Our company, based in Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh, India), provides sunset and sunrise boat rides every morning and evening. We also offer 1 to 5 days cruises from Allahabad to Varanasi. "It is futile to try to describe the grandeur of the landscape : there are perfections about which the only eloquence is silence ." Marco Pallis ( Tibetologist)
For Hindus, the Ganges is an eternal source of earthly
and spiritual nourishment. This sacred river originates in the Gangotri Glacier in the beautiful western Himalayas, about four thousand meters above sea level. The terminus of the glacier resembles a 'cow's mouth' (which Indians call “Gaumukh” in Hindi). Legend has it, that at this point, King Bhagirath spent several years in deep meditation to bring down the Ganges from the heavens to earth. Lord Shiva is said to have welcomed the waters in his hair providing a soft landing for the mighty river so it would shatter the earth on its descent from the heavens. The holy Ganges was then released from Lord Shiva's hair to provide for the needs of the living and for the salvation of the dead. Following this traditional blessing, we welcome you aboard the “Tarangini”, a special houseboat designed to provide all the comforts needed for a perfect cruise on this holy river. Lying on mattresses on the top deck, sheltered from the sun under a canvas roof supported by bamboo, you can observe, smell and feel India as few people have. The boat is furnished with a bedroom and a bathroom with toilet and bath facility. On the Ganges, there are very few motorboats and only the sound of the oars and the voices of children on the banks break the silence. (The boat is fitted with engines, but these are used occasionally only when conditions require it). Aboard the “Tarangini”, we cruise down the Ganges over several days taking our time to enjoy its tranquility. All through the journey, which can lasts from 2 to 6 days, we stop at small villages along the river to visit people, to learn about their lifestyle which is largely untouched by tourism or urbanisation. This is what gives one the true experience of India, much of which is hidden in these rural pockets, far from India's bustling cities. If we are lucky, the elusive, enigmatic Gangetic dolphins may come to greet us around the boat. One is assured of the company of a multitude of migratory birds. In the evening, we dine on deserted beaches along the river. The food is prepared on board and a part of it on a makeshift traditional fireplace we set up by the banks of the river. The cuisine of Uttar Pradesh is just as diverse as its geography. Ranging from everyday classics made from local vegetables, to an elaborate, princely spread, this diverse state has preserved the most exotic recipes in its kitty. Delectable delicacies like chaat, samosa and pakoras, which are the most popular street foods in all of India, are native to this state. We welcome you to assist with or just observe the traditional cooking by our local chef. One is constantly amazed at the contrast of life that one sees and experiences on the cruise as compared to the excitement of Benares. At the ghat where you de-board, you will be instantly immersed in the religious fervour of Hindus who come every morning to do their ablutions at the edge of the ghat. This will be the end of your cruise and a holy welcome into the dynamic city of Benares. About us :
Deepak Sahani : I am the third generation of a boatman family. I live in Assi Ghat, Varanasi with my family. Laurige Boyer : I'm a French entrepreneur based in India for 7 years developing eco sensitive trips. Please contact us for further information.
