Varanasi

On the banks of the Ganges

Varanasi, the holy city on the Ganges River, is one of the most important places of pilgrimage for Hindus. According to the Hindu beliefs, to be cremated on the banks of the Ganges, especially at Varanasi, is certain to gain entry to heaven.

The principal attraction of Varanasi is the long string of bathing ghats which line the river Ganges from which pilgrims make their sin-cleansing dip and on which bodies are cremated.

"Varanasi is inexplicable. The living and the dead jostle together for space, and even in the midst of chaos you are aware of the presence of divinity."

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Varanasi

Day 1, VARANASI

On arrival in Varanasi you are met and transferred to your hotel which is located right on the banks of the Ganges river and has a rooftop restaurant. The holy city of Varanasi is the most important place of pilgrimage for Hindus. The principal attraction is the long string of bathing ghats (wide steps), which line the west bank of the Ganges, right in front of the hotel.

Stay for two nights in Palace on Ganges

Day 2, VARANASI

Pilgrims come to the Ganges to make their sin-cleansing dip in the holy river. Daily ceremonies take place and bodies are also cremated here. You will take a boat ride on the Ganges at dawn and in the afternoon you visit Sarnath where Gautama the Buddha preached his first sermon 2,500 years ago. (B)

Day 3, ONWARDS FROM VARANASI

A free morning to explore the colourful bazaars of Varanasi. You will see many shops offering beautiful brocades and exquisite lengths of handlooom silk.

Afternoon departure transfer to Varanasi railway station to take the night train to Delhi. Alternatively, we can arrange a departure transfer to Varanasi airport to take the afternoon flight to Delhi. Feel free to add any special requirements to your enquiry form.

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Tailor-made Suggestions

Ideas to personalize this sample itinerary:

There are plenty of ways to change this sample itinerary, either to extend your stay or experience different areas in more detail.

A smart little establishment

Stay at Hotel Vaibhav, a 3-star hotel with Indian art on the walls, situated in the leafy cantonment area.

An aura of old world charm

Stay at The Clarks Varanasi where the rooms have wide verandahs opening onto lush gardens.

A small palace set in a flower filled garden

The gracious Nadesar Palace offers only ten rooms of extremely generous size.

Fact Finder for this Tour

Highlights
  • Experience the lively atmosphere of the narrow alleyways and bazaars
  • Witness the pilgrims' ceremonies along the ghats on a dawn boat ride
Duration

Departure

Daily from Varanasi
Not advisable in May and June (due to uncomfortable heat)

Price

From 324 USD per person - based on 2 people sharing

Inclusions
  • Accommodation on twin share basis at selected hotels
  • Stay on bed & breakfast basis
  • English-speaking local guide for tour of Sarnath & Varanasi, including Ganges boat trip
  • Transport by air-conditioned vehicle with private chauffeur
  • All transfers as per the itinerary
Tour price excludes
  • International flights
  • Entrance fees to historical monuments