5 Days Varanasi & Bodhgaya Tour

Embark on a transformative 5-day journey through the ancient city of Varanasi and the sacred town of Bodhgaya, where time-honored spirituality intertwines with vibrant life. On the first day, start with a guided Northern Bazar walk, immersing yourself in the vibrant local markets. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, where the Ganges River shimmers with devotion. The second day begins with a serene sunrise boat ride along the Ganges, followed by a stroll through narrow alleys and bustling bazaars filled with a tapestry of colors and scents. Visit some of Varanasi's renowned temples, then find tranquility in Sarnath, where Buddha's teachings have echoed through the ages. On the third day, enjoy a leisurely morning in Varanasi before driving to Bodhgaya, where you will stay overnight.

Day four is dedicated to exploring Bodhgaya. Visit the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the sacred Bodhi Tree. Explore the Great Buddha Statue and various monasteries built by different Buddhist countries. In the afternoon, visit the Archaeological Museum and Sujata Village, then end your day at the Dungeshwari Cave Temples. The fifth day is at your leisure, allowing for personal exploration or relaxation before your departure.

Amidst ornate temples and timeless rituals, Varanasi and Bodhgaya whisper their profound tales, leaving an indelible mark on your soul. This brief odyssey harmoniously blends spirituality, culture, and history, immersing you in the sacred essence of India's spiritual heart.

Trip Highlights

Walk through old streets
Evening Aarti Ceremony

Sunrise Ganges Boat Ride
Visit to Sarnath

Mahabodhi Temple
Great Buddha Statue

Itinerary :

Day 1: Arrival transfer + Northern Bazar Walk tour + Attend evening aarti ceremony

On arrival at Varanasi airport meet with our company assistance and transfer to your hotel. Later start from your hotel at 04:00 PM and start your day with Northern Bazar Walk. Exploring the Northern Bazaar area in Varanasi can be a fascinating experience as it gives you a glimpse into the city's vibrant culture, ancient architecture, and bustling markets. See Kachori Gali [Food Street], Thateri Bazaar, Perfume Market, Flower market, Manikarnika Ghat [Cremation Ground].

Later after this walk into a private balcony of Dashwasamedh Ghat to sit on private chairs reserved with best view of aarti ceremony.

As the sun dips below the horizon in Varanasi, the Ghats of the Ganges come alive with the Evening Aarti Ceremony. Flames dance in the hands of devout priests, hymns fill the air, and incense weaves mysticism. A mesmerizing spectacle unfolds, where ancient rituals bridge the earthly and the divine, captivating hearts.

After this return back to hotel around 08:30 PM. Enjoy your dinner and stay overnight.

Day 2: Sunrise boat ride + Visit to some major Temples + Visit to Sarnath

05:00 AM pick-up from your hotel lobby and drive to river Ganges. Embark on a private a private hand rowing boat for an enchanting journey that transcends time and space with a Sunrise Boat Ride in Varanasi. Varanasi boat ride at the time of sunrise from Dashashwamedh Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat is the most resplendent ride that takes you across heritage of Varanasi.

After this visit to Banaras Hindu University (BHU)'s Birla Temple, Tulsi Manas Temple & Mother India Temple etc.

Return to the hotel to enjoy breakfast and freshen up.

Later in afternoon visit to Sarnath - is a sacred pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Echoes of enlightenment permeate the ancient stupas, serene gardens, and the Dhamek Stupa. You will see here Ruins of Sarnath, Buddha Temple, large Buddha statue, Archaeological Museum and deer park etc.

After this return back to hotel and stay overnight.

Day 3: Morning at Leisure and Drive to Bodhgaya

Spend the morning at leisure. Depending on your interests, you can opt for the Death & Rebirth Walk tour or a visit to Ramnagar Fort. In the afternoon, start the drive to Bodhgaya (approx. 250 km, 5-hour drive). Check in to your hotel and stay overnight.

Day 4: Bodhgaya Sightseeing

Bodhgaya is a significant pilgrimage site where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became Buddha. Start your day with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring the sacred Bodhi Tree under which Buddha meditated. Explore the temple complex, including the Vajrasana (Diamond Throne) and the Animesh Lochana Chaitya.

Next, visit the Great Buddha Statue, an impressive 80-foot statue depicting Buddha in meditation. Explore the various monasteries built by different Buddhist countries, each showcasing unique architectural styles, including the Thai Monastery, Japanese Temple, and Tibetan Monastery.

In the afternoon, visit the Archaeological Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts related to Buddha's life. Then, head to Sujata Village, where Sujata offered Buddha kheer (rice pudding) after his long period of fasting. This village provides a glimpse into the local life and the historical significance of Buddha's journey to enlightenment.

End your day with a peaceful visit to the Dungeshwari Cave Temples (Mahakala Caves), where Buddha meditated before attaining enlightenment. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Leisure and Departure

Spend the morning at leisure, allowing for personal exploration or relaxation. Later, at an ideal time, transfer to Bodhgaya airport or railway station for your onward journey.

This journey harmoniously blends spirituality, culture, and history, immersing you in the sacred essence of India's spiritual heart.

Fill this simple and short form in your right/below or write us with your arrival and departure flight/train timings @ tours@tourvaranasi.com enable us to make and share a detailed itinerary complying to your arrival and departure schedule and special quote for your visit to Varanasi.

Price on Request

(We can always customize your travel)

Why choose us ?

Local Expertise: Our team comprises Varanasi locals who possess an innate understanding of the city's nuances.

Personalized Touch: We believe in quality over quantity, ensuring each guest receives personal attention and care.

Unveiling Authenticity: Our tours provide authentic encounters, allowing you to connect with the essence of Varanasi beyond the surface.

Seamless Planning: Leave the logistics to us; we handle every aspect of your journey so you can focus on immersing yourself in the experience.

Why 'Private Travel' in Varanasi?

Full flexibility & Personalized service with your Private Guide

Private Car & Driver at your service. Set your own pace

Select from Hand-picked Homestays to Luxury Palaces

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What our guests are saying?

More Reviews

This is a trustworthy and professional tour operator. I booked a three day package as a solo female traveler with them and they were always super responsive during preparation. I received a nice and comprehensive itinerary before, that was also adjusted to my requests. I could also ask some questions about accommodation (which I preferred to book myself) and they were happy to help.

Airport pickup was on time and after arriving at the hotel I met my guide Mr. Bharat. I had the same guide and driver for the entire trip which gave me much comfort.

Dr Tanja - Executive - Drambuie, Scotland

We took glimpse of Varanasi tour package and our guide Sunil was superb, enthusiastic and intelligent about his city and informative without being pushy or over friendly. I thoroughly recommend this company, although not cheap it is well worth the money for an insight and knowledge of the area and its history.

L. Casagranda - Interparfums, NY, USA

The team of Tour Varanasi are first rate. It seems all who met during our stay in Varanasi were expert in their respective services. Could not have our tours smoother. Guide, driver and all concerned were very good professionals. 10 for 10 is for your customer service.

Anita Rendon - Ainsworths, UK

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5 Days Varanasi & Bodhgaya Tour

5 Days Varanasi & Bodhgaya Tour

Walk through old streets​Evening Aarti Ceremony

Walk through old streets​Evening Aarti Ceremony

Sunrise Ganges Boat Ride​Visit to Sarnath

Sunrise Ganges Boat Ride​Visit to Sarnath

Mahabodhi TempleGreat Buddha Statue

Mahabodhi Temple

Great Buddha Statue

Itinerary :

Why choose us ?

Why 'Private Travel' in Varanasi?

Hotel Ideas

Walk through old streets
Evening Aarti Ceremony

Walk through old streets
Evening Aarti Ceremony

Sunrise Ganges Boat Ride
Visit to Sarnath

Sunrise Ganges Boat Ride
Visit to Sarnath

Mahabodhi Temple
Great Buddha Statue