Varanasi, India’s spiritual capital, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. The Varanasi: Private City Highlights Day Tour with Sarnath promises an immersive exploration of this ancient city’s iconic landmarks and timeless rituals. From a serene sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to the UNESCO-listed Sarnath, this tour guides visitors through Varanasi’s most captivating experiences. With expert local commentary, travelers can uncover the stories behind the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University, and the region’s remarkable Buddhist legacy. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment or simply a deeper understanding of India’s vibrant culture, this comprehensive tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the heart of Varanasi.

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

Key Points

Varanasi: Private City Highlights Day Tour With Sarnath. - Key Points

  • A 14-hour private city highlights tour in Varanasi, covering key attractions like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University, and Sarnath.
  • Tour includes a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River and witnessing morning rituals at Assi Ghat.
  • Guided experience led by an official local guide approved by the Ministry of Tourism, ensuring a wealth of knowledge and insightful commentary.
  • Tour price includes lunch, gratuities, monument fees, boat ride, and other activity costs, with a reserve now & pay later option available.
  • Comprehensive exploration of Varanasi’s spiritual heart, combining guided experience with a carefully curated itinerary for a memorable day.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Varanasi: Private City Highlights Day Tour With Sarnath. - Tour Overview and Pricing

The private city highlights day tour in Varanasi offers a comprehensive sightseeing package priced at £72.24 per group (up to 1 participant) and lasts for 14 hours.

Travelers can cancel the tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

The tour includes a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River, visits to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Banaras Hindu University, and a trip to the Sarnath archaeological site.

Transportation is provided in a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle, and the tour is guided by an official local guide approved by the Ministry of Tourism and ETAA.

Itinerary and Activities

Varanasi: Private City Highlights Day Tour With Sarnath. - Itinerary and Activities

The private city highlights day tour in Varanasi kicks off with an early morning pickup at 5:30 am from the participant’s hotel.

The tour begins with a sunrise boat ride on the sacred Ganges River, followed by witnessing the morning rituals at Assi Ghat.

Next, visitors tour the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple and explore the old city’s alleyways on foot.

After a breakfast stop, the tour heads to Banaras Hindu University, the largest university campus in Asia.

Participants then visit the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum and the new Vishwanath Temple.

The day concludes with a drive to Sarnath to see the Dhamekh Stupa and the Archaeological Museum, followed by the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Transportation and Services

Varanasi: Private City Highlights Day Tour With Sarnath. - Transportation and Services

This private city highlights day tour in Varanasi provides luxury private car transportation for the city sightseeing.

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable journey throughout the day. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it hassle-free for participants.

Along the way, the tour provides complimentary bottled water to keep guests hydrated.

The guided experience is led by an official local guide approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and the Enterprising Travel Agents Association.

With this comprehensive transportation and services package, visitors can focus on seeing the rich cultural and historical wonders of Varanasi without the worry of logistics.

Guided Experience

To enhance the immersive experience, this private city highlights tour in Varanasi is led by an official local guide approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and the Enterprising Travel Agents Association.

The guide is fluent in both English and Spanish, ensuring seamless communication with all participants. Offering a wealth of knowledge about the city’s history, culture, and landmarks, the guide provides insightful commentary throughout the tour, enriching the visitors’ understanding and appreciation of Varanasi’s vibrant heritage.

This guided experience, combined with the carefully curated itinerary, ensures a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the spiritual heart of India.

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Inclusions and Additional Costs

Varanasi: Private City Highlights Day Tour With Sarnath. - Inclusions and Additional Costs

This private city highlights tour in Varanasi includes several key services and amenities to provide a comprehensive and seamless experience for participants.

The tour price covers lunch, gratuities, and all monument fees, boat ride, and other activity costs. Bottled water is provided throughout the day. Participants can select their preferred date and the number of attendees.

The tour is approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and the Enterprising Travel Agents Association, ensuring quality and safety standards.

Exploring Kashi Vishwanath Temple

At the heart of Varanasi’s spiritual tapestry lies the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a sacred site that has drawn devotees for centuries.

The temple’s golden domed structure is an iconic landmark, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Pilgrims flock here to offer prayers, bathe in the holy Ganges, and experience the vibrant rituals.

The temple’s history dates back to the 11th century, though it’s been rebuilt numerous times. Visitors can explore the intricate carvings, witness the ancient chants, and enjoy the palpable devotion that permeates the temple’s atmosphere.

The tour of this spiritual epicenter offers a profound glimpse into Varanasi’s enduring religious traditions.

Witnessing Morning Rituals

As the sun rises over the holy city, visitors are drawn to the Assi Ghat, where they can witness the captivating morning rituals unfold.

Locals gather at the riverbank to perform their daily ablutions, chanting prayers and offering flowers to the sacred Ganges. The air is filled with the scent of incense and the sound of bells ringing.

Visitors observe in awe as the devout Hindus engage in their spiritual practices, creating a mesmerizing display of faith and tradition.

This serene moment on the Ganges sets the tone for the day’s exploration of Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage.

Discovering Sarnath’s Treasures

What awaits visitors at the historic Sarnath, just a short drive from Varanasi? This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the Dhamekh Stupa, a massive brick tower dating back to the 5th century BC.

Nearby, the Archaeological Museum houses a wealth of 3rd-century BC treasures, including the famous Ashoka Pillar with its iconic four-headed lion capital, now India’s national emblem.

Guests will discover the ruins of ancient monasteries and temples, seeing the site’s profound Buddhist heritage.

The museum’s impressive collection of sculptures, carvings, and inscriptions offers a captivating window into Sarnath’s storied past as a center of Buddhist learning and pilgrimage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Varanasi: Private City Highlights Day Tour With Sarnath. - Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your interests. You can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary and focus on the sites and activities that most appeal to you.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

The tour is private and priced per group, allowing for up to 1 person. This provides a customized and intimate experience tailored to the traveler’s interests and preferences.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Entering the Temples?

The tour includes all monument fees, so there are no additional costs for entering the temples. The package covers entrance fees to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum.

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Photography is generally not allowed inside the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Visitors should respect the sanctity of the temple and follow the instructions of the temple authorities. However, photography may be permitted in certain designated areas outside the main shrine.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

Yes, the tour can be extended if needed. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing participants to customize the duration to suit their preferences and needs. Additional fees may apply for extending the tour.

Recap

This immersive Varanasi tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s spiritual heritage. From the serene Ganges boat ride to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the UNESCO-listed Sarnath, participants are treated to a comprehensive exploration of Varanasi’s most significant landmarks. Guided by local experts, the tour provides a unique opportunity to witness the city’s timeless traditions and rituals, leaving visitors with a deeper understanding of India’s spiritual heartland.

You can check if your dates are available here: