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.