Varanasi and Sarnath Same-Day Tour with Boat Ride

Guided

Pickup Offered

Private Tour

Skip The Line Entry

Free Cancellation

Description

Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest living cities, with a full-day tour that blends spirituality, history, and vibrant culture. Begin your journey with a peaceful sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River, explore the sacred temples and bustling lanes of the Old City, witness the scholarly grandeur of Banaras Hindu University, and visit the sacred Buddhist site of Sarnath. End your day with the spectacular Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat – an experience that stays with you forever. Perfect for travellers seeking to experience the spiritual essence and cultural richness of Kashi/Varanasi in a single day

Tour Highlights

  • Sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River.
  • Walk through Varanasi’s historic Old City.
  • Visit Banaras Hindu University, Durga Temple, and Bharat Mata Temple.
  • Experience traditional Banarasi silk weaving.
  • Half-day excursion to Sarnath, a major Buddhist site.
  • Witness the enchanting Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

What is included / not included

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Tour Plan

5:30 am – Sunrise Boat Ride on the Ganges River

Begin your day with a soul-stirring boat ride on the sacred Ganges River. As the sun rises, watch the golden rays illuminate the ancient ghats and temples of Varanasi. Capture pilgrims performing morning rituals, priests offering prayers, and the mesmerising reflections of the cityscape on the holy waters. A truly divine way to start your day.

Breakfast (Own Expense)

After your boat ride, enjoy a hearty local breakfast at a riverside café or traditional eatery. Savour authentic flavours of Varanasi while soaking in the morning charm.

Walk Through the Narrow Lanes Old City & Temples

Wander through the bustling maze-like alleys of Varanasi’s Old City. Discover centuries-old temples, local bazaars, chai stalls, and artisans at work, offering endless opportunities for photography and cultural exploration.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU) – 10:00 am

Visit Asia’s largest residential university, founded in 1916. Explore the vast campus and admire the architecture of the New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple), a modern marvel inspired by the original Kashi Vishwanath.

Durga Temple (Monkey Temple)

Visit the vibrant Durga Temple, popularly known as the Monkey Temple, with its striking red façade and deep spiritual significance.

Bharat Mata Temple

Explore this unique temple dedicated to Mother India, housing a marble relief map of the Indian subcontinent instead of traditional idols – a symbol of unity and patriotism.

Silk Weaving Experience

Learn about Varanasi’s famed Banarasi silk weaving tradition, admired worldwide for its rich patterns and exquisite craftsmanship. Witness artisans creating delicate sarees and fabrics.

Lunch (Own Expense)

Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant serving authentic North Indian thalis or international cuisine.

Visit Sarnath – The Land of Buddha’s First Sermon

After lunch, drive to Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s most revered pilgrimage sites. Explore the Dhamek Stupa and ruins of ancient monasteries. See the famous Ashoka Pillar, a symbol of Emperor Ashoka’s devotion. Stroll through the tranquil gardens and absorb the spiritual atmosphere where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after enlightenment. Visit the Sarnath Museum (optional) to admire ancient artefacts, sculptures, and relics of Buddhist heritage.

Tea Break (Own Expense)

Return to Varanasi and relax with a refreshing tea break by the riverside.

Sunset & Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat

End your day with the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat. Watch priests perform elaborate rituals with oil lamps, incense, chanting, and rhythmic movements. The spectacle of glowing diyas, ringing bells, and devotional music creates a magical aura as the evening settles over the Ganges. A truly unforgettable moment of divine connection.

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Additional Information

  • A current and valid passport is required on the day of travel.
  • This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
  • The dress code is smart casual. Please note that shorts or sleeveless tops are not recommended when visiting temples.
  • A moderate amount of walking is involved. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
  • Most travelers can participate; however, this tour may not be suitable for individuals with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

Meals

All meals will be provided as specified in the itinerary. Please inform us of any food allergies or dietary sensitivities at the time of booking or contact the trip host in advance.

We always do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions; however, we cannot guarantee that all dietary requirements can be accommodated.

Terms and Conditions

  • The tour will be confirmed only after receiving a 50% advance payment. The remaining balance must be paid before the commencement of the tour.
  • Any hotel or package booking will remain tentative until the required advance payment has been received and the booking is confirmed on a guaranteed basis.
  • A 15% transaction fee will be charged for cancellations made between 45 and 30 days prior to the scheduled booking date.
  • 50% cancellation charges will apply to cancellations made within the last 30 days before the scheduled tour date.
  • 100% cancellation charges will apply in case of a No Show.
  • Cancellation requests must be made by contacting us at +91 99291 52946 / +91 97846 11046 and by sending an email to inquiry@januprivatetours.com. Cancellations made through any other means will not be entertained.
  • Our 24-hour helpline is available at +91 99291 52946 / +91 97846 11046.
  • In the event of an increase in the cost of hotels, airfare, transportation, government taxes, fuel, or other applicable charges, the additional cost will be payable by the traveler.
  • We accept payments through Razorpay, PayPal, and Credit Cards. Applicable transaction charges and GST will be charged as per the prevailing policies and government regulations.
  • After the tour or service cost has been finalized, any increase in monument or museum entrance fees, taxes, fuel costs, or guide charges imposed by the Government of India or the Rajasthan State Government will be charged additionally.
  • The cost of travel insurance, personal insurance, medical emergencies, and any other personal expenses will be borne by the traveler.

Our Liabilities & Limitations

Please note that after the tour or service cost has been finalized, any increase in monument or museum entrance fees, taxes, fuel costs, or guide charges imposed by the Government of India or the Rajasthan State Government will be charged additionally.

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