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Overview
Varanasi, formerly known as Benares is the oldest living city in India and home to one of the most time-honoured, mysterious cultures in the world. In India, a land besotted with spiritual matters, there is no holier a place than Varanasi. Along the river Ganges, believed by most Hindus to be the most sacred of waterways, you will witness the rituals of the people as they offer their obeisance to the sun or ‘puja’ at the first light of day and the cremation rituals at night. Death is not seen as morbid here, rather, a journey from the physical to the non-physical. Varanasi is also associated with Buddha in that this is where the great teacher delivered his first message to his followers.

Tour Highlights
- Visit the oldest living city of India and home to one of the worlds’ most time-honored and mysterious cultures.
- Witness the most important daily rituals at sunset and sunrise on the banks of the holy Ganges River.
- Visit the world heritage site Sarnath, where Buddha preached his first sermon.
- Visit the 3rd century BC monuments built by Emperor at Sarnath.
- Witness some of the world’s greatest Indian Buddhist art the Archaeological Museum.
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Delhi – Varanasi
You will take a short flight to the holy city of Varanasi, the religious capital of Hinduism and one of the oldest living cities in the world. Arrive and transfer to our hotel.
In the early evening we will take a close look at the banks of the Ganges to witness the devotional ceremony of Aarti performed by thousands of devout Hindus. The incredible chanting of prayers fills the air as does the rhythmic drumming and sounds of bells from temples across the Holy Ganges.
In the early evening we will go to the banks of the Ganges to witness the devotional ceremony of Aarti performed by devout Hindus. Afterwards, we will return to the hotel where we will enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Taj Ganges, VaranasiTaj Ganges, Varanasi
Nadesar Palace Ground, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002, Indiahttps://gateway.tajhotels.com/en-in/ganges-varanasi/+91 542 666 0001The ancient temple city of Varanasi has yet another landmark in The Gateway Hotel Varanasi. Featured among the top 5 star hotels in the city, The Gateway Hotel Varanasi is nestled amidst 40 acres of lush gardens at a convenient distance (about 45 minutes drive) from the airport.
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Day 2:
Varanasi
A memorable day ahead as we leave early in the morning to board our boat for a ride along the Ganges to see the bathing Ghats (river bank) & cremation site. We will watch the sunrise on the riverfront from a boat which can be a moving spiritual experience as you witness the worship and sites along the river. Life on the Ghats is bound by an endless string of rituals and the ever-changing aspects of the river and the wide landscapes throughout the area have fascinated visitors from all over the world. You will become entranced by the sights and sounds of those worshipping in this amazingly beautiful, mysterious, and ancient place. We will also visit Mother Teresa’s missionary before returning to the hotel for breakfast.
In the afternoon, we enjoy a guided excursion to Sarnath, a centre of Buddhist learning and the buried Buddhist city where Buddha preached his first sermon. After attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, the Buddha went to Sarnath and it was here that he preached his first discourse in the deer park and set in motion the ‘Wheel of the Dharma’. It is one of the most holy sites because it is believed that in this place the stream of the Buddha’s teaching first flowed. Sarnath was a renowned school of learning from the 16th century BC to the 12th century AD. Visit the ruins, the stupa, the Buddhist temple & the museum. See the Ashok Pillar at the museum with its four guardian lions, now the national emblem to acknowledge India’s independence.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Taj Ganges, VaranasiTaj Ganges, Varanasi
Nadesar Palace Ground, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221002, Indiahttps://gateway.tajhotels.com/en-in/ganges-varanasi/+91 542 666 0001The ancient temple city of Varanasi has yet another landmark in The Gateway Hotel Varanasi. Featured among the top 5 star hotels in the city, The Gateway Hotel Varanasi is nestled amidst 40 acres of lush gardens at a convenient distance (about 45 minutes drive) from the airport.
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Day 3:
Varanasi – Delhi
Breakfast at your hotel. In time for your flight, you will be transferred to Varanasi airport for your flight to Delhi. Arrive and transfer to your day hotel until your flight departs for home.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New DelhiPride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi
Asset 5A, Hospitality District, Aerocity, Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, Indiahttp://www.pridehotel.com/delhi/new-delhi-aerocity/+91 11 6600 7700Located in close proximity to Delhi and Gurgaon, Pride Plaza Hotel Aerocity, New Delhi is the first luxury hotel in the capital by the Pride Group of Hotels.
What’s included
- Roundtrip airfare Delhi – Varanasi – Delhi
- Accommodation in one double occupancy room
- Escorted transfers (airport to the hotel, hotel to airport)
- Meals as specified as per the program
- Extensive sightseeing as described, including all entrance fees
- Sunrise and sunset boat cruises at the river Holy Ganges
- Services of an accompanying Explore India tour manager
- Air-Conditioned Motorcoach transportation throughout your trip
- Bottled Water During Sightseeing Tours
- Entrance fees to all the monuments
What’s excluded
- Personal expenses
- Services other than in our inclusion
- Gratuities to guides, drivers, porters etc. is at your discretion.
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Recent Reviews
First of all, we want to thank Nazir for planning this wonderful trip. We really appreciated the effort he made in meeting us on our first day of our arrival to Delhi, which I did not expect it at all. He came to our hotel and greeted us and even gave us a welcome dinner that night. When we were at the Kashmir airport, our guide gave me his cell phone, saying that someone wanted to talk to me. To my surprise, it was Nazir. My worried husband could not contact us while we were in Kashmir (for there is no internet access), but Nazir was able to locate us. He asked us how we were in order to report back to my husband. We really appreciate his hard work. In this trip, the best thing that happened to us was that we had a kind, responsible driver, Harpal. He met us in Delhi (after Kashmir) and drove us to Jaipur and Agra. He was such a careful driver, even though most drivers in India drive very recklessly. He was always patient and drove in a courteous manner. He was punctual when picking us up every time, and he took us to good restaurants. On our last day, arriving from Kathmandu to Delhi, he came back to be our guide, even though he had already gone back home (which was one hour away from Delhi!) He helped us a lot and we became good friends. Harpal is a highly recommended driver and guide. He deserves a raise and good appraisal. We had five different hotels on this trip; the best was Trident in Jaipur. Besides great breakfast, the staff was very friendly, helpful, and sincere. One of Trident’s policies is no tipping for all staff. It was such a relief because I did not need to carry small notes for tipping everywhere. Trident also had great security, swimming pool, good rate exchanges, and free internet in the business centre. Trident surpassed The Park in Delhi, Jaypee in Agra, and Ramada in Varanasi. We recommend that the best hotel should put to the last so that we won’t be comparing with the best. In this trip, I learned a lot. I felt sorry for the people in India in many situations – corruption, poverty, sanitation, and children and women status. I do think India needs another revolution in order to move forward again. To Nazir, I hope someone like you, young and has a good education, can form a team to help the people in India improve the living conditions in order for them to have a better world tomorrow.
Nola Yang and Family
Vancouver, Canada
Sorry for the late reply, but Violet and I have been working on – stop since our return from India if February. We have been to many places, but India was by far the most exotic and wonderful country we have ever seen. The people, sights, food, cultures were amazing! There was nothing that we could mention to improve the experience. It really was extraordinary. We wish we could have stayed longer. In fact, if we had known about the extension to southern India, we would have booked that too. Your staff was exceptional. Everyone was very professional and extremely helpful at all times. We have already recommended your company to several of our friends, and we hope to go back to India with you as soon as we can. Violet and I are already thinking about getting away again. We are booked to go to the Oceania cruise event on Sunday, April 24th We are extremely happy with the level of service and the quality the Explore India has provided. If you ever need a reference please do not hesitate to ask. Thank you for everything,
Doug Smith and Violet Allard
Vancouver, Canada
I thoroughly enjoyed the trip to India. Our guide, Ashish, was incredible. He was so knowledgeable and provided wonderful stories and history at each of our stops. He had incredible patience with all of us travelers and photographers and tried to accommodate all of our needs and desires. The size of the group was very workable and we all seemed to get along and enjoyed each other’s company. The driver and his assistant were more than competent and got us through some very tight spaces. I would recommend Explore India to anyone considering a trip to India!
Karen Corness
Surrey, BC, Canada
My daughter and I enjoyed our trip. All went well and feel fortunate to have seen such amazing things. Our tour group was awesome and made friends for life. Thanks for all your help in booking our trip. I wish you had tours like this in other destinations! I have been recommending explore India to many, who have been seeing my photos on Facebook. I even have convinced my sister, Kymn to go (she told me she has you working on her trip, already). Thanks again,
Kalynne and Devon
Montreal, Canada
Hi Nazir, It was good to finally meet you in Delhi. Thanks for the bag and the lovely gifts. What a surprise. We had a wonderful trip. We are still processing all the experiences and can't believe all that we crammed into our time in India. Rajeev did a great job of ensuring everything ran smoothly. An amazing trip!
Pamela & Jim
Ottawa, Canada
Sorry for not sending you an email earlier to thank you for planning our unforgettable tour of India. Our accommodations were wonderful. Upon arrival at each hotel we were greeted by friendly and helpful staff. Our driver Suresh, was amazing, getting us through busy city streets and never once did we feel unsafe with his driving. All guides were very professional and knowledgeable of all the areas we toured. We had many wonderful experiences with local people and trying local food. Being in India for Diwali Festival and joining a local family for dinner at their home was one of our highlights. Jerry and I truly feel this was a trip of a lifetime and tell everyone they should see India. We are now down in Arizona and have some friends that are interested in taking a trip to India. Would it be possible for you to email a copy of our itinerary for them. Appreciated all the work you did.
Jerry & Elaine Merritt
Coquitlam, Canada
We have finally got a minute to collect our thoughts and tell you what a fabulous trip we had with you and your team. Since returning on November 23rd from our 35 day trip of a lifetime to India, it was everything we had hoped for. As our guide in Varanasi said when speaking of his city, some people hate it and some people love it, but nobody will ever forget it. We think this thought could well apply to India in general. With that in mind, WE LOVED IT and will never forget it. You were the perfect tour director, with your great attention to detail and endless personal connections making everything seem so seamless for us. Your team through the trip were wonderful ambassadors for the country; they loved their work and loved to tell us about India. We were so glad that you sold us on including Kashmir in the itinerary; it is a very special place, I have about 3000 photos to cull and organize, and these will provide hours of memories. When I get them sorted, I will send along a few for your files.
Ian & Cathy Lang
Waterloo, Canada
Thank you for the lovely message welcoming us home! Our tour to India was fantastic! We had a wonderful group of fun, enthusiastic and outgoing traveling companions. Tom and I were happy that we had chosen to arrive a day early as it gave us a chance to rest up before the tour, do some exploring on our own and also meet some of the others on tour. I must say, that we were very impressed with the way that we were greeted and escorted throughout the trip, from the warm welcome we had on our first day with Manzoor and Raj to the last drop off at the airport traveling home. We even took advantage of exchanging Canadian dollars into rupees using the “Karnai Bank”! Every detail was looked after. Our guide for the northern portion of the tour, Ashish, was the perfect host; knowledgeable, accommodating, and entertaining. The experience of seeing the historical sights, sampling the various dishes and immersing ourselves into this colourful culture exceeded our expectations. We can’t say enough about how well the itinerary was planned with enough time to see the sights and enjoy some down time back at the hotel. We found the accommodations to be top notch, comfortable, offering a wide selection of food items and almost all had free wifi available. We were pleased to have had the opportunity to see both the north and south of India. Thank you Nazir for suggesting the additional tour to Kerala. It is a totally different side of India that we would have otherwise missed. We absolutely loved the beautiful mountain vistas of the terraced tea plantations and the time spent on the houseboat touring the backwaters was magical. What a great way to end our stay! The only suggestion that I can offer at this time is to build in some extra time at the beautiful resorts in which we stayed. It would have been wonderful to take advantage of the services they offered, especially at the Spice Village Resort. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you Mandira for helping us organize this excursion and for helping us navigate through the process of acquiring an Indian visa. Thank you also to Nazir and the whole Explore India team both in Canada and abroad. This was truly a most memorable tour and a trip of a lifetime! Thank you! Dhanyavaad!
Angela and Thomas Hall
Toronto, Canada
Dear Nazir: It was a good tour. No complaints though there are always too many churches/temples for me, but that is just me. A highlight for me was the boating experience on the Ganges, along with the spiritual overtones, cremation and other ceremony further down the river. Our tour guide guy (???) was exceptional, so knowledgeable, a great communicator, respectful and empathetic to our needs at all times. He made the tour for me. The driver and his helper were both very good too. Hotels were great, service and food exceptional. Loved your country, especially the people.
Joyce Crawford
North Vancouver, Canada
Hello Nazir, The Journey of the Senses was truly an amazing trip and there are many things to reflect on. It is difficult to process it all at once. The pictures and the memories certainly help. I am working at putting together a travel journal so I don't forget it all! There, of course, were many highlights, but three key highlights for us were the community kitchen at the Gurduwara Bangla Sahib [we would have loved more time there], the visits to the ghats in Varanasi and the tour of the slum in Mumbai. I'm so glad that we switched to the February tour from a private tour in December, and that we chose a tour that you were leading. You and your team thought of everything, and took care of every small detail, including a proper toilet in the middle of the desert!. Not having to deal with our luggage, checking in at the airports, or lining up for hotel keys was a real treat. The guides, especially Yajur, were great, and we felt very safe and protected with Ravi and Shenkar. The special events - welcome dinner, elephant and camel safaris, lunch at Taj Khema and the dinner with Joti in Udaipur were amazing, each surprise exceeding the other. And a special thank you for arranging my trip to the dentist in Jodhpur. These kinds of unexpected medical issues can be stressful, but you calmly took care of every detail. Again, Nazir, thank you for a great time-enjoyable, educational and delicious! We may be up for another adventure in 2017 - let us know!
Michelle and Eli
Vancouver, Canada
Tour Extensions
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