Varanasi: Morning Yoga on the Bank of the Ganga River

Practically everyone visiting Varanasi has the urge to connect with its spiritual energy — and what better way than yoga at dawn by the sacred Ganga? This tour offers a peaceful yet invigorating start to your day, combining the serenity of the river with expert guidance in yoga. While some may find the early wake-up call challenging, those seeking an authentic spiritual wellness experience will likely find it worth the effort.

What I love about this experience is its setting — a quiet courtyard at Tulsi Ghat, with the river flowing nearby, makes for a truly special backdrop. The chance to learn from a well-known instructor like Smriti Chakravarti, who has international yoga credentials, is another highlight. Plus, the inclusion of a short lesson on yoga’s health benefits adds some educational value. The main drawback? Waking up at 5:30 AM isn’t for everyone, especially if you’re not an early riser. But if you’re a morning person eager to start your day with tranquility, this tour is perfect for you.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic spiritual practices, are keen on wellness, or simply want a peaceful way to see the sunrise in Varanasi. It’s especially ideal for those who don’t mind early mornings and want a meaningful, cultural activity beyond typical sightseeing.

Key Points

• Serene Setting: Yoga takes place in a courtyard at Tulsi Ghat, with views of the Ganga River.
• Expert Instructor: Led by Smriti Chakravarti, a renowned yoga teacher with international experience.
• Cultural & Spiritual Blend: The class begins with Lord Shiva worship and chanting, adding spiritual depth.
• Comprehensive Practice: Includes warming-up exercises, Surya Namaskar, asanas, pranayama, bandha, and mudra.
• Educational Element: A 10-15 minute session on yoga’s health benefits.
• Convenient & Well-Organized: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel, with a modest 90-minute duration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Pickup & Transport

The tour begins early, around 5:30 AM, with a private chauffeur collecting you from your hotel in Varanasi. The convenience of hotel pickup means you won’t need to worry about navigating the busy streets or finding Tulsi Ghat on your own. This hassle-free start helps you relax and prepare mentally for the tranquil experience ahead.

The Setting: Tulsi Ghat & Shiv Temple Courtyard

Your destination is the courtyard of the Shiv Temple at Tulsi Ghat — a location steeped in mythology and spiritual significance. According to local belief, Tulsi Das Ji, the poet and saint, resides here, which adds a layer of sanctity to the practice. The courtyard is quiet at this hour, with the soft glow of dawn reflecting on the river, making it a perfect spot for yoga.

The Yoga Class & Instructor

Led by Smriti Chakravarti, a yoga teacher with a notable background, the class lasts about 90 minutes. Smriti is the founder of Om International Yoga Health Society and has practiced across Europe, including Belgium, Holland, and Italy. Her reputation is bolstered by her feature in a Spanish documentary called “Energy,” which highlights her international yoga influence.

During the class, Smriti begins with Lord Shiva worship and chants the Mahamritiunjay Mantra, grounding the session in spiritual roots. Her instructions are clear, warm, and encouraging, making it accessible even for beginners. She emphasizes proper warm-up exercises, slowly progressing into more complex postures like Surya Namaskar, backward bending, spinal twisting, and balancing asanas.

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The Practice & Postures

Expect to do the classic Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) seven to eight times — a sequence from the Vedic age that energizes the body and promotes health. Afterward, the session includes various asanas such as forward bends, inversions, spinal twists, and balancing poses, all tailored to be gentle but effective.

Smriti also dedicates time to pranayama (breathing techniques), bandha (energy locks), and mudra (hand gestures), which deepen the yoga experience. The inclusion of these elements enhances both physical vitality and mental clarity.

Educational Component

A highlight is the 10-15 minute lesson where Smriti explains yoga’s health advantages. She discusses how regular practice can improve physical health, mental calmness, and spiritual well-being, making the session practical beyond the morning stretch.

Return & Drop-off

Post-yoga, your chauffeur will return you to your hotel between 7:30 and 8:00 AM, allowing you to start your day with a sense of calm and renewal. This seamless transition from yoga to your daily activities makes the experience even more appealing.

The Authentic Touch & Unique Aspects

Unlike typical yoga classes, this experience’s setting by the Ganga River enhances its spiritual dimension. As one review notes, “Very beautiful at the Riverbank at 5:30 am,” the peaceful dawn atmosphere amplifies the sense of connection. Participants often mention the professionalism and warmth of the instructor, Smriti Chakravarti, and her ability to create a welcoming space for all levels.

The fact that the class begins with a spiritual prayer and chanting adds depth, allowing guests to feel connected to the divine energy of Varanasi. The location at Tulsi Ghat, a site associated with mythological figures, further elevates the experience beyond just physical activity.

Pricing & Value

At $55 per person, this yoga session offers good value considering the expertise involved and the exclusive setting. With all taxes and service charges included, it’s a straightforward price for a meaningful cultural and wellness activity in Varanasi. For those interested in deepening their understanding of yoga or simply seeking a serene start to their day, the price aligns well with the experience offered.

The tour’s small group size, personalized attention, and private transport make it a comfortable and intimate experience. Plus, the flexibility to reserve without immediate payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind to the booking process.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for wellness seekers wanting a truly authentic yoga practice in a spiritual setting. It appeals to travelers who enjoy early mornings and value culture, especially those interested in spiritual traditions like Hindu worship. If you’re looking for a peaceful way to begin your day in Varanasi, this experience offers a perfect blend of physical activity, spirituality, and scenic beauty.

However, it’s worth noting that early mornings are not for everyone. If you prefer sleeping in or are not comfortable with cold or early hours, this might not be your ideal choice. But for those eager to connect with the city’s soul through yoga, it’s a memorable and enriching start.

The Sum Up

This morning yoga tour at Tulsi Ghat in Varanasi delivers a peaceful, spiritually-infused experience that many travelers find transformative. The setting by the Ganga River, combined with the guidance of a respected instructor like Smriti Chakravarti, ensures you start your day on a mindful note.

It’s a great way to step beyond typical sightseeing and engage in a practice rooted in tradition and wellness. The early wake-up might seem daunting, but the calmness of the river at dawn and the chance to participate in a culturally significant activity make it worthwhile.

If you’re someone who values genuine spiritual experiences, respects expert guidance, and enjoys connecting with local traditions, this yoga session will resonate deeply. It’s a chance to nurture your physical body while nourishing your soul, all against the backdrop of Varanasi’s timeless Ganga.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The yoga session begins around 5:30 AM, making it an early but peaceful start to your day.

Where is the yoga class held?
It takes place in the courtyard of the Shiv Temple at Tulsi Ghat, a location with spiritual significance along the riverbank.

Who leads the yoga class?
The class is led by Smriti Chakravarti, a renowned instructor with international experience and founder of Om International Yoga Health Society.

What does the tour include?
It includes private air-conditioned transfers, the services of a local assistance guide, the yoga instructor, and all taxes and charges.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, Smriti’s instructions are accessible, and the class covers warm-ups, basic postures, and breathing techniques suitable for all levels.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

Is this experience worth the price?
Considering the stunning setting, expert guidance, and cultural significance, $55 offers good value for a meaningful wellness activity in Varanasi.

In essence, this morning yoga experience presents a serene, culturally rich way to begin your day in Varanasi. It combines scenic beauty, spiritual depth, and expert instruction, making it a memorable addition to your travel itinerary — especially if you’re eager to embrace the city’s tranquil side.

You can check availability for your dates here: