The Ultimate 3 Days in Varanasi – How to Spend 39 Hours – For First Timers

Planning a first visit to Varanasi can feel overwhelming. With its labyrinth of narrow streets, spiritual rituals, and intense sensory overload, knowing how to make the most of just three days requires careful guidance. This private 3-day tour promises a thorough introduction to India’s spiritual capital, blending iconic sights with authentic local moments.

What we love about this experience? First, the seamless logistics—everything from airport pickups to hotel stays is handled smoothly. Second, the diversity of activities: from Buddhist sites to Hindu temples, boat rides to street food adventures. Third, the personalized attention from guides who are both knowledgeable and genuinely passionate.

A potential consideration? Since it’s a tightly packed schedule, some travelers might find the pace a bit brisk, especially during the sightseeing of the ghats and temples. Still, if you’re eager to cover a lot without the stress of planning, it’s a fantastic choice.

This tour is perfect for first-timers wanting a comprehensive, authentic Varanasi experience without the hassle of coordinating logistics themselves. It’s ideal for those interested in spiritual sites, cultural insights, and local flavor all wrapped into one seamless package.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary blending Buddhist, Hindu, and cultural highlights
• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary and personalized service
• Well-balanced schedule balances sightseeing with culture
• All-inclusive options with hotel and some meals elevate the value
• Authentic experiences like Ganges boat rides and street food tastings

The Complete 3-Day Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction to Varanasi’s Spiritual Roots

Your adventure kicks off with a pick-up from the airport or railway station, ensuring your first moments in Varanasi are stress-free. The tour emphasizes early arrival—aim to reach before 3 pm—so you can maximize your first day.

First stop is Sarnath, a 20 km drive from the city. This site is sacred for Buddhists, as it’s where Buddha delivered his first sermon. The story behind Sarnath’s importance adds depth: it’s the birthplace of Buddhism, with ancient stupas and monuments built by Emperor Ashoka. Take a walk through the Deer Park, where deer roam freely, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

We appreciated the 2-hour visit here, which offers a glimpse into Buddhism’s origins. While the Sarnath Museum isn’t included in the ticket, it’s worth a quick peek for historical artifacts—particularly the polished Lion Capital of Ashoka, a symbol many recognize from Indian architecture.

As evening approaches, you’ll head to Dashaswamedh Ghat to witness the Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ceremony of chanting, oil lamps, and synchronized movements. This event is a highlight for many visitors, with thousands gathering to see saffron-clad priests offer flowers and wave snake-shaped lamps. The reviews echo this sentiment: guests describe the Aarti as a “grand event” that offers an unforgettable sense of spiritual connection.

Post-Aarti, a walk takes you to the Blue Lassi Shop, a renowned spot for the world’s best Lassi. Here, you’ll sample traditional street foods like Kachori, Chaat, and Paan Malaiyo—a winter delicacy. This street food tour is a delightful way to end your first day, immersing you in local flavors and bustling markets.

Day 2: Deep Dive into Varanasi’s Sacred Life

Your second day begins early with a visit to Assi Ghat, notable for its morning Aarti. This ritual welcomes the Sun God with offerings of water, chanting, and yoga, setting a spiritual tone for the day. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a boat ride on the Ganges, which offers a unique vantage point to observe daily life along the ghats.

Guests have described their boat experience as “mystical,” observing devotees taking holy dips, cremations at Manikarnika Ghat, and locals washing clothes. The boat ride lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, providing ample time to witness the vibrant river scene.

At Manikarnika Ghat, the only place in the world where cremations take place daily, you’ll undergo a guided visit. The 30-minute walk along this ghat reveals stories of life, death, and heritage. One reviewer highlighted the intense experience here, noting the sight of cremations and the ancient architecture, along with the presence of sages and sadhus.

Next, you’ll visit the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Golden Temple. This sacred Hindu temple, reconstructed in 1780, is a major pilgrimage site. Visitors should carry a passport copy for security purposes, as per the instructions. The experience of walking through the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor is described as both inspiring and humbling.

After breakfast, the day continues with a tour of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), a sprawling campus with temples, pavilions, and student life. The tour includes visits to Bharat Mata Temple, Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple, and Manas Mandir—all significant for their spiritual and cultural relevance.

Later, you explore the Lallapura Muslim School Road, where you witness local artisans weaving Banarasi sarees using traditional handlooms. This lively area, with over 10,000 machines in operation, offers a fascinating peek into India’s textile craftsmanship. Reviewers note that this part of the tour isn’t pushy about shopping, making it a relaxed cultural experience.

Day 3: Farewell with Personal Exploration and Departure

The third day is designed for a gentle wrap-up. After breakfast, you have some free time to wander Varanasi’s streets or revisit favorite spots. The tour ends with a drop-off at Varanasi airport, leaving you with lasting memories of this intensely spiritual city.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Value

Throughout the tour, private transportation ensures you travel comfortably and on your schedule. The hotel stays are in 4 or 5-star establishments with breakfast included, elevating the overall experience. Guests have expressed that the hotel quality varies, but the convenience and comfort are undeniable, especially after long days of sightseeing.

The tour is priced at $123.98 per person, which includes guided visits, boat rides, hotel, some meals, and hassle-free airport transfers. Considering the depth and variety of experiences, many reviewers consider this a good value—especially given the personalized service and expert guidance.

The reviews point out that this experience is well-organized, with guides like Arvind and Sonny receiving praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to adapt to guest preferences.

What Travelers Say

Multiple guests describe the guides as “knowledgeable,” “considerate,” and “flexible,” with one reviewer noting that their guide, Ricky, was fantastic. Others appreciated the timely pickups and smooth logistics that kept the schedule flowing without feeling rushed. Many mention the authentic street food and the chance to see local craftsmanship as highlights.

Some reviewers did note that the hotel might not match expectations of four-star standards, but the overall comfort and convenience compensated for that. The Ganga Aarti and boat rides are consistently called out as unforgettable highlights.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 3-day private Varanasi tour offers a balanced and authentic glimpse into the city’s spiritual life, cultural heritage, and local traditions. It’s best suited for travelers who want a structured, yet flexible, way to see major sights without the stress of planning each detail.

If you love learning from engaging guides, enjoy food and street markets, and are eager to witness iconic rituals like the Ganga Aarti, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially valuable for first-timers who want a rundown but still want to savor the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

The only caution is the pace—if you prefer a very relaxed, slow exploration, some parts may feel a little rushed, especially given the packed schedule.

This experience delivers value for money in the form of in-depth sightseeing, local insights, and culture—making your first trip to Varanasi both memorable and meaningful.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hassle-free pickup from the airport or railway station, making your arrival seamless.

How flexible is the itinerary? The tour is private and can be customized to your preferences, allowing some flexibility within the planned activities.

Are meals included? Some meals are included, notably breakfast, but not all. You’ll have opportunities to explore street food and local eateries on your own.

What should I wear for the temples and rituals? Modest clothing is recommended, especially for visiting temples like Kashi Vishwanath. Carrying a scarf or shawl is a good idea if you’re visiting religious sites.

Is the Ganga Aarti accessible for everyone? The Aarti takes place at Dashaswamedh Ghat and is suitable for most visitors, but keep in mind it can be crowded, and some may find it physically challenging to stand for long periods.

Can I participate in the boat rides? Yes, the boat rides are included and are a highlight, offering a different perspective of the city’s ghats and daily life.

How far in advance should I book? The tour is typically booked around 94 days in advance, so planning ahead is advisable to secure your preferred dates.

In summary, this 3-day guided Varanasi tour offers an authentic, well-organized way to experience India’s spiritual heart. It balances cultural depth with comfort and convenience, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors eager to dive into Varanasi’s soul.