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.
OVERVIEW
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.
VARANASI
Bodhgaya
Antara Nauka Vilas
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.
