Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, beckons travelers to enjoy its rich cultural legacy. The Private Varanasi Temple Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the city’s sacred sites, from a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges to visits to iconic temples like Kashi Vishwanath. Guided by an English-speaking expert, this comprehensive 10-hour journey provides insights into ancient rituals and vibrant local customs. As the day concludes with the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, visitors can’t help but be captivated by the enduring allure of this timeless city. What awaits those who embark on this transformative adventure?

Key Points

Varanasi: Private Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath - Key Points

  • A private 10-hour Varanasi Temple tour that includes a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, visits to Kashi Vishwanath and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temples, and exploration of Sarnath.
  • The tour is priced at $76.21 per person and provides round-trip transportation with an English-speaking guide available in multiple languages.
  • Key highlights include observing local morning rituals, visiting the Jyotirlinga of Shiva at Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and exploring the historic site of Sarnath.
  • The tour includes a visit to the Banaras Hindu University and concludes with the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dasaswamedh Ghat.
  • The tour offers a free cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option, ensuring a convenient booking experience.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Varanasi: Private Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath - Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour provides a comprehensive private Varanasi Temple experience, covering the city’s most significant Hindu worship sites over 10 hours.

Priced at $76.21 per person, the tour includes a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, visits to Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Banaras Hindu University, and Sarnath, where Buddha first taught Dharma.

Transportation and an English-speaking guide are also provided. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy or the reserve now, pay later option.

The tour starts early at 5:30 AM and excludes meals, but bottled water and hotel pickup/drop-off are included.

Itinerary Highlights

Varanasi: Private Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath - Itinerary Highlights

As the tour begins, guests are treated to a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River, where they can observe the captivating morning rituals performed by the locals.

The tour then visits the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a significant Hindu worship site housing the Jyotirlinga of Shiva.

Next, guests explore the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, established by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya.

The tour also includes a visit to the Banaras Hindu University, founded in 1916 and popular among travelers.

In Sarnath, guests see the Dhamekh Stupa and the Sarnath Museum, where Buddha first taught the Dharma.

The day ends with the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dasaswamedh Ghat.

Transportation and Guide

Varanasi: Private Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath - Transportation and Guide

For the Private Varanasi Temple Tour, round-trip transportation with air conditioning is provided.

Pickup and drop-off are available from the Varanasi railway station, Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, and your hotel.

The tour also includes an English-speaking guide who can provide live commentary. Guides are available in other languages as well, including Spanish, Italian, Russian, French, and Japanese.

With the combination of private transportation and knowledgeable guides, you’ll be able to navigate the holy city of Varanasi and its iconic temples with ease and comfort throughout the day-long tour.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Varanasi: Private Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath - Inclusions and Exclusions

The Private Varanasi Temple Tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle for round-trip transportation, a morning boat ride on the Ganges River, bottled water, and a local guide. However, the tour excludes food, drinks, gratuities, and entry fees. To help visualize the inclusions and exclusions, see the table below:

Inclusions Exclusions
Air-conditioned vehicle Food
Morning boat ride Drinks
Bottled water Gratuities
Local guide Entry fees
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Morning Boat Ride on Ganges

Varanasi: Private Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath - Morning Boat Ride on Ganges

The morning boat ride on the Ganges River is a highlight of the Private Varanasi Temple Tour. Guests will witness the ancient spiritual rituals and customs of the local people.

As the sun rises, the riverbanks come alive with devotees bathing, praying, and performing ceremonies. The serene waters reflect the vibrant colors of the ghats, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere.

This peaceful journey on the Ganges provides a unique opportunity to observe the daily life and practices of the holy city of Varanasi. The boat ride sets the tone for the day’s exploration of the city’s renowned temples and sacred sites.

Visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Varanasi: Private Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath - Visit to Kashi Vishwanath Temple

Visitors enter the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of Varanasi’s most sacred Hindu sites, through the newly constructed Kashi Vishwanath Corridor.

The temple houses the Jyotirlinga of Shiva, a revered symbol of the Hindu deity. Devotees crowd around the sanctum sanctorum, chanting prayers and making offerings.

The temple’s intricate architecture, adorned with ornate carvings and gold-plated spires, captivates visitors. As they move through the temple, they witness the vibrant rituals and devotion of the worshippers.

The Kashi Vishwanath Temple stands as a powerful symbol of Varanasi’s spiritual legacy, drawing pilgrims from across India to experience its sacred atmosphere.

Exploration of Sarnath Sites

Varanasi: Private Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath - Exploration of Sarnath Sites

After exploring the renowned Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the tour proceeds to the serene city of Sarnath, just a short drive from Varanasi.

This historic site marks the location where Buddha first taught the Dharma, or Buddhist teachings. Visitors will see the Dhamekh Stupa, a massive stone monument dating back to the 5th century, as well as the Sarnath Museum, which houses a stunning collection of Buddhist artifacts and sculptures.

The tour also includes a visit to the tranquil Deer Park, where Buddha gave his first sermon.

This comprehensive exploration of Sarnath’s spiritual and cultural heritage provides a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history.

Evening Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Varanasi: Private Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath - Evening Ganga Aarti Ceremony

As the day winds down, the Evening Ganga Aarti ceremony draws crowds to the renowned Dasaswamedh Ghat. This spiritual event honors the sacred Ganges River with the lighting of lamps, rhythmic chanting, and exhilarating music. Devotees and visitors alike gather to witness this captivating display, which symbolizes the divine connection between humanity and the natural world. The ceremony offers a mesmerizing conclusion to the day’s exploration of Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage.

Ceremony Details
Time 6:00 PM Duration: 1 hr
Location Dasaswamedh Ghat On the Ganges
Significance Worship of Ganga Lighting Lamps

Frequently Asked Questions

Varanasi: Private Varanasi Temple Tour With Sarnath - Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, you can customize the tour itinerary to your preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to accommodate your interests and adjust the schedule accordingly, within the overall tour duration of 10 hours.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?

The best time of year to take this tour is during the dry season, typically between October and April, when the weather is mild and comfortable for exploring Varanasi’s temples and cultural sites.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?

This tour doesn’t seem to offer any advertised discounts or special offers. However, customers can take advantage of the ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option to book their spot without immediate payment.

Can I Bring Personal Belongings on the Boat Ride?

Yes, you can bring personal belongings on the boat ride. The tour includes a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River, and passengers are allowed to bring items like sunglasses, towels, and other small personal items with them.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour provides accessibility for individuals with disabilities. It offers private transportation and a guide who can assist guests as needed. However, the historic temples and sites may have uneven terrain or stairs that could present challenges.

Recap

The Private Varanasi Temple Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the spiritual heart of India. Visitors can experience the serene beauty of the Ganges at sunrise, enjoy the ancient rituals of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and discover the historical significance of Sarnath. The tour culminates in the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, providing a profound connection to Varanasi’s rich cultural legacy. Comfortable transportation and an English-speaking expert guide ensure a seamless and enlightening journey.

You can check if your dates are available here: