Varanasi , India

Morning Boat Ride with Temples Tour

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About this experience

Varanasi is one of the most colorful places on earth dotted with numerous temples and spirituality is at its core. And no doubt it’s the “holy city of India”. Embark on an incredible tour of Varanasi, showcasing the best of the ancient city of Varanasi in true local style. On this 4-hour tour, you’ll be exploring Varanasi city in the morning, when the spiritual city awakens. The tour is a combination of a boat ride and a walking tour, to explore Varanasi’s cultural diversity along with some of the oldest site in the city and a visit to Akhada (wrestling joint). End your tour on a perfect note by enjoying a peaceful morning boat ride on the River Ganges and watch life unfold at sunrise. So let’s embark on this ecstatic tour, shall we.

Available options

Morning Boat Ride with Temples Tour

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Professional guide

Sunrise View

Boat Ride

Morning Ganga arti

Coffee and/or Tea

Rickshaw Ride

Detailed itinerary

Starting early morning at 5:00 am, driver will pick you up from the hotel. You’ll now proceed to Assi Ghat, for a perfect start to the day, to attend the soul-stirring spectacle of Ganga Aarti (river worship ritual of the holy Ganges) at Assi Ghat. Sight the riverside lit up with earthen lamps, priests perform well-choreographed religious rituals and chant holy mantras with chorus from the devotees and locals gathered there, the echo of the conch shell being played, aroma of fresh flowers and the burning incense sticks, all make for an unforgettable experience of Varanasi.

After the Ganga Aarti, you’ll proceed for sightseeing of Varanasi on foot. A little ahead near Tulsi Ghat you’ll visit the Lolark Kund - a sacred pond and one of the most ancient site present in Varanasi. Many come here to pray for a son/offspring by taking a dip in the waters at sunrise. Afterward, make an interesting visit to the Akhada (a traditional Indian wrestling joint). At the Akhada, watch wrestlers perform physical training using traditional tools of exercise or even watch them doing kushti (wrestling) on fresh mud pits.

Next move towards Tulsi Ghat, one of the most important ghat in Varanasi, named after the great Hindu saint and poet Tulsi Das. Located close to the ghat, you’ll visit the Durga Kund (pool) located on the premises of the old 18th century Durga Temple also known as the Monkey Temple, owing to the presence of large number of monkeys in its premises.

Now reach Assi Ghat and walk down the stairs of ghat to take a peaceful morning boat ride on the Ganges River. The boat ride is like a ferry pilgrimage, sailing from one ghat to the other, along the course of the Ganges. Observe the captivating morning activities unfold at sunrise on the banks of the river Ganges. Sight pilgrims bathing and offering prayers to the deities, holy men (sadhu and pandits) performing ancient rituals and more. Your boat ride ends at Dashashwamedha Ghat, one of the most prominent and liveliest ghats in Varanasi. The name Dashashwamedha indicates sacrifice of ten horses, which was performed by Lord Brahma, as per Hindu myth.

At Dashashwamedh Ghat you’ll take a rickshaw ride till PDR Mall Box Office at Luxa Road. After capturing wonderful memories for the day, driver will drop you at the hotel.

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements

Meeting point

Your Varanasi hotel only

Important notes

• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

About Varanasi

Varanasi, one of the oldest living cities in the world, is a spiritual and cultural hub on the banks of the Ganges River. Known for its ancient temples, vibrant ghats (riverfront steps), and rich cultural heritage, it offers a profound experience of India's spiritual traditions and historical depth.

Top Attractions

Kashi Vishwanath Temple

One of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is a major pilgrimage site. The temple's golden spire and intricate architecture are awe-inspiring.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Dasaswamedh Ghat

One of the most famous ghats in Varanasi, Dasaswamedh Ghat is a bustling hub of activity. It's known for its evening Ganga Aarti, a spectacular ritual of worshipping the Ganges River.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (boat rides cost INR 200-500)

Sarnath

A significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, Sarnath is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. It's home to several ancient stupas, temples, and museums.

Historical Half day Free (entry fees for some sites)

Manikarnika Ghat

One of the oldest and most sacred ghats in Varanasi, Manikarnika Ghat is primarily used for cremation ceremonies. It's a profound and moving experience to witness the rituals here.

Religious 1-2 hours Free

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

Founded by Madan Mohan Malaviya, BHU is one of India's most prestigious universities. The campus is vast and beautiful, with museums, temples, and lush gardens.

Educational 2-3 hours Free (entry fees for some sites)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kachori

A deep-fried, spiced pastry filled with a mixture of lentils, onions, and spices. It's a popular street food item in Varanasi.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Peda

A sweet made from condensed milk and sugar, often flavored with cardamom. Banarasi peda is famous for its rich and creamy texture.

Dessert Vegetarian

Malaiyo

A traditional Banarasi sweet made from reduced milk, sugar, and saffron. It's often served during festivals and special occasions.

Dessert Vegetarian

Chaat

A savory snack made with a variety of ingredients like potatoes, onions, chickpeas, and tangy tamarind sauce. It's a popular street food item.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Boat rides on the Ganges River Exploring narrow alleys and hidden temples Meditation and yoga sessions Attending the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat Visiting ancient temples and historical sites Swimming in the Ganges River (not recommended due to pollution) Attending winter festivals and fairs Visiting historical sites and museums

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This period offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and participating in various festivals. The city is lively with tourists and pilgrims.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Hindi
Widely spoken: English, Bhojpuri
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Varanasi is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing, scams, and petty crime can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious and aware of your surroundings, and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Use common sense and stay alert
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be cautious of strangers and touts

Getting there

By air

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport • 24 km from city center

By train

Varanasi Junction, Manduar Diara

By bus

Varanasi Bus Stand, Sarnath Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Varanasi. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Varanasi Sarnath Cantt (Cantonment)

Day trips

Sarnath

10 km from Varanasi • Half day to full day

Sarnath is a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, known for its ancient stupas, temples, and museums. It's a peaceful and historically rich area, offering a contrast to the bustling old city of Varanasi.

Chunar

55 km from Varanasi • Full day

Chunar is a historic town known for its ancient fort, located on the banks of the Ganges River. The fort offers panoramic views of the river and surrounding countryside.

Rajghat

20 km from Varanasi • Half day

Rajghat is an ancient site located on the banks of the Ganges River, known for its historic significance and scenic beauty. It's a peaceful and serene place to visit, offering a break from the bustling city of Varanasi.

Festivals

Diwali • October or November (dates vary by lunar calendar) Maha Shivaratri • February or March (dates vary by lunar calendar) Ganga Mahotsav • November (dates vary by year)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide to navigate the city's narrow alleys and hidden temples.
Attend the Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat for a spectacular and moving cultural experience.
Try local street food and sweets, but be cautious and choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting temples and religious sites.
Use common sense and stay alert to avoid scams, pickpocketing, and petty crime.