Tour details

A day trip from Varanasi to Sarnath is a must for anyone looking to explore the spiritual heart of Buddhism. Located just 10 kilometers away, Sarnath is the site where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. Begin your visit at the Dhamek Stupa, an impressive monument that symbolizes Buddha’s teachings. Next, explore the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, home to ancient sculptures, including the renowned Lion Capital of Ashoka. The tranquil gardens and several monasteries around the site offer a peaceful atmosphere perfect for meditation.

Conclude your day at the Mulagandha Kuti Vihara, where you can appreciate beautiful frescoes and listen to the soothing chants of monks. This short trip not only deepens your understanding of Buddhism but also enriches your overall experience in Varanasi.

09:00 AM – VARANASI - SARNATH
Sarnath is 13 km away from Varanasi. This is the place where Lord Buddha said to have preached his first sermon to his disciples after attaining enlightenment. This is one of the four most significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites namely Bodhgaya, Kushinagar and Lumbini in Nepal. Main attractions here are various Stupas, historical monuments, Dear Park and Museum such as Dhamek Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, Ashoka Pillar etc. Sarnath between the 3rd century BC and the 11th century AD, and today it presents the most expansive ruins amongst places on the Buddhist trail. The Ashoka Pillar of Sarnath is the National emblem of India. Sarnath is usually flocked by the followers from all across the globe in the month of April and May because Buddha’s life, death and enlightenment are celebrated in this duration.

01:00 AM LUNCH
Lunch at any good restaurant.

02.30 PM RETURN TO VARANASI
After lunch, we return to Varanasi. On arrival in Varanasi, city tour in the second half of the day starts. In Varanasi, go for boat ride on the river Ganges. Apart from seeing devotees taking dip in holy Ganges. You can also see the ritualistic aspect of Hindus on the Ghats while cruising through river Ganges. After the boat ride walk through the fascinating narrow twisting lanes of the city to watch the performance of various Hindu rituals by the pilgrims.

04:00 PM VISITING HINDU TEMPLES
After boat ride, start city tour of Varanasi including the visits of various significant Hindu Temples such as the most important Vishwanath Temple.

06:00 PM EVENING GANGA AARTI
The Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is a breathtaking and spiritual ritual held every evening at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. This ceremony pays homage to the Ganges River, considered sacred in Hinduism. As the sun sets, priests dressed in traditional attire perform the Aarti with elaborate rituals, using large lamps, incense, and chanting hymns dedicated to the river and various deities. The atmosphere is filled with the sound of bells, chanting, and the fragrant aroma of flowers and incense. Thousands of devotees and tourists gather to witness this captivating event, creating a mesmerizing ambiance of devotion and reverence. The Ganga Aarti is not just a visual spectacle but also a deeply spiritual experience that connects attendees to the rich cultural heritage of India.