Day 01: Arrival in Varanasi – Evening Ganga Aarti
Arriving at Varanasi, you will be transferred from the airport or railway station to your hotel. Once checked into your hotel, relax.
Later that same day you will be at the banks of the Ganges River where you will witness the Ganga Aarti taking place at the Dashashwamedh Ghat with its chants, lamps and rituals. This is a spiritual ceremony that will remain with you long after the ceremony ends. For an additional price, you have the option of viewing this ceremony from a boat. You will then return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Summary:
Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Day 02: Varanasi Sightseeing – Sarnath – Transfer to Bodhgaya
Begin your day early with an optional sunrise boat ride along the Ganges River where you’ll see all the early morning rituals performed by devotees such as praying to the sun, dipping into the Ganges to be blessed by the holy water, and witness the views of the famous ghats in Varanasi from the water.
After the boat ride visit several temples and important landmarks including: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Annapurna Temple, Bharat Mata Mandir, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, Durga Temple (Manas Mandir), and Banaras Hindu University. Afterwards return to your hotel for breakfast.
In the afternoon depart to visit Sarnath, where after attaining enlightenment Buddha returned to give his first sermon.
On your visit you will see key attractions including Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Archaeological Museum.
After your trip to Sarnath you will drive approximately 300 km (6 hours) to Bodgaya. When you arrive you will check into your hotel. Later in the evening you will go to see the Mahabodhi Temple and the holy Bodhi Tree where Buddha attained enlightenment. You will spend the night at your hotel in Bodhgaya.
Summary:
- Optional sunrise boat ride on the Ganges
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple; Annapurna Temple; Bharat Mata Mandir; Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple; Banaras Hindu University; Sarnath Sr. Dhamek Stupa; Chaukhandi Stupa; Archaeological Museum; Mahabodhi Temple; Bodhi Tree.
Day 03: Bodhgaya – Gaya – Return to Varanasi
Proceed to Gaya (12 km) following breakfast, where you will visit the holy Vishnupad Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and contains his heavenly footprints.
Next, you will see various Buddhist temples around Bodhgaya, including Japanese and Chinese monasteries as well as Tibetan monasteries. You should also stop by the peaceful Phalgu River, a substantial holy site for many people.
Lastly, drive back to Varanasi and check into your overnight accommodation upon arrival.
Summary:
– Vishnupad Temple (Gaya)
– Japanese, Chinese & Tibetan Temples
– Phalgu River
Day 04: Departure from Varanasi
After breakfast, enjoy some leisure time or last-minute shopping. Later, you will be transferred to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.
Summary:
- Drop to Airport/Railway Station
