Varanasi: Private Full-Day Tour With Sarnath and Boat Ride

Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, beckons travelers with its rich cultural heritage and captivating sights. The Varanasi: Private Full-Day Tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to witness the city’s iconic landmarks and partake in its sacred traditions. From the serene boat ride on the Ganges River at sunrise to the profound visit to the historic Sarnath, this tour promises a deep dive into the essence of this remarkable destination. With a well-curated itinerary and inclusions that cater to both cultural and culinary interests, this tour presents an opportunity to uncover the layers of Varanasi’s unique charm.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In India.

Key Points

• This private full-day tour in Varanasi includes a boat ride on the Ganges River, visits to Hindu and Buddhist sites, and cultural experiences like the Ganga Aarti ceremony.
• The tour covers significant landmarks like the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, notable ghats, and the Banaras Hindu University, providing a comprehensive exploration of Varanasi’s spiritual and academic heritage.
• The tour includes traditional North Indian cuisine for breakfast and lunch, as well as an opportunity to shop for Banarasi silk sarees and handicrafts at local markets.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues, and comfortable shoes are recommended to navigate the historic city.
• The tour package includes transportation, a live guide, and boat rides, with personal expenses and entry tickets being extra.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The private full-day tour of Varanasi provides an immersive experience, featuring a Ganges River boat ride and visits to iconic Hindu and Buddhist sites.

Priced from $89.20 per person, the tour lasts one day and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve the tour now and pay later.

The tour includes transportation, a live guide, and a boat ride, but personal expenses and entry tickets are extra.

It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, and large bags or luggage aren’t allowed. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Itinerary Highlights

Kicking off the day with an early morning boat ride on the Ganges River at sunrise, the tour delivers captivating glimpses of the sacred waterway. Guests will then explore the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, before venturing to notable ghats along the river, including Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat.

Noteworthy Sites	Key Features
Banaras Hindu University	Asia’s largest university
Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum	Showcases rich Indian heritage
Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Sarnath Archaeological Museum	Significant Buddhist landmarks

The tour concludes with a visit to the historic town of Sarnath, a renowned Buddhist site, where guests can enjoy the region’s spiritual and cultural legacy.

Meals and Leisure Activities

Throughout the day, guests will enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of North Indian cuisine.

For lunch, they’ll be treated to a spread of classic North Indian dishes, providing a true taste of the region.

The tour also includes an evening of shopping at local markets, where visitors can browse the vibrant selection of Banarasi silk sarees, intricate handicrafts, and unique souvenirs to take home.

To conclude the day, guests will dine at a local restaurant, seeing the cultural experience.

• Indulge in a traditional North Indian lunch
• Browse the bustling local markets for authentic souvenirs
• Conclude the day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant

Cultural Experiences

Beyond the culinary delights and shopping excursions, the Private Full-Day Tour of Varanasi offers immersive cultural experiences that immerse guests in the rich spiritual heritage of the city. The highlight of the tour is the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat, where travelers can witness a grand ritual involving fire, chants, and devotional songs. Guests can also explore the vibrant atmosphere of the ghat, observing the lively activity and interacting with locals. These cultural experiences provide a deeper understanding of Varanasi’s profound connection to the Ganges River and the Hindu faith.

Cultural Experiences	Description
Ganga Aarti Ceremony	Witness a grand ritual involving fire, chants, and devotional songs
Dashashwamedh Ghat	Explore the vibrant atmosphere and interact with locals
Spiritual Heritage	Gain a deeper understanding of Varanasi’s connection to the Ganges River and Hinduism
Immersive Experience	Fully immerse in the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of the city
Meaningful Engagement	Engage with the local culture and customs for a profound experience

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Inclusions and Important Information

The Private Full-Day Tour of Varanasi includes a comprehensive set of services and accommodations to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for guests.

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, a private air-conditioned car for sightseeing, and a live tour guide in multiple languages.

Plus, the package covers boat rides, toll taxes, parking fees, and a mineral water bottle.

However, it’s important to note that:

• Personal expenses and entry tickets aren’t included.
• The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.
• Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and avoid bringing large bags or luggage.

Early Morning Boat Ride

The tour begins with an early morning boat ride on the sacred Ganges River as the sun rises over the ancient city of Varanasi.

Gliding along the river, visitors get a unique perspective of the historic ghats and the devout Hindus performing their daily rituals. The boat ride provides a serene and peaceful start to the day, allowing travelers to experience the spiritual essence of Varanasi.

As the boat drifts along the calm waters, the sights and sounds of the city come alive, from the chanting of mantras to the ringing of temple bells. This tranquil boat ride sets the tone for the rest of the immersive tour.

Visiting Banaras Hindu University

Next, the tour visits Banaras Hindu University, one of Asia’s largest universities.

As the group explores the campus, they’ll discover:

• The impressive Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, which houses an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts reflecting the rich cultural heritage of India.

• The diverse student population, representing various backgrounds and faiths, reflecting the university’s commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence.

• The striking architectural blend of traditional Indian and British colonial styles, creating a unique and visually captivating environment.

The visit to Banaras Hindu University provides an opportunity to gain insights into India’s vibrant academic landscape and the country’s deep-rooted cultural traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

This is a private tour, so there is no specified maximum group size. The tour is tailored to the needs of the individual or small group booking the experience.

Can Children Participate in the Ganga Aarti Ritual?

Yes, children can typically participate in the Ganga Aarti ritual. The ceremony is open to all visitors, and families often attend together to experience this important cultural and spiritual event in Varanasi.

Is It Possible to Customize the Itinerary to Fit Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to fit specific interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who can adapt the schedule to accommodate personal interests and requirements within the tour duration.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Avoiding overly revealing or casual attire is recommended to respect local customs.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?

Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks during the tour. The tour includes a traditional breakfast, lunch, and dinner at local restaurants. Outside food and drinks are not permitted.

Recap

The Varanasi: Private Full-Day Tour offers an immersive experience of India’s spiritual heart. Visitors can enjoy a serene boat ride on the Ganges River, explore Sarnath’s significant Buddhist site, and witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony. With visits to iconic landmarks, cultural highlights, and traditional North Indian meals, this tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the rich heritage of Varanasi.

You can check if your dates are available here: