From Varanasi: City and Sarnath Tour With Boat Ride

Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, beckons travelers to enjoy its timeless essence. The "From Varanasi: City and Sarnath Tour With Boat Ride" promises a captivating journey that blends sacred rituals, architectural marvels, and vibrant cultural experiences. From a serene sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to the hallowed grounds of Sarnath, this tour guides you through the layers of Varanasi’s history and spirituality. As you navigate the bustling streets by rickshaw, you’ll uncover the city’s rich heritage, setting the stage for a truly transformative encounter. But the real question is, what unexpected discoveries await you on this enchanting expedition?

This experience made our list of the 25 Best City Tours In Varanasi.

Key Points

• This tour offers a 5-hour experience that includes a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River and a visit to the significant Buddhist pilgrimage site of Sarnath.
• The boat ride provides an opportunity to witness morning rituals, such as bathing and religious ceremonies, along the riverbanks in a serene and spiritual setting.
• Sarnath is located 10 kilometers north of Varanasi and is the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.
• The tour includes a vibrant street exploration via colorful rickshaw, allowing participants to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi.
• The tour package includes hotel/airport pick-up and drop-off, monument entry fees, and a complimentary water bottle, with the option to reserve and pay later.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This city and Sarnath tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Varanasi’s spiritual and cultural highlights. Priced from ₹2,209 per person, the 5-hour tour departs from Varanasi and includes a serene sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River.

Guests will then venture to Sarnath, a renowned Buddhist pilgrimage site, and discover its temples and archaeological museum. The tour also features a rickshaw ride through Varanasi’s bustling streets, culminating in an evening ceremony along the Ghats with candles and flower offerings.

With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, free cancellation, and a pay later option, this tour provides an immersive and seamless experience of Varanasi’s spiritual and cultural treasures.

Spiritual Boat Ride

The tour begins with a serene sunrise boat ride along the Ganges River, offering visitors a peaceful and intimate connection with Varanasi’s spiritual essence. During this hour-long journey, guests witness the morning rituals and routines of the locals, from bathing to performing religious ceremonies. The boat silently glides past the ghats, allowing for quiet reflection and observation of the vibrant activity unfolding along the riverbanks.

Boat Ride Highlights
Witness Bathing Rituals	Observe Funeral Rites	See Morning Prayers	Admire Architectural Gems	Experience Tranquility

This spiritual boat ride sets the tone for the day’s deeper exploration of Varanasi’s religious and cultural heritage.

Sarnath Pilgrimage Site

After the serene boat ride, the tour proceeds to the revered pilgrimage site of Sarnath, located just 10 kilometers north of Varanasi.

Sarnath is a significant Buddhist center, as it’s the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visitors can explore the Sarnath Temples, which house impressive sculptures, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, showcasing a vast collection of Buddhist art and artifacts.

The tour also includes a visit to the Dhamekh Stupa, an impressive monument marking the spot where Buddha preached his first sermon.

With its spiritual significance and rich history, Sarnath offers a profound cultural experience for those seeking to deepen their understanding of Buddhism.

Exploring Varanasi Streets

Leaving the serene grounds of Sarnath, the tour now ventures into the heart of Varanasi’s vibrant streets.

Aboard a colorful rickshaw, travelers weave through the bustling bazaars and crowded alleyways. The air is thick with the scents of spices, incense, and sizzling street food. Haggling locals, wandering cows, and ancient temples create a captivating sensory experience.

The rickshaw ride provides a unique vantage point to observe the daily rhythms of this ancient city. Visitors witness the intricate tapestry of life unfolding before them – from religious ceremonies to everyday commerce.

This immersive exploration offers a deeper understanding of Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage and the resilience of its inhabitants.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Evening Ceremonies Ganges

As dusk settles over the Ganges, the evening ceremonies come alive with a captivating display. Visitors witness the Aarti ritual, where hundreds of oil lamps are lit and waved in reverence to the sacred river.

Flower petals and candles are gently released onto the water, creating a mesmerizing sight. Priests chant sacred mantras, and the air is filled with the aroma of incense.

This spiritual experience offers a glimpse into the deep-rooted traditions of Varanasi. Onlookers can participate by purchasing flower garlands or candles to offer.

The serene yet lively atmosphere leaves a lasting impression on all who witness this enchanting nightly ritual along the Ganges.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.

The inclusions cover the essentials, such as:

1. An experienced guide to provide valuable insights and facilitate the tour.
2. Convenient hotel or airport pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to the day.
3. All transportation costs, including the car, driver, fuel, toll tax, parking, and driver allowance.

Plus, the tour price includes monument entry fees and a complimentary water bottle per person.

However, tips, other meals, and personal expenses aren’t covered and will be at the traveler’s own cost.

Reservation and Cancellation

Customers have the flexibility to reserve and pay for the City and Sarnath Tour later using the "Reserve now & pay later" option. The tour is available for booking, and customers can check for starting times.

Should plans change, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides customers with the convenience to plan their trip without worrying about non-refundable charges.

The cancellation policy ensures customers can get their money back if they need to modify their itinerary. The reservation and cancellation terms offer flexibility and peace of mind for those interested in this Varanasi tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour seems suitable for children as it includes a spiritual boat ride, visits to religious sites, and a rickshaw ride through bustling streets. However, the length of the tour and boat ride may be tiring for younger children.

Can the Boat Ride Be Customized to Longer Duration?

The boat ride’s duration can be customized for a longer experience. Travelers can request an extended boat ride along the Ganges to explore more of the river’s sights and activities. However, additional fees may apply for the customized duration.

Are Vegetarian Meal Options Available During the Tour?

The tour offers vegetarian meal options during the lunch break. Guests can communicate any dietary preferences to the tour guide, who’ll ensure the catering arrangements accommodate them accordingly.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Temples?

The tour requires modest, conservative attire when visiting the temples. Visitors should wear long pants or skirts and cover their shoulders. Hats and sunglasses are generally permitted. Casual, comfortable clothing is appropriate for the boat ride and other activities.

Can the Tour Be Extended to Include a Visit to Ganges Sunset?

The tour can be extended to include a visit to the Ganges sunset. This would allow visitors to experience the evening ceremonies and candle and flower offerings along the river. However, additional costs may apply for the extended itinerary.

Recap

The "From Varanasi: City and Sarnath Tour With Boat Ride" provides a comprehensive spiritual experience. Travelers can witness sacred rituals on the Ganges River, explore the historic Sarnath site, and enjoy Varanasi’s vibrant cultural heritage. With a seamless itinerary and inclusions, this tour offers an opportunity to deeply connect with the essence of this ancient holy city.

You can check if your dates are available here: