Introduction

For a traveler to be able to put a finger on the pulse of Varanasi, the importance of Ganga in the lives of Banarasis needs to be observed. And the best way to do this is take a boat ride from the southern most ghat (Asi) to the northern ghat (Raj) or vice versa. One always has the option of doing a partial one as well. But we recommend you go the whole hog.

As the boatman's oars gently lap the water, the spirit of the Ganga will begin its magical spell. Observe the unfolding early morning life on the sunlight-bathed ghats as you cross them one by one. The 6.5 kilometers (4 miles) stretch comprising 84 ghats gives one a sense of scale and significance of the various ghats. One of the show stoppers along the stretch is the Ganga Aarti at Dashaswamedh Ghat in the evening. It is done with great pomp and show, and attracts tourists by the hundred. Pre-dawn is the best time to start. Start around 0430 hours. One can strike a deal the previous evening with the boatman. At Dashaswamedh Ghat boats are available round the clock. Dusk is also a good time to do a partial ride from Dashaswamedh Ghat to Panchganga Ghat.

The culture of Varanasi is closely associated with Ganga, and this ride will give you a sense of how deep the river permeates into the Banarasi psyche. Rs 50 per hour is the rate set by UP Tourism. The entire ride from the South to North would cost around Rs 300.

Special Attributes

Best way to observe life along the river side

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress modestly

Connectivity

Well connected by boats and rickshaws

Enjoyed by

Culture buffs

Exposure

Keep a cap/umbrella handy

Avoidable Season

July, August

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Negotiate beforehand with the boatman

Type of site

River cruise