How to Plan Your Tour to Sarnath, the Place of First Ceremony of Buddha in Varanasi

If you’re planning a trip to Varanasi, a visit to Sarnath should definitely be on your list. Sarnath is the place where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. This historical and culturally significant site has ruins and museums that showcase the rich history and heritage of Buddhism. Here’s your guide on how to plan your tour to Sarnath in Varanasi.

Overview

The Sarnath tour is a private tour operated by Unique Experiences. The tour includes a private transportation service, entrance tickets to the Sarnath ruins and museum (which costs 305 INR per person), snacks and pickup from one of the designated pickup points. The tour lasts for 2 hours.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour starts at 9:30 AM, and you will be picked up from your chosen pickup point. There are several pickup points available, and you can select one that is most convenient for you. The pickup points are all located near public transportation, so you can easily get there.

What to Expect

The tour will take you to the ruins and museum of Sarnath. You will be able to see the Dhamek Stupa, which is a massive cylindrical structure built around 500 CE. This Stupa marks the site of Buddha’s first sermon. The Sarnath Museum has a vast collection of artifacts and relics, including some from the Mauryan and Gupta periods.The tour is wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate. It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate. You can expect a relaxed and informative tour of the ruins and museum.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel or make changes to your tour, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, you won’t get a refund. Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted. Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.

Book the Tour Here

If you’re interested in booking the Sarnath tour, you can do so through the following link: Book the tour here.

Conclusion

Visiting Sarnath is an incredible experience that you don’t want to miss when you’re in Varanasi. This tour is an excellent opportunity to learn about the history and heritage of Buddhism in India. Follow this guide to plan your tour to Sarnath, and you’ll have a memorable and informative time.

Frequently Asked Questions about Varanasi

Varanasi is one of the oldest and holiest cities in India, situated along the banks of the River Ganges in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. It is known for its religious and cultural significance, attracting thousands of tourists every year from different parts of the country and the world. In this article, we aim to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Varanasi.

1. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?

Varanasi experiences a tropical climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Varanasi is between November and February, when the temperature is comfortable, and the weather is pleasant. During this time, the temperature ranges between 5°C and 15°C.

2. What are the popular tourist attractions in Varanasi?

Varanasi is known for its ancient temples, ghats, and cultural significance. Some of the popular tourist attractions that you must visit in Varanasi are:

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple:

It is one of the most famous Hindu temples in the world dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located on the western bank of the River Ganges and is a sacred place for Hindus.

• Dashashwamedh Ghat:

It is one of the most popular ghats in Varanasi and is famous for the Ganga Aarti that takes place every evening.

• Sarnath:

It is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site and is located around 10 km from Varanasi. It is the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment.

• Ramnagar Fort:

It is a magnificent fort located on the eastern bank of the River Ganges and was the home of the royal family of Varanasi.

3. What are the best things to do in Varanasi?

Varanasi offers a lot of activities for tourists. Some of the best things to do in Varanasi are:

• Boat ride in the River Ganges:

It is a must-do activity in Varanasi. You can hire a boat and take a ride along the ghats of the River Ganges to witness the Ganga Aarti and get a glimpse of the daily lives of the people.

• Visit the silk weaving factories:

Varanasi is known for its silk industry, and you can visit the silk weaving factories to see how the intricate and beautiful Banarasi sarees are made.

• Attend the Ganga Aarti:

The Ganga Aarti is a religious ceremony that takes place every evening at the Dashashwamedh Ghat. It is a beautiful and awe-inspiring sight that you should not miss.

4. What are the local food items that you must try in Varanasi?

Varanasi is well-known for its street food and local delicacies. Some of the food items that you must try in Varanasi are:

• Lassi:

It is a popular drink made with yogurt, sugar, and fruit essence. The lassis in Varanasi are thick and creamy and are not to be missed.

• Chaat:

It is a popular street food that is a combination of different crispy snacks topped with chutneys and yogurts.

• Tamatar Chaat:

It is a Varanasi specialty made with tomatoes, spices, and tamarind sauce. It is a must-try dish for all food lovers.

5. How can you reach Varanasi?

Varanasi is accessible through air, rail, and road.

• By air:

The Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport is located around 20 km from the city center and is well-connected to major cities in India.

• By train:

Varanasi Junction is a major railway station and is well-connected to all major cities in India.

• By road:

Varanasi is well-connected to major cities in Uttar Pradesh and the neighboring states via road.

Conclusion:

Varanasi is a city that is steeped in culture and tradition. It is a spiritual hotspot, with numerous ghats and temples that are worth visiting. The city has a unique charm, and the locals are warm and friendly. If you are planning a visit to Varanasi, make sure to plan your trip carefully and explore everything that this beautiful city has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Varanasi

Varanasi, also known as Kashi, is a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Known for its spiritual and religious significance, Varanasi is one of the oldest cities in the world. People from different parts of India and abroad visit Varanasi to explore the ancient temples, ghats, and other attractions. In this blog post, we will discuss how to make the most of your time as a tourist in Varanasi.

1. Visit the Holy Temples

Varanasi is famous for its ancient temples, which attract millions of devotees and tourists every year. The most notable temple in Varanasi is the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its intricate architecture and religious significance. Other significant temples in the city include the Durga Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and the Tulsi Manas Temple. These temples are best visited during the early morning hours when the crowds are relatively thin.

2. Explore the Ghats on Foot

The ghats in Varanasi hold immense significance as they are the places where people come to take a dip in the holy river Ganges. The most popular of these ghats is the Dashashwamedh Ghat, where daily Ganga aarti takes place. The other notable ghats to visit include the Manikarnika Ghat, Harish Chandra Ghat, and the Assi Ghat. The alleys and streets around the ghats are also worth exploring, as they provide an insight into the local culture and lifestyle.

3. Take a Boat Ride on the Ganges River

One of the best ways to experience the ghats in Varanasi is by taking a boat ride on the Ganges River. The boat ride provides a panoramic view of the ghats and the temples on its banks. The best time to take a boat ride is during the early morning hours when the river is calm, and the sun is rising. The boat ride can be booked from any of the ghats along the river.

4. Attend the Ganga Aarti Ceremony

The Ganga Aarti ceremony is a daily ritual that takes place at the Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi. The ceremony is a dedication to the River Ganges, and it involves lighting lamps and singing hymns. It is a magnificent experience that should not be missed by any tourist. The Ganga Aarti starts every evening around sunset time and attracts a significant crowd, so make sure to arrive early to get a good spot.

5. Try Local Food

Varanasi is famous for its street food, which is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. The streets around the ghats are lined with food stalls selling tasty snacks and sweets. The most popular street food items to try in Varanasi include the Kachori Sabzi, Lassi, Chaat, and the famous Banarasi Paan.

6. Shop for Souvenirs

Varanasi is famous for its handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. The city is known for its Banarasi sarees, silk fabrics, and brassware. The best places to shop for souvenirs in Varanasi are the Godowlia Market and the Vishwanath Gali. These markets offer a wide range of products at reasonable prices.

Conclusion

Varanasi is a city that offers a unique experience to tourists. With its ancient temples, holy ghats, and delicious food, the city has something to offer to everyone. By following the tips mentioned above, you can make the most of your time in Varanasi and have an unforgettable experience.