A floating five-star on the Ganga: new Gangotri Cruise offers a slow, soulful view of Kashi

Varanasi's river tourism is getting a graceful new addition. The Gangotri Cruise, operated by Alaknanda Cruise Line and anchored at Ravidas Ghat, is a four-deck luxury vessel designed to let travellers experience the Ganga at an unhurried, meditative pace. With space for up to 200 guests on day trips and 48 on overnight journeys across 24 cabins, it works almost like a floating five-star hotel on the water. On board, the emphasis stays on Banaras itself: a fine-dining restaurant showcasing local cuisine, plus yoga sessions, devotional music and heritage talks that turn the sailing into a cultural experience rather than just a ride. There is a sun deck, spa and gym too — and, in keeping with the spirit of the pilgrimage city, no alcohol is served on board. Beyond the city's ghats, longer itineraries trace the river past Mirzapur, the historic Chunar Fort, Vindhyachal and on toward Prayagraj, stitching together some of the region's most storied stops. Package lengths range from short three-day sailings to week-long voyages. For anyone wanting to see Kashi and its neighbours from the calm of the water, it is a promising new way to travel — a slower, more soulful complement to the classic sunrise boat ride.

Compiled by HelloBanaras from public sources: Varanasi Tourism