In anticipation of the upcoming inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, two solar-powered ‘mini-cruise’ ships are set to commence operations on the Saryu River. Varanasi-based Alaknanda Cruise, under the direction of Vikas Malviya, will provide the service. The state-of-the-art ‘Ramayana’ vessels are designed to share the narrative of Lord Ram’s life, including his childhood, Gurukul years, Swayamvar, time in the forest, encounter with Lord Hanuman, victory over Ravan, and return to Ayodhya.
Malviya’s company, which already operates four vessels in Varanasi, plans to launch two mini-cruise ships in the Saryu River before the temple inauguration, with final preparations underway. Each 30-seater vessel will be fully air-conditioned, offering pilgrims an hour-long journey with views of Ayodhya ghats along the Saryu banks.
The vessels, fully solar-operated, aim to enhance the tourism experience in Ayodhya. Officials predict that the cruise service will not only boost tourism but also create both direct and indirect job opportunities.