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Alaknanda Cruiseline - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Alaknanda Cruiseline

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Antara Cruises

Incredible Benaras

Varanasi - ramnagar - kaithi - varanasi 4 days.

Antara’s experts share their knowledge and insights on how to best experience some of the most spectacular locations in the world on your upcoming short cruises.

Varanasi – virtually unrevealed. varanasi, or Benaras (also known as Kashi) is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Explore the prominence in Hindu mythology in the city of temples, religion, art, culture, tradition, education & many more.

Land into the city of Varanasi. Varanasi presents a microcosm of Hinduism, a city of steeped in the traditional culture of India. Glorified in Hindu mythology and sanctified in religious scriptures, it has attracted devotees, pilgrims and worshipers from time immemorial. Post mid day transfer to Raj Ghat jetty and settle aboard the Antara Nauka Vilas the gateway to our journey along the world’s holiest river. Welcomed onboard with our signature beverage followed by a safety briefing. In the evening you'll cruise through the Ghats of Varanasi to Dashawasmedh Ghat getting the onwardview of the 'Ganga Aarti' ritual. Dashashwamedh Ghat, located close to the Kashi Vishwanath Temple and is probably the most spectacular ghat to witness this heart touching site. Retire to your overnight undisturbed experience aboard the Antara Nauka Vilas.

The spectacular 4-km sweep of the Ghats is a unique sight, best viewed at dawn, in that "soft first light"when the river and Ghats have a timeless appeal. Ghats are a series of steep steps leading down to thebrink of the river.Sunrise tour you'll witness the incredible scenes along the Holy River followed bybreakfast on board.The original name of Varanasi was 'Kashi,' derived from the word 'Kasha,' meaningbrightness. Steeped in tradition and mythological legacy, Kashi is believed to be the ‘original ground'created by Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. We walk through the old city to witness the essence of Kashi throughthe ancient temples like Kashi Vishwanath temple and its surrounding area with narrow lanes and alleys . Local bazaars famous forbangles, dupattas and Banarasi Silk Sarees. You can also visit the observatory - Jantar Mantar, built by Raja Jai singh . You will experience the enchanting and the incredible life on the Streets as you explore the city on foot. Later in the afternoon after lunch on board , you sail upstream viewing many of the ghats to Ramnagar. Ramnagar, known for its Fort located on the riverbank where the Kashi Naresh King of Kashi) resides. A 17th century sandstone fortification built in typical Mughal style. Dinner on board and overnight at Ramnagar, overlooking the Tulsi Ghat.

Enjoy a gorgeous sunrise on the river Ganges along with breakfast. After breakfast you’ ll sail downstream to Kathy (or Kaithi). Kathy (or Kaithi) village notable for the Markandey Mahadev temple,dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kathy (or Kaithi ) is also famous for the Sangam of the Ganga and the Gomti rivers. After passing Varanasi you’ ll witness ever increasing meanders and rolling fields and sail through the countryside and arrive in Kathy ( or Kaithi). Gala Dinner on board the lap of nature and blessing of lord Shiva

Enjoy curated morning breakfast overlooking the Sangam Ghat. After breakfast you’ll visit the Markandey Mahadev temple. Back on board, early lunch and then depart for the Varanasi airport. You can visit Sarnath city enroute to the airport depending on the flight timings. The seat where Lord Buddha gave hisfirst sermon after attaining enlightenment in Bodhgaya.

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Alaknanda cruise Varanasi booking online: Know fare, route details of this luxury cruise in river Ganga

The alaknanda-kashi luxury cruise was launched on august 15, 2018, in varanasi..

Alaknanda cruise Varanasi booking: One of India’s oldest cities, Varanasi, is a very popular tourist spot. The religious and spiritual environment, witnessing the aartis near river Ganga, experiencing the aura of the place is said to be a one-of-its-kind experience. Apart from enjoying the serenity of the place from its ghats, tourists can now also relax on a luxury cruise on the river Ganga in Varanasi. Started on August 15 last year, the Alaknanda-Kashi luxury cruise runs between Assi Ghat and Rajghat of Varanasi.

How to book Alaknanda cruise in Varanasi?

The Alaknanda cruise in Varanasi is the first ever air-conditioned luxury river cruise in the city. For bookings, tourists can visit the website of Nordic Cruise Line nordiccruiseline.com, the private entity that operates this luxury cruise. Here are the details.

Timings for morning cruise: 7.00 am to 8.30 am Timings for evening cruise: 6.00 pm to 8.30 pm Introductory Price: Rs 750 + GST onwards Boarding Point: Alaknanda Jetty, Ravidas Park Ghat Nagwa, Varanasi

READ: Char Dham Yatra 2019: How to reach there, where to stay and its significance for devotees

UP TOURISM ’S TWEET:

Get ready to hop onboard the first ever air-conditioned luxury river cruise on the river Ganga. Witness the captivating ghats where the mighty river Ganga bathed in the golden sunrise. #UPNahiDekhaTohIndiaNahiDekha For bookings, click on to: https://t.co/7D0kwesGrj pic.twitter.com/wvfIqVsu9c — UP Tourism (@uptourismgov) April 27, 2019

This 12 kilometers-long luxury ride also gives a chance to experience the spectacular views of Varanasi and Ganga Aarti in the morning. Covering a distance of 1400 km all the way, the cruise reached Varanasi from Kolkata last year.

Here’s a look at some salient facts about the Alaknanda cruise in Varanasi:

Features that make the cruise ‘luxury’ class This luxury ship is 2000sq.ft is a double-decker The lower deck of the ship is air-conditioned On both the floors, there are bio-toilets Local, classical music plays on the cruise Needless to say, the cruise also provides special local food items for the tourists It also shows the Varanasi and Ganga aarti in the morning

Safety provisions for the new cruise The Alaknanda-Kashi luxury cruise also has safety jackets and lifeguards on board for everyone’s safety There is also be a lifeboat provision in case of an emergency

The Nordic Cruiseline has given the credit for this initiative to Narendra Modi government’s ‘Startup India ’ programme.

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Wandering Anusuya

Happiness Is Travelling

Alaknanda River Cruise • Reunion at Kashi

ALAKNANDA , the Himalayan river is the holy confluence of many rivers. At Devprayag, in Tehri district (State of Uttarakhand), Alaknanda, Saraswati and Bhagirathi rivers come together and flow ahead as our pristine Ganga.

This divine amalgamation certainly seems to be the inspiration behind the gorgeous Alaknanda, the river cruise that has delighted over 25,000 guests on board so far. In 2017, a Startup company, Nordic Cruiseline Pvt. Ltd. envisioned a world class cruise experience on holy Ganga. The 60 seater double decker plan was fresh and was exclusively designed by an IIT, Mumbai Engineer and built at the Shibpur yard in Kolkata.

And this Alaknanda had a long, upstream journey to Kashi.

DID YOU KNOW ? Alaknanda sailed through 1400 kms for 90 days from May to July, 2018 from Kolkata to Kashi to offer the Divine cruise experience on holy Ganga.

Post the commercial launch in September, 2018 in the august presence of Honourable Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Yogi Adityanath, there was no looking back for Alaknanda.

I have been lucky to have taken this cruise with my family on a cloudy, winter morning. On approaching Sant Ravidas Ghat, we saw the grand Alaknanda on the riverfront. We could not wait to get closer and walked down the steps. We were welcomed by the officials at the embarkment point and while others were escorted inside, I paused and stood there dazed, admiring the stylish, international look of the Cruise boat.

ALAKNANDA waiting to sail from Sant Ravidas Ghat

ALAKNANDA OUTER VIEW

Inside view is as impressive with air conditioned lower deck and open upper deck with comfortable seating arrangement.

ALAKNANDA Lower deck

ALAKNANDA – Upper deck

The 90 minute cruise covers all 84 Ghats and depicts the tales of the Ghats through a special audio commentary.

Alaknanda takes you through the Ghats right upto the famous double decker Malviya Bridge built in 1887 during the British period which has the rail track on lower deck and road on the upper deck. The boat reverses from this point and returns to the same point of embarkment.

Double storeyed Malviya Bridge built in 1887

My favourite journey on Alaknanda has been with her special friends, the migratory Birds who fly down every year, from over 5000 kms from China-Russia border.

And the best moment has been on the Upper deck, accompanied by a beautiful flock of birds flying right through this flawless journey.

ALAKNANDA and her friends, Migratory Birds

Simply blissful, is what I had mentioned to Mr. Vikas Malaviya, Founding Member of Nordic Cruiseline on our return at Sant Ravidas Ghat.

Mr. Malaviya feels humbled with the overwhelming response to Alaknanda and says, “On board Alaknanda, we have ensured international safety standards and eco friendly features like silent engine, bio toilets. We have been able to do away with the 3Ds which are integral to any cruise, Dining, Dancing or Drinking. We attribute our success to the people of India and tourists from world over for respecting the sanctity of Alaknanda and let it remain true to its origin.”

SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS ON ALAKNANDA:

Alaknanda and her friends –

Experience the spirit of freedom with migratory birds on any Morning cruise from December to February every year.

Dev Deepawali cruise –

2 hour cruise from 8 pm to 10 pm on Dev Deepawali night with local savouries like Puri, Kachori,subzi etc. served as Dinner. Dev Deepawali is on 30th November, 2020.Ticket price and booking will open closer to date.

ALAKNANDA on Dev Deepawali night cruise

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS: 2 cruises daily from Sant Ravidas Ghat

During Summer :

Morning – 7 am to 8.30 am Evening – 6.30 pm to 8 pm

During Winter (Dec to Feb) :

Morning – 8 am to 9.30 am Evening – 5.30 pm to 7 pm

The evening cruise offers a 15 minute view of Ganga Aarti on Dashashwamedh Ghat

Ticket : Rs. 900.00 per person

Online booking : https://nordiccruiseline.com/

Dev Deepawali celebration on the Ghats

11 comments

This seems incredibly good. Can hardly wait to be a part of the fortunate list of tourists who have enjoyed a serene divine ride along the ghats of the holy Ganges in this state- of -the -art vessel which impresses and invites. Kudos to the entire team 👍

Thanks for your kind appreciation, looking forward to host you.

Excellent! Have savoured the experience. It definitely remains with you for a long , long time. A must-do when you visit Benares.

Our role is very limited here, in the lead role it is the divine power of our holy city Kashi. Thanks for appreciation.

Having taken this cruise myself, I cannot but agree with Anusuya. It is indeed a mesmerizing experience. The Ganga Aarti on one side, the Malaviya bridge and the river bank on the other, the cool breeze on my face made the evening most alluring. Great venture!! Kudos to team Alaknanda for their warmth and hospitality. A ‘must do’ when you visit Benaras!!

These nice words really encourage us to offer our best to our guests. Thank you

Feeling Live I am taking cruise n Ganga arti.

Team Alaknanda sincerely thank Ma’am Anusuya for this blog. Beautiful text and presentation. Hope it will encourage more tourists to do the cruise tour when they visit Varanasi. Thank you once again.

Reading this makes me want to take the cruise at the first opportunity! Hope the pandemic eases up soon for this. Sounds amazing.

Looking forward to a ride

The very name of Alakananda forced me to start with this blog as I have spent some great moments on her banks during My trip to Uttarakhand. In fact my all time favourite is watching the confluence of Alakananda and Mandakini at Rudraprayag from the balcony of GNVN. I thank you for presenting the cruise so well. Looking forward to take the trip soon. Benaras is calling me.

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Kashi Vishwanath Darshan with Evening Cruise

Tradition with technology.

Book Online

Save your Time and Money with great experience

Best service gauranteed

Kaashi is famous for Viswanath Temple and the evening Ganga Arti.Book now to get the ultimate experience.

The experience can be booked on twin sharing.The whole tour is supported by a guide.In Kashi Viswanath Temple,the entry will be queue free.Alaknanda is a luxury Cruise with a double storey well equipped with air-conditioned and proper seating arrangements.This package includes your Alaknanda Evening cruise passes too. For convenient pick and drop a cab will be provided with a guide.

Rs. 2800-3500

Best package.

Highlights:

• Kashi Vishwanath Darshan
• Evening Ganga Aarti Darshan from Cruise
• Ghat Seeing from cruise

Introduction

Guide tour. Pick from airport. Guide tour. Queue less entry to Temple. Alaknanda Evening Cruise Ride for Ganga Arti. Tea,snacks will served in the cruise.

What's Included

• A special person is alloted to you who have the full knowledge of the particular tour/experience. He will be totally responsible for providing you the best memory of that tour. He is able to speak multi-languange to help you out while the tour.​
• Cab-A taxi for a particular tour will be alloted for the number of person included in a booking.
• All taxes and fees

What's Not Included

• Any other service that is not mentioned in the inclusions

Enquire Now

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Alaknanda Cruise: Experience Varanasi ghats like never before!

Last Updated on January 1, 2023 by asoulwindow

Table of Contents

Alaknanda Cruise: What to expect

Alaknanda Cruise, the double-decker luxury cruise is a new addition on the must do tourist activities in Varanasi. The Alaknanda cruise experience is aimed at those discerning travellers who want to experience world class cruise facilities in a timeless location like Varanasi. This head turner of a cruise is fast gaining popularity in Varanasi.

As the arresting sights of Banaras stretching all the way from Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat and now Namo Ghat, mesmerize you, slow down your mind and take a moment to reflect.

No matter how modern the onboard state-of-the-art amenities are, it evokes the same philosophical emotion in you! As the cruise moves forward unhurried, your eyes wander to catch special moments of Varanasi. A man drying his dhoti, women offering early morning prayers to Surya Bhagwan (Sun), kids jumping in the river in their birthday suits, the works!

Soul Window Thoughts

I personally feel that nothing can beat the old-world charm of the ride on the rickety boat. The luxury and comfort of a cruise can never replace the warmth of a local boatman, who between singing local Bhojpuri songs , will unselfconsciously reveal all about his personal life, work and passions. That said, it is a good idea to enjoy both cruise as well as the ride on the rickety boat. One in the morning and another in the evening! In my heart I pray that nothing will ever change the traditional style of exploring the ancient city Kashi! Both can co-exist because both give a novel experience!

The newly introduced Alaknanda Luxury Cruise lets you soak in the ambiance of Kashi in the comfort of luxury! The unprecedented sofa style seating in the cruise smells of luxury!

The cruise has added one more thing to do in Varanasi.

Isn’t it exciting that now we can explore Banaras in one more way? It is a never seen before experience of Varanasi. As the 30-metre-long modern liner floats lyrically on the calm holy waters of Maa Ganga, Varanasi starts to reveal itself, one layer at a time.

Varanasi teems with life. And death! Not many places in the world will show you different stages of life under one roof. The Hindu cremation ghats – Harishchandra Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat are not easy places to be in. It silences you!

The only other similar place I could think of was in Nepal. During my visit to the Shiva Temple known as Pashupati Nath Mandir in Kathmandu near Thamel , I came across similar aarti and funeral rituals on the ghats of the temple.

The famous Manikarnika Ghat is the most pious cremation ground in India. Hindus firmly hold the belief that if someone breathes his/her last in Kashi and is also cremated in Manikarnika Ghat, he/she is released from the unending cycle of life and birth and attains Moksha or Nirvana.

Morning Alaknanda Cruise Details

• Duration of Alanknanda Cruise 2 hours
• Timing of Alanknanda Cruise experience: Starts at 5:00 am and ends at 9:00 am 
• 90 minutes luxury boat ride
• Starts from Assi Ghat
• Distance covered: 12 kilometers
• Days of running: runs daily in morning and evening.
• Ghats covered: The luxury cruise Alaknanda moves near all the 84 big and small ghats of Varanasi.
• A great experience for everyone

Evening Alaknanda Cruise Details

• Duration of Alanknanda Cruise Experience: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Timing of Alanknanda Cruise Experience: Starts at 5:00 pm and ends at 9:30 pm 
• Ghats covered: The luxury cruise floats near the 70 ghats of Varanasi.
• An experience like no other!

The Alanknanda Cruise Experience on Ganga River Varanasi

• Enjoy a newly introduced tourist boat Alaknanda Luxury Cruise.
• Alaknanda Luxury Cruise is great for a luxurious tour of the Ganga Ghats along the holy Ganga Maa.
• Immerse yourself in a memorable morning and evening on Ganga Ghats on a luxury cruise-
• Alaknanda Luxury Cruise is available for rides from Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat
• Enjoy the vibrant Ghats of Kashi in evening!
• Pass through the pious cremation Ghats such as – Harishchandra Ghat and the famous Manikarnika Ghat. Observe the poignant process.
• Experience soul nourishing luxury boat ride from Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat
• Stumble upon offbeat places, waiting to be discovered on an early morning walk and evening stroll in narrow alleys of the ancient Kashi.
• Binge eat and indulge the foodie in you as you will your face with the delectable local breakfast of thick lassi, hot Kachoris , Jalebi & Banarasi Chai and evening snacks of choora matar , tamatar chat etc.

Soul Window Observations

The ghats of Banaras began to unveil its mysteries, one frame at a time! The myriad colors of life and death danced in front of me. “Am I in a dream?”, I asked myself.

Death, as the per Sanatan Dharm is just a passage to a new birth based on karma accumulated in our last life. Death in Hinduism is nothing to be sad about.  The quality of new birth commensurate with the karma (deeds) done in present life.

I came to Kashi looking for answers to life’s secrets! It left me with more questions to mull over!  

Facilities of Alaknanda Luxury Cruise

A departure from the old-world boat ride, the cruise comes equipped with modern frills such as free Wi-Fi, onboard GPS navigation system, bio toilets, a mini stage on the lower deck, skid proof afterdeck

Spread across 2,000 square feet, the luxury cruise of Varanasi is popular with Indians and foreigners equally! No wonder, the cruise, which has a capacity of 90 people mostly runs houseful.

The lower deck of the Alaknanda luxury cruise is air conditioned . I am not a major fan of uncontrolled temperature settings. If the weather is good, I prefer a sky canopying my head! Like me if you too prefer it al fresco , then you have the option to climb up the upper deck which is open air and also doubles up as a restaurant. Just little things which make me happy as a traveler!

Is the Alaknanda Luxury Cruise safe?

Yes, the luxury cruise Alaknanda also boasts of good quality life jackets, life boats and even offers facility of life guards on board. The fully AV equipped cruise which measures approximately 30 meters is large enough for smooth movement.

How can you call your Varanasi trip complete unless you have stuffed your face with its delicious vegetarian fare!

I have not heard of anyone who has been to Banaras and not feasted on the local vegetarian snacks such as the world famous Banarasi Chat, Banarasi Paan, thick lassis, refreshing thandai and mishrambu . Concentrated around the Ghat area and main market , the snack shops and food stalls are also what Varanasi is famous for! You must enjoy these either before or after the cruise.

The early mornings of Kashi are surreal! Varanasi never sleeps! It remains abuzz with a whirligig of activities even as early as 3-4 a.m., more so on special occasions such as Dev Deepawali. As the first rays of sun seep through the alleys and streets Banaras, I remind myself that I am in a very special place. Varanasi, the city I was born in, is also known as the abode of Shiv Bhagwan !

Also read: My experience of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra , abode of Shiv ji!

Not only locals but Hindu devotees from all parts of India inundate the roads of Varanasi as they scurried to attain spiritual solace! I wondered why the Hindu pilgrims are walking so hastily? Turned out, the rituals and spiritual baths in their beloved Ganga Maa must be performed at the right time, which is generally Brahma Muhurat or the wee hours of the day!

The curious traveler in me matched their steps, often stopping to say hello to a ruminating cow or a nonchalant local kid dancing with joy for no particular reason! Varanasi forced me to get out of my comfort zone. I am a late riser. If it was not for Varanasi, I would have probably not woken up so early in the morning! ‘The famed early mornings of Kashi were worth sacrificing your sleep for’, I told myself! The ethereal sunrise I saw from the holy Ghats of Kashi when fused with the spiritual vibes left a lasting impression on my mind.

Be it the early morning classical music renditions, the Subah-E-Banaras morning aarti or people deeply involved in yoga and meditation right on the ghats, there are very few places which can match up with the old-world charms and antiquity of this ancient city.

After my Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in Tibet , I have started to observe the energy of the places. Practicing deep meditation and yoga in my home, for example is a different experience than doing it on the ghats of Varanasi.

I am generally running from pillar to post when I am traveling . I made an exception at Varanasi, my birth city I returned to after long! I slowed down my pace for an immersive experience of the city which is one of the few of oldest continually inhabited cities of the world.

I contemplated about the vagaries of life, as the 90 minutes luxury cruise ride from Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat drifted poetically in the vast life-giving Ganga Maiyya (mother Ganga). Later in the evening after the cruise, as I unveiled the best kept secrets of Kashi on a mere walk in the chaotic lanes of Kashi, it further strengthened my bond with this ancient city I was born in, but had no memory of as I left soon!

Varanasi is also fast gaining more relevance, thanks to the people who are realizing the futility of modern-day frills and going back to their roots.

The Alaknanda cruise in Varanasi is a never seen before experience here. The myriad of stages of human life can be seen so up, close and personal only in Varanasi. Tourists are often agape mouthed when they see an entire spectrum of Hindu way of life from the comfort of the Alaknanda Ganga cruise!

During the evening cruise on Alaknanda, people can also view the world-famous Ganga Aarti at Dashaswamedh Ghat which is performed daily and is generally very crowded on most weekdays, weekends and festivals such as Dev Diwali, Kumbh Mela etc.

Every evening, the young male pujaris or priests brings the Dashaswamedh Ghat alive with Ganga aarti. As they offer their prayers to Shiv Bhagwan, Mata Ganga, Surya Bhagwan (Sun) and Agni devta (fire), the jostling crowds turn immobile, as if hypnotized by the daily rituals.  

I have attended the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi several times.  It is indeed a unique experience to be able to see the Ganga Aarti from the luxury of Alaknanda cruise. Varanasi Ganga Aarti is the top thing to do in Varanasi. The luxury cruise ride is also one of the best things to do with family and kids in Banaras.

Soul Window Travel Tips

Here is my top travel tip. I personally prefer watching the Ganga Aarti from the stairs and platforms built within the Dashaswamedh Ghat. The cons of watching the famous Varanasi Ganga Aarti from the Alaknanda cruise and local boats is that you do not get to see the Aarti closely. It is more like paying extra money to get an inferior view of the evening Ganga Aarti from a distance.

Therefore, I recommend that you book the Alaknanda Cruise mainly for the morning cruise ride on Ganga River. The cruise passes through all the points of attractions near ghats of Kashi.

If you still want to participate in the evening cruise on Ganga ji, so that you can see the ghats on Varanasi bathed in light, then here is another travel tip.  

Make sure that you stay for one more evening in Varanasi so that you can enjoy the Varanasi Ganga Aarti from close proximity. Be prepared to brave the crowd though! You can read the details on my blog on Varanasi Ganga Aarti . A Soul Window, my award-winning travel blog, has been listed as top travel blog of India so many times.

Also read: My International Cruise Experience from Dubai to Fort Kochi

During the Varanasi Ganga Aarti, celebrated daily in epic proportions, young male priests offer aarti and prayers to Maa Ganga or Ganges, as the westerners call it. In a practiced synchronized way, they move a lighted brass lamp in all the 8 directions so that everyone has a good view of the Aarti. 

Perfectly synched with the rhythmic chanting of ancient Hindu mantras, it sends the audience into a spiritual coma. Once the Aarti gets over and the crowd disperses, it is time for the cruise to head back to the Assi Ghat.

This is when, if you have time, you should explore the atmospheric ghats of Varanasi by the evening. Of course, I kept my eyes peeled for unexpected quirks, ceremonies and rituals. You should too!

Morning Alaknanda Cruise Itinerary

• In case Alaknanda Cruise is a part of your pre booked tour package, then you will be picked up from your hotel/homestay in Varanasi latest by 5:00 a.m. in morning and will be driven to the bohemian Assi Ghat for the morning Alaknanda Cruise boat ride.
• In case you are a solo, budget traveler like me, it is a good idea to stay near the Assi ghat. There are many budget hotels located here from where you can just walk upto Assi Ghat.
• The boat ride on Alaknanda Cruise spans from Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat and lasts upto 90 minutes. Refreshments such as hot tea and coffee is served on the cruise as you enjoy the morning routines of local people on the Ghats of Varanasi.
• The Alaknanda Cruise passes through approximately 70 important Ganga Ghats of Varanasi which includes places of interest and famous ghats such as the Hindu cremation sites – Harishchandra Ghat to Manikarnika Ghat and Gai Ghat, Tulsi Ghat, Dashaswamedh Ghat etc.
• If you have time, try to club is the soulful morning Aarti known as Subah-e-Benaras at the Assi Ghat. The cruise will stop at Assi Ghat for few minutes. Since both start at same time, chances are that you will have to stay in Varanasi for one more day to see Subah-e-Banaras. From cruise, you can just see a glimpse of it from far distance.
• Get your fingers dirty with the toothsome morsels of street food of Varanasi. There are many small and big streets around Assi Ghat which are known for their food. Right after de boarding from the Alaknanda cruise, you must walk towards the Sri Ram Bhandar for their delicious vegetarian/vegan breakfast of Sabzi, Puri and Jalebi.
• If you are on a packaged tour, after the breakfast, you will be dropped back to your hotel approximately by 9:00 a.m.
• In case you are a solo budget traveler, visiting Varanasi independently, then you can choose to stay for more and explore other ghats of Kashi like I did.
• If you on your own, do include a visit to the Tulsidas Akhada to enjoy a live dangal match, i.e., wrestling match.

Evening Alaknanda Cruise Itinerary

• In case Alaknanda Cruise comes with your pre booked packaged tours, you will be picked up from your hotel/homestay in Varanasi latest by 5:00 p.m. in the evening and will be driven to the modern Assi Ghat for the evening Alaknanda Cruise boat ride.
• Some tour agents fill you up with the vegetarian food and drinks from the reputed local eateries famous for their Chaats , Lassi, Thandai etc. just before you board the cruise near Assi Ghat. You can include this or do it more flexibly in case you are on a solo budget trip like me.
• Enjoy the evening tea and coffee as the 90 minutes long Alaknanda cruise ride shows you the best of Varanasi stretching all the way from the hippie Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat.
• Sit back and observe as the Alaknanda cruise whizzes past more than 70 famous Ghats on the bank of Ganga Maiyya such as the poignant Hindu cremation Ghats, namely, the – famous Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat. Other sightseeing places of Varanasi is also covered.
• The Alaknanda cruise stops for the evening Varanasi Ganga Aarti for a disappointing 15 minutes only. If watching Ganga Aarti is your priority, then I would suggest that see it from the stairs of Dashaswamedh Ghat and not the boats or cruise to get the best experience. It is worth it, even if you need to stay for one more day in Varanasi.
• Some tour packages will take you to well-known sophisticated restaurants for dinner after the Alaknanda Cruise gets over. You Should check the hotel reviews before agreeing. If it is not very authentic, then I prefer you to eat at smaller but well-known places such as Kashi Chaat Bhandar.
• If you are on a packaged tour, you will be mostly dropped to your hotel/homestay at approximately 9:30 pm
• You can choose to stay for late nights on the ghats like I did and book a taxi back to your hotel like I did.

The Alaknanda Cruise Package

Most tour operators include the below mentioned facilities in their The Alaknanda Cruise Packages

• Pick up and drop facility from the hotel in air-conditioned cars.
• A licensed tour guide to explain the history of ghats of Varanasi
• Entry Ticket price for the Alaknanda Luxury Cruise on Ganga River.
• Evening snacks of Varanasi such as the famed Banarasi Chaat, Tamatar Chaat, Lassi, Mishrambu, Thandai, Banarasi paan etc.
• Traditional sit-down Indian dinner in a reputed restaurant
• Everything which is not mentioned in the above list as well as personal Expenses and tips are excluded in total cost.
• It is a good idea to wear comfortable outfit as per the season/weather during your Varanasi trip.
• It is suggested that one must wear footwear with grip because the Ghats of Varanasi can be wet and slippery sometimes. I prefer slippers and sandals but you can wear shoes if it suits you better.
• Alcohol and meat in not allowed in the Alaknanda cruise and ghats of Varanasi.

Can I enjoy a party onboard the Alakananda luxury cruise?

It is a very commonly asked question. Yes, it is possible to hire a cruise to host personal parties on board. There are several facilities on board which helps in hosting a memorable party.

Types of Cruises in Varanasi

How many cruises are there in Varanasi? There are a total of 5 types of various cruises in Varanasi. Our host Mrs. Priti Srivastava, who is the deputy director of tourism in Varanasi proudly showed us around the cruise and other new additions to the city of Varanasi.  

Some of the facilities, especially in the bigger cruises include free WiFi, skid proof afterdeck, several bio toilets, a fully AV equipped mini stage on the lower deck along with so many more features. Safety protocols are also taken care of on all the cruises. You can also enjoy a cultural evening on the River Ganga like we did.

Alaknanda Cruise in Varanasi

Alaknanda is the flagship luxury cruise liner which also looks the most trendy and modern. Varanasi city launched its first river cruise named Alaknanda along the banks of river Ganga!

This white and black cruise is already very popular with the locals and tourists alike. Every time, I visit Kashi, I observe that it is always house-full with tourists. Its success can be attributed to various factors. As many as 60 tourists can be easily accommodated on the lower deck of this cruise itself. It is a double decker vessel from the first floor of which, you can enjoy even better views of the ghats of Varanasi. The top floor has a roof but the sides are kept open for amazing unhindered views .

The Alaknanda cruise boasts of a pantry, fully equipped A/V system, comfortable sofa style seats and even clean bio-toilets.

Sam Manikshaw Cruise in Varanasi

Which cruise is best in Varanasi? Sam Manikshaw Cruise in Varanasi was the biggest one I took a ride on.

During the Uttar Pradesh Travel Writers Conclave, the first major activity I did was to hop on to this massive ship. Christened after Field Marshal Shri Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, itis one of the largest cruises which run on Ganga River in Varanasi. Sam Manekshaw served as the Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.

I enjoyed the stunning views of the globally famous Ghats of Varanasi, while cruising languorously in river Maa Ganga . Though I have enjoyed a ride on a larger cruise from Dubai to Fort Kochi in Kerala , I was still amazed by the sheer grandeur of the Sam Manikshaw Cruise of Varanasi. I am not sure whose idea it was to run this cruise along the ghats of Kashi, but it is a brilliant move.

I and other travel bloggers lingered along the spacious open decks and enjoyed amazing views of beautiful ghats of Kashi from various angles and vantage points. We started our cruise ride from the newly added Namo Ghat . It is the last ghat located towards the famous Malviya Bridge which was inaugurated in the year 1887.

It was about to turn dark when the cruise started to move. The beautiful lights across the bridge and the ghats made it look like I was in some festival. But then everyday is a festival in a place like Varanasi, one of the oldest continually inhabited places on earth .

I was particularly excited when our cruise passed under the magically lit Malviya Bridge, which was originally named as the Dufferin Bridge by the colonists. It didn’t feel like I was in Kashi. I have visited Varanasi so many times and every time I am here, I see new positive improvements. I loved the new changes to the city of Varanasi, where I was born but have no childhood memory of !

We whizzed past the gorgeous main gate of Kashi Vishwanath Corridor , located near the Lalita Ghat and the Nepali Mandir which is also called as Shri Samrajeswar Pashupatinath Mahadev Mandir. I was excited to visit Kashi Vishwanath Corridor in night as it was my first time since it was inaugurated.

We moved on anyways, engulfed in the melancholy of Manikarnika Ghat which was juxtaposed right next to the shiny new gate of Kashi Vishwanath Corridor.

Darkness and light exist simultaneously on the ghats of Kashi , much like how Mansarovar Lake and Rakshas Tal co-exists in the foothills of Kailash Parvat and Gauri Kund in Tibet. Both Mansarovar Lake and Rakshas Tal are seen asa symbol of light and darkness in the Hindu Faith . Do read all my blogs on Kailash Mansarovar Yatra .  

What’s more? The Sam Manikshaw Cruise even stopped for a few minutes to see the daily evening Ganga aarti at the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat. Despite many more aartis happening in Varanasi around the day, the aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat is still so crowded and as popular as I saw it a decade earlier.

We continued towards other beautifully lit ghats, returning from my favorite Assi Ghat. This is also where the ghats end. We observed the twin evening artis of Assi ghat from the cruise and promised to return here on foot. After returning, we stopped for a nice dinner at a luxury hotel on the ghats and called it a day. But not before enjoying a soulful Kathak performance on the rooftop. I told the dancers, “I saw Krishna Ji and Radha Rani ji in you both!”. I was almost in tears after this performance. Such is the joy of being in Kashi!

Sam Manikshaw Cruise of Varanasi can also be hired for day long inter-city cruise tours. You can also hire the cruise to hold personal and professional events such as engagement, music nights , seminars etc. It can host more than 200 people at a time.

Bhagirathi Cruise in Varanasi

Since Bhagirathi cruise has two storeys, it can hold up to 80 people at a time. Some of the salient features of the Bhagirathi cruise include audio/video facility, clean toilets, sofa-seating etc. It is a safe and secure way to enjoy a boat ride from a moving cruise. While the lower deck is air conditioned, the upper deck is not. The sides are kept open here so that the tourists can enjoy the scenery without a glass hindering their views. I prefer it this way only. This cruise is named after Bhagirathi River.

Vivekanand Cruise in Varanasi

MV Swami Vivekanand is a huge cruise which can accommodate as many as 200 tourists at a time. This triple decked vessel offers great views from each of the floors. It is a multipurpose cruise which can be used for private functions such as birthdays, engagements and even marriages as well. Its open deck is huge. This cruise is named after Swami Vivekanand.

It can also be used to hold professional events such as seminars, off-sites and meetings etc. Many people also hire MV Swami Vivekanand Cruise for day long inter-city cruise tours. Some of its major features include air-conditioned halls, bio toilets and pantry etc.

Varuna Speed Boat in Varanasi

Varuna Speed Boat in Varanasi is also fast gaining popularity. Along with one driver, it can hold up to 6 tourists at a time. Wearing life-jackets, which is provided to the tourists, is mandatory. The seats are very comfortable in this speed boat, despite the small size. It reminded me of the speed boats running to Elephanta Caves in Maharashtra .

This 6-seater speed boat is a major attraction in Varanasi. Varuna is essentially a service boat which rides along the Alaknanda Cruise daily. When not accompanying Alaknanda cruise, tourists can hire it for speed boating for short durations. This speed boat is named after Varuna River. I am sure you didn’t know about these lesser-known facts. Now you know the answer to: How many cruise ships are there in Varanasi?

Evening Maharaja Boat ride in Varanasi with musicians and Dinner

For a memorable evening and an opportunity to feel like an old-world Maharaja or Maharani (King and Queen) on a private royal boat, one must book the Evening Maharaja Boat ride on the Ganga River. Not only will you enjoy a live performance by local musicians while the boat is moving but also a sumptuous vegetarian dinner.

Details of Evening Maharaja Boat ride

• Duration : Evening Maharaja Boat ride on Ganga River last upto 5 Hours
• Timings : The Maharaja Boat ride starts at 4:30 p.m. and ends by 9:30 p.m.
• It is a memorable experience of Varanasi’s soul.

The Maharaja Boat Experience in a nutshell

• Know what it feels like to enjoy a boat ride fit for King or Queen.
• Get welcomed by the staff of the Royal boat with (outdated) garlands and bouquets
• Sit back and enjoy classic song renditions, Tabla and Sitar performances by well-known musicians of Varanasi while your private boat is still moving on Ganga River along the ghats.
• Munch on the snacks, relish soft drink which are served on boat itself as you lose yourself in the sounds of Indian classical music.
• You can even get a glimpse of evening Ganga Aarti at Dashaswamedh Ghat during the Maharaja boat ride. I do not prefer this as viewing Aarti from the ghat is better.
• Soak in the atmosphere of the soulful and vibrant evenings of Varanasi!
• Let the boat ride nourish your soul as you observe the evening activities on the Varanasi Ghats.
• Learn about the history and rich ancient culture of Varanasi under the tutelage of an English-speaking local guide

About Maharaja Boat Ride on Ganga, Varanasi

The private Maharaja Boat Ride is an exclusive Varanasi experience for those who wants to enjoy the soul of Varanasi away from the organized chaos of the bustling city. Popular mostly with foreigner white travelers from privileged nations, it is a mix of touristy frills as well as authentic Banaras experience. Needless to say, this unprecedented Banaras experience comes at a price which is easy to pay by the foreigners.

If you are with a tour agent, you will be picked up from where you are staying and escorted to the main marketplace of Varanasi, close to the ghats. From here you will walk, negotiating your way in the evening crowd to Dashaswamedh Ghat.

Once you reach your private boat, you will have a grand welcome by the sailor. Clad in a uniform, he will greet you with garlands and flower bouquet.

Much like the private rickety boat that I had hired from a local boatman, the evening Maharaja Boat Ride allows one to view the Ghats from a distance. What changes is that one gets to sit on comfortable cushioned seats and enjoy the snacks and allowing live music performances on the boat to serenade you.

That is what Western tourists pay for! Beautified with fresh perfumed marigold flowers , the evening Maharaja Boat is carpeted. While some guests prefer to sprawl on the cushioned floor blanketed with a clean white sheet, others, with health issues, sit on chairs to watch the live performance of Indian musical instruments such as Tabla and Sitar.

The tourists are also made to feel like an old-world Maharaja aka King or Maharani aka Queen, even if for just few hours. That is why it is known as the evening Maharaja Boat Ride in the first place. As plates of cashew nuts and cookies do the rounds, the live classical music mesmerizes everyone who is on board. Needless to say, it is one of the top things to do in Varanasi. This elite Varanasi experience is known for leaving lasting impressions on the minds of tourists!

This authentic, handpicked and unadulterated Varanasi experience is the best thing you can do in Varanasi. The charm of whizzing past the ghats of an ancient city only adds to the experience. This quintessential Kashi experience is further accentuated by the fragrance of the fresh marigold flowers. Where else in the world, will you get this experience?

Every evening Dashaswamedh Ghat of Varanasi is abuzz with the Varanasi Ganga Aarti. This grand spectacle, subtly pulls you in to the mystical world of magical Hindu philosophy . It is not uncommon to see thousands of Hindu pilgrims as well as backpackers and tourists to throng the steps of the Ghats for a mere glimpse of the famed Ganga Aarti of Banaras.

The good news is that you will be able to see this from the comfort of the boat without having to jostle with the crowds. The bad news is that the views of Ganga Aarti from the boat is not as clear as the views you will get from the ghats.

The route of the evening Maharaja Boat includes a slow ride near the ghats of Varanasi which includes important ghats such as Dashaswamedh Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, Gai Ghat, Tulsi Ghat etc.

Evening Maharaja Boat Itinerary

• On a tour package, the pickup from your hotel in Varanasi is at 5:00 p.m.
• You will be dropped at the Dashawamedh Ghat, which is the starting point of the private Maharaja Boat
• Enjoy a lavish welcome with flower garland as you step on the Maharaja boat.
• Sit back and relax as the Indian classical instrumental music serenades you on the moving boat
• Evening Ganga Aarti at Dashaswamedh Ghat can also be viewed from the boat.
• Once Ganga Aarti gets over, the boat moves from the Dashaswamedh Ghat towards Harishchandra Ghat and returns back.
• After the Maharaja boat ride gets over, you can go on a delightful walking tour on the Ghats of Kashi to experience it closely.
• If you are on a packaged trip, you will be taken to a sophisticated restaurant for dinner
• Packaged tour operators will mostly drop you back at your hotel at 10:00 p.m. My advice is that you should linger more if you are on your own. Or even if not!
• The timings of the Maharaja Boat Ride vary from season to season. It starts daily at around 5:00 p.m. in summer and 4:00 p.m. in winters.

Morning Boat Ride with local boatman

No matter how many more luxuries the authorities add to the original boat ride, the traditional Morning Boat Ride on a rickety boat with a local boatman always beats all the other Varanasi boat ride experiences. On my first trip to Varanasi, I had hired a private boat on the holy Ganga River. I just negotiated the rates and duration with a random boatman and I was in the middle of the river in no time.

I and the boatman were the only people on the boat as it moved gently, whizzing past all the main ghats. Soon we were swarmed by an army of river pirates, better known as the noisy Siberian Gulls. But somehow their noise sounded like music to my ears. As if it added to the symphonies of the early morning ragas of Varanasi.

The boatman not only sung local Bhojpuri songs, but also clicked some well composed pictures of me voluntarily. Their lack of formal education sure makes up for the tricks and knowledge they pick up from their guests.

Who else, after all is better than a local boatman who often also doubles up as a local tourist guide ? However, most of the boatmen can speak either Bhojpuri and Hindi . Some can also speak few words from English, French etc.

I saw many foreigners during the morning boat ride in Varanasi. Men and women from Thailand , dressed entirely in white flowing dress and wearing a white mask. From the mist of early morning of winter, they appeared like some heavenly beings who just descended on Earth to see how bad it has gone here!

Had it not been for their facial features and language they could have been easily mistaken for Jain Munis, who also wear white clothes and white masks so that they do not swallow bacteria by mistake.

I also saw many people from Australia , Africa , Middle East , China , European nations such as Netherlands , Italy , France and even predominantly Islamic Malaysia taking the boat rides in Varanasi.

As the famous Bollywood song from Laga Chunari Mein Daag goes:

पटना से अइबे पैरिस से अइबे गंगाजी में हर कोई नंगा नहइबे

“They will come from Patna

They will come from Paris

Everyone bathes naked in Ganga ji!”

I remember I had also taken similar boat rides to the holy Sangam area in ancient city of Prayagraj where I also grew up between 1994-1998! I had taken a sunrise boat ride in winter in Prayagraj many times since childhood which gave me some stunning views even as the migratory Siberian gulls screamed over my head for some desi snacking aka laiyya choora (puffed rice and flattened rice). Do read my detailed blog on Prayagraj which is also in Uttar Pradesh .

Evening Boat Ride with local boatman

The evening boat ride on the holy Ganga is an experience very different from the morning boat ride in Ganga. While in the morning you will see many foreigners riding on the boat, in the evening most of the attention is grabbed by the grand Varanasi Ganga Aarti due to which lesser boats move on the river.

Most of the boats which are operational during the evening are the ones who offer to show you Ganga Aarti, while you are stuck on a traffic jam on the river. I do not prefer it.

So, I enjoyed the morning boat ride in Varanasi by hiring a private local boat who charge upwards of INR 500 for an hour-long boat ride. I remember paying around the same amount while boating in Dawki river in Meghalaya in North East India . It is a gorgeous river near India Bangladesh border minus any modicum of spirituality though!

During the evening boat ride on Ganga Ji, I was enthralled to see the ghats of Varanasi in the shades of blue, green, yellow, orange lights. The decorations are on bigger scale during the annual festival of Dev Deepawali which falls 15 days after Diwali. It is a good idea to hire a local boat after dark during Dev Diwali if watching laser shows on the ghats and seeing the grand spectacle of lakhs of diyas or mud lamps excites you. It was quite similar to another of my experiences, that is, Bhavya Deepotsav in Ayodhya .

Also read: My blog of the festival of Dev Deepawali in Goa

If I had just one day in Varanasi and had to choose between morning boat ride in Ganga ji and evening boat ride in Ganga River, then I would go for the morning ride, reserving the evening for the brilliant Varanasi Ganga Aarti at Dashashmev Ghat.

Best time to go on Alaknanda Cruise in Varanasi

In monsoon months of July and August, boating and cruises can be restricted for few days as the Ganga River often floods. It is thus subject to availability and daily weather conditions.

Best time to have boat ride in Varanasi

If you truly want to enjoy the boat rides, whether budget friendly or luxury, then you must go through the below mentioned travel tips:

Winter : September, October, November, December, January, February and March are the cooler months in Varanasi. While September, October, November, February and March are mildly cold, December and January are the coldest months in Varanasi and also my favorite time to visit Varanasi. This is also when you get to eat the best food in Varanasi. November, the month I was born in Varanasi, is also my favorite. I love it for that nip in the air.

Summer: It is the low season in Varanasi due to scorching heat. April, May, June are the hottest months in Varanasi and elsewhere on the plains of North India . People avoid visit to Varanasi aka Kashi in these months due to extreme heat. If you can brave it, nothing like it but I would still prefer winter months to visit Varanasi.

Monsoon: July and August are rainy months. Since it rains heavily in monsoon, so many times boat rides are cancelled abruptly. It is subject to availability and weather conditions and thus not advisable to travel for boat rides in monsoon.

Where to stay in Varanasi for boat ride

I personally recommend multiple boat rides in the holy Ganga River when visiting Varanasi. It is one of the must do activity in Banaras. If boat rides, Alaknanda cruise, Maharaja Boat ride, Subah-e-Banaras aka morning Aarti and evening aarti is your focus, then you must stay at one of the best and affordable hotels or homestays near Ghats, preferably Assi ghat and Dashaswamedh Ghat. There are many accommodation options available in Varanasi.

How to reach Varanasi for boat rides

It is fairly easy to reach Varanasi. Located near Lucknow , the capital of Uttar Pradesh in North India , Varanasi has its own airport, railway junction and bus stand all of which are connected with most of the big and small cities of India .

Conclusion: Why book Alaknanda Cruise?

Irrespective of how much money of you have in your pocket, you must choose what interests you the most. Personally, I, who is perennially hungry for varied experiences, will opt for Alaknanda Cruise, morning and evening boat ride with local boatman as well as the Maharaja boat ride, depending on how much time I have at hand.

All the boat experiences are unique and offer something new! So, I would not want to miss out on any of the above-mentioned boat ride options in Varanasi aka Banaras. Thank you for reading A Soul Window – the No. 1 travel blog of India.

The view from my Soul Window is Soul Satisfying!

Pin this blog to save the blog and plan a trip later!

Related Blogs

Below are my detailed travel guides on related topics. These places are linked to each other and you can use this handy comprehensive travel guide to plan a trip in Varanasi and Uttar Pradesh.

Blogs on Varanasi

Below are the informative travel blogs on Varanasi or Kashi.

Rajdari Devdari falls

Early morning Aarti

Dev Deepawali in Varanasi

Sarnath Travel Guide

Blogs on Uttar Pradesh

Below are the informative travel blogs on other destinations in Uttar Pradesh. Most of these places are much revered Hindu pilgrimages and not just tourist attractions.

Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir

Bhavya Deepawali of Ayodhya

Shri Krishna Janmbhoomi

Govardhan Parikrama

Prem Sarovar of Barsana

Shri Radha Rani Mandir Barsana

Vrindavan places to see

Mathura places to see

Restaurants in Mathura

First Dussehri Tree of the world

Dudhwa National Park

Birdwatching in Dudhwa National Park

Dhangadhi of Nepal near UP

Lakh Bahosi Bird Sanctuary

Dilkusha Kothi of Lucknow

Pink tea in Lucknow

Sardhana in Meerut

Birth place of Azad

Taj Balloon Festival

Kumbh Festival

Related posts:

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Luxury Alaknanda - Cruise in Ghats of Varanasi

About Varanasi

• How to Reach Varanasi
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• Art & Culture of Varanasi
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• Near by Place
• Legends of Varanasi
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Tourist Attraction of Varanasi

• Tourist Attraction in Varanasi
• Devalayas of Kashi
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• Timing of Aarti Kashi Vishwanath Temple
• Opening & Closing Time Temple and Museum
• Luxury Alaknanda Cruise in Varanasi
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• Must do in Varanasi
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Fair-Festivals & Events 2023 Varanasi

• Dev Diwali 2023 in Varanasi
• Diwali 2022 in Varanasi
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Luxury Alaknanda - Cruise in Varanasi

• Ghats to Cover Luxury Cruise in Varanasi
• Varanasi to Chunar Cruise Booking
• Ticket Cost of Luxury Cruise in Varanasi

India's oldest city of Varanasi has always been a popular tourist destination. U.P chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday 2 Sept 2018, inaugurated hi-tech cruise 'Alaknanda' taking the inaugural ride on the banks of river Ganga in Khidkiya Ghat Varanasi . This is the first time a private company has started a cruise ferry for tourists.

Read More : 2 Days Kashi Darshan Tour - Varanasi Religious Tour Package

Now they will have better options with more security to see the beauty of Varanasi Ghats and world famous 'evening Aarti' and 'Subah -e- Banaras' of Ganga Ghats .

now, the Varanasi Ganga ghats could only be seen via small and medium sized country boats. This double decker cruise has many features, with around 2,000 square feet area.

Read More : Rudrabhishek Puja Package with Kashi Darshan, Varanasi

Facility in Luxury Alaknand Cruise in Varanasi

The director of cruise service Vikas Malvyia informed him that the lower deck accommodates 60 passengers at a time with all the latest facilities , while there is a 24-seat restaurant on the upper deck. The cruise requires minimum water depth of five feet .

Read More : Ganga Arti Photography Tour Package in Varanasi

The cruise, a 30-metre double-decked modern line, is a startup venture of Varanasi based Nordic Cruiseline. With a full-fledged kitchen it offers popular dishes of Varanasi like Kachori-Jalebi, Samosas and Bati-Chokha. It will run between Assi Ghat and Panchganga Ghat for a two-hour ride of around 12 km in the morning and evening.

Top Things to do in Varanasi

Enjoy Ganga Aarti in the Evening

Enjoy Dev Deepawali

Boating in the Ganga

Subah e Banaras

Enjoy the street foods

Varanasi Tour Packages

View detail

View Varanasi Tour Packages

Pind Daan Services in Varanasi

Car rental in varanasi, rudrabhishek in varanasi, walking tours in varanasi, sailing ganga tour in varanasi.

Varanasi Related Questions

• Most Famous Temples of Varanasi
• Top 5 Festivals of Varanasi
• Top 5 Street Food of Varanasi
• Top 10 Tourist Attraction in Varanasi
• How many Ghats in Varanasi?
• 12 Must do in Varanasi
• Why is Varanasi a holy place?
• Why Banarasi sarees is famous?
• Why to visit Ashram and Muths in Varanasi?

Varanasi Special

Special rituals.

• Pind Daan Rituals
• Rudrabhisek
• Manglik Pooja

Boat Ride Packages

• Boat Ride In Varanasi
• Sailing Ganga Tour Package

Eco Tourism In Varanasi

• Village Tour
• Pottery Tour
• Ashram Tour
• Silk Weaving Tour
• Heritage Walk in Varanasi

Buddhist Destination

• Car Rental In Varanasi
• Home stay facility
• Indian culinary Tour
• Marriage in Indian Tradition

Varanasi Popular Packages

1 day bodhgaya & gaya local tour package from varanasi.

Duration : 0 Nights / 1 Days Destination : Varanasi – Bodhgaya -Varanasi

01 Day Sita Samahit Sthal-Sitamarhi Tour from Varanasi

Duration : 0 Nights / 1 Days Destination : Varanasi-Sitamarhi-Varanasi

1 Day Historical Mosque Tour to Jaunpur from Varanasi

Duration : 0 Nights / 1 Days Destination : Varanasi- Jaunpur-Varanasi

1 Day Trip to Lord Rama Birthplace-Ayodhya from Varanasi

Duration : 0 Nights / 1 Days Destination : Varanasi -Ayodhya- Varanasi

One Stop Solution for Your Trip

6392132533, 9260912327

[email protected]

Hotel * Cab * Boat * Tour Package

One stop solution for your trip.

Hotels in Varanasi Near Ghats and Temples

Hotel hardik palacio.

from ₹ 2,999 /- Night

Paradise Residency

from ₹ 2,499 /- Night

Hotel Temple on Ganges

from ₹ 4,999 /- Night

Sunshine Residency

from ₹ 2,000 /- Night

Hotel River Rhythm

from ₹ 4,500 /- Night

Palace On Ganges

from ₹ 5,499 /- Night

Hotel Banaras Haveli

Vijaigarh kothi - heritage boutique.

from ₹ 7,499 /- Night

Nivedita Hotel

from ₹ 2,500 /- Night

Hotel Park Plaza, Cantonment

Hotel pearl courtyard.

from ₹ 4,499 /- Night

Hotel Deva Inn

Hotel ganges grand, the hideaway bedzzz.

from ₹ 1,499 /- Night

Santoor Hotel, Sigra, Mahmoorganj, Varanasi

from ₹ 3,499 /- Night

Hotel Shree Kashi Inn

Hotel banaras palace varanasi, cab booking in varanasi | swift dzire, ertiga, innova, traveller, swift dzire cab airport pickup.

from ₹ 1,000 /-

Swift Dzire Cab Airport Drop

Varanasi local fullday sightseeing.

from ₹ 3,000 /-

Swift Dzire Cab for Varanasi to Vindhyachal

from ₹ 2,800 /-

Swift Dzire Cab for Varanasi to Prayagraj

from ₹ 4,500 /-

Swift Dzire Cab for Varanasi to Ayodhya

from ₹ 6,500 /-

Swift Dzire Cab for Varanasi to Bodhgaya

from ₹ 8,500 /-

Swift Dzire Cab for Varanasi to Lucknow

Innova for airport pickup.

from ₹ 1,500 /-

Innova for Airport Drop

from ₹ 1,800 /-

Innova for Varanasi Local Sightseen

from ₹ 4,000 /-

Innova for Varanasi to Vindhyachal

Innova for varanasi to prayagraj, innova for varanasi to ayodhya.

from ₹ 9,500 /-

Innova for Varanasi to Bodhgaya

from ₹ 10,500 /-

Innova for Varanasi to Lucknow

from ₹ 11,500 /-

Ertiga for Varanasi Airport Pickup

Ertiga for varanasi airport drop.

from ₹ 1,600 /-

Ertiga for Varanasi Local Sightseen

from ₹ 3,500 /-

Ertiga for Varanasi to Vindhyachal

Ertiga cab for varanasi to prayagraj, ertiga cab for varanasi to ayodhya.

from ₹ 7,500 /-

17 Seater Traveller Airport Pickup

from ₹ 2,500 /-

17 Seater Traveller Airport Drop Varanasi

17 seater traveller for varanasi local sightseen, 17 seater traveller for varanasi to vindhyacha, tempo traveller for varanasi to prayagraj.

from ₹ 10,000 /-

Tempo Traveller for Varanasi to Ayodhya

from ₹ 15,000 /-

Tempo Traveller for Varanasi to Bodhgaya

Tempo traveller for varanasi to lucknow.

from ₹ 20,000 /-

Ertiga for Varanasi to Bodhgaya

from ₹ 9,000 /-

Ertiga Cab for Varanasi to Lucknow

Innova crysta for airport pickup, innova crysta for airport drop, innova crysta for varanasi local sightseen, innova crysta for varanasi to vindhyachal, innova crysta for varanasi to prayagraj.

from ₹ 6,000 /-

Innova Crysta for Varanasi to Ayodhya

Innova crysta for varanasi to bodhgaya, innova crysta for varanasi to lucknow, boat booking in varanasi | hand boat, motor boat, bajra boat, morning boat ride in varanasi.

from ₹ 2,499 /-

Evening Boat ride in Varanasi

from ₹ 3,999 /-

Private Motor Boat for Evening Ganga Aarti

Private bajra boat for ganga aarti, pickup assi ghat | private boat ride for evening ganga aarti, pickup namo ghat | private boat ride for evening ganga aarti.

from ₹ 3,499 /-

Pickup Dashaswamedh Ghat | Private Boat Ride for Evening Ganga Aarti

Shivala ghat | boat booking for ganga aarti varanasi, flower decorated bajra boat.

from ₹ 16,500 /-

Lighting Decorated CNG Boat

from ₹ 4,999 /-

Light Motor Boat Assi Ghat | Boat Booking for Ganga Aarti Varanasi

from ₹ 4,499 /-

Surprise Event Decoration Boat for Birthday/Anniversary.etc

from ₹ 6,499 /-

Surprise Event Decoration Bajra Boat Booking for Birthday/Anniversary

Popular packages.

1 Night 2 days Varanasi Tour Package

2 Nights 3 Days Varanasi Tour Package

from ₹ 14,999 /-

3 Nights 4 Days Varanasi Tour Package

from ₹ 19,999 /-

4 Nights 5 Days Varanasi Tour Package

from ₹ 29,999 /-

• Guided tour

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

• Description
• Choose date

Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

Choose your dates

Who's going.

• Excursion River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
• Date and time:
• Who's going:

See photo of the meeting point

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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