2 days Varanasi city Tour by a Vande Bharat train

Introduction

This detailed review explores a popular two-day Varanasi city tour that includes travel aboard the Vande Bharat train from Delhi. While we haven’t personally experienced the journey, the package promises an enriching blend of spiritual sights, cultural insights, and scenic river views — ideal for those eager to explore one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is the combination of convenient travel logistics with immersive experiences: private air-conditioned transport, guided visits to key religious sites, and memorable boat rides on the Ganga River. Plus, all entrance fees, train passes, and even a hotel stay (if you opt for the full package) are included, offering travelers good value for the price of around $310 per person.

A possible consideration is the long travel day on the train, which takes about 8 hours from Delhi — not for the faint of heart if you’re eager to jump straight into sightseeing. Plus, since the tour is private and tailored, it suits travelers who prefer in-depth, paced experiences rather than busy group tours.

This experience is well-suited for curious visitors who want a structured and authentic introduction to Varanasi’s spiritual heart, without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transportation enhances the experience, making city exploration more relaxed.
• Guided visits provide valuable context, especially at iconic sites like Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Sarnath.
• River boat rides at sunrise and sunset offer unforgettable views and spiritual moments.
• All-inclusive pricing ensures no hidden costs for entrance fees, train tickets, or boat rides.
• The long train journey from Delhi is a significant part of the overall experience but may be tiring for some.
• The tour is perfect for those interested in culture with knowledgeable guides, balanced with scenic moments.

The Journey Begins: From Delhi to Varanasi by Vande Bharat

Starting with the journey, you’ll board the Vande Bharat train from Delhi’s station, with your boarding pass provided ahead of time. The train ride, which lasts approximately 8 hours, is a highlight in itself. You’ll notice the modern comfort of the AC chair car, a vast improvement over older rail options, making the trip smoother and more enjoyable.

While the long train journey might seem daunting, it’s a chance to settle in, relax, and prepare for the vibrant city awaiting you. The experience of traveling in a premium train adds a layer of comfort and style that many travelers find worthwhile, particularly when compared to local train options.

Upon arrival at Varanasi station around 2 pm, a representative will meet you, helping you settle into your hotel if you’ve chosen the complete package. This short rest allows you to shake off the travel fatigue before heading out into the city. The evening walk through the old streets of Varanasi culminates with witnessing the famous Ganga Aarti on the ghats — an evocative sight of flickering diyas and devotional chants that encapsulate the city’s spiritual essence.

Exploring the Old City and Ghats

The first evening offers a gentle introduction to Varanasi’s spiritual soul. You’ll stroll through centuries-old lanes, where narrow pathways are lined with temples, shops, and locals going about their evening routines. The guide’s insights turn this walk into a storytelling session, revealing the history and significance of landmarks along the way.

The highlight is the Ganga Aarti, a mesmerizing ritual that takes place at sunset on Dashashwamedh Ghat. The synchronized chants, ringing bells, and flickering lamps create a mystical atmosphere that many visitors find deeply moving. This moment sets the tone for your stay, encapsulating the city’s devotion and vibrant religious practices.

Day 2: Sunrise Boat Ride and Sacred Sites

Waking early is rewarded with an extraordinary sunrise boat ride on the Ganga River. Starting from Dashashwamedh Ghat and ending at Manikarnika Ghat, this serene journey during dawn is often cited as a highlight by travelers. The calming waters, combined with the first light illuminating temples and ghats, create a spectacle that feels both peaceful and profound.

This quiet time on the river allows you to observe cremation ghats and ritual bathing, giving a glimpse into Varanasi’s complex spiritual life. The guide will help interpret what you see, adding depth to the visual experience.

After breakfast, you’ll visit notable sites like the Mother India Temple and the Monkey Temple. The tour’s emphasis on guided storytelling means you’ll leave with a better understanding of their significance, from historical stories to religious symbolism.

Later, the tour takes you to Sarnath, a major Buddhist pilgrimage site where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. Visiting Sarnath (closed on Fridays) enriches the spiritual journey, providing contrast between Hindu and Buddhist traditions that coexist in the city.

Before concluding, you’ll explore the bustling local streets and Ganga Ghats, where pilgrims perform rituals, and vendors sell offerings and souvenirs. The guide’s insight ensures you understand the cultural layers behind these lively scenes.

The Value of All-Inclusive Pricing

At $309.70 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering all taxes, entrance fees, train tickets in AC chair car, private transport, boat rides, and some meals are included. Compared to booking these components separately, the package simplifies planning and reduces surprises.

The inclusion of hotel accommodation if you opt for the full package means you don’t need to worry about finding a place after such a long journey. The private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort even during Varanasi’s busy streets, which, according to reviews, can be dusty and traffic-heavy.

Authentic Experiences Enhanced by Knowledgeable Guides

Many reviewers emphasize the value of the local guides’ expertise. One described their experience as “very good hospitality” and appreciated the visits to key sites like Kashi Vishwanath Temple and Vindhyavasini Temple. The guides help navigate the city’s labyrinthine streets and provide insights into religious practices, making the experience more meaningful than a self-guided walk.

The tour’s private nature is a significant advantage, allowing for personalized pacing and storytelling. This is especially beneficial in a city like Varanasi, where understanding local customs adds depth to the sights.

Long Days and Cultural Pace

The long travel day (around 8 hours on the train) can be tiring, but it’s also part of the adventure. Some travelers may find the early mornings and full days demanding, but they are rewarded with a comprehensive experience that balances travel, sightseeing, and spiritual reflection.

The itinerary is well-paced, with enough free time to relax or explore on your own. The inclusion of boat rides, temple visits, and walking tours provides a rich tapestry that captures Varanasi’s essence without feeling hurried.

The Sum Up

This two-day Varanasi tour, combining the modern comfort of the Vande Bharat train with guided visits to sacred sites and scenic river experiences, offers a well-rounded introduction to one of India’s most revered cities. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value comfort, expert guidance, and a structured itinerary that captures both the spiritual and cultural dimensions of Varanasi.

While the long train journey might be a hurdle for some, the overall package provides excellent value, with all key components covered and the chance to witness iconic rituals like the Ganga Aarti and sunrise boat ride. The emphasis on knowledgeable guides helps ensure that visitors leave with a deeper understanding of the city’s complex spiritual tapestry.

This experience is ideal for those seeking an authentic, guided exploration without the hassle of logistics, perfect for travelers who want a memorable, well-organized introduction to Varanasi’s timeless charm.

FAQ

How do I start this tour?
You begin by boarding the Vande Bharat train from Delhi’s station, with your boarding pass provided in advance. The train ride lasts around 8 hours, after which a representative will meet you at Varanasi station.

Are all transportation costs included?
Yes, the tour includes private air-conditioned vehicle transfers in Varanasi, boat rides on the Ganga, and the train ticket in AC chair car.

What about accommodation?
Accommodation is included if you select the full package. The hotel provides a comfortable place to rest after the long travel day and before resuming sightseeing.

Is this a guided tour?
Absolutely. A professional local guide accompanies you throughout the tour, providing insights at each major site and during walks through the city.

What sights are covered?
You’ll visit the Ganga River ghats, including Dashashwamedh and Manikarnika, temples like Kashi Vishwanath and Mother India Temple, and Sarnath, where Buddha preached his first sermon.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since the tour is private, it can be tailored slightly to your interests, especially with the guidance of your local guide.

How long are the boat rides?
The sunrise boat ride on the Ganga starts early and lasts until you reach Manikarnika Ghat; it offers an hour or so of peaceful river navigation at dawn, with sunset rides also available.

Is the tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
The tour requires a moderate level of physical activity — walking and some stairs at temples. Travelers should be comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended. Dress respectfully, especially when visiting temples, where modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is advised.

What do reviews say about this experience?
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized itinerary; some mention dust and heavy traffic in the city, but overall, visitors find the experience rewarding and immersive.

This guided, scenic, and culturally immersive Varanasi tour offers an excellent way to experience the city’s spiritual heart while traveling comfortably and efficiently. It balances sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural storytelling — ideal for explorers eager to explore India’s most iconic spiritual hub.