The Great Ganges Tour stands as a revered pilgrimage for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the cultural tapestry woven along the sacred Ganges river.
Great Ganges Tour
The Great Ganges Tour stands as a revered pilgrimage for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the cultural tapestry woven along the sacred Ganges river. Known as the Ganga, this iconic waterway holds profound spiritual significance for Hindus, symbolizing purity and divine grace.
Traversing the northern stretch of the Ganges, this tour unveils a kaleidoscope of destinations steeped in heritage, spirituality, and tradition, offering a profound insight into India's rich legacy shaped by the river's flow through centuries.
Commencing in Rishikesh, the esteemed yoga capital, visitors embark on a journey of spiritual exploration amidst ancient temples and ashrams. Witness the enchanting spectacle of the evening aarti ceremony, or partake in adrenaline-pumping adventures like river rafting and bungee jumping, enriching the soul and invigorating the spirit.
Continuing along the sacred river's banks, the tour unfolds in Haridwar, where the revered ghats and age-old temples bear witness to centuries of devotion. Experience the divine tranquillity of Har Ki Pauri ghat and savour the flavours of local cuisine while immersing yourself in the vibrant culture that thrives here.
Journeying onward, Allahabad beckons with the sacred Sangam, where the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers bestows divine sanctity upon the land. Delve into the spiritual fervor of the Kumbh Mela, a once-in-a-lifetime Hindu pilgrimage that draws devotees from far and wide.
Culminating in Varanasi, the ancient city steeped in legend and lore, travelers bear witness to timeless rituals performed on the riverbanks. Glide along the tranquil waters of the Ganges on a boat ride, marvel at the architectural splendour of ancient temples and ghats, and be enthralled by the ethereal beauty of the evening aarti ceremony, where devotion illuminates the night.
Embark on the Great Ganges Tour to delve into the depths of India's cultural heritage, history, and spirituality, and to bask in the unparalleled beauty and majesty of the revered Ganges river.
Arrive at the International Airport in Delhi. Received and transferred to Hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast full day city tour of New and Old Delhi. In addition to its Historic interest and role as the Government center, Delhi is a major travel gateway. It is one of India's busiest entrance points for overseas airlines, the hub of the North Indian travel network and a stop on the overland route across Asia. Places visit: India Gate, Qutub Minar, Humayun's Tomb, Drive past the Government building lining the Jan path, Red Fort, Raj Ghat, Jama Masjid. Overnight at the hotel.
Early morning transfer to New Delhi railway station to board train for Haridwar. Upon arrival at Haridwar railway station pick up and drive (24 kms) to Rishikesh. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast visit Laxman Jhula, Bharat Mandir, Swargasham and Gita Bhavan Temples, Ram Jhula- The other suspended Iron Bridge was recently constructed between Shivanand Ashram and Sawarg Ashram. Evening visit to the Triveni Ghat to witness special prayer ceremony. After visit return back to the hotel. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast drive to Haridwar. Visit the ghats and temples of this larger pilgrim centre. After visit you will be provided departure transfer to the Haridwar railway station to board train for Prayagraj. Overnight at the train.
Arrive Prayagraj around late morning. Check into hotel. Later see the Sangam (Meeting point )of the three rivers - Ganga-Yamuna - Saraswati . Here the MahaKumbh Mela is held every 12 years, which is a major Hindu festival. The city of Allahabad (Prayag) has a very special and unique place as a spiritual & religious centre. All the religious-minded people are familiar with the importance of Teerthraj Prayag; which is situated at the confluence of Mokshdayini Ganga, Ravisuta Yamuna and Antahsalila Saraswati rivers. In Hindu Dharmshastras and epics Prayagraj has been enjoined and recognized as Teerthraj. Though Prayag has not been enumerated as Saptmokshdayani Nagari, yet the importance of its being an ancient historical, cultural and religious place can never be overemphasized. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast enjoy the Holy dip at the Sangam. Reach the point on a boat. Later half day sightseeing followed by drive to Varanasi (122 Kms), the holy city of India, is also known by the name of Kashi and Benaras. Kashi, the city of Moksha for Hindus since centuries, is known for its fine-quality silks, 'paan' and Benares Hindu University and Avimukta of the ancient days, Varanasi is the most popular pilgrimage point for the Hindus. One of the seven holiest cities, Varanasi city is also one the Shakti Peethas and one of the twelve Jyotir Linga sites in India. In Hinduism it is believed that those who die and are cremated here get an instant gateway to liberation from the cycle of births and re-births. Watch evening arati ( Hindu ritual) at the Ganges. Overnight at the hotel.
Opportunities for a dawn boat ride on the river, to observe the devotions to Surya, the rising sun. Return to hotel for breakfast. Afternoon visit to nearby Sarnath, where the Buddha began his teachings 2500 years ago. In Evening enjoy boat ride on river Ganges. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast city tour of Varanasi. Afternoon is free for relaxation. Later you will be provided departure transfer to the Varanasi railway station to board train for Delhi.
Morning arrival at Delhi railway station. Evening departure to the International Airport for flight to onward destination.