Varanasi: The Eternal City (2 Nights / 3 Days)

Experiencing the spiritual heart of India, its rituals, culture, and ancient traditions.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation: 2 nights' stay in a comfortable hotel in Varanasi. Options range from budget-friendly guesthouses near the ghats to more modern hotels. Let me know your preference!
• Meals:
  • Day 1: Dinner
  • Day 2: Breakfast & Dinner
  • Day 3: Breakfast
• Transportation:
  • Pick-up and drop-off from a designated point in Varanasi (e.g., Varanasi Airport/Railway Station).
  • Private vehicle for local sightseeing as per the itinerary.
  • Boat ride for Ganga Aarti and sunrise.
  • Auto-rickshaw rides for navigating the narrow lanes.
• Sightseeing: As per the detailed itinerary below.
• Services of a Local Guide: Experienced guide for key sightseeing tours.
• Assistance: On-ground support for any queries.

Exclusions:

• Entrance fees to any specific attractions (if applicable).
• Personal expenses (shopping, souvenirs, etc.).
• Any travel insurance.
• Anything not explicitly mentioned in the "Inclusions."

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and Spiritual Immersion

• Morning/Afternoon (Arrival):
  • Arrive at Varanasi Airport or Railway Station.
  • Meet our representative and transfer to your hotel.
  • Check in and freshen up.
• Late Afternoon:
  • Visit Sarnath, the site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek Stupa, Ashoka Pillar, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum.
• Evening:
  • Witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. Experience the vibrant rituals, chanting, and the lighting of lamps.
  • Enjoy dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.
  • Overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 2: Exploring the Soul of Varanasi

• Early Morning:
  • Embark on a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River. Witness the city coming alive along the ghats, observe the morning rituals of devotees, and experience the spiritual ambiance.
• Morning:
  • Visit the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. (Be prepared for potential queues and security checks).
  • Explore the narrow and winding lanes (galis) of Varanasi on foot or by auto-rickshaw, experiencing the local life, temples, and shops.
• Afternoon:
  • Visit Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat, the cremation ghats, and learn about their significance in Hindu beliefs about death and rebirth.
  • Visit Tulsi Manas Temple, dedicated to Lord Rama and featuring verses from the Ramcharitmanas inscribed on its walls.
  • Explore Bharat Mata Temple, a unique temple with a map of undivided India carved in marble.
• Evening:
  • Enjoy some free time for shopping for Banarasi silk sarees, handicrafts, or local souvenirs.
  • Optional: Attend a classical music or dance performance.
  • Dinner and overnight stay in Varanasi.

Day 3: Temples and Departure

• Morning:
  • Visit Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman and known for its resident monkeys.
  • Explore Durga Temple (Monkey Temple), another important shrine in Varanasi.
  • Visit the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus, a prominent educational institution with its own Vishwanath Temple.
• Late Morning/Afternoon:
  • Check out from your hotel.
  • Depending on your departure schedule, you might have some time for last-minute shopping or visiting a local market.
  • Transfer to Varanasi Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey.