How to Plan Your Varanasi and Taj Mahal Tour with Ganges Boat Ride

If you’re planning to visit India, this action-packed multi-day sightseeing tour is a must-do, giving you ample time to explore Mumbai, Varanasi, and Agra. From colonial relics and cutting-edge cultural sights to packed temple visits and a Ganges boat ride, you’ll get a spectacular Indian sampler – topped off with the Taj Mahal.

Overview

This multi-day tour is designed to give you a glimpse of India’s rich heritage and culture. You’ll explore famous landmarks and go off-the-beaten-path to discover hidden gems. This tour includes transportation, breakfast, and entrance fees, making it easy for you to enjoy your vacation without any worries.

Itinerary

Here’s a detailed itinerary of your Varanasi and Taj Mahal Tour with Ganges Boat Ride:

Day 1: Mumbai

Your guide will pick you up from the airport or hotel and take you on a tour of Mumbai’s colonial heritage, including the Gateway of India, Victoria Terminus, and the Prince of Wales Museum. You’ll also visit the famous Dhobi Ghat, Mumbai’s outdoor laundry.

Day 2: Varanasi

On day two of your tour, you’ll travel to Varanasi, one of India’s oldest and holiest cities. You’ll enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges river to observe the sacred fire puja ceremony. You’ll also visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sarnath, the site of Buddha’s first sermon.

Day 3: Agra

Next, you’ll travel to Agra to visit the Taj Mahal, one of the world’s most iconic and beautiful buildings. You’ll have ample time to explore the intricate details of this stunning monument and learn about its history.

Day 4: Return to Mumbai

On your last day of the tour, you’ll return to Mumbai and have some free time to explore the city on your own. Our guide will drop you off at the airport or hotel.

What’s Included

The tour includes:

• Bottled water
• Professional guide
• Private tour
• Excess luggage charges (where applicable)
• Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
• Transportation
• Breakfast
• Entrance fees

Booking

You can book the Varanasi and Taj Mahal Tour with Ganges Boat Ride online at viator.com. Select your preferred tour option and get ready to enjoy an action-packed trip to India’s top heritage sites.

Conclusion

Visiting India’s top heritage sites can be overwhelming, but this tour makes it easy and convenient to see all the highlights in just a few days. With transportation, breakfast, and entrance fees included, you can enjoy your vacation without any worries. Start planning your Varanasi and Taj Mahal Tour with Ganges Boat Ride today and experience the best of India!

Insider’s Guide to Varanasi and Taj Mahal Tour with Ganges Boat Ride

Varanasi, also known as Banaras, is an ancient city located on the banks of the holy river Ganges in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The city is known for its ghats, where pilgrims perform various rituals and take a dip in the holy river Ganges. The Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is situated in Agra, which is about 645 km from Varanasi.

If you are planning a trip to Varanasi and the Taj Mahal, here is an insider’s guide to help you make the most of your tour.

Local Attractions

1. Ganges Boat Ride: A boat ride along the river Ganges during sunrise or sunset is an amazing experience. You can watch the city come to life as people start their day and take a dip in the river to cleanse their souls. In the evening, you can witness the beautiful aarti ceremony, where devotees light up diyas (lamps) and float them down the river as an offering to the gods.

2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Varanasi is a city of temples, and the Kashi Vishwanath temple is one of the most famous. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is visited by millions of pilgrims every year.

3. Sarnath: Sarnath is a small town located just outside Varanasi and is where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The town is home to several Buddhist monasteries and temples.

4. Taj Mahal: No trip to India is complete without a visit to the Taj Mahal. This white marble monument is a symbol of love and is visited by millions of tourists every year. It is recommended to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise or sunset for the best experience.

Dining Spots

1. Blue Lassi: This famous lassi (yogurt drink) spot has been serving delicious lassis for over 80 years. It is located in the narrow lanes of Varanasi and is a must-visit for anyone visiting the city.

2. Kachori Gali: This lane is famous for its kachoris, a deep-fried pastry filled with potatoes, peas, and spices. It is the perfect street food to try while wandering through the streets of Varanasi.

3. Dasaswamedh Ghat: This ghat is one of the most popular in Varanasi and is lined with street vendors selling a variety of snacks and sweets. Try the famous chaat and samosas while taking in the beautiful view of the river Ganges.

Cultural Experiences

1. Ganga Aarti: The aarti ceremony that takes place every evening on the banks of the Ganges is a must-see. Devotees light up diyas (lamps) and perform various rituals to show their devotion to the gods.

2. Silk Weaving: Varanasi is famous for its silk weaving. You can visit the weavers’ workshops and watch them create beautiful silk sarees and fabrics.

3. Ayurvedic Massage: Varanasi is home to several Ayurvedic massage centers that offer traditional Indian massages. These massages use herbal oils and techniques to rejuvenate the body and mind.

Local History

1. Ramnagar Fort: This fort, located just outside Varanasi, is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture. It was built in the 18th century and houses a museum with artifacts from the royal family.

2. Bharat Kala Bhavan: This museum, located on the campus of Banaras Hindu University, houses a collection of ancient Indian art, artifacts, and manuscripts. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indian history and culture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

1. Baati Chokha: This restaurant serves traditional Rajasthani food, including the famous dal baati churma, a dish consisting of lentils, wheat balls, and a sweet pudding. It is located in the outskirts of Varanasi and is worth a visit for the authentic food and rural ambiance.

2. Chunar Fort: This fort, located about 40 km from Varanasi, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. It is situated on a cliff overlooking the river Ganges and offers beautiful views of the surrounding areas.

In conclusion, Varanasi and the Taj Mahal are two must-visit destinations for anyone traveling to India. From the ghats of Varanasi to the white marble beauty of the Taj Mahal, there are several cultural experiences and local attractions waiting to be explored. With this insider’s guide, you can make the most of your trip and have an unforgettable experience.