Varanasi and Allahabad Heritage Tour (5 Days)

Rise and shine! We're starting early today to catch one of Varanasi's most breathtaking sights. Before dawn, we'll head to the ghats for a serene boat ride on the Ganges. As the sun rises, you'll see the city come to life - pilgrims taking holy dips, locals doing laundry, and sadhus meditating on the steps. It's a photographer's dream and a truly unforgettable experience. After breakfast, we'll explore some of Varanasi's most important temples. We'll visit the golden-spired Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the colourful Durga Temple, known for its monkey residents. Along the way, we'll wander through the narrow lanes of the old city, filled with bustling markets and fragrant street food stalls. In the afternoon, we're off to Sarnath, just outside Varanasi. This is where Buddha gave his first sermon after achieving enlightenment. We'll explore the ancient ruins, including the iconic Dhamek Stupa, and visit the excellent museum to see some remarkable Buddhist artefacts. Back in Varanasi, the evening is yours to relax or perhaps do some shopping for famous Banarasi silks and handicrafts. Our guide can recommend some great local restaurants for dinner.

After breakfast, we'll set off on a scenic drive to Allahabad (also known as Prayagraj). The journey takes about 3 hours, and we'll stop along the way for tea and snacks. Upon arrival in Allahabad, we'll head straight to the Triveni Sangam - the point where the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers meet. This sacred confluence is believed to wash away all sins. You can take a boat ride to the exact meeting point and even take a holy dip if you wish! Next, we'll visit Anand Bhavan, the ancestral home of the Nehru family. Now a museum, it offers fascinating insights into India's struggle for independence and the lives of the Nehru-Gandhi family. As the day cools, we'll visit the vibrant Hanuman Temple, known for its unique reclining statue of the monkey god. The atmosphere here is always lively, with devotional songs and the sweet aroma of incense filling the air. We'll end the day with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, sampling some delicious North Indian cuisine.

Today we'll delve deeper into Allahabad's rich history. Our first stop is the impressive Allahabad Fort, built by Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century. Inside, we'll see the Ashoka Pillar, a stone column with edicts from the great emperor Ashoka carved into it. Next, we'll explore Khusro Bagh, a beautiful walled garden complex housing several tombs. The intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere make it a lovely spot for a morning stroll. After lunch, we'll visit the All Saints Cathedral, a stunning example of colonial architecture with its Gothic spires and stained-glass windows. Then, it's on to the Allahabad Museum, where you can browse an impressive collection of art, archaeology, and natural history exhibits. In the late afternoon, we'll make our way back to Varanasi. The evening is free for you to relax, pack, or perhaps take one last wander along the ghats to soak in the atmosphere.

On our final morning, you have some free time to relax or do some last-minute shopping. Our guide can suggest some great places to pick up souvenirs or local specialties. If you're feeling energetic, there's an optional yoga session by the Ganges or a visit to Banaras Hindu University, one of the oldest in India. In the afternoon, we'll transfer you to the airport for your onward journey. As you leave, you'll take with you unforgettable memories of India's spiritual heartland. Key Information: