Classic Ganges: Varanasi
- Duration
- 3 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 423
FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Varanasi is one of India’s most atmospheric cities where you can get to know the Hindu religion close up. Enjoy a ride on the sacred River Ganges to view scenes you will never ever forget.
Varanasi, once known as Benares, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in India. It is also the spiritual capital of the country and a city sacred to Hindus.
The “spiritual” ambience of Varanasi can be little overwhelming but definitely impressive. The holy River Ganges’ banks are lined with miles and miles of Ghats, embankments made of stone steps. In the city itself, there are many crowded narrow winding lanes with road-side shops and scores of Hindu Temples.
During your stay here, one definite highlight will be an early morning cruise on the River Ganges taking in the Bathing Ghats and the Cremation sites. It is at this time of the day that locals come down to the Ghats as part of their daily routine.
Also visit the BharatMataTemple inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936 who said “I hope this temple, which will serve as a cosmopolitan platform for people of all religions, castes, and creeds, will go a great way in promoting religious unity, peace, and love in the country”. Bharat Mata translates as Mother of India.
There is time to take an optional visit to Sarnath which is one of the four places of pilgrimages in India for Buddha’s devout followers.
Accommodation in Varanasi
-
Taj Ganges
This hotel is situated 21 kilometres from the airport and is centrally located on Raja Bazaar road at Nadesar Palace Grounds. Taj Ganges is the veritable haven of peace and tranquility in this crowded and ancient temple city. The hotel is 6 kilometres away from …
This hotel is situated 21 kilometres from the airport and is centrally located on Raja Bazaar road at Nadesar Palace Grounds. Taj Ganges is the veritable haven of peace and tranquility in this crowded and ancient temple city. The hotel is 6 kilometres away from the city Centre or the commercial hub of Varanasi also commonly known as The Chowk. Set amidst 12 acres, the hotel is an oasis of greenery in the bustling city. The hotel has 130 centrally air-conditioned rooms including 10 suites.
Facilities
- Business Centre
- Currency Exchange
- Gift Shop
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Medical Services
- Pool (s)
- Room Service
- Secretarial Service
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
-
Taj Nadesar Palace
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. Works of art from the Maharaja's collection decorate the walls of the Palace's 10 luxurious suites. Embellished …
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. 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.
Facilities
- Golf
- Internet Access
- Laundry
- Lounge(s)
- Medical Services
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant
- Secretarial Service
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
-
Rivatas By Ideal
Nestled in the heart of Cantonment, Rivatas Hotel By Ideal is an ideal spot from which to discover Varanasi. With its location just 4km from the city center and 22km from the airport, the hotel offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations. Offering hotel …
Nestled in the heart of Cantonment, Rivatas Hotel By Ideal is an ideal spot from which to discover Varanasi. With its location just 4km from the city center and 22km from the airport, the hotel offers easy access to the city's must-see destinations.
Offering hotel guests superior services and a broad range of amenities, Rivatas Hotel By Ideal is committed to ensuring that your stay is as comfortable as possible.Facilities
- Babysitting Services
- Bar
- Concierge
- Currency Exchange
- Laundry Service
- Parking (Valet)
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant
- Spa
- Tour Desk
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
-
Suryauday Haveli
Suryauday Haveli on Shivala Ghats is a reflection of the spirit of the holy city of Benaras. The Haveli traces its history back to the early 20th century. It was built by the Royal Family of Nepal as a retreat for the aged. It's now …
Suryauday Haveli on Shivala Ghats is a reflection of the spirit of the holy city of Benaras. The Haveli traces its history back to the early 20th century. It was built by the Royal Family of Nepal as a retreat for the aged. It's now been painstakingly put together again to provide the best ghat experience in Benaras. The Suryauday Haveli Hotel is only 28 kilometres away from the airport. The hotel also has easy access to the city's myriad of attractions and landmarks, such as The Ganges River, Durga Temple and the Tulsi Manas Temple.
Facilities
- 24 hour Front desk
- Currency Exchange
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Restaurant(s)
- Terrace
- Tour Desk
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
-
Tree of Life Resort & Spa, Varanasi
The Tree of Life Resort and Spa encompasses all that Varanasi has to offer. It is an oasis of peace and calm after a sometimes chaotic city experience. The Tree of Life Resort and Spa offers relaxation coupled with style, beauty and unmatched service. The …
The Tree of Life Resort and Spa encompasses all that Varanasi has to offer. It is an oasis of peace and calm after a sometimes chaotic city experience. The Tree of Life Resort and Spa offers relaxation coupled with style, beauty and unmatched service. The resort features 18 junior suites built using local architectural style and design - with extensive use of sandstone and lime reflecting the rich history of India. The Tree of Life Resort and Spa will transport you through centuries of tradition laced with a modern touch.
Facilities
- 24 Hour Reception
- Balcony
- Internet
- Restaurant
- Sauna
- Spa and Wellness Centre
- Steam Bath
- Swimming Pool
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
- Duration
- 3 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 423
Itinerary View Trip Map
Varanasi Airport to Varanasi Hotel
| Duration | 60 Minutes |
|---|
Radisson Hotel Varanasi
Radisson Hotel Varanasi, is a four-star hotel boasting modern architecture, warm hospitality and a convenient location in the heart of the city's main business district. Whether you're travelling on business or leisure, you will be delighted by the hotel's spacious accommodations and top-notch services. Each of the 116 hotel rooms at the Radisson Varanasi has been carefully designed to provide you with an outstanding stay.
| Meal Plan | Full Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Radisson Hotel Varanasi |
| Location | View map |
-
Radisson Hotel Varanasi
Radisson Hotel Varanasi, is a four-star hotel boasting modern architecture, warm hospitality and a convenient location in the heart of the city's main business district. Whether you're travelling on business or leisure, you will be delighted by the hotel's spacious accommodations and top-notch services. Each …
Radisson Hotel Varanasi, is a four-star hotel boasting modern architecture, warm hospitality and a convenient location in the heart of the city's main business district. Whether you're travelling on business or leisure, you will be delighted by the hotel's spacious accommodations and top-notch services. Each of the 116 hotel rooms at the Radisson Varanasi has been carefully designed to provide you with an outstanding stay.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Business Centre
- Conference Facilities
- Currency Exchange
- Gift Shop
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Massage Treatments
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Spa
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 5
Early Morning Ganges Boat Ride
Early morning, proceed to the ghats for a boat ride on the River Ganges. As your boat slowly drifts along the misty river you will witness so many fascinating sights - devotees having their ritual bath, the performing of religious ceremonies or "puja", to the rising sun, an ancient tradition that is still followed today. The shimmering red and gold hues on the waters of the river seem to cast a magical spell on the devout worshippers. The haunting sound of the chanting of mantras and hymns, coupled with the sweet fragrance of incense, fills the air with mystery and engulfs the senses of its spectators and offers an experience of ultimate bliss.
| Duration | 3 Hours |
|---|
Half Day City Tour of Varanasi
Today you will explore the city. A visit to the Bharat Mata Temple is an interesting experience since, unlike other temples in India which all house deities of gods and goddesses, this is the only temple dedicated to Mother India. The most peculiar thing about the Bharat Mata Temple is that it houses a relief map of India, carved out of marble. Built by Babu Shiv Prasad Gupt and inaugurated by Mahatma Gandhi in 1936, the statue of Bharat Mata is built in marble and is a model of an undivided India, depicting the mountains, plains and oceans. Every evening, as dusk descends you will proceed to the ghats to witness the Ganga Aarti being performed. It's a very powerful and uplifting spiritual ritual. The rays of the setting sun cast their mystical shadows upon the darkening water. All along the banks shimmering lights of the tiny oil lamps 'diyas' flicker in the darkness lighting up the darkness with tiny specks of light.. An aarti is a devotional ritual that uses fire as an offering. The aarti takes place facing the river. The lamps are lit and circled around by the pandits (Hindu priests) in a clockwise manner, accompanied by changing or songs in praise of Goddess Ganga, also affectionately referred to as Maa Ganga, goddess of the most holy river in India. The idea is that the lamps acquire the power of the deity. After the ritual is complete, devotees will cup their hands over the flame and raise their palms to their forehead in order to get the Goddess's purification and blessing. The ceremony of the priests worshipping the river goddess with incense, camphor, flowers and earthen lamps is an unforgettable sight.
| Duration | 6 Hours |
|---|
Varanasi Hotel to Varanasi Airport
| Duration | 60 Minutes |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
Daily
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Private arrival and departure airport transfers
- 2 nights first-class accommodations in Varanasi
- Private-guided Early Morning Ganges Boat Ride
- Private-guided Half Day City Tour of Varanasi
- English-speaking local guide
- Breakfast daily (excluding day 1)
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Visa fees if applicable
- Meals and beverages not mentioned
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
13 Aug 2023
Excursion Suggestions
As there is so much to see and do in many of our City Breaks/Stopover Ideas, you should consider staying longer. Below is a list of suggestions that can be added to your stay.
-
![]()
Varanasi: Early Morning Boat Ride on the Ganges
Experience an early morning boat ride along the mystical River Ganges, where you’ll see religious pilgrims bathing in the waters of the river and performing rituals to t…- Duration:
- 3 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
× Goway special offers
