Daily Departures Available!

Day 1 Varanasi
Arrive in Varanasi at any time. Arrival transfer included.

Varanasi is the quintessential Indian holy city, where millions of Hindus travel for pilgrimage, to worship, to mourn, or to die.

Day 2 Varanasi
Take a private city tour of one of the world's oldest cities and one of Hinduism's holiest sites; Varanasi is a fantastic spectacle of colours and pilgrim ceremonies. In the afternoon take an excursion to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. Later, take a sunset boat trip along the Ganges River where thousands of devotees perform holy rituals, hoping to attain eternal salvation. Witness the sunset prayers on the banks of the river.

Varanasi is a pure vegetarian town – no eggs, meat, fish, or alcohol is allowed (within a certain distance of the river Ganges). Opt to visit Chaat Gali, a street of vendors selling the spiciest chaat (savoury snack) in the state. A visit to Varanasi is incomplete without tasting paan -- it is the perfect end to any meal and comes in many varieties – stuffed with gulkhand (rose petal preserve), cardamom, or grated coconut. (B)

Day 3 Varanasi
Get up early for a sunrise boat ride along the Ganges and observe the dawn rituals of bathing and burial. Tour ends upon return to the hotel. (B)

A perfect add-on to any trip to India, explore the mystical and holy Hindu city of Varanasi. Take memorable sunset and sunrise boat trips down the Ganges River and be enthralled by the thousands of devotees who come to the banks of the river to absolve themselves of their sins. Witness the bathing ghats and centuries-old temples, and explore the narrow winding lanes in search of exquisite silks, brassware, and stunning saris. Also visit Sarnath, known as the birthplace of Buddhism and the site of the enlightened Buddha’s first sermon.

• Arrival transfer
• Varanasi city tour
• Sunset and sunrise boat trip on the holy Ganges River
• Guided excursion to Sarnath
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
• Comfort hotels (2 nts)
• 2 breakfasts.

• Cruise the Ganges River and observe local traditions and rituals
• Explore Varanasi's Old City and marvel at its ghats
• See where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon

Comfort hotels (2 nights)
Varanasi, India: Hotel Surya Kaiser Palace (or similar)

• Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.
• Please ask your Vacations To Go travel counselor for more information.

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* The prices shown are U.S. dollars per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability. Prices quoted for land/cruise arrangements are subject to increase without notice. Once we have received your deposit, land/cruise prices are guaranteed. Air prices quoted via phone or email are subject to increase and are guaranteed only from the time that full payment is received. Also, air prices or air promotions mentioned on this site or on the phone do not include baggage fees imposed by airlines.