How to Plan Your 3 Day Varanasi Exclusive Pilgrimage Tour

If you’re planning a trip to India and wish to explore one of the oldest cities in the world that is considered the spiritual capital of India, then a tour of Varanasi might be right up your alley. Varanasi is one of the holiest cities in India and is situated on the banks of the sacred river, Ganges. It’s known for its ancient temples, Ghats, and holy rituals that are performed every day. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to the 3 Day Varanasi Exclusive Pilgrimage Tour offered by Viator.

Overview of the Tour

The 3 Day Varanasi Exclusive Pilgrimage Tour is designed specifically for those who want to dive deep into the spiritual world of Varanasi. The tour includes visits to various temples and other holy places, a boat ride on the river Ganges, and an opportunity to witness the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The tour includes two nights of accommodation at Hotel Ramada Plaza JHV Madin Rivatas by Ideal Radisson or a similar hotel on a double occupancy basis. Buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner are also included. A professional English speaking private guide accompanies you throughout the tour, and you will have the opportunity to perform a personal ritual with a priest. Tips are included in the tour price.

Meeting and Pick-Up Details

The tour begins with a pick-up from the Varanasi Airport at 12:30 PM. If you’re arriving by train, the pickup point is Varanasi/ Banaras/ DDU Railway Station. The transportation is wheelchair accessible, and surfaces are wheelchair accessible as well.

What to Expect on the Tour

On day 1 of the tour, you’ll visit the Bharat Mata Temple, which houses a huge relief map of India carved from marble. Next, you’ll visit the Durga Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Durga, and then proceed to the Tulsi Manas Temple, where the text of the ancient Indian epic “Ramcharitmanas” is engraved on the walls. After lunch, you’ll drive to the Sarnath, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon in Deer Park. On day 2, the tour starts with a boat ride on the river Ganges to witness the morning rituals performed by the devotees on the Ghats. After breakfast, you’ll visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. You’ll also visit the Benaras Hindu University and the New Vishwanath Temple, which is also known as Birla Temple. On day 3, the tour starts with a visit to the Annapurna Temple, where food is offered to devotees. Later, you’ll perform a personal ritual with a priest. In the evening, you’ll be taken to the Dashashwamedh Ghat to witness the famous Ganga Aarti ceremony.

Additional Tour Information

The tour requires a minimum of 2 people per booking. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Cancellation Policy

This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount that you paid will not be refunded.

Book the Tour Here

If you’re excited to embark on this tour, you can easily book it on Viator’s website. Follow the link to book the tour: Book the 3 Day Varanasi Exclusive Pilgrimage Tour Here In conclusion, the 3 Day Varanasi Exclusive Pilgrimage Tour is an excellent opportunity for those looking to explore the spiritual side of India. The tour offers a well-planned itinerary with comfortable accommodations and a private guide, which makes it an ideal option for travelers looking for a hassle-free and immersive experience.

Ultimate FAQ for the City of Varanasi

Varanasi is a breathtaking city located on the banks of the holy river Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, India. Known for its ancient temples, spiritual rituals, and cultural richness, Varanasi is frequently visited by tourists from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to this city or are just curious about its culture and traditions, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you out.

1. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?

The best time to visit Varanasi is during the winter season, from November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, making it a perfect time to explore the city’s endless sites and sounds. However, keep in mind that being a popular tourist destination, some places can get quite crowded during peak season.

2. What are the top attractions to see in Varanasi?

Varanasi is filled with a multitude of famous temples and landmarks, some of which include:

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the most famous and visited Lord Shiva temples in India
• Sarnath: A Buddhist pilgrimage site, believed to be where Gautama Buddha first delivered his sermon
• Assi Ghat: A popular ghat for boat rides during sunrise and sunset
• Dashashwamedh Ghat: The most popular ghat in Varanasi, witness spiritual rituals such as Aarti or take a boat ride
• Bharat Mata Temple: A unique temple dedicated to Mother India

3. What’s the best way to travel around Varanasi?

Varanasi city is best explored on foot because most of the city’s streets are thin alleys that are inaccessible to vehicles. While walking, you can absorb the city’s energy, markets and street food. However, when you’re feeling tired or have a longer distance to cover, it is best to take a taxi or rickshaw to get around quickly.

4. What should I wear in Varanasi?

Varanasi is steeped in Indian culture and traditions, so it’s always best to dress modestly and appropriately. Loose, comfortable clothing and warm clothes during winter are recommended. Also, please ensure that you remove your shoes outside temples or holy sites.

5. Do I need to be cautious of scams in Varanasi?

Scams can occur in any tourist destination, and Varanasi is no exception. Beware of tours or guides that might try to scam you with high-priced deals or fake experiences. Always choose reputable vendors and check with your hotel’s front desk if in doubt about any suggested tour operators.

6. What are some popular cuisine dishes in Varanasi?

Varanasi is famous for its vegetarian cuisine food. Some popular dishes you should try during your visit include:

• Chaat: a popular street food that’s usually spicy and sweet filled with tamarind chutney and potato stuffing.
• Lassi: a sweet yogurt drink that can be flavoured with fruits such as mango or strawberry.
• Malaiyyo: A sweet made with milk, cream, and almond flakes commonly found in Varanasi during winter.
• Kachori: A deep-fried snack stuffed with lentils and typically eaten for breakfast.

7. What are some spiritual rituals in Varanasi?

The spiritual rituals in Varanasi are a sight to behold. Devotees from all over the world come here to seek blessings and attend various rituals to wash away their sins. Some of the most popular rituals are:

• Ganga Aarti: A daily ritual performed on Dashashwamedh Ghat every evening at sunset.
• Kal Bhairav Puja: A ritual performed in honour of the Hindu god Kal Bhairav at the temple by his name.
• Pind Daan: A Hindu ritual of offering prayers for the deceased.

8. What is the history of Varanasi?

Varanasi has a long and rich history. The city’s origins can be traced back over thousands of years, with evidence showing life in the region dating back to the 11th century BCE. Over the years, the city has seen various rulers and periods of peace and conflict. Varanasi has always been famous for its spirituality and religious traditions, and it grew as the centre of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism in India.

9. Are there any important festivals celebrated in Varanasi?

Yes, the city celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as:

• Diwali: The Festival of Lights celebrated every year on a new moon night and symbolizes the victory of light over darkness
• Holi: The Festival of colours, Welcoming spring with colours celebrating the victory of good over evil
• Maha Shivratri: A festival dedicated to Lord Shiva and celebrated annually in reverence of the Hindu deity

10. Where can I shop in Varanasi?

Shopping in Varanasi can be an exciting experience as the city has a wide selection of unique items only available here, some of which include:

• Banarasi Silk Sarees: Famous for its silk brocade sarees and fabrics
• Handicrafts: Intricately designed wooden, stone and metal handicrafts
• Antique brass pieces: Stand-out brass pieces are prevalent in the markets of Varanasi

Book Your Tour Now

We hope this FAQ has given you a head start on your next journey to Varanasi! With its historical significance, magnificent spiritual traditions, and cultural richness, the city is a fantastic adventure waiting to be explored. Remember to respect the culture and religious traditions of this mystic city, and you will undoubtedly have a memorable and unforgettable experience.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Varanasi

Varanasi is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is famous for its ghats, ancient temples, and bustling streets. The city holds great spiritual significance for Hindus and is considered as the spiritual capital of India. If you are planning to visit Varanasi, we have put together this comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in this amazing city.

1. Explore the Ghats of Varanasi

The Ghats are a string of steps leading down to the banks of the Holy Ganges river. They are a unique feature of Varanasi and offer visitors a chance to experience the essence of the city. There are more than 80 Ghats in Varanasi, each with its own history and significance. Start your day with a Sunrise Boat Ride and see how the city comes to life.

• Start at Assi Ghat: This is the southernmost Ghat in Varanasi and is popular among tourists for morning and evening walks. You can also hire a boat ride from here.
• Dashashwamedh Ghat: This is the most popular Ghat in Varanasi, and it is known for its evening Aarti, which is a Hindu religious ritual
• Manikarnika Ghat: This Ghat is the main place for cremation in Varanasi. Visitors can witness the ritual and understand the significance of it in Hindu religion
• Harishchandra Ghat: This Ghat is another place for cremation and is less crowded than Manikarnika. Visitors can also witness the rituals here

2. Visit the Ancient Temples of Varanasi

Varanasi is known for its ancient temples, and thousands of devotees visit these temples every day. You can visit the temples in the morning or evening when the crowds are lesser.

• Kashi Vishwanath Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is one of the most important temples in Varanasi. The temple has a golden spire and is also known as the Golden Temple
• Durga Temple: This temple is dedicated to Maa Durga and is one of the oldest temples in Varanasi. The temple has an eight-armed statue of Maa Durga and is made of black stone
• Tulsi Manas Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, and it is believed that Lord Rama lived here during his exile. The temple has a beautiful garden and a pond
• Bharat Mata Temple: This temple is unique as it is dedicated to Mother India, and she is represented in the form of a map carved in marble. The temple also showcases the history of India and its struggles for freedom

3. Experience the Local Cuisine

Varanasi is known for its delicious street food, and you cannot leave the city without trying some of it. The street food in Varanasi is affordable, and you can find it in almost every street corner.

• Kachori Sabzi: This is a popular breakfast dish in Varanasi, and it consists of deep-fried bread stuffed with lentils and served with a spicy vegetable curry
• Lassi: This is a popular drink made of yogurt, milk, and sugar. It is thick and creamy, and you can find it in many street stalls in Varanasi
• Chaat: This is a popular snack in Varanasi, and it consists of crispy fried dough, mixed with potatoes, chutney, and spices
• Malaiyo: This dish is served only in the winter season and is made of milk froth, saffron, and pistachios. It is a popular dessert in Varanasi

4.Take a Day Trip to Sarnath

Sarnath is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists, and it is just a few kilometers away from Varanasi. It is home to many ancient Buddhist monuments and monasteries.

• The Dhamekh Stupa: This is a 128 feet tall monument and it is believed that Lord Buddha gave his first sermon here after gaining enlightenment
• The Chaukhandi Stupa: This is an ancient monument and it is believed to mark the spot where Lord Buddha met his first disciples
• The Mulagandha Kuti Vihar: This is a modern temple built by the Mahabodhi society and has beautiful frescoes depicting the life of Lord Buddha

5. Shop for Local Handicrafts

Varanasi is known for its silk fabric, and you can find it in many shops in the city. You can also find many other handicrafts made by local artisans.

• Silk Fabric: Varanasi is known for its silk fabric, and you can find it in many shops in the city. You can buy silk sarees, dupattas, and fabric.
• Banarasi Carpets: Banarasi carpets are handmade and made from silk or wool. They are known for their intricate designs and durability.
• Brassware: Varanasi is famous for its brassware, and you can buy brass utensils, lanterns, and statues in the city.

Book Your Tour Now

Varanasi is a city with a rich history and culture, and it offers visitors a unique experience. The city has something for everyone, whether you are a spiritual seeker or a food lover. We hope this guide will help you make the most of your time in Varanasi and give you a glimpse into the city’s soul.