From Varanasi: Varanasi & Sarnath Full Day Guided Car Tour

Explore the spiritual heart of India with a full-day guided car tour from Varanasi. Visit sacred temples, witness mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, and experience the tranquil ruins of Sarnath.
Morning: Varanasi
Pickup from your hotel: Your tour guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Varanasi in the morning. Depending on your preferences, you can start early to make the most of the day.

Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat: Begin your Varanasi experience by visiting the Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti (if your tour starts early). This is one of the most significant rituals performed on the banks of the Ganges River.

Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges: Take a boat ride along the Ganges to get a view of the ghats, temples, and life along the river. This is a tranquil way to observe the city’s morning rituals.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the holiest temples in India. The temple is famous for its golden spire and intricate architecture.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU): Explore the sprawling Banaras Hindu University campus, which is home to the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum, showcasing a collection of ancient sculptures, paintings, and artifacts.

Midday: Drive to Sarnath
Drive to Sarnath: After exploring Varanasi, take a 30-minute drive (approx. 10 km) to Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.
Afternoon: Sarnath

Sarnath Archaeological Site: Visit the Sarnath Archaeological Site, which includes ruins of ancient stupas, monasteries, and temples. The most prominent among them is the Dhamek Stupa, where it is believed Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.

Sarnath Museum: Explore the Sarnath Museum, which houses a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts, including sculptures and relics from the Mauryan and Gupta periods.

Mulagandha Kuti Vihara: Visit the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, a modern Buddhist temple with beautiful frescoes and a tranquil garden. The temple is built on the site where Lord Buddha is said to have spent time after his first sermon.

Bodhi Tree: See the Bodhi Tree at Sarnath, under which Buddha attained enlightenment. The current tree is a sapling from the original tree in Bodh Gaya, India.

Late Afternoon: Return to Varanasi
Visit Local Markets: On your way back to Varanasi, you can explore local markets, such as the ones near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple or the busy lanes of Varanasi.

Drop-off at Your Hotel: The tour ends with a drop-off back at your hotel in Varanasi by late evening.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.