Varanasi: Private City Highlights Day Tour & Ganges Cruise

Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, beckons visitors to enjoy its timeless rituals and captivating sights. This private day tour promises an unforgettable journey, guiding travelers through the city’s iconic landmarks and serene waterways. From the ancient Assi Ghat to the majestic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the tour unveils the city’s profound cultural heritage. Sarnath’s tranquil grounds, where Buddha delivered his first sermon, offer a moment of contemplation. As the day draws to a close, the enchanting Aarti ceremony and a Ganges river cruise provide a glimpse into Varanasi’s timeless allure. What awaits beyond this enticing introduction is a deeper exploration of the city’s spiritual essence.

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

Key Points

• Experience ancient Hindu rituals and traditions during the morning Aarti ceremony at Assi Ghat and Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
• Explore the historic and architectural wonders of Banaras Hindu University and visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum.
• Discover the religious significance of Varanasi’s iconic temples and monuments, including Durga Temple and Sarnath.
• Immerse in the vibrant local markets to browse Banarasi silk sarees, handicrafts, and other artisanal products.
• Conclude the day with an evening Aarti ceremony and a serene Ganges River cruise for a comprehensive Varanasi experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Morning Rituals

Visitors begin their day in Varanasi with a visit to Assi Ghat, where they witness the captivating morning Aarti ritual. This ancient Hindu ceremony involves chants, lamps, and offerings to the sacred Ganges River.

Next, they explore the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a revered Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Pilgrims and devotees gather here to pray and seek blessings.

Witnessing these spiritual practices provides a profound introduction to Varanasi’s deep-rooted traditions and the city’s enduring connection to the Ganges.

Banaras Hindu University Tour

After exploring the spiritual rituals at the ghats, the tour continues to Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of Asia’s largest residential universities.

Travelers will tour the campus, including the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient Indian artifacts and art.

The university’s vast grounds and mix of colonial and modern architecture offer a unique glimpse into India’s educational legacy.

Guests can learn about the institution’s rich history and admire the scenic campus as they walk through its peaceful corridors and courtyards.

This cultural stop provides a fascinating contrast to the spiritual experiences earlier in the day.

Temples and Monuments

The tour takes visitors to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a sacred Hindu shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. This revered temple is a must-visit, known for its stunning architecture and religious significance.

Visitors also explore the Durga Temple, nicknamed the "Monkey Temple" due to the presence of its monkey residents. Plus, the tour includes a stop at the Tulsi Manas Temple, which features inscriptions from the Ramcharitmanas, a renowned Hindu scripture.

Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon, is another highlight, showcasing the Dhamek Stupa and the Sarnath Museum.

Finally, the evening Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat is a captivating sight, with illuminated oil lamps and chanting.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple
• Durga Temple (Monkey Temple)
• Tulsi Manas Temple
• Sarnath (Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum)
• Evening Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

Sarnath Exploration

During the tour, visitors explore the historic site of Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.

They visit the Dhamek Stupa, a massive stone monument that marks the site. Nearby, they discover the Chaukhandi Stupa, an octagonal tower that commemorates the spot where Buddha met his first disciples.

The tour also includes a stop at the Sarnath Museum, which houses an impressive collection of ancient Buddhist relics and sculptures.

Visitors learn about the rich history and significance of this sacred place, gaining a deeper understanding of the Buddha’s teachings and the spread of Buddhism throughout the region.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Local Market Visits

Visitors to Varanasi often explore the city’s vibrant local markets, seeking out the renowned Banarasi silk sarees, intricate handicrafts, and an array of souvenirs.

These bustling marketplaces offer an immersive cultural experience, showcasing the region’s rich artistic heritage. Visitors can browse through stalls selling:

• Beautifully woven Banarasi sarees, known for their intricate brocade and gold/silver work
• Handcrafted brass and copper items, from statues to decorative plates
• Wooden carvings and sculptures depicting Hindu deities and motifs
• Colorful textile products, including shawls, scarves, and cushion covers
• Aromatic spices, teas, and Ayurvedic remedies

Navigating the crowded alleyways and bargaining with skilled merchants adds to the authentic charm of shopping in Varanasi’s lively markets.

Evening Aarti Ceremony

As evening falls over Varanasi, the sacred Ganges River comes alive with the mesmerizing Aarti ceremony.

Devotees gather at Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the city’s most prominent ghats, to witness this captivating ritual. The air is filled with the scent of incense, the glow of floating lamps, and the chanting of Sanskrit mantras.

Priests perform intricate movements with brass lamps, creating a mesmerizing display of light and shadow. Onlookers watch in awe as the ceremony unfolds, feeling a deep connection to the spiritual essence of Varanasi.

This evening ritual is a highlight for many visitors, offering a chance to immerse in the city’s timeless traditions.

Ganges River Cruise

Concluding the evening’s spiritual immersion, the Ganges River cruise offers a captivating journey along the sacred waterway.

As the boat gently glides along the river, travelers are treated to a mesmerizing display of illuminated ghats and temples, creating a serene and otherworldly ambiance.

The experience allows visitors to:

• Witness the vibrant evening Aarti ceremony from the water
• Observe the bustling activity along the riverbanks
• Gain a unique perspective of Varanasi’s architectural marvels
• Immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of the Ganges
• Capture stunning photographs of the enchanting riverside landscape.

This tranquil cruise provides a fitting finale to a day spent exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Varanasi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians/Vegans?

Yes, the tour is suitable for vegetarians/vegans. The itinerary includes a traditional vegetarian lunch at a local restaurant, catering to dietary preferences. Participants with specific dietary needs are advised to communicate them to the tour provider.

What if I Need to Use the Restroom During the Tour?

The tour operator provides access to restroom facilities at various stops throughout the day, allowing participants to use the restroom as needed without interrupting the scheduled activities. Guests are encouraged to communicate any special requirements to the guide.

Can I Take Photographs During the Temple Visits?

Guests can generally take photographs during temple visits, but they should be mindful of cultural sensitivities and avoid disrupting ceremonies or rituals. It’s best to ask the guide for guidance on appropriate photo-taking etiquette at each site.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour company offers a flexible 1-day itinerary, but customers can extend the duration for an additional fee. They’ll need to inquire about options to customize the tour length based on their needs and interests.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather?

In the event of inclement weather, the tour provider will work with customers to reschedule the tour or adjust the itinerary as needed. Flexibility is offered, and refunds are available if the tour can’t be rearranged.

Recap

Set out on a spiritual journey through Varanasi’s sacred sites and traditions. Witness ancient rituals at Assi Ghat, explore the majestic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and discover Sarnath’s serene Buddhist heritage. Enjoy the vibrant local markets and the captivating Aarti ceremony. Conclude the day with a breathtaking Ganges river cruise, where the illuminated ghats and temples create a mesmerizing ambiance.

You can check if your dates are available here: