An ancient and deeply sacred city, Varanasi rests along the banks of the holy River Ganges and encompasses a wealth of beautiful riverside temples, stately old forts and vibrant markets.

It’s considered the spiritual capital of Hinduism, and it’s widely believed that dying here will bring salvation.

As a result, the city is home to a multitude of ghats – stone steps leading to the river –some of which are used for bathing rituals and others as cremation sites.

An early morning boat ride along the Ganges offers an excellent way to take in the ghats and the bustling activity centred on them.