Yes, we are waking up before sunrise today. And yes, it will be worth it!

We will return to the Ganges for a sunrise boat cruise and watch Varanasi slowly come to life. As the first light reaches the river, pilgrims descend the ghats to bathe and pray, boats begin moving across the water, and smoke rises from rituals along the riverbank. It is peaceful, intense, beautiful, and unlike anywhere else in the world.

After breakfast, we will spend the day exploring Varanasi with our guide. We will see the ghats, visit Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University, New Vishwanath Temple (Birla Temple), Bharat Mata Temple, Sarnath, Dhamek Stupa and Ruins, and the Sarnath Archaeological Museum.

Sarnath is especially meaningful because it is where Buddha is believed to have delivered his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. In one day, we will experience two of the world’s great spiritual traditions and begin to understand why Varanasi is so much more than simply another city.

In the evening, those who are interested will have the option to visit Manikarnika Ghat, the holiest cremation ground in Hinduism. This experience is not for everybody, and we will approach it with respect and sensitivity. For those who choose to go, it can be one of the most powerful and deeply moving experiences in India. Hindus believe that cremation at Manikarnika Ghat frees the soul from the cycle of reincarnation.

OVERNIGHT: Rivatas by Ideal or similar

MEALS: Breakfast