The ancient city of Varanasi delivers its richest experiences through well-organized tours, each offering unique glimpses into India’s spiritual heart. The essential sunrise boat ride along the Ganges and evening aarti ceremonies form the backbone of most basic tours – and for good reason. They’re unforgettable.
For the best value, I recommend the half-day walking tours through the old city’s maze-like lanes. These intimate excursions connect you with local culture, temples, and authentic street food spots. Private guides offer flexibility and deeper insights, while small-group options maintain reasonable prices.
Morning tours work especially well in Varanasi’s heat, and evening tours capture the magical atmosphere of lamp-lit ceremonies. The most memorable outings combine boat rides, cultural demonstrations, and visits to both famous and hidden temples.
Let’s explore the top-rated tours that make the most of your time in this remarkable city.
Good To Know
- Varanasi tours designed for first-time visitors offer culture, local traditions, and features like sunrise boat rides and evening aarti ceremonies.
- Personalized private and customized tours led by knowledgeable local guides provide flexible itineraries and experiences, ranging from $55 to $122 per person.
- Extended multi-day tours cover temples, ghats, monuments, museums, and Hindu rituals, with high traveler satisfaction and recommendation rates.
- Specialized morning and evening tours focus on Ganges River experiences, including small-group boat rides, cremation sites, and the iconic Aarti ceremony.
- Cultural and heritage walking tours explore the old town, temples, and offer opportunities to taste traditional snacks with knowledgeable local guides.
2 Days Varanasi Tour Package for First Timers
This 2-day Varanasi tour package is designed specifically for first-time visitors to the holy city.
With a stellar 4.8 rating from 39 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, it’s a reliable choice for those seeking an immersive introduction to Varanasi’s rich history, culture, and spiritual heritage.
The tour includes visits to the city’s major attractions, offering a well-rounded experience.
Highlights include an exclusive sunrise boat ride on the Ganges River and an evening aarti ceremony with private seating, allowing travelers to witness the sacred rituals firsthand.
Throughout the journey, an English-speaking local guide provides in-depth insights and context.
Accommodation is provided in a 4-star hotel, and all transportation is handled via a private, chauffeur-driven AC Toyota car.
Breakfast is included, and sightseeing activities are covered, ensuring a hassle-free and comprehensive exploration of Varanasi.
While additional costs may apply for holiday gala dinners, the tour’s starting price of $200 per person makes it an accessible option for various budgets.
Read our full review: 2 Days Varanasi Tour Package for First Timers Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi Tour in One Day
Although Varanasi is renowned for its spiritual and cultural richness, exploring the city’s highlights in a single day may seem daunting. However, the private Varanasi tour provides an immersive experience that allows travelers to make the most of their time.
The tour includes visits to sacred sites like the Ganges River and Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon. Travelers can also witness the captivating Aarti ritual from a private balcony, ensuring an optimal vantage point.
With a professional, government-approved guide leading the way, participants gain valuable insights into local traditions and customs. The tour also includes an exclusive sunrise boat ride and private air-conditioned transportation, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience.
While some travelers have reported occasional issues with guide professionalism, the overwhelming majority praise the tour’s knowledgeable and friendly guides, as well as the culture it provides.
For those seeking a comprehensive Varanasi experience in a single day, this tour offers an enriching and memorable opportunity.
Read our full review: Varanasi Tour in One Day Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi Experience 01 Night -02 Days Tour
For travelers seeking a more immersive experience in Varanasi, the “Varanasi Experience 01 Night -02 Days Tour” offers a comprehensive itinerary that allows them to explore the city’s spiritual and cultural highlights at a leisurely pace.
This private guided tour, which boasts a 4.8 overall rating from 28 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, invites visitors to uncover the hidden gems of Varanasi at their own tempo.
Highlights include temple visits, boat rides, and participation in vibrant ceremonies, all while enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation between sites.
The tour includes breakfast and private transportation, with the option for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, as well as the tour’s attention to safety and culture, including opportunities to savor local cuisine.
Whether traveling solo or with a group, this Varanasi experience promises an unforgettable journey through the city’s timeless traditions.
Read our full review: Varanasi Experience 01 Night -02 Days Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi Landmark Evening City Tour – Aarti, Boating & Witnessing the GOD
Varanasi’s evening aarti ceremony along the Ganges River is a captivating experience showcased in the “Varanasi Landmark Evening City Tour – Aarti, Boating & Witnessing the GOD”.
Guests can enjoy views of the Dasaswamedh Ghat as Hindu priests pay tribute to Mother Ganga during this small-group boat ride. The tour also passes by the renowned Manikarnika Ghat, known for its cremation ceremonies.
With a cap of 10 participants, the experience provides an intimate setting recommended by 94% of travelers. Included are bottled water and an English-speaking guide, with hotel pickup and drop-off.
The tour operates daily, with start times varying by season. While most reviews praise the informative guides and group size, some travelers reported issues with the view quality and tour duration.
The hosts have addressed complaints, offering apologies and refunds when necessary, and are committed to improving service quality based on feedback.
Priced at $41.36 per person, the tour guarantees the lowest price.
Read our full review: Varanasi Landmark Evening City Tour – Aarti, Boating & Witnessing the GOD Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi Morning Boat Tour [RowBoat]
Exploring Varanasi’s sacred waterways at sunrise offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s spiritual heart.
The Varanasi Morning Boat Tour [RowBoat] is a 3-hour experience that allows travelers to witness the age-old Hindu rituals performed along the Ganges River. Embarking on a private rowboat, guests can observe the devout bathing in the holy waters and making offerings to the sun.
Accompanied by an expert guide, guests gain insights into the local customs and traditions, enriching their understanding of Varanasi’s vibrant culture. The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience.
With a rating of 4.8/5 from 75 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an authentic and memorable encounter with Varanasi.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible, a moderate level of fitness is required. Regardless of any potential visibility issues during the winter months, this sunrise boat excursion remains a highlight for many travelers exploring the spiritual heart of India.
Read our full review: Varanasi Morning Boat Tour [RowBoat] Review
Book now: Check availability
The Ultimate 1 Day in Varanasi – How to Spend 13 Hours – Private Guided Tour
Travelers seeking to maximize their time in the spiritual city of Varanasi can embark on the “Ultimate 1 Day in Varanasi – Private Guided Tour,” a comprehensive 13-hour excursion that immerses them in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Rated 4.9/5 with a 97% recommendation rate, this tour offers a balanced experience, blending sightseeing with culture. Highlights include a captivating sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, visits to significant temples and sites like Sarnath, and the mesmerizing evening Aarti ceremony.
An English-speaking guide provides valuable historical and contextual insights, enhancing the experience. While lunch isn’t included, the tour covers hotel pickup/drop-off, bottled water, and gratuities.
Some travelers have noted occasional waits and felt pressured for tips, but overall, the tour is praised for its efficiency and customization. Ideal for first-time visitors, the tour’s cancellation policy allows for flexibility, making it a well-rounded introduction to the wonders of Varanasi.
Read our full review: The Ultimate 1 Day in Varanasi – How to Spend 13 Hours – Private Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi Evening Ganga Aarti Tour
The Varanasi Evening Ganga Aarti Tour offers visitors a captivating opportunity to witness one of the most sacred Hindu rituals in the spiritual heart of India. This 3-hour tour showcases the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, where devotees offer light to the deities along the banks of the Ganges River.
Highlights of the experience include a private boat ride on the Ganges, providing a unique perspective of the ritual, and private balcony seating for optimal viewing. Guests can also enjoy religious songs and soak in the enchanting atmosphere of Varanasi at night.
The tour is perfect for families and small groups, with a maximum of 10 people. Knowledgeable English-speaking guides, with options for other languages, provide valuable cultural insights throughout the experience.
While some negative feedback has been noted regarding seating and boat quality, the majority of reviews praise the tour’s personal attention and memorable moments. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Varanasi Evening Ganga Aarti Tour is a must-do activity for visitors to this spiritual city.
Read our full review: Varanasi Evening Ganga Aarti Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi Private Guided Tour (Feb )
Banaras Wala Tours’ Varanasi Private Guided Tour provides visitors with a comprehensive and immersive exploration of the spiritual heart of India.
Led by local guide Vinay, this personalized experience allows travelers to explore the rich cultural and religious traditions of Varanasi.
The tour includes a visit to the famous ghats, where visitors can witness the captivating cremation ceremonies and observe the daily life along the Ganges River. Guests also have the opportunity to explore ancient temples, sampling local chai, and navigating the city’s winding alleys to uncover hidden gems.
Vinay’s extensive knowledge and ability to tailor the tour to individual interests ensure a truly engaging and enriching experience.
With a 4.9/5 rating, Banaras Wala Tours’ Varanasi Private Guided Tour is a top-rated choice for those seeking an authentic and memorable introduction to this sacred city.
The tour’s accessibility, included amenities, and flexible cancellation policy make it a convenient option for travelers.
Read our full review: Varanasi Private Guided Tour (Feb ) Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi Private Tour (Feb )
Varanasi Private Tour (Feb) offers an immersive exploration of the sacred city’s cultural and spiritual heart. With 47 reviews and 100% traveler recommendation, this private guided tour promises an exceptional experience.
Highlights include a visit to the renowned Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, witnessing the captivating evening prayer ceremony on the Ganges riverbanks, and exploring the birthplace of Buddhism in Sarnath.
Tailored to provide flexibility and personalized attention, the tour includes private transportation and all necessary fees and taxes. Travelers can conveniently meet at the designated point in Varanasi or opt for pickup from selected locations.
Priced at $32 per person, the tour is available from June 2019 through June 2025, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
With a 5.0 rating based on reviews, this private tour promises an unforgettable immersion in Varanasi’s rich cultural and spiritual traditions.
Read our full review: Varanasi Private Tour (Feb ) Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi Walking Tour
What better way to take in Varanasi’s captivating essence than through a private walking tour? Offering an in-depth exploration of this ancient city, the Varanasi Walking Tour provides an unparalleled experience.
With 238 glowing reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this tour is recognized for its quality service and excellence.
Guests can expect a comprehensive journey, guided by the knowledgeable Prakash, who consistently earns praise for his expertise, friendliness, and ability to create unforgettable experiences.
The tour includes visits to important temples, the renowned Manikarnika Ghat, and the mesmerizing nighttime aarti ceremony. Along the way, travelers can enjoy cultural insights, historical discussions, and even local street food tastings.
Priced at just $28 per person, the tour offers exceptional value, with round-trip hotel transfers, flexibility, and personal attention included.
Wheelchair-accessible and near public transportation, the Varanasi Walking Tour caters to a diverse range of travelers seeking an authentic and immersive exploration of this captivating Indian city.
Read our full review: Varanasi Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi and Sarnath Multi-Day Tour With Hindu Ceremonies
Though Varanasi is renowned for its spiritual significance, the Varanasi and Sarnath Multi-Day Tour with Hindu Ceremonies offers travelers an immersive experience that transcends the city’s iconic ghats.
This 3-day private tour, which boasts a 4.8-rating from 76 reviews and a 97% traveler recommendation, takes visitors on a comprehensive journey through the religious and cultural heart of the holy city.
Highlights include visits to monuments, museums, and religious sites, including the revered stupas of Sarnath. Travelers will also have the opportunity to observe captivating Hindu Aarti rituals, complete with priests reciting mantras and accompanied by music.
Plus, a heritage walk along the ritual sites known as Ghats provides an intimate glimpse into Varanasi’s timeless traditions.
Accommodations, breakfast, a morning boat ride, and an air-conditioned private car ensure a comfortable and seamless experience.
With a Badge of Excellence and a Lowest Price Guarantee, this tour offers an unparalleled way to take in the spiritual essence of Varanasi and Sarnath.
Read our full review: Varanasi and Sarnath Multi-Day Tour With Hindu Ceremonies Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi Temples & Ganges River Cruise 3-Day Private Tour (Feb )
This comprehensive 3-day private tour of Varanasi offers travelers an immersive exploration of the city’s renowned temples, ghats, and the sacred Ganges River. Priced at $122.79 per person, the tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a 4/5-star hotel stay with breakfast.
Key attractions include Sarnath, Assi Ghat, the iconic Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and a Ganges River cruise culminating in the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony.
The tour’s customizable itinerary and wheelchair accessibility cater to diverse preferences, while the included Sarnath entrance fee and gratuities provide convenience.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides and punctual service, though some report mixed experiences with hotel quality. The tour’s 4.9 rating and 97% recommendation rate from 119 reviews suggest an overall satisfactory experience, with the variety of cultural activities, such as street food tours, being particularly appreciated.
Effective communication with the guide is essential to enhance the tour’s personalized nature.
Read our full review: Varanasi Temples & Ganges River Cruise 3-Day Private Tour (Feb ) Review
Book now: Check availability
Varanasi Temple Tour
Varanasi’s ancient temples stand as testaments to the city’s rich spiritual heritage, offering visitors a profound connection to India’s religious traditions. One of the best ways to experience this is through the Varanasi Temple Tour, a private guided excursion that has earned a stellar 4.9/5 rating from over 48 reviews.
This comprehensive tour takes guests to the city’s most iconic temples, including the sacred Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Durga Temple, and the Tulsi Manas Temple. Accompanied by knowledgeable local guides, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the significance and rituals associated with each sacred site.
The tour’s flexibility allows travelers to explore at their own pace, with the option to customize the itinerary to suit their interests.
With a badge of excellence and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Varanasi Temple Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to take in the spiritual heart of India.
Whether seeking a profound cultural experience or simply a memorable day of discovery, this tour is a must-do for any visitor to Varanasi.
Read our full review: Varanasi Temple Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Heritage and Spiritual Walk Tour – Varanasi Kashi
The Private Heritage and Spiritual Walk Tour in Varanasi’s Kashi neighborhood offers travelers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour provides an intimate and informative experience. Guests can expect private transportation, snacks like kachauri, potato curry, lassi, tea, and Banarasi pan, and a knowledgeable guide to lead them through the winding streets and sacred sites.
The tour operates daily from 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM, with the meeting point at Girja Ghar Chauraha.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. Travelers should have a moderate fitness level, as the tour involves walking. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals.
With a free cancellation policy and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, this tour provides a convenient and flexible booking experience with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Private Heritage and Spiritual Walk Tour – Varanasi Kashi Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Day Tour in Varanasi
For travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Varanasi’s captivating heritage, the Private Day Tour offers a comprehensive experience.
This highly-rated, 98% recommended tour provides an ideal introduction to the spiritual heart of India. With a customizable itinerary and knowledgeable guide, the tour immerses visitors in the city’s age-old rituals, from a boat ride on the Ganges to a guided walk through the winding lanes and iconic temples of the old town.
The tour culminates with the mesmerizing evening worship ceremony, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of Varanasi’s enduring traditions. Priced competitively from €81.41 per person, the tour’s small group size, private transportation, and flexible cancellation policy make it an accessible and convenient choice for first-time visitors.
While past travelers highlight the guide’s expertise and the well-paced nature of the experience, some note discrepancies in tour details, underscoring the importance of thoroughly reviewing inclusions prior to booking.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour in Varanasi Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Tour of Varanasi With Official Tour Guide
An excellent choice for travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of Varanasi’s spiritual heritage is the Private Tour of Varanasi With Official Tour Guide.
Recommended by 100% of travelers with a perfect 5.0 rating, this tour provides a personalized experience led by an official guide. The tour includes private transportation, a boat ride in the morning, and pickup from any known location in Varanasi.
Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, the tour is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation. Starting at 4:30 PM, this private experience ensures you’ll be the only group participating.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, the price of $55.00 per person (varies by group size) makes this an affordable and flexible option.
Whether you’re interested in Varanasi’s rich history, sacred sites, or cultural traditions, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive and personalized experience.
Read our full review: Private Tour of Varanasi With Official Tour Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Full-Day Tour of Varanasi Including Sarnath (Feb )
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Varanasi’s spiritual heritage and the sacred site of Sarnath will find the Private Full-Day Tour of Varanasi Including Sarnath an excellent choice.
This comprehensive tour, led by an official guide, offers a complete overview of the city, with a focus on its rich history and cultural significance.
The itinerary highlights include a morning boat ride on the River Ganga, a walking tour of Varanasi’s historic landmarks, and a visit to the Buddhist site at Sarnath.
The tour also features the evening aarti ceremony, a captivating ritual performed on the ghats. With a 98% recommendation rate from 47 reviews, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors seeking a personalized experience.
The tour includes a local guide, transportation, and all necessary arrangements, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience.
Priced from $75 per person, the tour can be customized to suit individual needs, making it a versatile option for travelers of all backgrounds.
Read our full review: Private Full-Day Tour of Varanasi Including Sarnath (Feb ) Review
Book now: Check availability
One Day Admirable Tour in Varanasi Private Guided Tour
Although Varanasi is renowned for its captivating spiritual heritage, navigating the city’s intricate sights can be daunting for first-time visitors.
The “One Day Admirable Tour in Varanasi Private Guided Tour” offers a comprehensive immersion into the city’s rich culture and history. Rated 4.9/5 with a 99% traveler recommendation, this full-day tour provides a seamless experience, including a private boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise and a reserved seat for the evening Aarti ceremony.
Led by a government-approved guide, the tour delves into Varanasi’s Hindu and Buddhist influences, offering in-depth insights that elevate the experience.
With private transportation, all fees included, and flexible pickup options, this tour caters to individual needs, ensuring a personalized and stress-free exploration of Varanasi’s most iconic sights.
Whether you’re seeking a spiritual awakening or a deeper understanding of Indian heritage, this tour delivers an admirable and unforgettable journey.
Read our full review: One Day Admirable Tour in Varanasi Private Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
One Day Varanasi Tour – Private & Guided
Navigating Varanasi’s rich cultural landscape can be an immersive and rewarding experience. The “One Day Varanasi Tour – Private & Guided” offers a rundown of the city’s highlights.
With a 4.9 rating from 105 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour is a popular choice among travelers.
The tour includes private transportation, a sunrise boat ride on the Ganga River, and exclusive access to the evening aarti ceremony. Knowledgeable, English-speaking guides provide insightful commentary, ensuring visitors can fully enjoy the city’s religious and historical significance.
Flexibility, personalized attention, and opportunities for photography and local exploration make this tour a standout option.
While isolated incidents of inappropriate behavior have been reported, the overall feedback emphasizes the tour’s strengths, including the attentiveness of the driver and guide, the beauty of the ceremonies, and the comfortable yet safe exploration of the crowded areas.
At a price starting from $105 per person, this private tour offers a well-rounded Varanasi experience.
Read our full review: One Day Varanasi Tour – Private & Guided Review
Book now: Check availability
Experience Varanasi Tour: 3 Days Private Guided Tour
Offering a comprehensive three-day exploration of Varanasi’s spiritual and cultural tapestry, the “Experience Varanasi Tour” immerses travelers in the city’s centuries-old traditions.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 43 reviews, this private guided tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Varanasi’s iconic sights and local experiences.
Highlights include morning and evening boat rides on the sacred Ganges River, cultural walks through residential areas, and visits to vibrant markets selling flowers, spices, and paan.
On the third day, the tour ventures to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Led by a professionally trained and licensed guide, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, two private boat rides, and all food and beverages during the food tour.
Priced from $260 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it an accessible and flexible option for those seeking an authentic Varanasi experience.
Read our full review: Experience Varanasi Tour: 3 Days Private Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Cultural & Spiritual Trails of Old Town Varanasi Guided Walking Tour
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 68 reviews, the “Cultural & Spiritual Trails of Old Town Varanasi Guided Walking Tour” offers an immersive exploration of the historic heart of this ancient Indian city.
Ideal for first-time visitors, the 3-hour walking tour showcases the city’s renowned ghats and intricate alleyways, led by highly knowledgeable local guides fluent in English and Hindi.
Participants can expect to discover hidden gems, learn about Varanasi’s rich history and mythology, and engage in insightful discussions on religious practices and local significance.
With a maximum of 20 travelers per group, the tour provides an intimate and personalized experience. Priced at €11.45 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and features a Badge of Excellence, ensuring a high-quality experience.
While some past guests have reported minor issues with a guide’s attitude, the overwhelming majority praise the tour’s comprehensive nature and the guide’s friendliness and expertise.
Read our full review: Cultural & Spiritual Trails of Old Town Varanasi Guided Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Marigold Boat Tour in Varanasi
The Marigold Boat Tour in Varanasi provides an immersive experience on the sacred Ganges River.
With an impressive 99% traveler recommendation based on 82 reviews, this tour offers exceptional value at just $19.58 per person. Guests are guided by Sonu, known for his extensive knowledge of Varanasi’s culture and history.
The tour includes visits to cremation sites, the Evening Aarti ceremony, and both sunrise and sunset experiences on the river. Guests consistently praise Sonu’s friendliness and the magical atmosphere of the Ganges.
While some have expressed disappointment when outsourced guides were used, Sonu has addressed these concerns effectively.
The tour is accessible, with infant seats available and pickup/drop-off at a convenient location. Complimentary amenities like coffee, tea, water, and umbrellas during rain enhance the overall experience.
Read our full review: Marigold Boat Tour in Varanasi Review
Book now: Check availability
Experience Varanasi Tour: 2 Days Private Guided Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage will find the “Experience Varanasi Tour: 2 Days Private Guided Tour” an exceptional choice.
This private, guided tour offers a comprehensive experience, including private boat rides along the Ganges River, visits to local markets and notable sites like Sarnath, and an opportunity to learn about Hindu traditions and silk weaving.
The tour is highly reviewed, with 100% of travelers recommending it, and boasts a Badge of Excellence. At $210 per person, the tour provides excellent value, with inclusions like air-conditioned transportation, street food tastings, and bottled water.
Knowledgeable guides, such as Kunal and Hemant, deliver personalized attention and in-depth cultural insights. Highlights include the morning boat ride, evening ceremony, and immersion in Varanasi’s vibrant local life.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a focus on comfort, the “Experience Varanasi Tour” offers travelers an unforgettable and well-rounded introduction to this captivating city.
Read our full review: Experience Varanasi Tour: 2 Days Private Guided Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
4- Hours Private Tour Morning Aarti & Boat Ride
This private morning tour offers an immersive experience, beginning with a boat ride along the sacred Ganges River to witness the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony.
Over 10 hours, travelers will explore Varanasi’s spiritual heart, including a visit to Sarnath, a significant Buddhist site.
Throughout the tour, an expert guide provides insights into Hindu religion and culture as visitors walk along the iconic ghats.
The experience also includes an opportunity to observe a cremation ceremony, offering a deep understanding of local traditions.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 21 reviews, this tour boasts a 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.
Priced from $100 per person, it includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, and transportation by private vehicle.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and dietary requirements should be communicated in advance.
While most travelers can participate, it isn’t recommended for those with back problems.
Read our full review: 4- Hours Private Tour Morning Aarti & Boat Ride Review
Book now: Check availability
City Tour of Varanasi With Official Tour Guide
Exploring the spiritual heart of Varanasi, this city tour with an official guide offers an immersive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Rated 100% recommended by travelers, the tour takes visitors to prominent temples like the Vishvanath, Durga, Manas Mandir, and Sankat Mohan Hanuman Temple.
Travelers will also experience the local craftsmanship at a Benares silk-weaving factory, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The private tour ensures flexibility and personal attention, with hotel pickup, meals, transport, and entrance tickets included. Starting at 9 AM, the tour is accessible to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly.
Priced from €34.42 per person, the tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or seeking to uncover Varanasi’s lesser-known treasures, this comprehensive city tour is an excellent way to experience the spiritual essence of this sacred city.
Read our full review: City Tour of Varanasi With Official Tour Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Varanasi offers a diverse range of tours to cater to the interests of first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike. From immersive experiences like the Aarti ceremony and boat rides to comprehensive city tours, there’s something for all. With knowledgeable guides and well-curated itineraries, these tours provide an in-depth exploration of Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance.