Full Day Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath & Ganga Aarti

Varanasi, the spiritual capital of India, beckons travelers with its captivating temples, sacred rituals, and rich heritage. The Full Day Varanasi Temple Tour with Sarnath and Ganga Aarti offers an immersive experience, guiding visitors through the city’s most renowned landmarks. From witnessing the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony on the Ganges River at dawn to exploring the iconic Kashi Vishwanath and Birla Temples, this comprehensive tour promises to enlighten and inspire. The inclusion of a visit to Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, further enhances the journey, blending the traditions of Hinduism and Buddhism. Embark on this transformative exploration, and uncover the profound spiritual essence that has captivated countless travelers throughout the ages.

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

Key Points

• The full-day Varanasi Temple Tour offers an immersive experience into the city’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, including the Aarti ceremony on the Ganges River.
• The tour includes visits to renowned temples such as Kashi Vishwanath, Monkey Temple, and Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site.
• Transportation and an English-speaking guide are provided for convenience, while personal expenses, food, and drinks are excluded from the package.
• Respect for the cultural and religious significance of the sites is emphasized, with specific dress code requirements and prohibited items.
• The early start time and efficient transportation allow for maximum exploration of Varanasi’s sacred locations while avoiding midday heat and crowds.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day Varanasi Temple Tour with Sarnath & Ganga Aarti is priced from $85.83 per person.

The tour lasts for 12 hours and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and mineral water. However, personal expenses, food, and drinks aren’t included.

Pregnant women are advised against joining the tour. Participants should bring their passport or ID card and wear fully covered attire.

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

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off at 5:00 AM with a pickup from the hotel.

Guests will witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony at sunrise on the banks of the Ganges River.

The tour then proceeds to explore the city’s most renowned temples, including:

1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a revered Hindu site dedicated to Lord Shiva.
2. Monkey Temple, famous for its population of mischievous primates.
3. Tulsi Manas Temple, known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance.
4. Birla Temple, a modern Hindu temple with stunning white marble construction.

After the temple visits, the tour will move on to Sarnath, the important Buddhist pilgrimage site where the Buddha delivered his first sermon.

Cultural Significance

Varanasi, the holy city along the Ganges River, holds deep cultural and spiritual significance.

It’s considered the seat of Lord Shiva, one of Hinduism’s principal deities. Varanasi is believed to liberate souls from the cycle of rebirth, making it a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus.

The tour also includes a visit to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist landmark where Buddha delivered his first sermon.

This site is central to the Buddhist faith, as it marks the beginning of Buddha’s teachings and the hotel of the first sangha, or community of monks.

Exploring these culturally rich destinations provides an immersive experience into India’s ancient religious traditions.

Tour Inclusions

This tour includes a private full-day experience with an English-speaking guide to escort visitors through Varanasi’s sacred sites.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided for convenience.

Mineral water is included to keep guests hydrated throughout the day.

The tour excludes personal expenses, food, and drinks, allowing visitors to explore Varanasi at their own pace and budget.

Important information is also provided, such as the dress code and items not allowed on the tour, ensuring a comfortable and respectful experience.

• Private full-day tour
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• English-speaking tour guide
• Mineral water

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Important Information

Not suitable for pregnant women, the tour requires visitors to wear fully covered attire due to the spiritual nature of the sites.

Participants should carry only their passport or ID card and avoid bringing large bags or luggage. Tripods aren’t allowed on the tour.

The tour covers several sacred temples and locations, so it’s important for visitors to be respectful of the cultural and religious significance of the sites.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring mineral water, as the tour can be physically demanding.

Personal expenses, food, and drinks aren’t included in the tour package.

Pickup and Dropoff

The tour begins with a prompt 05:00 AM hotel pickup, ensuring visitors make the most of the day and catch the morning Aarti ceremony on the Ganges.

The early start allows guests to avoid the midday heat and crowds, maximizing their time exploring Varanasi’s iconic temples.

At the end of the day, the tour guide will drop off guests at their hotel, saving them the hassle of navigating the city’s bustling streets on their own.

The key highlights of the pickup and dropoff service include:

1. Prompt 05:00 AM pickup from your hotel.
2. Air-conditioned private transportation for the duration of the tour.
3. Drop-off at your hotel at the end of the day.
4. Convenient and efficient transportation to make the most of the tour.

Explore Buddhist Landmarks

After being picked up from their hotel and witnessing the captivating Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges, the tour proceeds to the historic city of Sarnath.

This important Buddhist pilgrimage site is where Buddha delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. Visitors will explore the Dhamekha Stupa, an imposing stone tower that marks the spot where Buddha preached.

The Sarnath Archeological Gallery showcases a remarkable collection of Buddhist artifacts and relics, while the iconic Lion Capital of Ashoka, a stunning carved pillar, is a highlight.

Taking in this serene and sacred atmosphere, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Evening Aarti Ceremony

As the sun dips below the horizon, the banks of the Ganges come alive with the captivating Aarti ceremony.

Priests perform this sacred ritual, waving lit lamps and offering prayers to the river goddess. Devotees gather, mesmerized by the rhythm of bells, the chanting of mantras, and the flickering flames.

The ceremony culminates in the release of flower-laden rafts, carrying offerings and wishes down the sacred waters. This evening spectacle is a profound spiritual experience, allowing visitors to connect with Varanasi’s timeless traditions.

The tour includes:

1. Witnessing the captivating Aarti ceremony
2. Observing the priests’ graceful movements and practices
3. Participating in the release of flower-laden rafts
4. Taking in the devotional atmosphere along the Ganges

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration for an additional fee. The tour operator typically offers flexible options to customize the itinerary and duration based on your preferences and budget.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

This tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. It’s suitable for all ages, though the tour operator advises it may not be suitable for pregnant women due to the physically demanding nature of the activities.

Is Photography Allowed During the Temple Visits?

Photography is allowed during the temple visits, but tripods are not permitted due to the spiritual nature of the tour. Guests are advised to be respectful and discreet when taking photos inside the temples.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit My Preferences?

This tour can be customized to suit a traveler’s preferences. The tour operator is willing to accommodate special requests, such as adjusting the itinerary or arranging for additional activities, to ensure the best possible experience.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows them to reschedule the tour if needed without penalty.

Recap

The Full Day Varanasi Temple Tour with Sarnath and Ganga Aarti provides an immersive experience into the spiritual heart of India. Guests witness the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony on the Ganges River, visit iconic temples, and explore the significant Buddhist site of Sarnath. The tour offers a day filled with cultural exploration and spiritual connection, enriching participants’ understanding of both Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here: