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Home/Destinations/Egypt to India/India/ Varanasi Ganges

Varanasi Ganges

"Experience the river Ganges in Varanasi, with pilgrims thronging temple steps and cremation fires along the shore."

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Quick Facts about This Trip:

Trip Start/End:
India (Varanasi) / India (Varanasi)
Highlights:
India (Varanasi)
Duration:
4 days
Tour Type:
ExtensionExtensions are designed to add-on to existing tours for a more complete vacation, and can be customized with different hotels, locations, or activities.
Travel Style:
Cities & CulturesOur Cities & Cultures trips are designed to showcase the major cities of the world, with emphasis on their culture of food, art, architecture, and shopping. Enjoy a private guide as you explore all the fascinating aspects of our global tapestry of civilization. Easily shortened to a single location, or extended into multi-city discoveries. Our local experts give you insider insights and a hassle free itinerary.
Go to Cities & Cultures Page
Price Range:
From $1320 pp to $1424 pp *
  • * USD per person, double occupancy. Prices subject to change. This tour is fully customizable.
Request a Quote

Trip Description

The land of Varanasi (Kashi) has been the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages. Often referred to as Benares, Varanasi is the oldest living city in the world. These few lines by Mark Twain say it all: "Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together". Hindus believe that one who is graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are unknown. The holy river Ganges in Varanasi is believed by some to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals. A packed and bustling city, your private tour guide will help you explore this overwhelming mix of sights. There are daily flights to Delhi, Khajuraho and Mumbai from Varanasi.

Trip Summary

DayActivitiesHotel
Day 1
Varanasi
  • Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
  • Dinner (not included)
Nadesar Palace
Palace Room (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults)


Alt: The Taj Gateway Ganges (standard)
Day 2
Varanasi
  • Private - Sarnath Ruins - Vehicle/Driver
  • Private - Aarti Ceremony - Boat/Guide
  • Dinner (not included)
Nadesar Palace
Palace Room (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults)


Alt: The Taj Gateway Ganges (standard)
Day 3
Varanasi
  • Private - Half Day: Varanasi on Foot - Tour/Vehicle/Guide
  • Dinner (not included)
Nadesar Palace
Palace Room (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults)


Alt: The Taj Gateway Ganges (standard)
Day 4
Varanasi
  • Private - Visit to Manikarnika Ghat - Rituals of Death - Vehicle/Driver
  • Transfer - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
Depart
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive
  • Request a Quote

Itinerary

  • India

    India is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh largest country by geographical area, the second most populous country in the world. Bounded by the Indian Ocean on the south, the Arabian Sea on the west, and the Bay of Bengal on the east, India has a coastline of 7,517 kilometers (4,671 mi). Home to the Indus Valley Civilization and a region of historic trade routes and vast empires, the Indian subcontinent was identified with its commercial and cultural wealth for much of its long history. Four major world religions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism originated there, while Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam arrived in the first millennium CE and shaped the region's diverse culture. Gradually annexed by the British East India Company from the early eighteenth century and colonised by the United Kingdom from the mid-nineteenth century, India became a modern nation state in 1947 after a struggle for independence that was marked by widespread nonviolent resistance. Tourism is typically centered in the Golden Triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, including nearby Udaipur, Ranthambore, Khajuraho, and Varanasi. The southern province of Kerala, accessed from Kochi, is gaining in popularity for its houseboats, plantations, and temples of Madurai.

  • Varanasi

    Varanasi is set at the left bank of the mighty river Ganges, this immensely chaotic place of pilgrimage is known for its ritual burnings. A dawn boat ride down the river is a fascinating and unforgettable spectacle. The city is sacred to Hindus and also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. In many ways Varanasi epitomizes the very best and worst aspects of India, and it can be a little overwhelming. However, the scene of pilgrims doing their devotions in the River Ganges at sunrise set against the back drop of the centuries old temples is probably one of the most impressive sights in the world - definitely a must see destination on any trip to northern India.

    • VaranasiVaranasi
    • Nadesar PalaceNadesar Palace

    Day 1: Varanasi

    From your hotel, a private vehicle, with driver, and English speaking guide, will transfer you to the airport for your flight.

    Accommodation: Nadesar Palace

    Nadesar Palace is situated in one of the oldest living cities of the world, on the banks of the river Ganges. Nadesar Palace has hosted royalty, statesmen and celebrities since 1835. The name Nadesar is derived from the Goddess Nadesari, whose shrine is located in the front of the Palace. Set amidst verdant gardens, mango orchards, marigold and jasmine fields, Nadesar Palace is a haven of peace and tranquility. Works of art from the Maharaja’s collection decorate the walls of the Palace’s 10 luxurious suites. Embellished with original pieces of furniture refurbished to recreate the atmosphere of a bygone era, the décor of the rooms is intended to evoke the colours of marigolds, jasmines, and pale pink lotuses that are offered to the holy Ganges.

    • SarnathSarnath
    • Aarti CeremonyAarti Ceremony

    Day 2: Varanasi

    Private guided tour of Sarnath, located 5 miles from Varanasi, the site is a deer park where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment. Sarnath is one of four holy Buddhist sites sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. Amongst the ruins is the Dharmekh Stupa is impressive at 128 feet high, and 93 in diameters. This dates back to 200 BC and is the sport where the Buddha is said to have preached his first sermon.  Within the deer park complex is the large Dhamekha Stupa, constructed by the Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE, and several other Buddhist structures that were added between the 3rd and the 11th century BC.

    This evening Aarti Ceremony is an absolutely wonderful sight seen from the Ganges river. This tour includes a boat ride to experience the magic of the river during this spectacular event.

    Accommodation: Nadesar Palace
    • Dashaswamedh GhatDashaswamedh Ghat

    Day 3: Varanasi

    Winding through the streets and popping out onto the riverside will give you an insider’s look at the symbiotic life of the riverside people of Varanasi. Eventually, as you tour through the city you will end up on Bengali Tola, the street of the Bengalis, where you will be visiting the hidden Mother Goddess Kali shrines, and the vistas of life along the riverside. The tour continues to the historic ritual bathing site called Dashaswamedh, or the ten-horse sacrifice Ghat, the perfect way to conclude this walking city tour.

    Accommodation: Nadesar Palace
    • The Puja Offering - Floating Candles and Flowers in Varanasi GangesThe Puja Offering - Floating Candles and Flowers in Varanasi Ganges

    Day 4: Varanasi

    "One can survive everything nowadays, except death." Dying is accepted as a part of life, and when one dies, there are a multitude of rituals and ceremonies that need to be performed. This experience takes you to the Manikarnika Ghat to take a look at the various death rituals passage that the Hindus perform. Hindus, who perform a myriad of rituals in their lifetime, believe that humans are reborn according to their karma and hence, perform many death rituals to ensure that the soul rests in peace. Often, we wonder why Hindus burn or cremate the body instead of burying it. The answer lies in the belief. Here, our tour guide will introduce you to the history and mythology associated with this Ghat. You will get to understand the rites being performed and see the inner workings of this unique place. This experience is expected to last approximately 4 hours including travel time.

    From your hotel, a private vehicle, with driver, and English speaking guide, will transfer you to the airport for your flight.

    Accommodation: Depart

    Depart Varanasi- end of itinerary

Accommodation

  • Collectibles

    Rajasthan is justly famous for the brightly coloured silks, artistically woven fabrics, richly detailed carpets and other exotic textiles. Be sure to stop in to a shop for a glass of chai, a leisurely conversation, and the chance to admire some beautiful fabrics.

  • Culinary Delights

    The Perfect Chai Tea

    1 cup boiling water
    1 tsp tea leaves
    1 tsp of spices (cardamom, ginger, cloves, black pepper, cinnamon)
    1 dash of milk

    • Nadesar PalaceNadesar Palace
    • Nadesar Palace - Guest RoomNadesar Palace - Guest Room

    Nadesar Palace

    Nadesar Palace is situated in one of the oldest living cities of the world, on the banks of the river Ganges. Nadesar Palace has hosted royalty, statesmen and celebrities since 1835. The name Nadesar is derived from the Goddess Nadesari, whose shrine is located in the front of the Palace. Set amidst verdant gardens, mango orchards, marigold and jasmine fields, Nadesar Palace is a haven of peace and tranquility. Works of art from the Maharaja’s collection decorate the walls of the Palace’s 10 luxurious suites. Embellished with original pieces of furniture refurbished to recreate the atmosphere of a bygone era, the décor of the rooms is intended to evoke the colours of marigolds, jasmines, and pale pink lotuses that are offered to the holy Ganges.

    • More information

The Fine Print

  • Trip Operator

    Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

  • Contact Information

    Horizon & Co.
    Tel: 1-800-387-2977
    Email: admin@horizon-co.com
    Web: www.horizon-co.com

  • What's Included:

    • Guaranteed departure - Tours, Transfers, Flights, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
  • What's not Included:

    • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras - Visas - Vacation insurance
  • Trip Terms & Conditions

    • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
    • Tour quotes do not include international air fare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
    • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
    • We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
    • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
    • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.Horizon-co.com/Terms-and-Conditions
    • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
  • Request a Quote

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Testimonials

"It is not possible to find the words to thank you for your help and sincere caring on our fabulous trip to wonderful Labrador! To mention a few treats and surprises - the gifts of tea, syrup and spread - Horizon is excelling itself."

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Horizon & Co. Advantage

• Proven Experts - 48 years travel experience, with 35 in-house region specialists.
• Customized Travel - Your own private local guides, boutique hotels, seamless transfers.
• Best Value - Our rates are about 30% less than similar quality travel companies.
• Quality Assured - Virtuoso supplier to the world's top travel agents and discerning clients.

All tour activities on this page are suggestions by our region experts. With proprietary rates from 100,000+ hotels and services, we can fit any tour to your budget or style. Click on the "Request a Quote" button to get a no-obligation free custom quote from our regional experts.

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