Boat Ride on Ganges

A boat ride on the sacred Ganges River offers a truly unique experience in Varanasi. Your guide will take you to Dashashwamedh Ghat, the main ghat, where you'll board a private boat for a one-hour ride between Manikarnika Ghat and Harischandra Ghat. As you glide along the river, you'll witness a breathtaking sunrise, ancient palaces lining the banks, the vibrant laundrymen’s ghat, serene ashrams, colorful shrines, and traditional crematoriums. This journey provides a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural essence of Varanasi.

Temple (City) Tour

Varanasi, often called the "City of Temples," is home to numerous sacred sites, each steeped in history and spirituality. With your guide, you can comfortably explore some of the most significant temples:

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: The holiest temple in Varanasi, also known as the Golden Temple.
• Annapurna Temple and Vishalakshi Temple: Dedicated to the goddesses of nourishment and vision.
• Kaal Bhairav Temple: Honoring Bhairava, a fierce form of Lord Shiva.
• Birla Temple: Located within Banaras Hindu University, this modern temple is a marvel of architecture.
• Sankatmochan Temple: Devoted to Lord Hanuman, it is believed to alleviate troubles.
• Durga Temple: Known as the Monkey Temple due to its resident monkeys, it is a popular attraction.
• Bharat Mata Temple: Unique for its marble relief map of India, symbolizing national pride.

Sarnath

Sarnath, located just outside Varanasi, is where Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment in Bodh Gaya. This site is a major pilgrimage destination for Buddhists. Your guide will take you through key landmarks:

• Sri Lankan Temple: Admire the golden statue of Buddha and intricate wall paintings depicting his life.
• Dhamek Stupa: Built by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC, it marks the spot where Buddha gave his first sermon.
• Archaeological Museum of Sarnath: Discover India’s national emblem (the four lions) and ancient statues of Buddha and Hindu deities.
• Big Buddha Statue: An impressive 80-foot-tall statue that stands as a symbol of peace and enlightenment.

Ganga Aarti

The Ganga Aarti is a mesmerizing prayer ceremony held daily on the banks of the Ganges River. Performed by a group of young Hindu priests on a stage, the ritual begins with the chanting of hymns and the blowing of conch shells. Priests then offer prayers using incense, flowers, and fire, creating a soulful and captivating atmosphere. Around 12,000 pilgrims gather to witness this forty-five-minute-long ritual, which starts at 6:30 PM in winter (7:00 PM in summer), shortly after sunset.