Varanasi Sunrise Boat Ride

Overview

A rowing-boat ride on the Ganges at sunrise is one of the great experiences of Varanasi. The boat drifts along the line of ghats, the stone stairways that run for several kilometres beside the river, as pilgrims bathe, priests offer prayers and the city wakes.

The sun rises over the far bank and the light turns the temples and palaces along the shore gold. Your guide points out the main ghats, including Dashashwamedh, Manikarnika and Assi.

What to look for

• Pilgrims bathing and praying at the water's edge
• The palaces and temples glowing in the first light
• Floating flower lamps and offerings
• The view of the whole river front from the water

Visiting tips

• Arrange the boat through your guide for a fair price and a reliable boatman.
• Go at first light: mist and cool air are part of the atmosphere.
• Photography of the cremation ghats is not permitted; show respect.

Why visit with a private guide

A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Varanasi Sunrise Boat Ride, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.

More photographs

Nearby

Dhamek Stupa Dashashwamedh Ghat Ganga Aarti Manikarnika Ghat Kashi Vishwanath