Day 1
Embarkation: 13:30 PM
Arrive Varanasi, Embarkation (L/D)
Arrival in Varanasi and transfer to the Ravidas Ghat for embarkation. Welcome onboard and enjoy lunch, followed by Safety Briefing.
Varanasi, known variously as Banaras and Kashi, Varanasi is a major religious hub in India, and is considered the holiest city in Hinduism and Jainism. It also played an important role in the development of Buddhism. Hindus believe that death in this city will bring salvation, making it a major centre for pilgrimage. The city is known worldwide for its many Ghats, which are embankments made in steps of stone slabs along the river bank where pilgrims perform ritual ablutions.
In the evening ride the country boat to the Dashashwamedh Ghat to see the “Ganga Aarti” ritual, performed by a group of priests lined up on the riverbank chanting mantras and performing the prayer ritual with lamps, incense, bells and traditional Hindu instruments to honor the river. Thousands of devotees throng the riverbank to participate in the ceremony every evening.
Welcome Dinner.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas
Varanasi – Cruising Downstream (B/L/D)
Early morning sail to the ghat near the Kashi Vishwanath temple. Stroll in the Vishwanath Gali (street), and experience the hustle and bustle of devotees and road side vendors. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple for “Darshan” and offering prayers to Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of the city.
Return to the ship for breakfast and begin cruising downstream towards Ghazipur viewing the countryside. Lunch and dinner onboard.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas
Cruising Upstream to Varanasi (B/L/D)
This morning we sail upstream towards Varanasi, arriving at Rajghat/Namo Ghat enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard.
Post lunch disembark and drive to visit Sarnath the seat where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment in Bodhgaya. The Archaeological Museum here contains a large collection of sculptures that stand testimony to the fervent artistic and religious activity for more than a thousand years. Visit the local bazaar for shopping the famous “banarasi” silk, muslin, perfumes and other handicrafts that Varanasi is famous for.
Return to the ship for a Farewell Dinner. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas
Day 4
Disembarkation Time: 08:00 AM
Varanasi Disembarkation (B)
Disembark the ship after breakfast and transfer for your onward journey.
Important Note:
- The itinerary maybe readjusted due to local conditions and days of the week, in order to avoid closure of monuments/museums. Last minute sailing adjustments may also occur. The schedule may shift due to the weather or to take advantage of unexpected opportunities. The exact time for each activity will be announced or posted by the onboard tour staff. The letters in parentheses indicate the included meal of the day B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner.
- Due to the location on the Ghats and proximity to the holy Ganges, non-vegetarian food and alcoholic beverages are not served onboard.
- As per the government regulations satellite phones & drone cameras are not allowed in Varanasi, please ensure the same, while traveling to Varanasi.
