Varanasi: Private Day Trip With Sarnath

Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, beckons visitors with its rich history and cultural significance. A private day trip to this sacred city, coupled with a visit to the nearby Sarnath, offers an immersive experience that delves into the origins of Buddhism and the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple. From a serene sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to savoring traditional North Indian cuisine, this personalized tour promises a memorable journey. With attention to detail and a maximum group size of 10, this excursion provides an opportunity to explore the spiritual and historical depths of this remarkable region.

Key Points

• This private day trip to Varanasi includes a boat ride on the Ganges, visit to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and an excursion to the Buddhist site of Sarnath.
• The tour is priced at ₹2,281 per person for a 12-hour experience and offers a personalized group size of up to 10 participants.
• The itinerary highlights cultural and culinary experiences, such as traditional North Indian breakfast, vegetarian thali lunch, and an optional Ganga Aarti ceremony in the evening.
• Included services cover hotel pickup/drop-off, live guide, morning boat ride, and skip-the-line entry to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
• The tour provides an immersive exploration of Varanasi’s spiritual heritage, architectural beauty, and vibrant street life.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This private day trip in Varanasi is priced at ₹2,281 per person and lasts for 12 hours.

Guests can enjoy a free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a reserve now and pay later option available.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a live guide, a morning boat ride, the Ganga Aarti ceremony, air-conditioned transportation, skip-the-line entry to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and a bottled water per person.

With a maximum group size of 10 participants, this private excursion provides a personalized experience in the holy city of Varanasi.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins with a captivating sunrise boat ride on the sacred Ganges River, offering visitors a unique perspective of Varanasi’s iconic ghats. After the boat ride, you’ll visit the renowned Dashashwamedh Ghat and have breakfast at a local eatery. The tour then takes you to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most significant Hindu temples. For lunch, you’ll enjoy a vegetarian thali at a local restaurant. The afternoon includes a drive to Sarnath, where you’ll explore the Buddhist monuments and museums. In the evening, you’ll return to Varanasi, with an optional Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Itinerary	Details
Morning	Sunrise boat ride, Dashashwamedh Ghat, breakfast
Mid-Morning	Kashi Vishwanath Temple visit
Lunch	Vegetarian thali at a local restaurant
Afternoon	Sarnath exploration
Evening	Return to Varanasi, optional Ganga Aarti

Included Services

The private day trip with Sarnath includes a range of services to ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

Travelers will enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off in Varanasi, as well as live tour guide services throughout the day. The package includes a morning boat ride on the Ganges River and the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony.

Sightseeing will be by air-conditioned vehicle, and travelers will skip the line to enter the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. A complimentary water bottle is provided, and all parking fees are included.

These comprehensive services allow visitors to focus on seeing the cultural and spiritual wonders of Varanasi and Sarnath.

Cultural and Culinary Experiences

Beyond the sights, the private day trip offers travelers a chance to enjoy the rich cultural and culinary experiences of Varanasi. Start the morning with a traditional North Indian breakfast – choose from options like poori sabzi, aloo paratha, or kachori paired with aromatic chai. In the evening, explore the bustling markets for souvenirs like silk sarees, Banarasi fabrics, jewelry, and spiritual items. Don’t miss the chance to sample the city’s vibrant street food scene, including chaat, lassi, malaiyyo, and paan.

Breakfast	Lunch	Dinner
Poori Sabzi	Vegetarian Thali	Chaat
Aloo Paratha	–	Lassi
Kachori	–	Malaiyyo
Chai	–	Paan

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges

Commencing the day’s journey, travelers embark on an enchanting sunrise boat ride along the revered Ganges River. As the sun’s first rays dance across the serene waters, one is immersed in the spiritual essence of Varanasi.

The boat excursion offers a unique perspective, allowing visitors to:

• Witness the ancient rituals and traditions unfolding along the ghats
• Observe the vibrant colors and bustling activity of the riverfront
• Appreciate the architectural beauty of the temples lining the banks
• Gain a deeper understanding of the river’s significance in Hindu culture
• Enjoy the tranquility and reflection amidst the spiritual atmosphere

This morning boat ride sets the tone for a captivating exploration of Varanasi’s rich heritage and sacred traditions.

Visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Following a rejuvenating boat ride, visitors make their way to the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple. This ancient Hindu temple is one of the most sacred sites in Varanasi, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Visitors will be granted special access to skip the lines and enter the temple’s inner sanctum. Inside, they’ll witness the gold-plated spire and intricate carvings that adorn the temple’s walls.

An experienced guide provides insights into the temple’s rich history and significance, helping visitors appreciate the spiritual significance of this hallowed place.

After the temple visit, guests continue their exploration of Varanasi’s cultural heritage.

Excursion to Sarnath

After exploring the spiritual heart of Varanasi at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the day trip continues with an excursion to the nearby town of Sarnath.

Located just 10 km from Varanasi, Sarnath is a revered Buddhist site where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visitors can explore the impressive archaeological remains, including the Dhamekh Stupa, the Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Ashoka Pillar.

The Sarnath Museum offers a comprehensive collection of Buddhist sculptures and artifacts. This peaceful oasis provides a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Varanasi, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich spiritual heritage of the region.

• Discover the birthplace of Buddhism
• Explore ancient stupas and archaeological ruins
• Visit the Sarnath Museum for a deeper understanding of Buddhist art and history
• Enjoy the serene atmosphere of this spiritual hub
• Gain insights into the life and teachings of Buddha

Optional Ganga Aarti Ceremony

As the day winds down in Varanasi, visitors have the opportunity to witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

This evening ritual, performed by Hindu priests, involves the offering of light, flowers, and prayers to the sacred Ganges River.

Travelers can participate in this spiritual experience, observing the rhythmic chanting, the flickering of oil lamps, and the mesmerizing dance of the flames.

The Ganga Aarti is a highlight for many visitors, providing a fitting conclusion to the day’s exploration of Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage.

Guests can choose to include this optional ceremony as part of their private day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?

The tour is available daily, though the schedule may vary depending on local events and religious festivals. Travelers should confirm the availability and timings with the tour operator before booking.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the activities and timings based on your interests and needs.

What Should I Bring for the Boat Ride on the Ganges?

Travelers should bring a lightweight jacket, hat, sunscreen, and camera for the boat ride on the Ganges. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring cash for any snacks or drinks.

Are There Any Entry Fees for the Temples and Museums?

The entry fees for the temples and museums in Varanasi are not included in the tour price. Visitors will need to pay the applicable fees on-site to access these attractions during the day trip.

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Kashi Vishwanath Temple?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, but visitors should avoid using flash and be respectful of the religious nature of the site. Some areas may have restrictions on photography.

Recap

This private day trip to Varanasi and Sarnath offers an immersive experience in India’s spiritual heart. Guests enjoy a serene Ganges boat ride, visits to revered temples and historical sites, and traditional North Indian cuisine. With personalized attention and a maximum group size of 10, this tour promises a memorable journey of cultural and spiritual discovery.

You can check if your dates are available here: