Day 01: Arriving in Varanasi and attending the Ganga Aarti
Begin your first day of this Varanasi Tour with transfer from the airport or railway station to your hotel. If you arrive early enough, use this time to get settled into your room and take some time to unwind prior to the evening of day one.
In the evening, you will be transported to the Dashashwamedh Ghat, where you will witness the Ganga Aarti located along the banks of the Ganges River. The Ganga Aarti is a beautiful spiritual ceremony performed with chants, lamps, & rituals while incorporating various instruments that will provide you a glimpse into Varanasi’s religious and cultural way of life.
You can also take the option of viewing the Aarti from a boat. Afterwards, go back to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
Ganga Aarti Timings (estimates based on dates):
Winters: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Summers: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Day 02 Itinerary – Mangala Aarti & Temple Tour, Sarnath Outing
Rise early (approximately between 2 – 3 AM) and depart to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple for a divine Aarti, one of the most sacred rituals honoring Lord Shiva, and a must-see in Varanasi.
Recommendations for Participating in the Aarti:
- Purchase tickets at least one day in advance (approximately 300 INR/ person)
- Bring your identification for entry
- Book your cab ahead of time since transportation is limited during early morning hours
After the Aarti, you will return to your hotel for breakfast.
Explore all of Varanasi’s significant temples – Annapurna Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Durga Temple – Manas Mandir, and Banaras Hindu University – before heading out to see Sarnath, where The Buddha gave his first sermon at Deer Park. The Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa and Archaeology Museum are three of the major sites to visit in Sarnath.
Return to Varanasi for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 03 – Sunrise Boat Ride – Departure
Begin your morning with a peaceful boat ride along the Ganges River, and these peaceful low-light sunrises are often seen as some of the most beautiful times in Banaras. You will also witness devotional activities taking place on the ghats of the Ganges, all while you experience stunning sights from legendary locations (such as) Manikarnika Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Dashashwamedh Ghat.
After your sunrise boat ride, you will return to your hotel for breakfast before being transported to Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport or the railway station for your onward journey.
You will leave Varanasi with many memories of your unforgettable spiritual journey!
