Full Day Varanasi and Sarnath Guided Tour With Ganga Aarti

Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, beckons visitors with its ancient charm and devotional fervor. The Full Day Varanasi and Sarnath Guided Tour offers an immersive experience, allowing travelers to explore the city’s rich cultural tapestry. From the revered Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple to the serene Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, this tour promises a captivating journey. As the day culminates with the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at Daswamedha Ghat, the ethereal atmosphere leaves a lasting impression on the senses. Unraveling the complexities of these sacred sites, the expert guide ensures an enriching and personalized exploration.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Full-Day Tours In Sarnath.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day guided tour exploring the spiritual and cultural highlights of Varanasi and Sarnath, including the iconic Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sarnath’s Buddhist heritage.
• Witness the captivating Aarti ceremony at Daswamedha Ghat, where priests and pilgrims perform an ancient Hindu ritual with lamps and mantras on the sacred Ganges River.
• Discover the rich history and significance of Sarnath, the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, with a visit to the well-preserved ruins and museum.
• Small group tour limited to 10 participants, providing a personalized and intimate experience with an English-fluent guide sharing insights on the region’s history and traditions.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off service, entry fees, and mineral water included, ensuring a hassle-free exploration of Varanasi and Sarnath’s spiritual and cultural treasures.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day guided tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the spiritual and historical wonders of Varanasi and Sarnath.

Priced from ₹2,195 per person, the tour lasts 12 hours and includes pickup and drop-off services from any location in Varanasi. Guests can opt for the reserve now and pay later option and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours for a full refund.

The small group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with a knowledgeable English-fluent guide.

Along with temple visits and the Sarnath museum, the tour features the mesmerizing evening Aarti ceremony at Daswamedha Ghat, subject to weather conditions.

Highlights of Varanasi and Sarnath

Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, boasts a captivating array of temples, ghats, and cultural experiences that immerse visitors in the city’s timeless essence.

The tour includes visits to the iconic Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the intricate Bharat Mata Mandir, and the renowned Banaras Hindu University.

Witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony at Daswamedha Ghat, where devotees gather to honor the sacred Ganges River.

In Sarnath, explore the museum housing relics from the site where Buddha delivered his first sermon, delving into the rich history and significance of this revered Buddhist pilgrimage site.

The tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Varanasi‘s spiritual and cultural treasures, offering a truly immersive experience.

Evening Aarti Ceremony at Daswamedha Ghat

The evening Aarti ceremony at Daswamedha Ghat is a captivating ritual that draws hundreds of devotees and visitors to the banks of the sacred Ganges River.

As the sun dips below the horizon, priests and pilgrims gather to perform this ancient Hindu ceremony, lighting lamps and chanting sacred mantras.

The rhythmic movements, flickering flames, and soulful chants create a mesmerizing atmosphere, evoking a sense of spirituality and devotion.

Attendees can participate in the ceremony, offering flowers and prayers, or simply observe the spectacle unfolding before them.

It’s a quintessential Varanasi experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the city’s vibrant religious traditions.

Exploring Sarnath and Buddha’s First Sermon

Sarnath, the serene Buddhist pilgrimage site, lies just a short distance from the bustling city of Varanasi.

It was here that Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and museum, which offer insights into the life and teachings of the Buddha.

The Dhamekh Stupa, an imposing sandstone structure, marks the site where Buddha gave his first discourse.

Nearby, the Ashokan Pillar, with its intricate carvings, stands as a testament to the site’s historical significance.

Exploring Sarnath provides a deep connection to the foundations of Buddhism and an opportunity to reflect on the profound wisdom imparted by the Buddha centuries ago.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Small Group Tour With Live Guide

Embarking on a small group tour with a live guide is an immersive way to fully experience the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Varanasi and Sarnath.

With a maximum of 10 participants, this personalized excursion provides an intimate and insightful exploration. The knowledgeable guide, fluent in English, shares deep insights into the region’s history, religion, and traditions.

Witness the awe-inspiring Aarti ceremony at Daswamedha Ghat and discover Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism.

Complimentary mineral water and convenient pickup and drop-off services add to the seamless experience.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this small group tour offers a truly memorable way to uncover the wonders of this captivating region.

Included and Excluded Services

What services are included and excluded in this guided tour? The tour includes an exclusive car for the entire day, complimentary mineral water, and entry fees to monuments. However, food, drinks, personal expenses, and tips are not covered. To better understand the inclusions and exclusions, here is a table:

Included	Excluded
Exclusive car	Food and drinks
Mineral water	Personal expenses
Monument entry fees	Tips

This comprehensive tour ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on exploring the rich heritage of Varanasi and Sarnath without worrying about additional costs.

Important Considerations and Requirements

Travelers should be aware of several important considerations when booking this guided tour. Participants must bring a valid passport or ID card, including for children.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with high blood pressure. Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed during the excursion.

The potential boat ride experience is subject to weather conditions. While the tour provides an immersive cultural and historical exploration of Varanasi and Sarnath, individuals with certain health or mobility challenges may find it challenging.

Adhering to these guidelines ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Vegetarian Food Options Available During the Tour?

The tour does not explicitly mention vegetarian food options, but it’s likely that vegetarian meals can be arranged upon request. Participants should inform the tour operator of any dietary preferences or restrictions prior to the tour.

Can I Pay With a Credit Card or Do I Need Cash?

Customers can pay for the tour using a credit card, but cash is also accepted. The tour operator offers a reserve now and pay later option, providing flexibility in payment methods.

Can I Take Photographs During the Tour?

Yes, participants are allowed to take photographs during the tour. The tour guide encourages capturing memorable moments, though visitors should avoid disrupting the sacred ceremonies and respect the cultural sensitivities of the sites visited.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific age restrictions. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with high blood pressure due to the extensive walking involved throughout the day.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Temples?

The tour requires visitors to wear modest, comfortable clothing that covers the shoulders and knees when visiting temples. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops are generally not allowed inside the sacred spaces.

Recap

The Full Day Varanasi and Sarnath Guided Tour offers an immersive experience in the spiritual heart of India. Visitors can explore the revered Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the serene Sarnath, and witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony. With a small group size and an expert guide, this 12-hour journey provides personalized insights into the rich cultural and historical treasures of these iconic sites.

You can check if your dates are available here: