Varanasi
Discover the ancient city of Varanasi with our curated excursions onboard the all-new MV Bengal Ganga. Explore its shrines, temples, and palaces; witness the mesmerizing "Ganga Aarti"; and stroll through vibrant Vishwanath Gali. Visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, explore historic Sarnath, and shop for exquisite local handicrafts. Enjoy this cultural experience and more onboard MV Bengal Ganga.
Varanasi, known variously as Banaras and Kashi, 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 center for pilgrimage. The city is known worldwide for its many Ghats, which are embankments made in steps of stone slabs along the riverbank where pilgrims perform ritual ablutions.
An evening ride on a country boat to Dashashwamedh Ghat is a must-see to witness the "Ganga Aarti" performed by a group of priests lined up on the riverbank, chanting mantras and performing the prayer ritual with lamps, incense, and traditional instruments to honor the river.
Highlights
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Experience a mesmerising evening boat ride to the Dashashwamedh Ghat
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Uncover elements of Sarnath, the seat where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon
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Visit to the Local Bazaar for shopping the famous “banarasi” silk, muslin, perfumes and other handicrafts
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Explore the timeless charm of the vibrant Vishwanath Gali.
Daily Itinerary
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Day 1
Arrival in Varanasi and transfer to the Ravidas Ghat for embarkation. Welcome onboard and enjoy lunch, followed by Safety Briefing.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.
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Day 2
After breakfast 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 by midday and begin cruising downstream viewing the countryside and enjoying lunch onboard.
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Day 3
We sail upstream towards Varanasi, arriving by midday at Ravidas Ghat. Post lunch visit to 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 are famous in Varanasi.
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Day 4
Following breakfast disembark the ship and transfer for your onward journey.
