Varanasi is the spiritual heart of India when you visit Varanasi. Every year, countless travelers are drawn to this sacred city for its revered pilgrimage sites. As you wander through its ancient streets, you’ll be captivated by the myriad of temples showcasing exquisite architecture, and the deep-rooted cultural traditions that resonate in every corner.
The vibrant streets, tantalizing local delicacies, and the warmth of its residents make Varanasi an inviting and unforgettable destination.
And for those seeking a unique perspective of the holy Ganga river, there’s an exclusive treat awaiting you – a luxurious cruise experience. Intrigued? Read on to discover more.
About Alaknanda Luxury Cruise
Embark on a journey like no other with the Alaknanda Cruise, Varanasi’s newest luxury attraction. This double-decker marvel offers a unique blend of modern luxury and the timeless charm of Varanasi, making it a must-try for every discerning traveler.
A Glimpse of Varanasi from the Waters: As the cruise gracefully sails from Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat and Namo Ghat, immerse yourself in the captivating panorama of Banaras. Let the serene views slow your pulse: a man sun-drying his dhoti, devout women offering morning prayers to the Sun God, or children playfully diving into the Ganges. This is Varanasi in its purest form, and the Alaknanda Cruise lets you witness it from the lap of luxury.
Luxury Meets Tradition: The cruise’s plush sofa-style seating promises unmatched comfort, allowing you to absorb the essence of Kashi in style. As the 30-meter liner glides on the sacred Ganges, Varanasi unfolds its layers, revealing its vibrant life and the profound silence of its cremation ghats.
Morning Cruise Itinerary:
- Duration: 2 hours
- Timing: 5:00 am to 9:00 am
- Cruise Ride: 90 minutes
- Starting Point: Assi Ghat
- Distance: 12 kilometers
- Frequency: Daily, both morning and evening
- Ghats Covered: All 84 major and minor ghats
- Experience: Unparalleled
Morning Alaknanda Cruise Highlights:
- For those with a pre-booked tour package, pickup is at 5:00 a.m. from hotels/homestays in Varanasi, followed by a drive to Assi Ghat for the cruise.
- Solo budget travelers are advised to stay near Assi Ghat due to its proximity to budget hotels.
- The 90-minute Alaknanda Cruise sails from Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat, offering refreshments and views of local morning activities on Varanasi’s ghats.
- The cruise covers around 70 significant Ganga Ghats, including notable ones like Harishchandra Ghat, Manikarnika Ghat, and Dashaswamedh Ghat.
- There’s a brief stop at Assi Ghat, allowing a distant view of the Subah-e-Benaras Aarti.
- After the cruise, travelers can enjoy local street food, with a recommendation to visit Sri Ram Bhandar for breakfast.
- Packaged tour participants are dropped back at their hotels by 9:00 a.m.
- Solo travelers can further explore Varanasi, including a visit to Tulsidas Akhada for a live wrestling match.
Alaknanda Evening Cruise Itinerary:
- Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Timing: 5:00 pm to 9:30 pm
- Cruise Ride: 90 minutes
- Starting Point: Assi Ghat
- Distance: 12 kilometers
- Frequency: Daily, both morning and evening
- Ghats Covered: 70 prominent ghats
- Experience: Beyond words
Evening Alaknanda Cruise Highlights:
- For travelers with a pre-booked package, pickup is at 5:00 p.m. from Varanasi accommodations, leading to Assi Ghat for the cruise.
- Some tour packages offer local vegetarian delicacies like Chaats, Lassi, and Thandai before boarding.
- The 90-minute cruise sails from Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat, offering evening tea and coffee.
- The cruise covers over 70 renowned Ghats, including significant cremation sites like Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat.
- A brief 15-minute stop allows passengers to witness the Varanasi Ganga Aarti. For a fuller experience, it’s recommended to view the Aarti directly from Dashaswamedh Ghat’s stairs.
- Post-cruise, some packages offer dinner at upscale restaurants. Checking reviews is advised, with alternatives like Kashi Chaat Bhandar for authentic local flavours.
- Packaged tour participants are typically returned to their accommodations by 9:30 p.m.
- Independent travellers can extend their evening on the ghats and arrange their own transportation back.
What Awaits You on the Alaknanda Cruise:
- Revel in the newly launched Alaknanda Luxury Cruise.
- Witness the sacred Ganga Ghats in unparalleled luxury.
- Sail from Assi Ghat to Raj Ghat, experiencing the heart of Kashi.
- Absorb the solemnity of the cremation ghats, including the renowned Harishchandra Ghat and Manikarnika Ghat.
- Explore hidden gems in Kashi’s ancient alleys during morning and evening walks.
- Satisfy your palate with local delicacies: creamy lassi, crispy kachoris, sweet jalebis, and the iconic Banarasi chai. For the evening, savor choora matar and tangy tamatar chat.
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Alaknanda: A 5-Star Kind Luxury Cruise Line
The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath had announced the service of Alakanada a 5-star kind luxury cruise line in India on September 2108. This probably one of the major step which was even supported by Union transport minister Nitin Gadkari considering the increasing demand for Varanasi tourism. The cruise cost of production was Rs 1 crore which was undertaken by a Kolkata-based company and is operated by the Nordic Cruise Line.
This luxurious tourist cruise starts at Khidiya Ghat in Varanasi and to date, it has a list of only happy customers. The launch of this luxury cruise in Varanasi made many tourists book the city trip even double the times. The ride of the cruise shall take you from the 84 different Ghats of the city. Nearly 30 meters in the length, this cruise can accommodate nearly 110 passengers at one time.
This double-decked cruise line is said to be one of those top-notch service providing travel destinations of Uttar Pradesh which has been providing its tourists with a better view of history, culture, and heritage.
Needless to say that with the introduction of this cruise, the popularity and demand for this city has increased even more
Alaknanda Luxury Cruise Route:
The cruise embarks from Assi Ghat and sails to Panchganga Ghat, covering an approximate distance of 12 kilometers. Along the way, it passes several other ghats, including the historic Chunar, a popular visitation spot in Varanasi.
Boarding Points:
Passengers board the cruise at the Alaknanda Jetty, located at Ravidas Park Ghat Nagwa. It’s recommended for tourists to arrive at least an hour prior to departure.
Alaknanda Varanasi Cruise Price:
Tourist can enjoy this incredible luxury cruise in Varanasi for which the amount per person is Rs 750/- only hat also includes goods and service tax a well
Suggested Tour Itinerary for Varanasi:
Features Of The Alaknanda Luxury Cruise
Dual Decker Luxury Cruise Liner
This cruise is one of its kind for the fact that it measures around the total area of 2,000 sq. ft. this can accommodate nearly 125 people without any problem at a given time. Out of the total number of seats that are present on the cruise. 60 of them have the deck in the lower area which is completely air-conditioned. There are also ample of usage see through the glass windows that allow the passengers to have an incredible view of the Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat
On the upper side of the deck, there is no air conditioning in the cruise. This is the main reason why you can see the sides of the area being open. It allows the people to have the free circulation of the air and it also enhances the overall aesthetic appearance of the dual Decker side of the cruise. There are bio-toilets on both floors.
Luxurious Facilities
Moving further if you consider the luxury factor of this cruise liner, it has also been set with the seating ornament which is quite luxurious. Some sofas are comfortable enough to let the passengers admire the beauty of the sunrise and sunset while relaxing. They can also have the most spectacular view of the Ganga Aarti from the comfortable sofas.
Safety Features
This luxury cruise is all stocked up with all the danced navigational systems along with the GPS which is onboarded. Other than the adequate steps that have been taken to make sure the passengers onboard are safe. Also, you can find the safety jackets that are designed with advanced technology which ensures in case of any emergencies to be availed. The cruise is all equipped with possible safety measures.
Other Features Onboard
Moving further this luxury cruise also has installed the skid-proof after deck, wi-fi connection, and audiovisual system. The kitchen is located on the upper side of the deck. It cooks both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals which also includes continental cuisine to the guests onboard. The guests can also enjoy the alcohol service. Besides the cruise can be used for holding conferences, business meetings, and power lunches and thus you can have your business deal while amid Varanasi.
Timings of the Alaknanda Luxury Cruise
Alaknanda Luxury Cruise in Varanasi offers the tourists with the most spectacular view throughout the day. The timing of the cruise is between morning and evening. The cruise is available 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM and also in the evening from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM
If you plan for the morning cruise you can have an incredible view of the holy river of Ganga while also enjoying the beautiful view of the sunrise. The cruise shall take you slow yet steady speed which is why you can also enjoy the lovely sights at every 84 Ghats that you pass by. You might love to enjoy watching the happenings on the “Subah-e-Banaras” Ghats which is one of the famous Ghats of Varanasi and has a unique experience.
To go on an evening cruise also has got its perks. It lets you enjoy the most incredible sightseeing. You can also enjoy the view of the sunset and you will surely not miss out on the Ganga Aarti too. On the cruise line, you can enjoy the lighted lamps, synchronized chanting of mantras, and the floating of divas.
Why Visit Varanasi with Alaknanda cruise ?
Beyond its spiritual allure, Varanasi promises serenity. Amidst its bustling life, there’s a tranquil space where you can retreat and rejuvenate. Experience the Ganga River like never before on the opulent Alaknanda cruise. Launched in September 2018, this cruise offers both locals and tourists an unparalleled journey.
Before the Alaknanda graced the waters, traditional boat rides were the norm. But now, this luxury cruise elevates the experience, allowing you to glide gracefully through the sacred waters, taking in the mesmerizing sights and sounds of Varanasi.
Known to be the religious destination of India, Varanasi has got some great temples, historic Ghats, and the unique flavor of the city itself. It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world which surely would make your entire trip quite a lot fascinating.
This popular tourist destination in India allows you to understand the city more closely. It is like the river and the city is both synonymous with one other. The routine living of the city also revolved around the Ganga rive where you can find a strong presence of people talking about routine living and the lifestyle can be seen too
Varanasi has not just spread its charm to Indian people but it has international tourists as well who visit this city for the beauty and historical views that are very rare to be seen anywhere else. The international travelers who have been holding love for the ancient city would surely find the trip to Varanasi an enthralling experience.
There are so many things that you can do in Varanasi and the areas adjacent to it. The customs, traditions, and Hindu believe is what makes this place one of the important ones of India. The city has been enduring so many incredible visitors traveling from abroad to get the ancient feel.
To walk from the routes of Varanasi is altogether a different experience. Besides, the street stores and interesting people will always surprise you in some or the other way.
There are so many beautiful Ghats in the city that show the beauty of religious rituals, ceremonies, and other activities and this gives you a glimpse of how the routine living is carried out. The city is popular and is amongst that well-known destinations that has been showing the glimpses of Ancient India which most of the people are lucky only to read in the books and newspapers.
Read More Blog on Varanasi:
- How to Reach Varanasi from Mumbai
- 3 Star Hotels in Varanasi
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- Famous Markets in Varanasi
- Famous Street Food Places in Varanasi
- Kashi Vishwanath Temple Travel Guide
- Best Restaurants in Varanasi
- Ganga Aarti Varanasi Travel Guide
- Why Sarnath is Famous
- Travel from Delhi to Varanasi
- Museums in Varanasi
- Top Reasons to Visit Varanasi
- 5 Star Hotels in Varanasi Near Ghat
- Things to Do in Varanasi
- Popular Ghats in Varanasi
- Most Popular Temples in Varanasi
- Top Places to Visit in Varanasi
