Full Day Private Tour With Sarnath & Ganga Aarti

Discover the remarkable spiritual and cultural heritage of Varanasi on a full-day private tour that immerses you in the city’s captivating essence. From the serene Sarnath Buddhist site to the awe-inspiring Ganga Aarti ceremony, this comprehensive experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the heart of India’s holiest city. With personalized attention, expert guides, and comfortable transportation, you’ll embark on a journey that not only enlightens but also leaves a lasting impression. Prepare to be captivated as you delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Varanasi’s timeless traditions and vibrant landscapes.

This experience made our list of the 15 Best Full-Day Tours In Varanasi.

Key Points

• Explore the sacred sites of Sarnath, including the UNESCO World Heritage site and museum, on a full-day private tour in Varanasi.
• Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Dashashwamedh Ghat, where priests perform intricate rituals at sunset.
• Benefit from a personalized experience with live guides, transportation, and customization options, catering to a small group of up to 15 participants.
• Gain insights into India’s rich culture and history through visits to Bharat Mata Mandir and Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.
• Enjoy convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day private tour in Varanasi offers visitors a comprehensive experience that includes exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sarnath and witnessing the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony.

Priced at just $5.95 per person, the tour lasts 12 hours and provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can opt for the reserve now and pay later option.

The tour includes pickup from various locations in Varanasi, and the small group size is limited to 15 participants.

Live tour guides are available in English, German, and Spanish, and an optional buffet lunch at a local restaurant is offered.

Itinerary Highlights

The full-day private tour in Varanasi takes visitors on a captivating journey that showcases the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sarnath, the renowned Manikarnika and Dashashwamedh Ghats, and the awe-inspiring Ganga Aarti ceremony.

Key highlights of the tour include:

1. Exploring Sarnath, the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, and visiting the Sarnath Museum to explore the region’s rich Buddhist heritage.

2. Witnessing the sacred Manikarnika Ghat and Dashashwamedh Ghat, where the renowned Ganga Aarti ceremony takes place every evening.

3. Visiting the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum at the Banaras Hindu University to gain a deeper understanding of India’s culture and history.

Experience Details

As part of the full-day private tour, participants can expect a small group size limited to 15 individuals, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.

The tour is led by live guides available in English, German, and Spanish, providing in-depth insights and commentary throughout the journey.

Guests will engage in a range of activities, including sightseeing, guided tours, photo stops, and optional shopping. An optional buffet lunch at a local restaurant is also available.

The tour experience is designed to be comfortable and convenient, with hotel pickup and drop-off and private air-conditioned transportation provided as per group size.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Included in the tour price are hotel pick-up and drop-off services, if selected, as well as a private air-conditioned car with driver based on group size.

The package also includes entrance tickets to the key sites, a boat ride (weather permitting), and all applicable taxes.

However, the tour excludes the following:

• Food and drinks
• Personal expenses
• Gratuities and tips

Travelers should bring their passport or ID card, and wear comfortable shoes.

Luggage and large bags, as well as tripods, aren’t allowed on the tour.

The tour can be customized after booking, subject to traffic conditions, and a local tour guide is provided in each city.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Important Information

Travelers should bring their passport or ID card and wear comfortable shoes for the tour.

Large bags and tripods aren’t allowed during the tour.

The mode of transportation depends on the group size – sedans for 1-2 persons, SUVs for 3-4 persons, and 12-seater mini vans for 5-10 persons.

The tour can be customized after booking, subject to traffic conditions. A local tour guide will be provided in each city visited.

Travelers should note that the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays.

Pickup Locations

The tour offers pickup locations at Varanasi, Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, and Assi Ghat. This provides convenience for travelers, allowing them to start their sightseeing adventure from the location most suitable for their needs.

The available pickup options include:

1. Varanasi city center, making it easy for those already staying in the area.
2. Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, ideal for those arriving by air.
3. Assi Ghat, a popular destination on the banks of the Ganges River.

This flexibility ensures a seamless start to the tour, catering to the diverse requirements of the participants.

Key Sites Visited

Throughout the full-day private tour, visitors will have the opportunity to explore Sarnath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant Buddhist pilgrimage destination.

They’ll visit the Manikarnika Ghat, one of the most important cremation sites along the Ganges, and the Dashashwamedh Ghat, a renowned riverfront area known for its lively Ganga Aarti ceremony.

The tour also includes stops at the Sarnath Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of Buddhist artifacts, the Bharat Mata Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to Mother India, and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum on the campus of Banaras Hindu University, featuring impressive Indian art and cultural exhibits.

Evening Ganga Aarti

As the sun dips below the horizon, visitors are drawn to the captivating Dashashwamedh Ghat along the Ganges River to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. This daily ritual involves the lighting of lamps, chanting of mantras, and rhythmic movements performed by priests.

The ceremony is a visual spectacle, with the glowing flames and fragrant incense creating an enchanting atmosphere.

Participants can:

1. Observe the priests as they perform the intricate rituals with precision.
2. Partake in the ceremony by offering a floating diya (lamp) to the river.
3. Bask in the spiritual energy and tranquility of the experience.

The Ganga Aarti is a profound and unforgettable highlight of any visit to Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour appears suitable for children, as it includes activities like sightseeing, guided tours, and a boat ride. However, it’s important to consider the child’s age, interests, and stamina when booking the tour.

What Languages Do the Tour Guides Speak?

The tour guides speak English, German, and Spanish. According to the tour description, live tour guides are available in these three languages to provide informative and engaging commentary throughout the day’s sightseeing activities.

Can the Tour Be Tailored to Individual Preferences?

The tour can be tailored to individual preferences. Guests can customize the itinerary post-booking, subject to traffic conditions. Tour guides are available in English, German, and Spanish to cater to different language needs.

What Is the Dress Code for the Ganga Aarti Ceremony?

For the Ganga Aarti ceremony, visitors should wear modest and comfortable clothing. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts are generally not appropriate. Covering up with a shawl or scarf is recommended, especially for women.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour itinerary states that tripods are not allowed. While photography is generally permitted, visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or requirements during specific activities like the Ganga Aarti ceremony.

Recap

The Full Day Private Tour with Sarnath & Ganga Aarti in Varanasi offers a captivating culture for just $5.95 per person. Visitors will explore significant sites, witness the sacred Ganga Aarti, and enjoy personalized attention with multilingual guides and comfortable transportation. This 12-hour journey through the heart of Varanasi promises an enlightening and memorable adventure for up to 15 participants.

You can check if your dates are available here: