2-Day Varanasi & Bodhgaya Tour with Sarnath & Ganges Boat Ride
Description
Day 1 : Experience the spiritual heartbeat of Varanasi on a full-day tour that unveils its ancient heritage and sacred traditions. Beyond newly built attractions, this journey explores the city’s true essence, where devotion, culture, and history flow together.
Sunrise at Assi Ghat : Begin your morning with a peaceful boat ride on the Ganges at Assi Ghat. Witness sunrise prayers, rituals, and chants that offer a calm and uplifting start to the day. (Optional: return to your hotel or enjoy a local-style breakfast).
Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple & Gopal Mandir : Visit the revered Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a symbol of enduring faith. Its history, tied with the nearby Gyanvapi Mosque, reflects centuries of devotion and resilience. Continue to Gopal Mandir, dedicated to Lord Krishna, known for its graceful architecture and tranquil ambiance.
Manikarnika Ghat – The Eternal Flame : Walk through ancient alleys to Manikarnika Ghat, the sacred cremation ground where Hindus believe the soul attains liberation from rebirth. The uninterrupted rituals here capture the cycle of life and death.
Banaras Hindu University (BHU) : Explore the serene grounds of BHU, established in 1916, a hub of learning that reflects India’s fusion of knowledge and spirituality.
Sarnath – In the Footsteps of Buddha : Travel to Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. Visit Dhamek Stupa, monastic ruins and the Archaeological Museum (closed Fridays) to connect with India’s Buddhist heritage.
Overnight stay in Varanasi Hotel.
Day 2 : Varanasi to Bodhgaya – Mahabodhi Temple & Return. (260 KM/ 5 Hrs).
A day trip from Varanasi to Bodhgaya is certainly possible, though it involves a long journey—about 5 to 6 hours each way, covering nearly 250 kilometers. This spiritually rewarding tour centers around the Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
Stand beneath the sacred Bodhi Tree, visit the Vajrasana (Diamond Throne)—believed to be the exact spot of Buddha’s meditation—and take in the peaceful atmosphere that surrounds this holy place.
The journey also includes visits to other key spiritual sites like the Great Buddha Statue (Optional) and beautifully crafted international monasteries each showcasing unique Buddhist traditions from across the globe.
After the tour, guests will be dropped off at their preferred location—either in Bodhgaya or back in Varanasi, as per their convenience.
Included
- 01 Night accommodation in a 3-Star hotel with breakfast (if option selected).
- Hotel/airport/railway station pickup and drop-off in Varanasi or Bodhgaya.
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver.
- All applicable taxes including fuel, parking, and toll charges.
- Professional English-speaking guide at sites (if option selected).
- Morning boat ride on the Ganges in Varanasi (if option selected).
- All entrance fees at monuments and temples (if option selected).
Excluded
- Any Type of Personal expenses is not included.
- Any Type of food/drinks is not included.
- Camera/video fees if applicable at certain sites.