Explore Varanasi on a private full-day tour that includes a sunrise and sunset boat ride (Hand Rowed Boat) on the Ganges River. Visit landmarks in and around Varanasi including Banaras Hindu University (BHU)'s Bharat Kala Bhavan museum, and Dhamekh Stupa in Sarnath — an important Buddhist site. Finally, watch the evening aarti ceremony from the sunset boat cruise.
Varanasi River Cruise Port, Airport, Railway Station, Your Hotel, or other desired location in Varanasi.
After early morning pickup at 5:30 am from your hotel or other desired location in Varanasi leave for a boat ride (Hand Rowed Boat) on the Ganges to see the bathing Ghats (river bank) & cremation site. Sunrise on the riverfront, as seen from a boat, can be a spiritually uplifting sight. The life on the Ghats bound in an endless string of rituals, ever-changing aspects of the river & the wide landscape across have fascinated visitors from all over the world.
One of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Vishveswara – Shiva as lord of the universe is the presiding deity of the city. The temple stands on the western bank of the holy river Ganga and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the holiest of Shiva temples. Later drive back to your hotel for breakfast.
Post breakfast visit Banaras Hindu University. Established in 1916, BHU is the largest university campus in Asia. Tour the campus and see the Bharat Kala Bhavan museum and the new Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple), which is an exact replica of the original Vishwanath Temple.
Dedicated to the goddess who represents all the goddesses in the India culture. In other words, it can said that Bharat Mata personifies India as a mother goddess. Instead of traditional statues of gods and goddesses, this temple has a huge map of undivided India carved in marble. Later learn about the silk weaving traditions of Varanasi, then take a break for lunch (own expense).
One of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage centers. After attaining the Enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, it was here that Lord Buddha preached his first sermon, sanctified as Maha Dharm Chakra Pravartan. The great Dhamekh Stupa and several other structures stand testimony to the importance the place enjoyed at that time. You'll also visit the Archaeological Museum, which features treasures that date to the 3rd-century BC (closed Fridays).
Evening take another boat ride (Hand Rowed Boat) on the Ganges to view the cremation grounds, You can witness cremations as your boat floats gently past, revealing a ritual that is memorable in its rawness, simplicity, and completeness. Then return to Dashashwamedh Ghat to watch the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony. The Aarti Ceremony is a devotional Hindu ritual performed at dusk on the banks of the Ganges, using fire as an offering to, the affectionately referenced, Maa Ganga, goddess of the holiest river in India. Perhaps nowhere in India, or the world, is it possible to witness so clearly, colourfully, and intensely many thousands of years of unbroken dedication to spiritual exploration. Your tour ends with a return to your hotel or other desired location in Varanasi.
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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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