Varanasi & Khajuraho Holidays

Discover the spiritual and religious sites of India’s holiest city as you follow ancient paths to Hindu temples and Muslim mosques. Witness the cremation rituals observed at Manikarnika, the burning ghat, an important part of Hinduism, then visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple. Held as one of the most sacred Hindu temples in the world, it is one of twelve jyotirlingas which are special shrines dedicated to the Hindu god, Shiva. A passport is required to enter the temple.

On this tour you will explore the snaking alleys and busy bazaars in the north of Varanasi, which is rarely visited by tourists. Led by a local guide, you'll visit the silk market, temples and mosques. Along the way, you’ll meet local characters,  the experience provides a real insight into Varanasi life that’s tourists often miss.

On this tour you will explore the snaking alleys and busy bazaars in the north of Varanasi, which is rarely visited by tourists. Led by a local guide, you’ll start in the centre of the business area, which is filled with shops, houses and temples. This ancient district is home to the wholesale silk market, which was started by a businessman and the king of Varanasi and takes over an entire city block. Your guide will explain the history of the Asian Silk Route and how Varanasi’s finest silks made their way to Versailles Palace in France. Other highlights include the pots and pans bazaar and a famous samosa shop that dates back to the 1800s.

You’ll also get to visit temples and mosques hidden within the alleyways that only locals know about. There’s a Gopal temple and next to it, a mosque, which is a great place to discuss how Varanasi’s Hindu and Muslim people live and work together in harmony; Muslim people traditionally made silk products here and Hindu’s sold them on. You will also visit the riverside where the mystic Kabir used to write poetry before diving into the twisting back alleys again. Along the way, you’ll meet local characters - perhaps stopping to talk to a sweet vendor or a priest at the temple – the experience provides a real insight into Varanasi life that’s tourists often miss.

Explore a collection of the original 85 majestic Temples of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Khajuraho on this half-day tour. The most famous in the western group is Kandariya Mahadeva, which features exquisitely carved friezes depicting the sensual aspects of life.  The eastern group boasts fine examples of both Jain and Hindu temples, including the beautiful Parsvanath temple.