Varanasi Tours Packages

Book Now Pay Later

Yes! You heard it right again. That’s all it takes to book a tour with us and pay 60 days before tour start date.

Vibrant Confidence – Full Refund

Yes! You heard it right.You can cancel right up to 30 days before tour starts and get 100% refund within 14 business days.

Explore Our Varanasi Tours

 
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Our guests ask us many questions about travel in India. Here are just a few of the most frequent queries. When planning your itinerary please feel free to ask your travel consultant any other questions you may have.

1. Do I need a visa to enter India?

Yes. All foreign nationals must obtain a valid Indian visa before arrival.
You can apply for an E-Visa online at the official government portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html
Processing usually takes 3–4 working days, and the e-visa is valid for 30 days from your arrival date. Remember to carry a printed copy of your approved visa for verification at immigration.

2. What is the climate like in India?

India’s climate varies from tropical in the south to alpine in the north.
The best time to visit most regions is between October and March, when the weather is cool and dry.

North India:

  • April–June: Hot and dry (35–42°C)

  • July–August: Humid and rainy

  • September–December: Pleasant days, cool nights

  • January: Very cold and foggy mornings

South India:

  • April–September: Hot and humid

  • June–November: Heavy rainfall

  • December–March: Warm and pleasant

3. Should I buy a SIM card in India or activate international roaming?

You can do either, but the easiest option is to activate international roaming with your home provider before arrival.
If you prefer local service, Airtel and Vodafone SIMs are widely available at airports and kiosks. Be prepared with passport copies and photos, as activation may take a few hours.

4. What should I pack for my India trip?

Here’s a quick checklist of essentials:

  • Valid passport, visa, and travel insurance

  • Power plug adapter (Type C, D, or M)

  • Comfortable walking shoes and lightweight clothing

  • A few warm layers for evenings

  • Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses

  • Personal medication and a small first-aid kit

  • Modest clothing for visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered)

  • Camera or phone with charger

  • Reusable water bottle and rain jacket

5. Is tipping expected in India?

Yes, tipping is a common practice in India and shows appreciation for good service.
Here’s a general guide:

  • Tour Guide: ₹800–₹1,000 per day (per group)

  • Driver: ₹1,000 per day (per vehicle)

  • Hotel Staff: ₹20–₹50 per bag for porters or bellboys

  • Restaurants: Around 10% of the total bill

6. How much money should I carry while travelling in India?

Foreign travellers cannot bring Indian currency into the country. You can bring up to USD $5,000 in foreign currency and exchange it at airports or major cities.
ATMs and card payments are available in most urban areas, but small towns still prefer cash.
We recommend budgeting around $100 per day for two people to cover meals, local shopping, and minor expenses.

7. Do I need vaccines before travelling to India?

No specific vaccines are required, but it’s best to consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel.
We recommend staying up to date with routine immunisations such as tetanus, diphtheria, polio, measles, and influenza.
If traveling to rural or wildlife areas, your doctor may suggest additional vaccines (e.g., Hepatitis A, Typhoid).

8. Who will assist me upon arrival in India?

A Planet Shine Tours representative will meet you at the airport arrival lounge, holding a placard with your name. They’ll assist with luggage and hotel check-in. The same assistance applies to internal transfers and your final departure.

9. What type of accommodations are included?

We offer a range of accommodation options:

  • Luxury Hotels: Elegant stays with premium facilities and personalized service.

  • Heritage Hotels: Historic palaces, forts, or havelis converted into charming stays that reflect India’s royal past.

  • Beach Resorts: Handpicked coastal retreats perfect for relaxation.

  • Desert Camps: Unique stays under the stars in Jaisalmer’s dunes.

All hotels are selected for comfort, cleanliness, and service quality.

10. What is included and not included in my tour cost?

Included:

  • Airport transfers

  • Accommodation and breakfast

  • Sightseeing with a chauffeur-driven car

  • English-speaking guide

  • Monument entry fees

  • Mineral water and all applicable taxes

Not Included:

  • International or domestic flights (unless stated)

  • Personal expenses (shopping, tips, drinks, etc.)

  • Visa fees and travel insurance

  • Meals not specified in the itinerary

11. Is travel insurance mandatory?

Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory and must include coverage for:

  • Medical emergencies

  • Trip cancellations or delays

  • Lost baggage or documents

  • Emergency evacuation

We recommend arranging your insurance at the time of booking and sharing your policy number and emergency contact before departure.

12. What is your cancellation policy?

  • Standard & Deluxe Tours: Cancellable up to 30 days before tour — full refund (except flight, train, and safari tickets).

  • Luxury Tours: Cancellable up to 60 days before tour — full refund (same exceptions).

  • Within 30 or 60 days: 100% cancellation charge.

  • Safari tickets: Non-refundable.

All cancellations must be submitted in writing. Refunds (if applicable) are processed within 14 business days.

13. Can I make changes to my booked tour?

We try to accommodate date or itinerary changes when possible, subject to availability and applicable administrative charges.
However, airline and train tickets follow their own operator policies and may not be changeable.

14. Is an advance deposit required?

Generally, no deposit is required to confirm a booking. Full payment is due 60 days before departure.
If booking within 60 days of the tour date, the total amount must be paid at the time of booking.

15. What safety measures are taken during tours?

Your safety is our top priority. All vehicles are sanitised, drivers are licensed, and accommodations are vetted for hygiene and security.
We follow all local travel advisories and ensure 24×7 assistance during your journey.

16. Who can I contact in case of emergency during my trip?

You’ll receive a dedicated local contact number after booking confirmation. Our support team is available 24×7 for assistance with transport, accommodation, or medical needs.
You can also emailinfo@planetshinetours.com or call +91-7665590697 at any time.

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Best Varanasi Tour Packages From the USA

If you want to experience India at its most spiritual and authentic, Varanasi, Rishikesh and Haridwar are the places to start.

Varanasi, often called Kashi or Benaras, is believed to be the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city and the spiritual heart of Hinduism. Sitting along the sacred Ganges, it’s a place where rituals, temples, culture and daily life blend into something unforgettable. Watching the Ganga Aarti or taking a sunrise boat ride along the ghats isn’t just sightseeing. It’s an experience that stays with you.

From there, the journey continues to Rishikesh, the global hub for yoga and meditation. With its riverside cafés, Himalayan views and peaceful energy, it offers a balance of adventure and spirituality. Whether you want river rafting, yoga retreats or quiet nature walks, Rishikesh gives you space to slow down and reconnect.

Close by is Haridwar, another ancient pilgrimage city known for its ghats, temples and evening rituals along the Ganges. It’s a place where devotion and history come alive.

With Planet Shine Tour, planning a private, guided and fully customisable itinerary through these cities is simple. Just tell us how you want to travel—slow and mindful, adventure-filled or somewhere in between—and we’ll take care of every detail.

If you're ready to experience India beyond the usual tourist path, we’ll help you design a spiritual journey you’ll never forget.

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