Omvity’s Full-Day Varanasi Tour: Sunrise Boat to Sunset Aarti

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Banaras Ghats

   Start your day with a peaceful sunrise boat ride on the sacred Ganges River. We'll pick you up from your hotel at 5:00 AM in summer / 6:00 AM in winter, setting the tone for a truly spiritual journey. As the boat gently glides along the river, you'll witness ancient rituals — locals offering water to the rising sun and devotees taking holy dips. It's a scene of living tradition that defines the spiritual energy of Varanasi. After the boat ride, take a guided walk through the narrow lanes of the old city. This mystical and heritage-rich area comes alive with vibrant local life. Discover hidden temples, stop by stalls selling sacred perfumes, Ayurvedic oils, and handmade artifacts. Sample local street food and explore colorful markets including Godowlia — one of the city's oldest and most iconic. This part of the tour offers a unique blend of cultural insight, sacred rituals, and authentic Varanasi charm — a truly unforgettable start to your spiritual day.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

2. Kashi Vishwanath Temple

   Then, take a guided walk through the old city’s winding alleys, where you'll glimpse one of the most revered Hindu shrines and experience the spiritual rhythm of everyday life.

   Pass by without stopping

3. Varanasi

   Breakfast Break for 1 Hr

   60 minutes here

4. Banaras Hindu University

   Explore the sacred southern side of Varanasi with guided visits to some of its most revered temples and landmarks. Begin at Tulsi Manas Mandir, where the epic Ramcharitmanas was composed. The peaceful setting and scripture-inscribed walls make it a spiritual highlight. Visit Durga Mata Mandir, famous for its red facade and holy pond. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, it’s a vibrant center of Shakti worship. Continue to Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple, where devotees seek protection and blessings. Its calm energy and playful monkeys offer a unique charm. Drive through the green campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of India’s leading institutions. Here, visit the New Vishwanath Temple, a marble replica of the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple, ideal for peaceful reflection. This part of the tour offers a rich blend of devotion, heritage, and cultural insight into Varanasi’s spiritual fabric.

   180 minutes here · Admission included

5. Varanasi

   Lunch Break 1 Hr

   60 minutes here

6. Sarnath

   After lunch, your journey continues to Sarnath, located just 13 km from Varanasi. This is the sacred site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon to five disciples after attaining enlightenment, marking the beginning of the Buddhist Sangha. Today, Sarnath is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations in the world, drawing spiritual seekers and history lovers alike. Explore remarkable landmarks such as the Dhamek Stupa, which stands at the exact spot of Buddha’s sermon, and the ruins of ancient monasteries and temples built by Emperor Ashoka to spread Buddhism. You'll also see the Ashokan Pillar with the Lion Capital, India’s national emblem, and intricately carved sculptures of animals and birds that represent Buddhist symbolism and Mauryan artistry. This portion of the tour provides a peaceful contrast to Varanasi’s intensity, offering insights into the birthplace of Buddhism’s teachings and the serenity of its message.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

7. Ganga Aarti

   Enjoy the Ganga Aarti ceremony from a reserved riverside seat, offering clear views and comfort as you witness one of India’s most powerful spiritual rituals. Performed by priests with flaming lamps, chants, and music, this synchronized ceremony honors the sacred Ganges River. From your chair, soak in the sights and sounds as lights reflect off the water and ancient mantras fill the air — a truly unforgettable experience. After the ceremony, you'll be dropped back at your hotel with lasting memories of Varanasi.

   120 minutes here · Admission included

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• Japanese Speaking Tour

  Includes professional Japanese-speaking guide. Price reflects language customization.

• Spanish-Speaking Tour

  Spanish-Speaking Guide: Includes professional Spanish-speaking guide. Price reflects language customization.

• Chinese Speaking Tour

  Includes professional Chinese-speaking guide. Price reflects language customization.

• Omvity’s Full-Day Varanasi Tour: Sunrise Boat to Sunset Aarti

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

hi, en, es

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 10 travelers per booking

Operated by

Omvity

Know before you go

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• 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

Photos

Traveler reviews

11 verified traveler reviews for Omvity’s Full-Day Varanasi Tour: Sunrise Boat to Sunset Aarti. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.