One of the greatest things to do in Varanasi is to take a rowing boat trip across the holy river early in the morning. The Ganges River cruise is a must-do for anybody visiting Varanasi.
Varanasi’s boatmen walk to their rowboats on the Ganges’ banks early in the morning, before the first rays of dawn have painted the sky. Locals and visitors will soon be crowding the ghats, doing morning prayers (puja), cleaning their teeth, and bathing in the holy Hindu river.
When the first tourists arrive at the ghat steps behind them, the boatmen anxiously wait for them to inquire about the pricing so they can earn profits by charging them more than usual.
For the boat voyage, there are a few things to keep in mind. When: A boat trip can be taken from very early in the morning until Ganga Aarti, which occurs at dusk. At sunrise and sunset, the boat rides are more expensive. A boat journey is best done early in the morning. It’s simply more lovely and quiet, and you’ll get a closer look at Hindu culture. It’s one-of-a-kind.
Where: Varanasi has more than 100 ghats, and practically every one of them has a boatman for hiring. The smaller ghats, such as Assi ghat, Manikarnika ghat, and Raj ghat, have fewer boats than the more prominent ones. Dasaswamedh ghat or Scindia ghat.
What: You have the option of hiring a motor boat or a traditional rowing boat, both of which are guided by a boatman. They can accommodate up to six people. Never row with more than 6 individuals in a rowing boat! It is not secure.
How long does it take: Typically, a trip lasts 90 to 120 minutes.
River Ganges is the heart of Varanasi and one shouldn’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience.