Varanasi: Private City Highlights Day Tour & Ganges Cruise

Varanasi, the spiritual heart of India, offers visitors a chance to enjoy its rich cultural heritage. The Private City Highlights Day Tour & Ganges Cruise promises an unforgettable journey through this ancient city’s sacred sites and vibrant traditions. From the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple to the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony, this tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Varanasi‘s essence. With knowledgeable guides, delectable local cuisine, and a serene boat ride on the Ganges, the experience promises to leave a lasting impression. Uncover the enchanting allure of Varanasi and discover why it’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper connection with India’s spiritual legacy.

Good To Know

• This private day tour in Varanasi covers the city’s key highlights, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Ganges ghats, and Bharat Mata Temple.
• The tour includes a serene boat ride on the Ganges and the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
• Guests can explore the spiritual and cultural legacy of Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon.
• The tour provides an opportunity to experience Varanasi’s vibrant markets, educational heritage, and artistic traditions.
• The tour offers free cancellation, a "reserve now, pay later" option, and accessibility considerations for those with mobility impairments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "Private City Highlights Day Tour & Ganges Cruise" offers an immersive exploration of Varanasi, a city steeped in rich cultural heritage.

Priced from ₹20,602 per person, this one-day tour provides a rundown of the city’s iconic landmarks and the sacred Ganges River. Guests can expect free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now, pay later" option.

The tour encompasses visits to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the ghats of the Ganges, and the Bharat Mata Temple, as well as a traditional lunch and a serene boat ride on the river.

The package also includes a Sarnath excursion, where guests can discover the site of Buddha’s first sermon.

Highlights of the City Tour

Beyond the tour pricing and overview, this private day tour offers an immersive exploration of Varanasi’s cultural and historical highlights.

Visitors will witness the grandeur of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, a significant Hindu site dedicated to Lord Shiva. The tour also includes visits to the iconic ghats of the Ganges River, where visitors can observe the daily rituals and vibrant life along the riverbanks.

Exploring the Bharat Mata Temple, with its remarkable marble map of India, provides a unique perspective on the country’s geography.

The tour culminates with a serene boat ride on the Ganges, capped off by the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Exploration of the Ghats

Numerous iconic ghats line the banks of the sacred Ganges River in Varanasi, each with its own distinct character and purpose.

Visitors will explore Dashashwamedh Ghat, the main ghat where the Ganga Aarti ceremony takes place. They’ll also visit Manikarnika Ghat, the principal cremation site, and Assi Ghat, a hub of spiritual and cultural activity.

Along the ghats, they’ll witness the daily rituals and routines of the locals, from bathing and washing clothes to performing puja ceremonies.

This firsthand experience provides a glimpse into the vibrant, centuries-old traditions that define the spiritual heart of Varanasi.

Visit to Sarnath

As part of the tour, visitors will venture to the historic site of Sarnath, located just a short distance from Varanasi.

It’s where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Guests will explore the Dhamek Stupa, an impressive stone monument dating back to the 5th century AD.

They’ll also visit the Ashoka Pillar, a famous sandstone pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka.

The Sarnath Archaeological Museum provides a deeper understanding of the site’s rich history and Buddhist heritage, housing an impressive collection of sculptures and artifacts.

This culturally significant excursion offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of the Buddha and take in the region’s profound spiritual legacy.

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Cultural and Educational Sites

Along With the spiritual sites, the private city highlights tour also takes visitors to cultural and educational institutions that showcase Varanasi’s rich heritage.

Travelers can explore the renowned Banaras Hindu University (BHU), which houses the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum. This museum boasts a vast collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles.

Visitors can also stroll through the local markets of Vishwanath Gali and Thatheri Bazaar, renowned for their Banarasi silk sarees and exquisite handicrafts.

These cultural experiences provide a deeper understanding of the city’s artistic and intellectual traditions.

• Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
• Bharat Kala Bhavan museum
• Vishwanath Gali
• Thatheri Bazaar

Ganges River Experience

After exploring the cultural and educational sites, the tour culminates in a serene boat ride on the revered Ganges River.

Gliding along the sacred waters, visitors witness the vibrant daily rituals and traditions that unfold along the riverbanks.

The tour then leads to the awe-inspiring Dashashwamedh Ghat, where guests attend the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony.

This spiritual event features mesmerizing chanting, fire offerings, and soothing music, providing a profound connection to the local culture.

The tour concludes with hassle-free pickup and drop-off in a private air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience throughout the day.

Inclusion in the Tour

The tour includes a comprehensive set of services and experiences to provide visitors with a seamless and enriching day.

The package includes:

• Pickup and drop-off in a private, air-conditioned vehicle
• A knowledgeable live tour guide to provide insights throughout the day
• Admission tickets to all the cultural and historical sites on the itinerary
• A traditional lunch at a local restaurant
• Bottled mineral water and the payment of all applicable taxes and fees

This all-inclusive approach ensures that travelers can fully enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of Varanasi without worrying about additional expenses or logistics.

Accessibility Considerations

While the tour includes a range of accessible features, it’s important to note that the excursion may not be suitable for individuals with significant mobility impairments.

The walking and exploration along the ghats and through the markets can be challenging for those with limited mobility. The boat ride on the Ganges also requires navigating steps.

The tour operator recommends discussing any accessibility needs prior to booking to ensure the experience aligns with individual capabilities.

The Sum Up

The Private City Highlights Day Tour & Ganges Cruise provides a comprehensive exploration of Varanasi’s sacred sites, offering an immersive cultural experience. Visitors can witness vibrant rituals, explore the iconic ghats, and enjoy a serene boat ride on the Ganges. With knowledgeable guides and delicious local cuisine, this tour promises an unforgettable journey into India’s spiritual heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: