Day 01: Arrive in Varanasi & Take part in the Evening Ganga Aarti
Upon arrival at either an airport or railway station, you’ll have a member of our team greet you and assist you to check in and relax at your Varanasi hotel.
After a long day of travel, we hope you will end your journey in Varanasi by enjoying the experience of Ganga Aarti. As you make your way to the banks of the sacred Ganges River to participate in the Ganga Aarti ceremony you will be amazed by this beautiful event. The beautiful lighted lamps surrounded by the hundreds of people gathered there for prayer, the powerful energy of the chanting of the priests, and the sacredness of this location means that this will be an experience that you will never forget. If you wish, you will have the opportunity to watch the Aarti ceremony from a boat (optional – cost is additional).
Today you will spend the night in Varanasi.
Approx Times that Ganga Aarti is Held:
Summer: 7 PM – 7:30 PM
Winter: 6 PM – 7 PM
Day 02: Sunrise Boat Ride, Temple Tour & Sarnath Visit
In the early morning, you will take a serene boat ride along the Ganges River as the sun rises. You will observe how the local people perform rituals on the ghat and pray to establish the spiritual rhythm of their lives.
After breakfast, you will visit several temples, including the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Annapurna Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and Tulsi Manas Mandir. You will also drive past the famous Banaras Hindu University campus.
In the afternoon, we will depart for Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon at Deer Park. You will visit the Dhamek Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, and the Archaeological Museum.
Enjoy the evening exploring or shopping in the wonderful markets of Varanasi.
Overnight in the hotel.
Day 03: Varanasi to Ayodhya to Prayagraj
After breakfast early in the morning, you drive to Ayodhya, where Lord Rama was born. This holy city is located on the banks of the River Sarayu and is considered holy by many different religions.
You’ll get a chance to visit major places in the city including Hanuman Garhi, Kanak Bhawan and the Ramkatha Museum. You can also learn more about the heritage of the city and its connection with Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism.
Then finally at the end of your journey, you will continue to Prayagraj (Allahabad), check into your hotel and relax for the rest of the night.
Day 04: Visit Sites in Prayagraj, Return to Varanasi
After breakfast go to Triveni Sangam; the location where Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati Rivers meet. Perform rituals at this point of spiritual importance.
Next visit Main Attractions: Hanuman Temple, Anand Bhawan, Swaraj Bhawan; If you have time you will be able to visit: Chandrashekhar Azad Park and /or Khusro Bagh.
Drive back to Varanasi in the evening and Check in to hotel for the night.
Day 05 (Departure from Varanasi)
After breakfast, enjoy your last morning leisurely as you prepare for departure. You will be transferred to either (a) the Varanasi airport or (b) the railway station in Varanasi for your onward journey.
Leave with memories of peace and a stronger bond to the spiritual heritage of India.
