There are few more remarkable destinations for a school trip than India’s sacred city, Varanasi. This exotic location is an ideal place to take a group of geography, history or religion students as there are a number of fantastic learning opportunities on offer in the region.
You don’t have to stop with just Varanasi either, as both nearby Delhi and Agra offer students wonderful opportunities to discover something new. Take your pupils on a tour of these three cities and experience the different cultures and rituals that have helped to shape modern Indian society, including the temples, the ghats and the bustling bazaars.
Varanasi
The perfect way to begin your school trip in India is a boat trip at sunrise along the Ganges, which is regarded as one of the most sacred and iconic routes in all of India. Then, head to Sarnath, the site where Buddha gave his very first teachings.
Many regard Varanasi as the holy capital of India, and it won’t be difficult for you and your pupils to discover why this is the case. This is the city where Buddhism was first established. It acts as the destination for Hindu pilgrimages, whilst also being a sacred area for both Sikhs and Jains.
Delhi
As you make your way from the airport to your accommodation, you and your pupils will have the opportunity to take in the exciting and enticing atmosphere and landscape of the city of Delhi. This will likely be a highlight of your school trip.
Go sightseeing in Old Delhi and see the Hindu temples, Birla Mandir and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib. Allow yourself to get lost in the spice markets of Chandni Chowk before taking a rickshaw to Father Ravi’s shelter, which will offer pupils the chance to see the noble work undertaken to support homeless children.
Agra
Agra is near Varanasi and also offers a wonderful chance to present pupils with a variety of different educational opportunities. You can visit the Taj Mahal and take in the wonder and splendour of what is perhaps the most romantic gift in history. The intriguing Agra Fort is undoubtedly worth a visit, too; it is the former home of the Mughal Emperors.
To ensure that your school trip goes without a hitch, and to take away the hassle and time commitment required to organise it yourself, it is a good idea to use the services of a specialised educational travel tour operator, who can plan the full trip for you. Not only will they be able to secure you the best deals possible, they will also make sure that you get the most out of your trip to Varanasi.
The cities of Varanasi, Delhi and Agra will all be fondly remembered by your pupils. Not only will they learn geography, history and religion, but they’ll also make memories to last a lifetime in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
John Gardiner is the Managing Director of The School Travel Company, a tour operator specialising in school trip itineraries for school and youth groups to the UK, Europe and beyond. As a father and avid traveller, John is very passionate about providing students with valuable and engaging learning experiences outside of the classroom. By sharing his expert advice with teachers, he allows them to inspire their students and bring their studies to life.
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