Bajda – E – Banaras (Xplor Benares on a Double Decker Boat)

Bajda – E – Banaras offers an immersive exploration of the ancient city of Varanasi aboard a unique double-decker boat. This innovative tour seamlessly blends spiritual practice with artistic expression, providing guests with a holistic experience. Participants can enjoy rejuvenating yoga sessions, captivating Kathak performances, and insightful lectures on Indian philosophy, all while taking in the serene beauty of the Ganges River. With the scenic backdrop of this sacred city, the tour promises a memorable journey into Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual awakening or a deeper appreciation for the region’s traditions, this tour has something to captivate every traveler.

Key Points

• Xplor Benares is a 3-4 hour immersive tour exploring the spiritual heritage of Varanasi, including yoga, classical music and dance, and a lecture on Indian philosophy.
• The tour starts at Hotel Ganges Grand, using a double-decker boat called Bajda to enhance the overall experience.
• Key activities include a 1-hour yoga session, a 1-hour classical music and Kathak dance performance, and a 1-hour lecture on diverse Indian philosophical traditions.
• The tour offers a unique integration of various cultural and spiritual elements, providing a holistic understanding of Varanasi’s rich heritage.
• The tour is designed to be conducted in the early morning to witness the serene sunrise over the Ganges River, creating a peaceful and immersive atmosphere for participants.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Bajda – E – Banaras," is a 3-4 hour experience that provides visitors with a unique and immersive exploration of Varanasi.

Priced at $536.31 per group (up to 20 participants), it offers a combination of activities, including a yoga session, classical music and dance performance, and a lecture on Indian philosophy.

The tour starts at Hotel Ganges Grand and features a double-decker boat, the Bajda, as the primary mode of transportation.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

The tour’s unique features include its holistic approach and the opportunity to witness the sunrise over Varanasi.

Tour Itinerary

Starting at Hotel Ganges Grand near the Godowlia Crossing, the tour kicks off with a yoga session on the double-decker boat, the Bajda. A certified instructor leads participants through a series of Sun Salutation poses, connecting body and mind as the boat drifts along the sacred Ganges River.

Activity	Duration
Yoga Session	1 hour
Classical Music & Dance	1 hour
Lecture on Indian Philosophy	1 hour

This is followed by a classical music and dance performance, featuring the graceful Kathak dance form accompanied by live musicians. The tour concludes with a thought-provoking lecture on the diverse philosophies of Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, providing a holistic understanding of India’s rich spiritual heritage.

Unique Features

This tour stands out for its unique blend of activities that offer a holistic experience in Varanasi.

It’s the only service in the city that integrates yoga, classical music and dance, and a lecture on Indian philosophy into a single tour. Guests can start their day with a rejuvenating yoga session, followed by a captivating Kathak dance performance accompanied by live musicians.

The tour then delves into the rich tapestry of Indian philosophies, providing insights into Hindu, Islamic, Buddhist, Jain, and Sikh belief systems.

Experiencing this diverse range of cultural and intellectual offerings on a double-decker boat while witnessing the picturesque sunrise over the Ganges River makes this tour a truly immersive and memorable experience.

Inclusions

The tour includes an English-speaking facilitator to guide participants throughout the experience.

A certified yoga instructor leads a session focused on the Sun Salutation, providing a rejuvenating start to the tour.

Classical dancers and live musicians then take the stage, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Varanasi through Kathak dance and live performances.

Plus, an expert on Indian philosophy delivers a lecture covering the diverse philosophical traditions of Hinduism, Islam, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, offering a deeper understanding of the spiritual tapestry of the region.

Water bottles are provided to keep guests hydrated during the tour.

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Meeting Point

The tour’s meeting point is located near the Hotel Ganges Grand, at the Godowlia Crossing. This central location ensures easy access for participants, allowing them to conveniently gather before embarking on the Bajda – E – Banaras tour.

The meeting point’s strategic placement offers several advantages:

1. Proximity to accommodations: Guests staying at the Hotel Ganges Grand or nearby hotels can easily reach the meeting point without extensive travel.

2. Visibility and landmarks: The Godowlia Crossing is a well-known landmark, making it a simple and straightforward rendezvous point for both local and international participants.

3. Accessibility: The meeting location is situated in a bustling area, ensuring participants can readily find their way and connect with the tour group.

Early Morning Tour

One of the highlights of the Bajda – E – Banaras tour is the early morning timing.

Starting at the crack of dawn, participants can witness the sunrise over the Ganges River, a magical and serene experience.

The tour takes place during the most peaceful and rejuvenating time of the day, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the spiritual atmosphere of Varanasi.

This early start ensures that the group can enjoy the activities, including yoga, classical music, and the lecture on Indian philosophy, without the crowds and heat of the day.

The timing of this tour sets it apart, providing a unique and memorable experience for those seeking to deeply connect with the essence of Banaras.

Holistic Experience

While the early morning timing sets the Bajda – E – Banaras tour apart, it’s the integration of diverse elements that truly creates a holistic experience for participants.

The tour seamlessly blends yoga, music, and philosophy, offering a well-rounded exploration of Varanasi’s rich cultural tapestry. The yoga session kickstarts the day with a focus on mindfulness, followed by a captivating classical music and dance performance that transports participants to another era.

Finally, the lecture on Indian philosophy provides intellectual depth, delving into the myriad belief systems that have shaped the region. This comprehensive approach leaves visitors with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Varanasi’s multifaceted heritage.

3 key elements of the holistic experience:

1. Yoga session
2. Classical music and dance
3. Lecture on Indian philosophy

Reserve Now and Pay Later

Typically, the reserve now and pay later option allows travelers to secure their spot on the Bajda – E – Banaras tour without needing to pay the full amount upfront.

This flexible payment method is particularly beneficial for those on a tight budget or unsure of their travel plans. By reserving their spot in advance, travelers can lock in the current price and have more time to complete the payment before the tour date.

This option provides peace of mind and greater flexibility, making the Bajda – E – Banaras tour more accessible to a wider range of visitors to Varanasi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Group Size Flexible Beyond the Listed 20 Participants?

The group size is typically limited to 20 participants, as mentioned in the tour overview. However, the tour operator may be able to accommodate larger groups upon request, subject to availability and additional costs.

What Time Does the Tour Typically Start in the Morning?

The tour typically starts in the early morning to witness the sunrise. While the specific start time is not provided, the early morning timeframe allows visitors to experience the tranquil and serene atmosphere during this time of day.

Are Vegetarian/Dietary Options Available for the Refreshments?

The tour operator does not explicitly mention dietary options for the refreshments. However, given the cultural context of Varanasi, they likely offer vegetarian options to accommodate diverse dietary needs of the participants.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Events or Special Occasions?

Yes, the tour can be customized for private events or special occasions. The tour operator offers flexible arrangements to accommodate group preferences, such as adjusting the itinerary, adding special performances, or providing tailored catering options.

Is There a Discount for Students, Seniors, or Local Residents?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts for students, seniors, or local residents. The standard group rate of $536.31 applies to all participants, regardless of their age or residency status. Customizations for private events or special occasions may be available at an additional cost.

Recap

Bajda – E – Banaras offers a captivating exploration of Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage aboard a double-decker boat. Guests can experience a holistic journey, including yoga, Kathak performances, and insightful lectures, all set against the serene backdrop of the Ganges River. This innovative tour seamlessly blends spiritual practice with artistic expression, creating a truly memorable experience for all who embark on this unique journey.

You can check if your dates are available here: