There are few places as powerful and as resonant with spiritual force as Varanasi. Over two nights, you'll experience the city at its most atmospheric — drifting along the Ganges at dawn accompanied by musicians,  walking narrow lanes alongside silk weavers and shrine keepers, joining pilgrims who come from all over India to perform ritual ablutions in this sacred river  and witnessing the incredible spectacle as Hindu priests perform the evening aarti with fire, bells and chanting. You'll stay in a former maharaja's palace in a prime position on the riverfront, serenaded by a flautist in the morning, with the chance to join in a rooftop yoga session at first light, and plenty of time  to sit and absorb the view. This is not about ticking landmarks, it’s about feeling the pulse of one of the world’s oldest living cities.

Highlights

• Riverside Arrival at BrijRama Palace — reach your heritage hotel by boat and settle into life on the Ganges.

• Aarti by Firelight — walk the waterfront with a local priest to witness Varanasi’s most mesmerising evening ritual.

• Dawn on the River — a sunrise boat journey accompanied by traditional musicians as the ghats awaken.

• Kathak & Culture — an intimate classical dance performance at your hotel reflecting North India’s storytelling traditions.

• Hidden Benares Walk — an exploration of the city's atmospheric lanes.

• Rooftop Yoga & Slow Departure — greet the day above the river, followed by time to relax before leaving Varanasi.