Full Day Sightseeing of Varanasi 1 Day in Varanasi

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1
  Ganges River

  Early morning at around 5:00 AM, you will be picked up from your hotel and proceed to the sacred Ganges River for a memorable sunrise boat ride. Enjoy the beautiful views of Varanasi from the river as the city slowly awakens. The combination of spirituality, culture, and breathtaking sunrise scenery creates an unforgettable experience along the Ganges. After the boat ride, return to your hotel with wonderful memories of the spiritual morning in Varanasi.

  2 hours • Admission ticket free
• 2
  Kashi Vishwanath Temple

  Visit the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most revered Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Located in the holy city of Varanasi on the banks of the Ganges, the temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds immense spiritual significance for devotees. Experience the divine atmosphere and seek blessings at one of India's most sacred pilgrimage sites.

  2 hours • Admission ticket free
• 3
  Banaras Hindu University

  Stop for breakfast at your own expense before heading to Banaras Hindu University (BHU) at around 10:00 AM. Established in 1916, BHU is one of India’s most prestigious universities and is renowned for its vast, beautiful campus and rich academic heritage.

  1 hour • Admission ticket free
• 4
  Sarnath

  Sarnath is a historic Buddhist pilgrimage site located about 10 kilometres northeast of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, near the confluence of the Ganges and Varuna rivers. The Deer Park at Sarnath holds immense significance in Buddhism. It is believed to be the place where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon, known as the Dharmachakra Pravartana or “Turning of the Wheel of Dharma.” It was here that the Buddhist Sangha came into existence following the enlightenment of his first disciple, Kondanna.

  1 hour • Admission ticket included
• 5
  Ashoka Pillar

  The Ashoka Pillars are a remarkable collection of stone pillars commissioned by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka during his reign, between approximately 268 and 232 BCE, across the Indian subcontinent. These pillars reflect Ashoka’s powerful reign and his transformation from a great conqueror to a patron of Buddhism and peace. Originally erected at important locations throughout his empire, many pillars were damaged or destroyed over the centuries, while several remain standing today. The Ashoka Pillars are among the earliest surviving examples of monumental stone inscriptions in India.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 6
  Dhamekh Stupa, Sarnath

  The Dhamek Stupa is one of the most important and impressive monuments in Sarnath, renowned for its great historical and spiritual significance. It marks the sacred site where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment, setting in motion the Wheel of Dharma. It was here that Buddha taught the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path, the path leading towards the end of suffering and ultimately to Nirvana. The massive cylindrical structure rises approximately 43 metres high and has a diameter of around 28 metres. The lower portion is beautifully decorated with intricate stone carvings and geometric patterns, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of ancient India.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket included
• 7
  Ganga Aarti

  Later, just before sunset, get ready for one of the most memorable experiences of your Varanasi journey. You will be taken to the sacred River Ganges to witness the spectacular Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, with an optional boat ride for a truly unforgettable view from the river. The evening ceremony generally begins around 7:00 PM, creating a magical atmosphere as the ghats come alive with devotional music, ringing bells, drums, cymbals, and Sanskrit chants. During the Aarti, young priests dressed in traditional silk saffron and white robes perform synchronized rituals using large ceremonial lamps. The ceremony begins with offerings of flowers and prayers to the sacred River Ganga, which is revered by Hindus as Goddess Ganga. Watching hundreds of lamps illuminate the river as the chants and bells echo across the ghats is a deeply spiritual and mesmerizing experience.

  1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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