About the Place:
Wandering in the streets of Banaras is an experience that you would want to share. Considered as the abode of Lord Shiva, Varanasi is situated on the banks of River Ganga. The River Ganga is believed to have the power of washing away all of one's sins. Varanasi is more than 3000 years old and is known for its old temples. You will surely wonder looking at the huge numbers of temples even after many temples being demolished during the medieval times. Varanasi is the most popular pilgrimage point for the Hindus. One of the seven holiest cities, Varanasi city is also one of the Shakti Peethas and one of the twelve Jyotir Linga sites in India. Varanasi has been a symbol of spiritualism, philosophy and mysticism for thousands of years and is known for great saints and personalities like Gautam Buddha, Mahavira, Kabir, Tulsi Das, Shankaracharya, and others.
Along with ancient stories and spirituality, Varanasi has a lot more to offer, for example the famous ‘Kachori’ in Varanasi which is very popular among tourist. As we all know that the traditional food is an essential part of the Indian culture and cuisine. Here in Varanasi, there are a number of street foods from across the country that are famous, but the major attraction here is the ‘Kachori’. There are also other food items in Varanasi that will treat your taste buds for sure. Trying the ‘Kachoris’ and ‘Samosas’ is a must in Varanasi.
Description:
Just like the soul is to the body, the same way spirituality is to India. Among all the unique places in the world, India is known for practising spirituality and having a deep knowledge of spirituality. India’s culture and tradition along with the spicy Indian delicacies, tourist throng in India’s most popular places. On the other side of the digital India, in the parallel universe is a divine city of Varanasi, a city in India nestled in the state of Uttar Pradesh. Only the ambience of this place is enough to bless the soul.
Known as one of the most sacred cities in Hinduism, Varanasi is also known as Banaras or Kashi. Varanasi is a very old city attracting the young and old both. From the enchanted tourists witnessing the ‘Aartis’ performed at the Ghat to the calmness of the holy River Ganga, Varanasi is a journey within a journey. Watching the cycle of life and death on the banks and meditating on the calls of ‘Har Har Mahadev’ is an experience that will touch your soul. More than being just a spiritual destination Varanasi offers much more to explore like the medieval temples, Museum, tempting delicacies and much more.
Trikon invites you to a journey that stops time and connects your spiritual self to the present and the future. Varanasi is a city that is truly timeless. From the divine ambiance to the mouth-watering street food, Varanasi is a gem. With Trikon, escape to a parallel universe on the other side of the digital India.
Please Note : Train Ticket Cost is not part of Package, But Trikon will assist you with Train / Flight Ticket Booking
Onward Journey Train Details.
LTT GKP SF EXP (15017)
Saturday Departure from LTT @ 06:00 , Arrival at Varanasi by Sunday Afternoon
Return Journey Train Details.
GKP LTT EXP (15018)
Wednesday Departure from Banaras @ 11:20 , Arrival at Mumbai by Thursday Evening
Day 1: Mumbai to Varanasi ( Ticket Cost Not Included )
- Meet the Trikon team at LTT station at 5.30 am to catch LTT GKP EXPRESS (15017) express which starts the Journey at 6:00 am.
Day 2: Welcome to the Holy City!
- Reach Varanasi Railway Station by afternoon. Shift to our Home Stay / Hotel
- Freshen up and get ready to witness the city of temples especially Kal Bhairav & Kashi Vishwanath.
- Kaal Bhairav Temple: The word "Kaal" means both "death" and "fate". Kaal Bhairav also means the one whom even death Fears It is believed that even death is afraid of Kaal Bhairav.
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple: One of the famous Hindu Temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Kashi Vishwanath temple is located in Vishwanath Gali of Varanasi. This temple was demolished by Aurangzeb (the Sixth Mughal Emperor)who constructed the Gyanvapi Mosque on its site.
- Will be witnessing to Dashashwamedh Ghat for Ganga Aarti full evening. We at Trikon will give you one of the best experiences of your life as you attend an ‘Aarti’ which will take you to a different world. You will attend the famous The Maha Ganga Aarti post-sunset.
- Have dinner and rest for the day.
Day 3: Explore Ganga Ghat
- Wake up early and freshen up as you will witness the most beautiful and Holy River in India, The River Ganga. A walk along the bank of the River Ganga is a peaceful experience. The boat ride along the river is the best way to get closer to the Holy River. We return back to Dasaswamedh Ghat by boat ride or a walk. Will be exploring some iconic Ghats too.
- Have Breakfast and leave for Banaras Hindu University.
- Leave for Sankat Mochan Hanuman Temple and other temples Nearby.
- Sankat Mochan Foundation was established by Veer Bhadra Mishra in the year 1982, the Mahant (High priest) of the temple and has been working for cleaning and protecting the Ganges river. Each year in the month of April, the temple organizes classical music and dance concert festival titled "Sankat Mochan Sangeet Samaroh", in which musicians and performers from all over India take part.
- Have Lunch and rest/explore
- Leave for Assi Ghat for Ganga Aarti in the evening.
- Assi Ghat is known for bringing places where visitors stay for a very long time. Assi Ghat is one of the ghats often visited for recreation and during festivals.
- Have Dinner and Rest for the Day.
Day 4: Explore Sarnath Temple
- Today we wake up to the path of the 4 noble truths. Yes you guessed it right, today we leave for Sarnath Temple which is located in just Hindu holy city of Varanasi.
- We will reach Deer Park. This is the park where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma after his enlightenment. For Buddhists, Sarnath is one of the four holy sites sanctioned by the Buddha himself for pilgrimage. The serenity of this place will fill you with peace and enlighten your mind.
- Have Lunch and then Participants can go for Shopping till evening. This will be the last evening for the trip. You can explore on your own. Have Dinner and rest for the Day
Day 5: Leave For Mumbai ( Ticket Cost Not Included )
- Good Morning!! Freshen up and start the return journey with a smile and a new self that is deeply connected to yourself. Board the train from Varanasi Station for Mumbai
Day 6: Reach Mumbai
- Reach Mumbai with Good Memories!!!
What is included in the tour
- Meal (3 breakfasts/ 3 lunch/ 3 dinner)
- Local Street food at evening (Lassi, Sweet , Bhang Chaat )
- 03 Nights’ accommodation at Home Stay / Hotel ( Triple Sharing
- All Internal Transfer Varanasi to Varanasi – by Tempo Traveller/fun cycle Rickshaw.
- An experienced backpacking expert and a Friend who will help you take the hassle out of your travel.
What is NOT included in the tour
- · Travelling from Mumbai – Varanasi Station (To and Fro)
- · Entry tickets and Guide fees
- · Activity Charges.
- · Personal Expenses
- · Anything that is NOT mentioned in the ‘Inclusions’.
- Famous Kaal Bhairav and Kashi Vishwanath Temple
- Delicious Local Food
- Sunrise Boat on River Ganga
- Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
- Visit To Sarnath, Holiest Place to the Buddhists
Q1. What are the best places to visit in Varanasi?
A1. Some of the best places to visit in Varanasi are the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Sarnath, Dashashwamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and the Ganges River.
Q2. What is the best time to visit Varanasi?
A2. The best time to visit Varanasi is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and cool.
Q3. How do I reach Varanasi?
A3. Varanasi is well-connected by air, rail, and road. You can reach Varanasi by taking a flight to the Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, by taking a train to Varanasi Junction Railway Station, or by road through National Highway 2.
Q4. What are the best things to do in Varanasi?
A4. Some of the best things to do in Varanasi are taking a boat ride on the Ganges River, attending the Ganga Aarti ceremony, exploring the narrow alleys and streets of Varanasi, and trying the local street food.
Q5. What should I wear when visiting Varanasi?
A5. Varanasi is a religious and cultural city, so it is recommended to dress conservatively and cover your shoulders and knees. You can wear comfortable cotton clothes and avoid wearing revealing or tight clothes.
Q6. Is it safe to travel to Varanasi?
A6. Yes, Varanasi is a safe city to travel to, but it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone at night.
Q7. What is the local language spoken in Varanasi?
A7. The local language spoken in Varanasi is Hindi, but you can also find people who speak English and other regional languages.
Q9. What are some popular souvenirs to buy in Varanasi?
A9. Some popular souvenirs to buy in Varanasi are Banarasi silk sarees, wooden toys, brassware, and handcrafted jewelry.
Q10. Are there any festivals celebrated in Varanasi?
A10. Yes, Varanasi is known for its vibrant festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Durga Puja, and Mahashivratri.
Places to Visit in Varanasi/Banaras:
1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, also known as the Golden Temple, is one of the most revered Hindu temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in the heart of the city.
2. Sarnath
Sarnath is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site and is believed to be the place where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. The site houses numerous Buddhist stupas, temples, and monasteries.
3. Dashashwamedh Ghat
Dashashwamedh Ghat is one of the oldest and busiest ghats in Varanasi. It is famous for the Ganga Aarti ceremony held every evening, which is a spectacular sight to behold.
4. Manikarnika Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is considered one of the holiest ghats in Varanasi, as it is believed that a dip in the waters of this ghat can lead to salvation. It is also a prominent cremation site for Hindus.
5. The Ganges River
The Ganges River is considered sacred by Hindus and is a lifeline for the people of Varanasi. A boat ride on the river is a must-do activity as it provides a unique perspective of the city and its ghats.
6. Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum
The Bharat Kala Bhavan Museum is located within the campus of the Banaras Hindu University and is known for its impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and textiles. It also houses an extensive collection of ancient Indian coins and manuscripts.
7. Ramnagar Fort
The Ramnagar Fort is a stunning 17th-century fort situated on the banks of the Ganges River. It houses a museum that displays a collection of vintage cars, weaponry, and artifacts belonging to the royal family.
8. Tulsi Manas Temple
The Tulsi Manas Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is located near the Durga Temple. It is known for its beautiful marble carvings that depict the story of Ramayana, an epic Hindu poem.
Shopping to do Varanasi:
Varanasi is known for its exquisite handwoven silk sarees, traditional jewelry, and intricate woodwork. Here are some places to go shopping in Varanasi:
1. Vishwanath Lane
Vishwanath Lane is a narrow alley located near the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and is known for its shops selling traditional Banarasi silk sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts.
2. Thatheri Bazaar
Thatheri Bazaar is a popular market for brass and copper utensils, which are traditionally made by the Thathera community in Varanasi.
3. Chowk
Chowk is a bustling market located in the heart of Varanasi and is known for its shops selling traditional Banarasi silk sarees, jewelry, and handicrafts.
4. Godowlia Market
Godowlia Market is a popular market for handicrafts, traditional sweets, and street food. It is also known for its shops selling musical instruments.
5. Golghar Market
Golghar Market is a popular market for wooden toys, lacquerware, and traditional Banarasi silk sarees.
- Identity card (Mandatory)
- 2 liters water
- Camera (Optional)
- Enerzal Powder or Glucon D powder
- Snacks & Biscuits
- Extra Pair of Clothes
- Warm clothing for night
- Clean napkin or small towel
- Sunscreen
- Torch
- Mosquito Repellent
- Cap, sunglasses, scarf
- Haversack or Backpack
- Please carry medicines if you need any
- Hand Sanitizer
