How to Explore the Spiritual Hub of Varanasi on the Banaras Tour

Varanasi, also known as Benares, is a city located in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh in India. It is considered one of the holiest cities in India and is a pilgrimage destination for many Hindus. This ancient city is teeming with temples, bustling ghats, and top-notch historical sights that one can explore on the Banaras Tour.

Overview

The Banaras Tour is an action-packed visit to Varanasi’s top sights. This tour is designed to cover all the main attractions during a single, hassle-free outing. The tour starts with a sunrise Ganges cruise, followed by fascinating archaeological visits and stunning temple interiors, and finally, a front-row peek at the famous fire prayer.

What’s Included

The Banaras Tour includes transportation by a private vehicle, all taxes, fees, and handling charges, bottled water, entrance fees, and hotel transfers. However, it does not include a hotel room, any airfare/train fare, any personal expenses, video camera charges at monuments, or tips/gratitude to the driver/guide.

Itinerary

The Banaras Tour itinerary includes the following places:

1. Sunrise Ganges Cruise

The tour begins with a sunrise Ganges cruise that takes you on a boat ride on the holy river Ganges. As the sun rises, you can witness the city come to life and the Ganges river ghats bustling with activity. You will also get to see the various temples and historical sites that are located along the river. The ride provides a stunning view and is undoubtedly an experience to cherish.

2. Archaeological Visits

Next, the tour takes you to the archaeological sites of Varanasi, which include the Dhamek Stupa at Sarnath and the ruins of the ancient city of Kashi. These two historical sites provide a glimpse into the diverse and culturally rich past of Varanasi.

3. Temple Interiors

Varanasi is home to numerous temples, and the Banaras Tour takes you to some of the most famous ones. You get to witness the unique architecture and elaborate artwork inside the temples. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple and the Durga Temple are two such temples that are included in this tour.

4. Fire Prayer

The Banaras Tour concludes with a front-row peek at the famous fire prayer that takes place every evening at the Dasaswamedh ghat. This fire prayer is a grand spectacle where priests perform various rituals and prayers, accompanied by the sound of bells and drums. It is a highly revered event and attracts a large number of locals and tourists alike.

Meeting and Pickup

The Banaras Tour offers pickup from various locations in Varanasi. You can choose a pickup point that is convenient for you during the booking process.

Book Your Tour Now

Overall, the Banaras Tour is a comprehensive and hassle-free way to explore the spiritual hub of Varanasi. With a well-planned itinerary that covers all the major attractions, this tour is ideal for anyone who wants to explore the city’s diverse culture and history. If you’re planning a trip to Varanasi, be sure to book the Banaras Tour and experience the city’s beauty and grandeur. Book the Banaras Tour here

Frequently Asked Questions about Varanasi

If you’re planning to visit Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras, you’re sure to have some questions. Here are the most frequently asked questions and their answers for your reference:

1. What is Varanasi known for?

Varanasi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, and it is considered the spiritual capital of India. It is famous for its ghats, which are steps leading down to the river Ganges, and for its numerous temples and holy sites. Devout Hindus come to Varanasi to bathe in the Ganges and perform funeral rites for their loved ones.

2. When is the best time to visit Varanasi?

The best time to visit Varanasi is in the winter months of November to February, when the weather is pleasant and cool. Summers in Varanasi can be extremely hot and humid, and monsoons from June to September can make travel difficult due to flooding.

3. How do I get to Varanasi?

Varanasi has its own airport, the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, with flights to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. The city is also well connected by train to major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. There are also numerous buses that connect Varanasi to nearby cities and states.

4. What are some must-visit places in Varanasi?

Some of the must-visit places in Varanasi include the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and Manikarnika Ghat. A boat ride along the Ganges during sunrise or sunset is also a memorable experience.

5. What should I wear when visiting Varanasi?

Varanasi is a religious and cultural hub, and it is important to dress conservatively while visiting. Women should avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops, and men should wear full-length pants and shirts. It is also important to remove your shoes while entering temples and holy sites.

6. Is it safe to travel to Varanasi?

Varanasi is generally a safe place to travel to, but it is important to take precautions like you would in any city. Beware of pickpockets and scams aimed at tourists, and avoid travelling alone at night. It is also important to respect local customs and culture while visiting.

7. What is the cuisine like in Varanasi?

Varanasi is known for its vegetarian cuisine, which includes dishes like chaat, kachori, and lassi. The city is also famous for its street food, which is a must-try for visitors.

8. Can I take photographs in Varanasi?

Photography is permitted in most places in Varanasi, but it is important to respect local customs and avoid taking photographs of people without their permission. Some temples and holy sites may not allow photography, so it is best to check beforehand.

9. What is the currency in Varanasi?

The official currency in Varanasi, as in the rest of India, is the Indian rupee (INR). ATMs and banks are easily accessible throughout the city, and credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments.

10. What is the nightlife like in Varanasi?

Varanasi is not known for its nightlife, but there are a few bars and restaurants that stay open late. It is important to note that alcohol is not readily available in the city due to its religious significance.

11. What are some common customs and traditions in Varanasi?

Some common customs and traditions in Varanasi include washing hands and feet before entering temples, not pointing your feet towards holy sites or people, and using your right hand for eating and shaking hands. It is also customary to remove your shoes while entering temples and holy sites.

12. Can I explore Varanasi on my own or do I need a guide?

While it is possible to explore Varanasi on your own, hiring a guide is highly recommended to fully appreciate the city’s rich cultural and historical significance. A guide can also provide valuable insights and advice on local customs and traditions.

13. How many days do I need to explore Varanasi?

To fully explore Varanasi and its many cultural and historical sites, it is recommended to spend at least two to three days in the city. However, if you have limited time, a day trip is also possible if planned well in advance.

14. What are some interesting facts about Varanasi?

Varanasi is considered one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world, dating back to the 11th century BC. It is also believed to be the birthplace of Lord Shiva, and it is home to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples in Hinduism. The city is also known for its silk sarees and the Benares gharana of Indian classical music.

15. How can I be respectful to the local culture while visiting Varanasi?

To be respectful of the local culture while visiting Varanasi, it is important to dress conservatively, avoid public displays of affection, respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your actions and words. It is also important to seek permission before taking photographs of people or holy sites and to avoid consuming non-vegetarian food or alcohol around religious sites.

In conclusion, Varanasi is a city rich in culture, history, and religious significance. With its spiritual aura, ancient temples, and vibrant street life, it is an unmissable destination for travellers looking to explore the diversity of India. By following these tips and guidelines, you can ensure a safe, respectful, and enriching travel experience in Varanasi.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Varanasi – A Comprehensive Guide

Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is the spiritual capital of India. It is located on the banks of River Ganga and is known for its ancient temples, ghats, and street food. Millions of tourists visit Varanasi every year to experience its spiritual and cultural richness. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Varanasi.

1. Take a Boat Ride on the Ganges

One of the most popular things to do in Varanasi is to take a boat ride on the Ganges River. Tourists can hire a boat from any of the ghats and enjoy a 45-minute ride along the river. The boat ride offers a magnificent view of Varanasi’s ancient buildings, palaces, and temples, which look stunning during sunrise and sunset.

2. Witness the Grand Aarti Ceremony

The Aarti ceremony held in the evening at Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the biggest attractions of Varanasi. This ceremony is a grand worship and homage to River Ganga, and it is conducted by a group of pandits who perform the ritual with oil lamps and bhajans. It is a must-attend event that showcases the spirituality and religious beliefs of the locals.

3. Visit the Temples

Varanasi is home to numerous ancient temples, and visiting them is one of the best ways to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Tulsi Manasa Temple, and the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple are some of the popular temples in Varanasi that should be on your itinerary.

4. Explore the Ghats

Varanasi is famous for its ghats, and strolling along the riverbank is a great way to explore them. The ghats are a cultural hub, and each one has a specific significance. Tourists can visit the famous Manikarnika Ghat, which is the main cremation ground in Varanasi, and the Assi Ghat, which is known for its peaceful atmosphere.

5. Attend a Classical Music Concert

Varanasi is also known for its classical music concerts, which are held in various temples and cultural centers. These concerts are attended by local and international music lovers and showcase the best of classical Indian music. Some of the popular venues for these concerts are the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and the Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum.

6. Try the Local Street Food

Varanasi is a foodie’s paradise, and tourists can indulge in the city’s delicious street food. The famous chaat, lassi, and the stuffed parathas are some of the popular dishes that tourists should try. Kachori sabzi, baati chokha, and malaiyo are other mouth-watering delicacies that should be on your food checklist.

7. Take a Heritage Walk

Varanasi has a rich cultural heritage, and tourists can explore its ancient lanes and buildings by taking a heritage walk. These walks are conducted by local guides who take tourists through the city’s narrow alleys and show them the historical significance of each building.

8. Visit Sarnath

Sarnath, located just a few kilometers away from Varanasi, is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It is believed to be the place where Gautama Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. There are numerous temples and monasteries in Sarnath, and tourists can explore them to experience the city’s Buddhist heritage.

Book Your Tour Now

Varanasi is a city of spirituality, culture, and history. Tourists can spend their time exploring the city’s temples, ghats, and ancient buildings. They can indulge in local street food, attend classical music concerts, take a boat ride on the Ganges, and witness the grand Aarti ceremony. A trip to Sarnath can also be a great way to explore the city’s Buddhist heritage. With this comprehensive guide, tourists can make the most of their time in Varanasi and experience its rich cultural and spiritual diversity.