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Boating on the Ganges

Renew your wedding vows or listen to a flutist as you cruise down the Ganges

No trip to Varanasi is complete, without a visit to the banks of the river Ganges. A boat ride is a great way to experience the rituals and rhythms of the people who flock from far and wide to worship the river. Start your morning with a sunrise cruise downriver to watch the ghats (the steps that lead down to the river) come to life. For an unusual wedding anniversary, you can also renew your vows on a sunrise boat ride, consecrated by the chants of Hindu priests! Or be serenaded by a flutist on board a bajra – a double-decked barge, with spectacular sunset views over the river banks.

Image Credits: Jim’s Jungle Retreat

Activities from the Destination

Places of interest to weave into your itinerary

Dev Deepawali

A festival of lights for the gods illuminated by a thousand oil lamps
Mahashivratri

Celebrate the creation of the cosmos
Markets & Riverside Rituals

Feel the pulse of Varanasi
Private Kathak performance

Witness the dance tradition of royal courtesans
Ramnavami Ramlila

Experience Varanasi's Dussehra celebrations of dance-dramas
Sarnath ruins & museum

Retrace India's Buddhist heritage at the 'tree of enlightenment'
Secular Trail

Learn of Varanasi's secular faiths
Unwind with Yoga

Learn India's oldest wellness practice

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