Airport Arrival + Walking Tour with Death & Rebirth Cremation + Attend Evening Ganga Aarti Ceremony

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi - Upon arrival at Varanasi Airport or Railway Station, a company representative will meet and transfer you to your reserved hotel. Please note, the representative cannot enter the baggage collection area.

Proceed to the terminal building exit, where a Sacred Tour Varanasi representative will be waiting with a paging board displaying your name. They will assist you with hotel check-in.

Manikarnika Ghat - In the late afternoon, a guide will pick you up to visit the bustling and colorful local bazaar. Explore the lively streets, famous for their mouth-watering food aromas. Discover the city’s oldest parts, home to many ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities. If interested in trying local delicacies like masala tea, lassi, or sweet desserts, the guide will recommend the best spots. Then, proceed to Manikarnika Ghat, the world’s largest cremation center, operating 24/7. Witness the unique atmosphere where death is celebrated, and understand why Varanasi is renowned for life and death.

Ganga Aarti - Later, head to the Main Ghat for the evening prayer ceremony, Aarti, which typically occurs between 6:00-7:00 pm, depending on the season. The Aarti lasts about 45 minutes to an hour and involves seven priests performing rituals with items like incense sticks, ghee lamps, flowers, bells, conch shells, fans, and camphor. The mesmerizing atmosphere includes thousands of devotees, soft music, chanting, incense and flower fragrances, and the golden light of the setting sun reflecting on the Ganges. For the best views, consider watching from boats, the ghat’s steps, nearby rooftops, or the opposite riverbank.

Bharat Mata Temple - Built in 1936 by Bir Singh Patel, this is the only temple dedicated to Mother India. Instead of idols, it features a large marble relief map of undivided India (pre-1947), where visitors pay respects to India’s greatness.

Sunrise Boat Ride + City Tour + Visit Peaceful Sarnath

Ganges River - Enjoy a morning boat ride on the Ganges River at sunrise from Dashashwamedh Ghat. The vibrant atmosphere of the ghats makes it a must-visit in India. Experience the unforgettable river and the fascinating Sadhu with painted face and body. Tourists spend time in a private hand-rowed boat, witnessing worship rituals, yoga, and the peaceful reflection of the sunrise. Visit Manikarnika Ghat, believed to offer salvation and break the cycle of life.

Banaras Ghats - Varanasi, known as the “City of Temples,” boasts over ten thousand Hindu temples. Visit prominent temples and Banaras Hindu University, the second-largest residential university in India, established in 1916. Explore Shri Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the ancient Durga Temple, known as the Monkey Temple. Visit the Mother India Temple, showcasing a relief map of India, and the Kaashi Vishwanath Temple, also called the Golden Temple. Experience the textile walk, observing handloom weavers crafting sarees and scarves from silk thread.

Sarnath - After lunch, visit Sarnath, where Lord Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the Buddha temple, ruins, votive stupas, and the Dhamekh Stupa, where Buddha taught his first speech. Discover Vihar and Chaitya monasteries, Deer Park, and the Mulgandhakutivihara temple. See the Bodhi Tree and the Monolithic Ashokan Pillar, where Emperor Ashoka built a pillar marking Buddha’s first organization. Visit a Thai temple with an 80-foot 9-inch Buddha statue, symbolizing Buddha’s age at passing.

Dashashwamedh Ghat - Stroll around Kashi Vishwanath Temple and its corridor, built in November 2021, offering excellent photo opportunities.

Kashi Vishwanath Temple - Visit the corridor of Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the city’s principal temple, also known as the Golden Temple. Only Hindus and those who believe in Hinduism are allowed inside, but the newly built corridor is worth visiting for its lively atmosphere and positive energy.

Banaras Hindu University - Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is a prestigious public central university in Varanasi, India, established in 1916 by Madan Mohan Malviya. As one of Asia’s largest residential universities, BHU offers a wide range of programs and is renowned for its research emphasis. The campus features iconic structures like Vishwanath Temple and the New Vishwanath Temple, attracting students worldwide.

Sankat Mochan Temple - Dedicated to Hanuman, Sankat Mochan means reliever of troubles. Established in the early 16th century by saint-poet Goswami Tulsidas, Wednesdays and Saturdays are Hanuman days at the temple.

Airport Departure

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Varanasi - Explore the city at your leisure and receive assistance for airport departure according to your flight schedule.

• Local English-speaking guide for monument tours
• Entrance fees to all monuments included
• Private AC vehicle for all transfers, sightseeing, and excursions
• Rooftop seating for evening Aarti ceremony viewing
• Exclusive use of a private hand-rowing boat

• Gratitude
• Lunch
• Dinner

Join our tour to explore the spiritual heritage of the city as we showcase Varanasi’s highlights in this comprehensive three-day journey. Experience a serene boat ride on the river, witnessing all the ghats as the sun rises over the horizon. Visit the world’s largest cremation center and ancient temples in the old town. Discover Sarnath, the birthplace of Buddhism, where you can see the stupa temple of Buddha and the national emblem, an antique piece of history. Witness the Aarti ceremony from a rooftop at the ghats, the best place to feel the ceremony’s vibrant energy. Additionally, stroll through India’s largest spice market, flower market, perfume shops, and the famous kachori street for a taste of local flavors.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.