its spiritual traditions. The combination of cultural, natural, and spiritual elements makes this tour a must-consider for anyone exploring the wonders of Varanasi.
Key Points
- Comprehensive day tour covering Sarnath’s temples, stupas, and Deer Park, followed by a boat ride on the Ganges and the Ganga Aarti ceremony in Varanasi.
- Tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, entrance tickets, live guide services, and optional air-conditioned transportation for a seamless and immersive experience.
- Available in multiple languages with a maximum of 15 participants, providing a personalized and cultural exploration.
- Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
- Preparation required includes bringing a passport or ID and wearing comfortable shoes, as the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a comprehensive Day Tour to Sarnath, providing visitors with the opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance of this sacred site.
Priced from €4.41 per person, the tour lasts 11 hours and is available in English, German, and Spanish. With a limited group size of 15 participants, the tour ensures personalized attention.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets, guide services, and the option of air-conditioned private transport, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Varanasi.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour offers pickup locations in Varanasi and at the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport.
Once the day begins, the main stops include:
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Sarnath (4 hours): Explore various temples, stupas, and the Deer Park where Buddha gave his first sermon.
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Varanasi (4 hours): Take a boat ride on the Ganges, wander through the narrow streets, and visit the iconic Golden Temple.
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In the evening, witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony at one of the Ghats, a traditional ritual with oil lamps.
Throughout the journey, a live tour guide provides historical insights to enhance the cultural exploration.
Experience Details
Guided tours provide historical insights throughout the journey. A knowledgeable guide leads the way, sharing stories and facts about the significant sites visited.
Participants can expect a 1-hour boat ride on the sacred Ganges River, offering a unique perspective of Varanasi’s ghats and temples.
The tour also includes a heritage walk through the oldest part of the city, allowing visitors to enjoy the vibrant culture and local way of life.
The highlight of the experience is the Ganga Aarti ceremony, a mesmerizing ritual of offering lamps to the river goddess. Participants can actively take part in this mystical experience, adding to the overall cultural exploration.
Inclusions
The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Varanasi, ensuring seamless transportation to and from the starting point.
Entrance tickets for the key attractions in Varanasi and Sarnath are also covered, allowing you to explore these historic sites without additional costs.
Plus, the tour includes:
- Live tour guide services to provide valuable historical insights throughout the journey.
- Air-conditioned private transportation, if selected, for a comfortable and convenient experience.
- Complimentary bottled water inside the vehicle, keeping you hydrated during the tour.
- All taxes are included in the package price, providing a transparent and hassle-free booking.
Pickup Locations
The tour offers pickup locations at two convenient points – Varanasi and the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport.
Guests can choose to be picked up from their hotel or accommodation in Varanasi, ensuring a hassle-free start to their tour.
Alternatively, those arriving at the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport can opt for a pickup service, allowing them to directly join the tour from the airport.
This flexibility in pickup locations caters to the needs of both local and international travelers, making it easier for everyone to participate in this immersive Sarnath experience.
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Main Stops
After the convenient pickup, the tour takes guests on an immersive exploration of Sarnath and Varanasi.
In Sarnath, visitors spend about 4 hours admiring the sacred temples, stupas, and the Deer Park where Buddha delivered his first sermon.
The tour then moves to Varanasi, where guests enjoy a 4-hour experience including:
- A boat ride on the serene Ganges River
- A heritage walk through the oldest part of the city
- A visit to the iconic Golden Temple
The day culminates with a mystical experience – witnessing the Ganga Aarti ceremony, a traditional ritual with oil lamps, along the riverbank.
Cancellation Policy
This tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking now and paying later is also an option, providing added convenience. This ensures that customers can adjust their plans without penalty if their schedules change.
The tour’s cancellation policy prioritizes customer satisfaction and flexibility, making it an attractive option for those who value the ability to modify their travel arrangements.
With this policy in place, travelers can book with confidence, knowing they’ve the freedom to cancel if needed without incurring any additional costs.
Important Information
Travelers joining the Day Tour to Sarnath should come prepared.
They’ll need to bring their passport or ID card, and wear comfortable shoes for walking through historic sites. Tripods, luggage, and large bags aren’t allowed on the tour.
To ensure a smooth experience, guests should be ready in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the pickup time. The driver will arrive 15 minutes early, so punctuality is key.
It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments. Following these guidelines will help make the tour a memorable and hassle-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photographs During the Ganga Aarti Ceremony?
Guests can generally take photographs during the Ganga Aarti ceremony, but they should be respectful and avoid using flash or obstructing the view of others. However, some temples may have restrictions on photography during religious events.
Is There an Option to Join the Tour Group at Sarnath?
Yes, there is an option to join the tour group at Sarnath. Participants can choose to be picked up from Varanasi or the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, and they’ll then meet the group at the Sarnath site.
Will There Be Vegetarian Food Options Available During the Tour?
The tour offers vegetarian meal options to accommodate dietary requirements. Participants can expect a range of vegetarian dishes served during the tour, catering to different culinary preferences and needs.
Can I Bring My Own Life Jacket for the Boat Ride?
Yes, you can bring your own life jacket for the boat ride. The tour does not provide life jackets, so bringing your own is recommended for safety and comfort during the Ganges River cruise.
What Is the Dress Code for the Ganga Aarti Ceremony?
The tour guide recommends wearing modest, comfortable clothing that covers the shoulders and knees for the Ganga Aarti ceremony. Avoid revealing or overly casual attire out of respect for the religious nature of the event.
Recap
This immersive day tour to Sarnath offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Visitors can visit sacred temples, take a scenic boat ride on the Ganges, and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at sunset. With knowledgeable guides providing historical insights, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for travelers interested in delving into the vibrant traditions of Varanasi and Sarnath.
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