Frequently Asked Questions

Simply call or WhatsApp +91 9278322002. Tell us your event type, date, group size, and preferred time. We confirm your booking within 30 minutes and handle everything from decoration to crew. No complicated forms — just a quick conversation.

We recommend booking at least 2–3 days in advance for regular rides and 1–2 weeks for event boats (birthday, proposal, anniversary). For festival seasons like Dev Diwali, Kartik Purnima, and Diwali, book at least 1–2 months ahead as slots fill up very fast.

Yes, same-day bookings are possible subject to availability. For simple morning boat rides or Ganga Aarti boats, same-day bookings are usually fine. For fully decorated event boats, we prefer at least 24–48 hours notice to arrange decoration and setup.

We typically take a small advance (20–30%) to confirm your booking. The balance is paid on the day of your event. Cancellations made 48+ hours before the event receive a full advance refund. Last-minute cancellations (under 24 hours) may forfeit the advance. Please contact us to discuss your situation — we are always flexible.

Prices start from ₹800 per boat for a simple morning hand-boat ride. Ganga Aarti private boats start from ₹1,500 per person. Birthday, proposal, and anniversary boat packages start from ₹6,500. Bajra group boat packages start from ₹15,000. Visit our Pricing page for the complete price list.

Absolutely not. We are committed to 100% transparent pricing. All charges are communicated upfront via WhatsApp before you confirm. The price quoted is the final price — no surprise fees at the ghat.

Yes! Groups of 15 or more typically receive better per-person pricing. For corporate events, family reunions, and wedding groups, contact us directly and we will put together a custom package with the best rates.

A Bajra is Varanasi's traditional large wooden boat — the most iconic vessel on the Ganga. It comfortably holds 20–50+ guests. It has two levels (lower covered and upper open deck), making it perfect for group events, corporate tours, wedding parties, and family gatherings.

We have traditional hand-rowed boats (naav) for small groups of 4–8 people, CNG motor boats for faster rides of up to 10 people, decorated event boats for celebrations (up to 15 pax), and large Bajra group boats for 20–50+ guests. We match the right boat to your needs and group size.

All event boat packages (birthday, proposal, anniversary) include full flower decoration, LED lights, and themed setup. Birthday packages include a cake. Proposal packages include candles and fairy lights. Anniversary packages include a candle dinner setup. Premium and Luxury tiers include more elaborate decoration, photographers, and additional elements.

The Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat takes place every evening — typically at 6:30–7:30 PM in summer (April–September) and 6:00–7:00 PM in winter (October–March). We recommend boarding your boat 30–45 minutes early to secure the best position and enjoy the pre-sunset river view.

Yes! There is a smaller, quieter morning aarti at various ghats, typically between 5:30–7:00 AM. It is less crowded and equally divine. Our morning boat ride covers these morning rituals, cremation ghats, yoga, and bathing rituals along the entire ghat stretch.

Absolutely. We provide life jackets for all passengers of all ages. Our boatmen are experienced professionals with years of experience navigating the Ganga safely. The boats are stable and low to the water. We have successfully hosted thousands of guests including infants, senior citizens, and guests with mobility needs.

Yes! Shivakashi Travels is ISO Certified and Govt MSME Registered. We are one of Varanasi's most trusted and verified travel and boat event companies with 1000+ satisfied customers and a 4.9-star Google rating.

Light comfortable clothing is recommended. For evening aarti boats, you may want a light shawl or jacket as the river breeze can be cool. Bring your camera or phone for photos. Avoid loose items like shawls over the water. We provide all decoration, music, and crew equipment — you just need to show up and enjoy.

Light rain doesn't stop us! Our Bajra boats and most larger boats have covered decks. For heavy rain or storm warnings, we will reschedule your booking to the next available date at no extra charge. Safety is always our first priority.