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Boat rides in Kashi

A boat ride on the Ganga at sunrise or during the evening Ganga Aarti is the signature Kashi experience. Here are fair rates, the best times, and where to board.

Best times

Sunrise is the most serene; the evening Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh is the most dramatic. Avoid the midday heat.

Fair rates (per boat — agree before boarding)

  • Shared seat (sunrise/aarti)per person₹50–₹150
  • Small rowboatup to 4, about 30 min₹300–₹600
  • Private rowboat (aarti)up to 6, about 1 hr₹600–₹1,200
  • Motorboatlarger group₹800–₹2,000

Rates rise on festivals and Dev Deepawali. Fix the price and duration before you board, and avoid prepaid touts.

Where to board

Tips

  • Wear a life jacket, and insist on one for children.
  • Fix the price in advance, not in the middle of a crowd.
  • Do not overload the boat; step carefully on wet steps.
  • Photos from the boat are fine — but never of the cremations at Manikarnika.

Prices are indicative and for guidance — agree the fare before you begin.