the spiritual city – varanasi

Varanasi, an intriguing amalgamation of cultures, history, mythology and people. This is where one can get lost in a sea of crowds and yet find spiritual solitude. The holy Ganges meanders through this bustling city and the banks of the Ganges are lined by serene ghats, imposing temples and beautiful havelis. At sunset these ghats liven up with the evening arti. Chimes, chants and lamps light up Varanasi’s night sky.

Arti ceremony. Start the morning with an arti-ceremony (prayer) at Assi-ghat- (chai) classical music programme of Subah-i-Banaras. There is a different group that plays music every morning at the ghat.

Boat ride. Post this is a 1.5 hour boat ride where one can witness different pieces of architecture like the Alamgir Mosque, Bindu Madhav temple, Sanskrit Vidhalaya.

Breakfast. Stop for breakfast for some authentic North / South Indian food at Bhonsale Palace.

Wresting Ground. Enjoy an akhada (typical Indian wrestling ground since 16th century).

Manikarnikaghat. The most revered burning ghat of Varanasi.

City view. Get a bird’s eye view of the city from the rooftop of a guesthouse.

Drink break. A lassi / tea break at one of the most popular places in Varanasi.

Artisan visit. End the day by taking an auto ride to the place where the artisans make wooden toys.

  • Wear appropriate shoes as there will be walking & climbing of stairs
  • We would advise you to wear comfortable but conservative clothing
  • Carry a hat, sunglasses & sun protection lotion especially in the summer months
  • Shoes to be removed at the Holy places
  • Head cover (like a stole) required while visiting some temples
  • Duration upto 4.5 hours
  • Experience includes: an air-conditioned car that picks and drops you from your hotel; bottled water and munchies available in the car; local expert from the city; lunch

I went to India the first time back in 2014 and The Delhi Way gave me a fantastic one day tour in Old Delhi. Once again, for this time I contacted them because a colleague of mine and I were visiting Varanasi and Agra. The Delhi Way tailored tours for both cities for us, according to our needs, with awesome tour guides! Highly recommended company!

Virginia Rojas Albrieux, Colombia

The Best, as usual…

Having taken many tours with The Delhi Way, they know my requirements and taste very well. This time it was a trip of Varanasi with my husband, and it was just out of the world, both spiritually and relaxation-vise. We attended the aarti ceremony in the morning at 5 am as part of the walking tour which was great! Thank you yet again to the wonderful, accommodating and gracious team at TDW. Good job!

Sukh, Malvern