Experience the spiritual and cultural essence of Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, on a same day tour from Delhi. This tour is designed for travelers who want to explore the highlights of Varanasi in a day, making the most of their time.

Itinerary:

1. Early Morning: Departure from Delhi

   • Flight: Board an early morning flight from Delhi to Varanasi. The flight typically takes around 1.5 hours.
   • Transfer: Upon arrival at Varanasi airport, meet your local guide and transfer to the city center.

2. Morning: Visit Sarnath

   • Sarnath: Drive to Sarnath, the place where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. Visit the Dhamek Stupa, Sarnath Museum, and the ruins of the ancient Buddhist monasteries.
   • Museum: Explore the Sarnath Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts related to Buddhism and the life of Buddha.

3. Late Morning: Explore Varanasi Temples

   • Kashi Vishwanath Temple: Visit the famous Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds great religious significance for Hindus.
   • Annapurna Temple: Visit the Annapurna Temple, dedicated to the goddess of food and nourishment.
   • Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple: Pay a visit to the Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

4. Afternoon: Lunch and Cultural Exploration

   • Lunch: Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Varanasi cuisine.
   • Bharat Mata Temple: Visit the Bharat Mata Temple, unique for its relief map of India carved in marble.
   • Banaras Hindu University: Take a drive through the campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), one of the largest residential universities in Asia. Visit the New Vishwanath Temple located within the campus.

5. Evening: Ganga Aarti and Boat Ride

   • Dashashwamedh Ghat: Head to Dashashwamedh Ghat, the main and the oldest ghat in Varanasi, to witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony. The Aarti is a grand ritual performed every evening with lit lamps, incense, and chants.
   • Boat Ride: Enjoy a boat ride on the holy Ganges River, offering a panoramic view of the ghats and the temples along the riverbank. Experience the serene and spiritual ambiance as you glide on the sacred waters.

6. Night: Return to Delhi

   • Dinner: Optionally, enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant before heading to the airport.
   • Flight: Transfer to Varanasi airport for your return flight to Delhi. The flight usually departs late in the evening.
   • Arrival in Delhi: Arrive in Delhi and transfer back to your accommodation.