Overview
Embark on a spellbinding journey along the sacred Ganges River, where ancient traditions meet modern India. Our 15-day cruise takes you from the bustling streets of Kolkata to the spiritual heart of Varanasi and beyond. You’ll glide past lush landscapes, step ashore to explore historic temples and palaces, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indian culture.
From the comfort of your floating hotel, watch life unfold along the riverbanks, savour delicious local cuisine, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, or simply seeking a unique adventure, this Ganges cruise promises an unforgettable experience that will touch your soul.
Highlights
- Witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti in Varanasi
- Explore the magnificent Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad
- Visit the birthplace of Hare Krishna movement in Mayapur
- Discover the terracotta temples of Kalna
- Experience the cultural melting pot of Kolkata
Included/Excluded
Arrive in Kolkata, the City of Joy We'll pick you up from the airport and whisk you to our cruise ship Settle into your cabin and join us for a welcome dinner Get to know your fellow travellers and the crew
Wake up to the sights and sounds of Kolkata After breakfast, we'll take you on a city tour Visit the Victoria Memorial, a stunning marble building Explore the colourful flower market See the iconic Howrah Bridge In the afternoon, we'll set sail for Bandel Evening visit to Hooghly Imambara, a beautiful mosque Night on board, sailing towards Kalna
Morning arrival in Kalna We'll take you to see the famous 108 Shiva temples These temples form two perfect circles - it's quite a sight! Visit the Rajbari complex, home to beautiful terracotta temples Free time to wander the local markets Evening cultural performance on board
Early morning sail to Matiari After breakfast, we'll explore this village known for brass and copper crafts Watch artisans at work, shaping metal into beautiful objects Chance to buy unique souvenirs Afternoon cooking demonstration on board Sail towards Murshidabad
Morning arrival in Murshidabad, once the capital of Bengal Visit the stunning Hazarduari Palace Marvel at the thousand doors (only some are real!) Explore the museum inside Stop at Katra Mosque, one of the largest in India Evening quiz night on board
Sail to Mayapur, birthplace of the Hare Krishna movement Visit the massive ISKCON temple complex Learn about the life of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu Join in with some chanting, if you fancy! Free time to explore or relax on board Evening sunset cruise and stargazing
Morning arrival in Chandannagar, a former French colony Walking tour of the town See the beautifully preserved French architecture Visit the Chandannagar Museum Afternoon tea with local families, hear their stories Farewell dinner as we sail back to Kolkata
Disembark in Kolkata after breakfast We'll take you to the airport for your flight to Varanasi Arrive in Varanasi, check into your hotel Evening Ganga Aarti ceremony on the ghats Watch as priests perform this ancient ritual The music, chants, and flames are truly magical
Early morning boat ride on the Ganges Watch the city wake up along the riverbanks See pilgrims taking holy dips in the river After breakfast, explore the old city Walk through narrow lanes filled with shops and temples Visit Kashi Vishwanath Temple, if you wish Afternoon visit to Sarnath, where Buddha gave his first sermon Evening free to explore or relax
Drive to Chunar, home to an impressive fort Explore the fort's ramparts and enjoy panoramic views Next stop: Vindhyachal, an important pilgrimage site Visit the Vindhyavasini Temple Take a boat ride to see the Trikon Darshan Overnight in Vindhyachal Next day, free time to explore more temples or relax
Morning drive to Allahabad Visit Triveni Sangam, where three sacred rivers meet Take a boat ride to the exact meeting point Explore Allahabad Fort, built by Emperor Akbar Evening walk along the ghats
Drive to Buxar, site of a crucial battle in Indian history Visit the Buxar Fort and museum Continue to Patna, capital of Bihar state Next day, explore Patna's historical sites: Golghar, a massive granary with great views Patna Museum, home to fascinating artefacts Takht Sri Patna Sahib, an important Sikh shrine
Morning at leisure in Patna Transfer to the airport for your flight to Delhi or Kolkata Bid farewell to the magical Ganges, taking home a lifetime of memories Key Information:
Language
- English
Leave feedback about this