
Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 3 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony worth booking?
Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony is a 20-hour experience in New Delhi, India, from $90 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 3 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 63 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (3)
- Duration
- 20 hours
- From
- $90 per person
Witness the soul of India on an unforgettable overnight journey from Delhi to Varanasi. See the sacred rituals, set a flaming lotus offering upon the Ganges, and be mesmerized by the hypnotic power of the holy fire. Highlights: Witness the Spectacular Ganga Aarti: Be captivated by the grand fire ceremony, a powerful offering to Lord Shiva, the Sun, and the universe. Sunset Boat Ride on the Ganges: Glide along the sacred river at dusk, absorbing the serene and spiritual atmosphere of the ghats. Explore by Cycle-Rickshaw: Wind through Varanasi's vibrant bazaars and quiet sanctuaries in a traditional ride. Visit a Sacred Cremation Ghat: Experience a moment of deep contemplation at Manikarnika Ghat. Discover Banarasi Silk Weaving: Step into a local factory to see how the legendary "liquid gold" silk is made by hand. Enjoy a Scenic Train Journey: Travel in comfort on a stylish express train with onboard meals and breathtaking views.
What you get
About this experience
Witness the soul of India on an unforgettable overnight journey from Delhi to Varanasi. See the sacred rituals, set a flaming lotus offering upon the Ganges, and be mesmerized by the hypnotic power of the holy fire. Highlights: Witness the Spectacular Ganga Aarti: Be captivated by the grand fire ceremony, a powerful offering to Lord Shiva, the Sun, and the universe. Sunset Boat Ride on the Ganges: Glide along the sacred river at dusk, absorbing the serene and spiritual atmosphere of the ghats. Explore by Cycle-Rickshaw: Wind through Varanasi's vibrant bazaars and quiet sanctuaries in a traditional ride. Visit a Sacred Cremation Ghat: Experience a moment of deep contemplation at Manikarnika Ghat. Discover Banarasi Silk Weaving: Step into a local factory to see how the legendary "liquid gold" silk is made by hand. Enjoy a Scenic Train Journey: Travel in comfort on a stylish express train with onboard meals and breathtaking views.
What's included
Included
- Delhi airport/hotel/station pickup and drop
- Varanasi rickshaw ride from hotel to old city and return
- Varanasi station pick up and hotel drop
- Varanasi 3* hotel with breakfast DBL occupancy
- Express train tickets with food to varanasi and from varanasi
- Boat ride and Varanasi evening aarti ceremony with private guide
Not included
- Any personal expenses
- Food and drinks
- Tipping and gratitude
What you'll see and do
New Delhi
Departure from Delhi (3:00-5:00 AM) Your spiritual adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel,the airport, or a convenient location in Delhi. You'll be greeted with a traditional floral garland—a bright start to your journey—before being transferred to the railway station.
30 minutes here
Varanasi
Scenic Express Train Journey (6:00 AM) Board a comfortable,air-conditioned express train to Varanasi. During the 8-hour journey, relax and enjoy picturesque views of the Indian countryside, including tea plantations. A delicious breakfast and lunch will be served onboard. Arrival in Varanasi & Hotel Check-in (2:00 PM) Arrive in the spiritual capital of India and experience a royal welcome.You will be transferred to your hotel, where you can feel the ambiance of the era of the Raj.
480 minutes here
Cycle-Rickshaw Express Tour (4:00 PM) Embark on an exciting cycle-rickshaw ride through the bustling markets and quiet lanes,heading towards the legendary banks of the Ganges. Sunset Boat Ride on the Ganges (6:00 PM) As the sun begins to set,board a boat for a tranquil cruise along the ghats. Drift on the calm waters, enjoying the warm glow of the twilight. Ganga Aarti Ceremony (6:30 PM) Experience the hypnotic Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.Watch as priests offer prayers to Lord Shiva, the river Ganges, and the gods of fire and sun with large, flaming lamps in a synchronized, breathtaking ritual.
180 minutes here · Admission included
Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat (8:00 PM) Visit the primary cremation ghat,where the sacred fire is said to have burned for thousands of years. It is a place for profound reflection on the cycle of life and death.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Visit to a Banarasi Silk Factory Varanasi is not only the spiritual heart of India but also the center for the world-famous Banarasi silk.Visit a local factory to dive into the magical process of creating this "liquid gold" fabric. What to Expect: Traditional Techniques: Watch skilled artisans hand-weaving intricate 'zari' and 'brocade' patterns using ancient wooden looms. From Cocoon to Saree: See the entire journey, from boiling silk cocoons to dyeing threads with vibrant natural pigments. Shopping Opportunity: Have the chance to purchase an authentic, handwoven silk saree or scarf—the perfect luxury souvenir from India. Why You Should Go: Banarasi silk is a symbol of Indian heritage, and the artisans' work is a tribute to centuries-old traditions preserved against time. As they say in Varanasi, "Silk is not a fabric, it is poetry woven into patterns." Come see for yourself! Return to hotel. Night in Varanasi.
30 minutes here · Admission included
New Delhi
Journey: Varanasi to Delhi & Airport Transfer 15:00: Depart Varanasi on a high-speed train. Onboard: Relax and watch the scenery. Dinner will be served during the journey. 23:00: Arrive at Delhi Railway Station. On Arrival: We will meet you at the station. Transfer: A direct, private transfer will take you to the Delhi airport.
480 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
All inclusive
Pickup included
Delhi tour
High class Duration: 8 hours Delhi Sedan-Suv-Minibus Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Private India Guided Tours
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Upon cancellation, the cost of tickets ($100 per person) is non-refundable.
- Dress Code: In temples and sacred places, it is important to cover your shoulders and knees. This is a sign of respect for the traditions.
- Recommendations: Dress according to the weather and choose comfortable shoes. Bring a sweater or a jacket to avoid getting cold during the evening boat ride. Don't forget insect repellent – there are especially many insects near the water in the evening. If you have sensitive skin and are concerned about smoke or dust during the Aarti ceremony, bring a face mask.
Photos






Good to know
- Duration
- 20 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $90 to $589
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 1
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Private India Guided Tours, who run 10 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 58.0.
See everything Private India Guided Tours runsWhy this scores 63
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for New Delhi.
How much does Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony cost?
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Prices start at $90 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in New Delhi usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony take?
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Plan for about 20 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in New Delhi is not rushed.
Is Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 3 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in New Delhi, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 20-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony?
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Around 1 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in New Delhi can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in New Delhi and add a light layer if any part of the 20-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central New Delhi within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in New Delhi?
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On Outty we rank every New Delhi experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Taj Mahal & Agra Fort Private Day Trip From Delhi with 5* Lunch, 5 Nights 6 Days Private Golden Triangle Tour - Delhi Agra Jaipur, Old & New Delhi Private City Tour – Traveler’s Choice (Top Rated). The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit New Delhi?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in New Delhi?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony?
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Included: Delhi airport/hotel/station pickup and drop; Varanasi rickshaw ride from hotel to old city and return; Varanasi station pick up and hotel drop; Varanasi 3* hotel with breakfast DBL occupancy; and Express train tickets with food to varanasi and from varanasi. Not included: Any personal expenses; Food and drinks; and Tipping and gratitude. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 749 listed pickup locations in and around New Delhi. Be ready about 30 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in New Delhi. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What booking options are available for Delhi to Varanasi: Tour to the Sacred Ganga Aarti Ceremony?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including All inclusive, Delhi tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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