Explore the timeless charm of India’s oldest living city in India with our Varanasi One Day City Tour. This condensed and at the same time profound trial will appeal to the energies of those who would like to uncover the spiritual and cultural oases of Varanasi in just one short day. The program features a boat ride at dawn on the Ganges, a number of sacred temples visits such as the Kashi Vishwanath, a half-day trip to Sarnath, and the concluding highlight which is the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
This one day tour in Varanasi combines heritage, devotion, and local experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, our Varanasi local tour is crafted to offer the best places to visit in Varanasi in one day with a private car, guide, and flexible schedule.
Tour Highlights – Varanasi Sightseeing Tour
Start off with a private boat trip at dawn from Assi or Dashashwamedh Ghat. As the sun rises, you will glide past more than 80 ghats along the river, where pilgrims are busy taking holy dips and priests are busy giving out morning aarti (a ritual in which light and prayer are offered). The ambience is solemn and calm. After the boat trip, visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple (The Golden Temple), the holiest Shiva temple in Varanasi. This 18th-century temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga locations of considerable repute in India. Local custom dictates that you dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) and remove shoes before entering the inner sanctum. Spend some time in the temple courtyard and adjoining lanes, inhaling the pungent smell of incense and the sound of bells.
Wandering around the adjoining old city. Tour the narrow bazaars like Vishwanath Gali selling silk sarees and Banarasi sweets. The ringing of cowbells and the music from the street performers provide the soundtrack to the day’s glimpse of life in Banaras. If time permits, one may visit the Durga Temple (a bright red temple nearby) or Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, both bearing witness to the devotional practices of Banaras. Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant or a street eatery; do try kachori sabzi or sweet milky lassi.
Drive around 10–12 km northwest toward Sarnath, another Buddhist pilgrimage site where Gautama Buddha gave his first sermon. Among the things to be seen at Sarnath are the gigantically imposing Dhamek Stupa, the Chaukhandi Stupa, and ruins of ancient monasteries. Relics like the Lion Capital of Ashoka are housed at the Sarnath Archaeological Museum. One would learn that the grounds of Sarnath span centuries, from 3rd-century BCE Ashokan pillars to medieval stupas. This stop connects you to India’s spiritual history beyond Hinduism. Return to Varanasi city after touring Sarnath.
Return just in time for the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat, the most renowned ritual in Varanasi. As darkness creeps in, hundreds of pandits perform a synchronized ritual involving fire, sound, and mantra chanting on the riverbank. The ghat is bathed in the soft glow of brass oil lamps arranged in rows, while a thousand little lamps drift on the luminous waters of the Ganges. This Ganga Aarti is heart-wrenchingly beautiful to witness and photograph. After the Aarti, walk back via the riverside market (with a must-try of Banarasi paan or malaiyyo froth dessert) or embark on a quiet evening boat ride to enjoy the look of the brightly lit ghats. Finish the day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the river.
Yes, our Varanasi One Day City Tour covers the most significant spiritual and cultural attractions, including temples, Sarnath, and the evening Ganga Aarti.
Yes, the boat ride along the Ganges River during sunrise is included.
No, Sarnath is just around 10 km (30 minutes by car) from the city and is easily included in a one day itinerary in Varanasi.
Dress modestly — cover shoulders and knees. Remove footwear before entering temples. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended.
Absolutely! Our Varanasi city tour is suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, and senior citizens.
Meals are not included, but your guide can recommend the best local restaurants.
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Private Driver India Tour, founded in 2006 by Mr. Amit Singh, is dedicated to providing unforgettable travel experiences in North India, led by professional drivers with years of expertise serving global travelers.
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