The Ganges is more than just a river. It’s a lifeline for millions, a colossal waterway born in the Himalayan glaciers and threads its way across thousands of miles of the countryside before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. The river, the third largest on Earth, is also considered sacred by Hindus: the Ganga is a goddess. In cities from Varanasi to Kolkata, it’s also a site of colorful life and drama, where religious rituals, quiet fishing boats, and river cruisers coexist.
To travel the Ganges is to discover a quintessential aspect of Indian life—and visitors have more choice than ever when it comes to getting up close and personal with the mighty river. Here are five beautiful ways to explore the Ganges on your next whirlwind tour of the Subcontinent.
Boat Cruise in Varanasi
Frenetic Varanasi and its teeming ghats often present a sensory whirlwind. But for a more tranquil perspective on one of the world’s oldest cities, visit the Ganges at dawn and dusk for a sunrise and evening aarti boat cruise. From the water, you can take in the morning mist, the religious pilgrims at the river’s edge, the sounds of the city beginning to rise, and a peaceful view of the ghats before they fill with color and hubbub. In the evening, the highlight is the Ganga Aarti, a ceremonial prayer performed by the priests along the ghats of Varanasi.
Rishikesh Treks & Rafting
In Rishikesh, the Ganges is closer to its source: glacier-pure, roiling with rapids, and framed by lovely forests and peaks. To best discover this magical North Indian destination, an adventurous excursion is in order. As you go, discover the many shrines and the sadhus who frequent them within the river’s vicinity. To cap off your Rishikesh experience, you can even embark on a white-water rafting trip through the river’s quick-moving currents.
Ganga Aarti
Varanasi is beautiful at sunrise, but scenes around the Ganges take on a different aspect at sunset. As dusk falls, the Ganga Aarti is performed. A religious ritual that attracts pilgrims and casual sightseers, the ceremony sees a fire offering given to the Goddess Ganga. It’s an incredible spectacle to witness—and should you venture further, note that it’s also performed in Haridwar and Rishikesh.
The Brijrama Palace
Sometimes, it’s worth taking a step back to get the best views of the Ganges. In the heart of Varanasi, the Brijrama Palace offers a luxurious place to unwind and a lovely perspective on the river (given that it directly overlooks the Darbanga Ghat, the hotel doubles as an excellent venue for languid sightseeing).
The Ganga Cruise
For a more leisurely and immersive exploration of the Ganges, a river cruise offers a perfect blend of comfort and discovery. Several luxury cruises now navigate the river’s course, taking travelers through remote villages, bustling cities, and untouched landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient temples, colonial-era landmarks, and vibrant ghats alive with activity. Most cruises include guided shore excursions, where you can visit local markets, witness traditional crafts, and meet riverside communities. Onboard, expect elegant cabins, fine dining inspired by regional flavors, and sunset views from the deck as the Ganges unfold in all its majesty.
