02 Night / 03 Days
Package Price :₹0.00/-Per Person
Booking Price :₹ 0.00/- Per Person
Varanasi is famous and has historical known as Banaras or Kashi is situated on the banks of river Ganga in Uttar Pradesh. Regarded as the Spiritual Capital of India, the region in itself is the originator of various religious beliefs from being the holiest of the seven sacred cities for Hinduism and Jainism, the city was even blessed with development of Buddhism, the famous bhakti movement again made the town popular and thereafter it also assisted the Saint Guru Nanak in laying the various grounds of Sikhism. The holy shrine is being immemorial as the learning centre and is a symbol of wisdom, spirituality and Philosophy. Apart from having the end number of majestic temples, the place is well known for its silk saris, perfumes, ivory works and the local mouth-watering food among which the supreme is the Banaras Paan specially made of betel leaf. One should must visit the divine city to experience the live existence of the stages of life cycle ranging from birth to death and the attainment of Salvation.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Varanasi
Day 2: Varanasi
Day 3: Departure from Varanasi
Inclusions
- 2 nights accommodation on double/ twin sharing basis in Varanasi.
- Daily buffet breakfast in hotels.
- A/C medium vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing exactly as per the itinerary.
- Evening visit to the Ghats by boat once during the stay.
- All applicable taxes.
Exclusions
- Any Air / Train tickets and airport taxes
- Guide service as per the itinerary
- Entrance fee at Monuments as per the itinerary
- Special activities as per the itinerary
- Items of personal nature like laundry, phone calls, tips to guides / drivers etc
- Camera / Video camera fees applicable at monuments
- Any other item which is not mentioned in "Inclusions"
Day 1: Arrival in Varanasi
Upon your arrival in Varanasi, you will meet our representative/driver at the airport who will take you to your pre booked hotel.On arrival, check in at your pre booked hotel.Today, enjoy a half day sightseeing tour of Varanasi.
Visit the Banaras Hindu University, the largest residential university in Asia, a center of Sanskrit, Indian art, culture, and music. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath temple, on the western bank of the Ganges. It is the center of faith for millions of Hindus. The Jyotirlinga of Shiva, Vishweshwara or Vishwanatha, is enshrined here.Visit the numerous ghats along the bank of the Ganges by boat, presenting a varied scene from dawn to dusk. There are five important ghats in Varanasi where pilgrims flock to take a bath- The Assi, Dasawamedha, Barnasangam, Panchganga, and Manikarnika.
Later, witness the evening aarti or prayer ceremony on the banks of the Ganga it is truly a sublime experience. Return to hotel for overnight stay.
Day 2: Varanasi
Today, enjoy a full day excursion to Sarnath. Sarnath is located eight km from Varanasi, and is famous as the place where the Buddha first preached his message after attaining nirvana.
Visit the Dhamek Stupa' believed to have been built in 500 AD, this stupa is the largest in the region, and marks the spot where the Buddha proclaimed his faith in front of his first five followers. The main excavation site in Sarnath is a vast expanse of low-lying structures, showing various facets of Buddhist history. The earliest and most important relic is found here is the Ashoka pillar, erected in 250 BC. Four lions representing the spirit of India sit back to back with a wheel between them. This symbol has been adopted as the national emblem of modern India.
Visit the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, where the original piece is displayed. The dilapidated remains of the Choukhandi Stupa can be seen in Sarnath. Standing on a terraced rectangular plinth, the Stupa is capped by an incongruous octagonal Mughal tower built by Emperor Akbar to commemorate his father's visit to the place.
Return to hotel for overnight stay.
Day 3: Departure from Varanasi
Early morning, visit the Durga Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga. The Durga temple was built in the eighteenth century by a Bengali Maharani. It is stained red with ochre and has a multi-tiered shikhara. The Durga temple is also called Monkey temple because of the presence of large number of monkeys.
Later, you will be transferred to Varanasi airport for your onward journey.
1. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?
The best time to visit Varanasi is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. Festival seasons, such as Diwali (October/November) and Maha Shivaratri (February/March), also offer a unique cultural experience.
2. What are the must-visit temples in Varanasi?
Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and the most famous temple in Varanasi.
Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its peaceful atmosphere.
Durga Temple: Known for its distinct red color, dedicated to Goddess Durga.
Tulsi Manas Temple: A modern temple dedicated to Lord Rama, located near the Tulsi Ghat.
New Vishwanath Temple: A replica of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located in the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus.
Bharat Mata Temple: A temple dedicated to the motherland, featuring a large map of undivided India.
3. How long should I plan for a temple tour in Varanasi?
A Varanasi Temple Tour typically lasts 1 to 2 days if you focus solely on the temples. However, you may want to extend your visit to include other attractions like the Ghats of Varanasi, the Ganga Aarti, and the Banaras Hindu University.
4. What should I wear when visiting temples in Varanasi?
Modest clothing is required when visiting temples. For men, it’s appropriate to wear long pants or dhotis, and for women, a saree, salwar kameez, or simple dress is preferred. Footwear should be removed before entering most temples.
5. Are there any temple rituals or festivals I should know about?
Varanasi is known for its daily rituals, particularly the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat (held every evening), which is a must-see.
Maha Shivaratri, Diwali, and Kartik Purnima are some major festivals that are celebrated with grand rituals and are an excellent time to witness the city's devotion.
6. Is it safe to visit the temples in Varanasi?
Yes, Varanasi is generally safe for tourists, especially around the major temple and ghat areas. However, like any busy tourist destination, it's advised to be cautious of pickpockets and to keep an eye on your belongings.
7. Can I take photos inside the temples?
Photography rules vary by temple. In most temples, you are not allowed to take photos inside the sanctum (the inner part of the temple), especially in places like Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Always ask for permission before taking photos.
8. What other activities can I do after visiting temples in Varanasi?
Boat ride on the Ganges: A boat ride is a serene way to experience the ghats and witness the Ganga Aarti from the river.
Explore the Ghats: Visit the famous ghats like Dashashwamedh, Assi, and Manikarnika.
Visit the Banaras Hindu University (BHU): A renowned academic institution with an impressive campus and the New Vishwanath Temple.
Shopping: Varanasi is famous for its silk saris and handicrafts, especially in areas like Godowlia and Thatheri Bazaar.
9. How can I book a Temple Tour in Varanasi?
You can book temple tours through local travel agencies, online platforms, or even hire a private guide upon arrival in Varanasi. Many temples and ghats are easily accessible by foot, rickshaw, or auto-rickshaw.
10. Is it possible to visit temples near the ghats in one day?
Yes, many of the major temples are located near the ghats, and it's possible to visit them within one day. You can start with a morning boat ride on the Ganges and then explore temples like Kashi Vishwanath, Durga, and Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple on foot.
11. Are there any local customs or etiquette to follow when visiting temples?
Remove your shoes before entering the temple.
Avoid touching idols or sacred offerings.
Respect the local priests and devotees by being quiet and respectful during rituals.
Don’t offer flowers or sweets without purchasing them from authorized stalls.
12. What is the significance of Varanasi’s temples?
Varanasi’s temples are of deep spiritual and religious significance, especially for Hindus. They are considered a gateway to salvation (moksha), and it is believed that worshipping at these temples can help cleanse the soul.