Set out on a profound journey through the spiritual heart of India with this exclusive 3-day tour of Varanasi and Bodhgaya. Enjoy the rich cultural and religious heritage of these sacred cities, where you’ll explore iconic sites like the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Mahabodhi Temple. Experience the tranquility of a morning boat ride on the Ganges and witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. With comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and guided tours, this intimate experience promises to leave a lasting impression on your soul. Uncover the secrets that lie within these ancient lands and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Key Points
- This 3-day tour offers an exclusive and immersive exploration of the spiritual destinations of Varanasi and Bodhgaya.
- Highlights include visiting the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, the Mahabodhi Temple, and experiencing the Ganga Aarti ceremony.
- Accommodations, daily breakfast, transportation, and a professional guide are included in the $363.50 per person tour price.
- The tour is suitable for small groups of 1 to 10 participants, with transport options varying based on group size.
- The tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues.
Tour Overview and Pricing
What does this exclusive Spiritual Varanasi with Bodhgaya Tour entail? The 3-day tour explores India’s spiritual capital, Varanasi, and the major Buddhist pilgrimage site of Bodhgaya. Priced from $363.50 per person, the tour offers free cancellation and flexible payment options.
Highlights include visits to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, Mahabodhi Temple, and the iconic evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. The tour includes hotel accommodations, daily breakfast, transportation, and a professional guide.
Group size is limited to 1-10 participants, with transport varying by group size. While a great option for spiritual travelers, the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bodh Gaya.
Destinations and Highlights
This exclusive spiritual tour immerses travelers in the rich cultural and religious heritage of Varanasi and Bodhgaya.
Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, is one of the oldest inhabited cities. Travelers will visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a major Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.
In Sarnath, they’ll see the Dhamek Stupa and Ashoka Pillar, the site of Buddha’s first sermon.
In Bodhgaya, the highlight is the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Buddha attained enlightenment, and the sacred Bodhi Tree.
Travelers will also marvel at the 80-feet tall Great Buddha Statue and witness the mesmerizing evening Ganga Aarti ritual on the Ganges River.
Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins with a pickup from the Varanasi Airport, Hotel, or Railway Station, where travelers will first visit the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a major Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva.
In the afternoon, the group will head to Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon. The day ends with the iconic Ganga Aarti ritual on the banks of the Ganges River.
On the second day, guests can take a morning boat ride on the Ganges before checking out and transferring to Bodhgaya, home of the Bodhi Tree and monasteries.
The final day is spent sightseeing in Bodhgaya, including a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple and the Great Buddha Statue.
Day 01 Highlights
On the first day, travelers begin their spiritual journey with a pickup from Varanasi’s airport, hotel, or railway station.
They’ll visit the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a major Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, and explore the Banaras Hindu University.
In the afternoon, they’ll venture to Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon, and marvel at the Dhamek Stupa and Ashoka Pillar.
As the day winds down, they’ll experience the mesmerizing Evening Ganga Aarti ceremony on the banks of the holy Ganges River.
The key highlights of Day 01 include:
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Banaras Hindu University
- Sarnath and its historical sites
- Evening Ganga Aarti on the Ganges
Day 02 Highlights
Typically, the second day begins with a serene morning boat ride on the Ganges River, allowing travelers to witness the bustling spiritual life along the riverbanks.
After this tranquil start, the group checks out and transfers to the holy site of Bodhgaya.
Upon arrival, they’ll visit the sacred Bodhi Tree, under which Buddha attained enlightenment, and explore the many monasteries and temples in the area.
This day provides an immersive experience into the Buddhist heritage and traditions that have shaped the region for centuries.
Day 03 Highlights
Travelers start their day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on the final leg of their Bodhgaya exploration.
They visit the magnificent Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Buddha attained enlightenment.
Next, they marvel at the towering 80-feet Great Buddha Statue, a renowned landmark in Bodhgaya.
They also explore the lush Bodhi Tree, the sacred tree under which Buddha meditated.
Before departing, they may have the opportunity to witness the serene atmosphere of the monasteries surrounding the Mahabodhi Temple complex.
Inclusions and Exclusions
What’s included in this tour? The tour package includes 2 nights of hotel accommodation, daily breakfast, airport/hotel/train station transfers, an air-conditioned private vehicle, and a professional guide. You’ll also get 2 bottles of mineral water per person per day, a boat ride on the Ganges River, and the iconic evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. Applicable taxes, fuel, parking, and toll fees are covered. However, personal expenses, monument entrance fees, and any New Year/Christmas gala dinner costs are excluded. Plus, the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Hotel Accommodation | Personal Expenses |
| Daily Breakfast | Monument Entrance Fees |
| Airport/Hotel/Station Transfers | New Year/Christmas Gala Dinner |
| Air-conditioned Private Vehicle | Mobility Impairments |
Important Information
The tour accommodates groups of 1 to 10 people.
Transportation varies based on group size, with options like sedans, SUVs, or minivans.
Room sharing is generally twin-sharing, but extra charges apply for separate rooms.
Participants should bring their passport or ID card.
Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on the tour.
Some key things to note:
- Groups of 1-10 people
- Transport in sedans, SUVs, or minivans
- Twin-sharing rooms, extra for separate rooms
- Bring passport or ID card
- No alcohol or drugs permitted
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Personal Interests?
Yes, the tour operator generally allows customers to customize the itinerary to suit their personal interests. They’ll work with you to modify the tour program and ensure it aligns with your preferences and needs.
What Is the Dress Code for the Ganga Aarti Ceremony?
The dress code for the Ganga Aarti ceremony is casual and modest. Visitors should avoid wearing revealing or overly casual clothing. It’s best to wear long pants or skirts and cover the shoulders.
Will I Have Time to Explore Varanasi and Bodhgaya on My Own?
There is limited free time to explore Varanasi and Bodhgaya on your own. The tour has a packed itinerary, providing guided visits to the key sights. Any additional exploration would need to be done outside the scheduled tour activities.
Can the Tour Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Food Preferences?
The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions and food preferences. Travelers can inform the tour provider about their dietary needs, and the tour will make arrangements to ensure they’re provided with suitable meals throughout the trip.
What Should I Do if I Need to Change or Cancel My Booking?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also easily modify their booking by contacting the tour operator before the scheduled departure time to make any necessary changes.
Recap
This exclusive 3-day spiritual journey through Varanasi and Bodhgaya offers a unique opportunity to take in India’s rich cultural and religious heritage. From visiting iconic temples to experiencing the serene Ganges, the tour provides a deeply meaningful experience for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts. With comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and guided tours, this intimate experience ensures a memorable and transformative journey.
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