Today marks the beginning of your unforgettable Ganges journey! Embark your luxurious ship in Kolkata this morning, enjoying lunch as you settle in. The afternoon blends compassion and history with a visit to Mother Teresa's Home and Tomb (closed Thursdays), and an optional orphanage tour. As you return to the ship for the night, be captivated by a special onboard performance by Baul musicians, a UNESCO-honored tradition of Bengal, welcoming you to Kolkata, the 'Cultural Capital' and your gateway to the sacred Hooghly River

From Kolkata's colonial past to the river's gentle flow, today offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Our morning city tour showcases the architectural legacy of the British Raj, including Writer's Building and the High Court, followed by a visit to the historic St. John's Church and the Victoria Memorial Museum. We then embark our ship, sailing to Bandel, the former Portuguese port. The afternoon brings us to the Hooghly Imambara, a breathtaking Shia shrine with remarkable features. Our cruise continues towards Kalna as the day concludes

Awake on your luxury cruise for a rickshaw tour of Kalna's enchanting Rajbari Temple Complex and its diverse shrines. Witness muslin weaving artistry. After a local market visit, rejoin your luxury cruise to sail towards Matiari's terracotta and weaving traditions. Overnight onboard

Experience Matiari's living heritage this morning, walking amongst the craftsmen who shape beautiful brass from recycled copper, keeping traditions alive. Our journey then leads us to Plassey, the site where the British East India Company's victory in 1757 changed India's trajectory. In the evening's calm, we visit Khushbagh, a Mughal-era garden and the final resting place of Nawab Siraj-ud-Daula, whose fate was sealed at Plassey.
Overnight On Board

Our day in Baranagar offers a glimpse of rural life and 18th-century temples, including the terracotta Char Bangla. After meeting villagers, we cruise to Murshidabad, where colonial architecture awaits. Explore Hazarduari Palace (closed Fridays) and the Katra mosque by buggy. Overnight onboard

After a restful morning, observing the local life along the riverbanks, we stop in the village of Mayapur.

Known as the birthplace of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486) and considered an incarnation of Lord Krishna. Mayapur is also the headquarters of the International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) movement with a new temple comparable in size to the Vatican and largely funded by Alfred B. Ford, the great grandson of car maker Henry Ford.

Meet Krishna followers and walk through the pilgrim’s bazaar.

Overnight onboard

This morning, we sail to Chandernagore, a fascinating former French colony established in 1673. We'll explore the French colonial buildings lining the promenade, including the former Governor's residence, now the Dupleix Museum (closed Thursdays & Saturdays), showcasing life during that era. We'll also visit the striking Sacred Heart Church, a beautiful example of French architecture inaugurated in 1884 and standing for over two centuries. Afterward, we return to the ship and continue our journey towards Kolkata. Overnight onboard

Relish your final breakfast on the cruise before we disembark and transfer to your Kolkata hotel for a comfortable overnight stay in the 'City of Joy.

Checkout this morning for your flight to Varanasi, India's spiritual capital on the Ganges. Transfer to your hotel and immerse yourself in this ancient city, a center of Shiva devotion for over 1200 years, attracting pilgrims to its holy river. As evening falls, witness the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti, a sensory ritual revealing the heart of Hinduism and the sacred Ganges. Overnight in Varanasi

A spectacular early morning boat ride along the holy Ganges past some of the numerous ghats that line the banks, involving some that are used exclusively for public cremations.

Return to your hotel for breakfast.

Later visit the Buddhist places at Sarnath where Buddha conveyed his first sermon after getting enlightenment. In time you will be transferred to Varanasi railway station to board your day train journey for New Delhi. On arrival at New Delhi  you will be transferred to your hotel.

Overnight stay is in New Delhi

After breakfast, delve into Delhi's architectural tapestry. Discover the red sandstone marvel of the Red Fort and the immense Jama Masjid in Old Delhi, both legacies of Shah Jahan. New Delhi unfolds with the stately Rashtrapati Bhawan, the memorial at India Gate, the impressive Humayun's Tomb, and the historic Qutub Minar, a landmark built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek

Begin your day by boarding India's fastest train, the Gatiman Express, for a swift journey. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in a guided exploration of the magnificent Taj Mahal, a testament to eternal love. Afterwards, delve into the grandeur of Agra Fort, a sprawling city within walls. Time permitting, you can also discover the intricate beauty of the Baby Taj. Breakfast is included.

Following breakfast, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. Consider visiting the exquisite Itimad-ud-Daulah, a 17th-century tomb often called the "Baby Taj" for its elegant marble work, predating its more famous counterpart. In the evening, you'll board your train to Jaipur for your overnight stay. Breakfast is included.

Discover the cultural treasures of Jaipur today, starting with a view of the iconic Hawa Mahal, the "Palace of the Winds," designed with numerous windows for royal women to observe city life and enjoy the breeze. Next, journey to Amber and its impressive fort, a stunning creation with mirrored halls (Sheesh Mahal) and panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the astronomical wonders of Jantar Mantar and the lavish City Palace, a fusion of architectural styles with rich collections. Your overnight stay is in Jaipur. Breakfast is provided.

Enjoy a full day of leisure in Jaipur, allowing for personal exploration of this Rajasthani city. An exciting option is to catch a Bollywood spectacle at the impressive Raj Mandir theatre. In the afternoon, you will be transferred to the Jaipur railway station to commence your 6-7 hour train journey to Udaipur. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel for your overnight stay.

Awaken to breakfast before venturing into the heart of Udaipur. Discover the spiritual aura of the Jagdish Temple and then lose yourself in the grandeur of the City Palace, a sprawling royal abode that whispers tales of bygone eras. As the stars emerge, immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms and colors of a traditional Rajasthani dance performance, a perfect cultural conclusion to your day in Udaipur. Overnight in Udaipur.

Udaipur is yours to explore today! Take the opportunity to unwind or choose from enticing optional activities such as a visit to the scenic Monsoon Palace or the delightful Saheliyon-ki-Bari Garden. In the evening, your journey continues as you board a train to Bundi, where your hotel awaits for an overnight stay

Uncover the historical wealth of Bundi, a distinctive city surrounded by hills and marked by its ancient gateways. Explore its impressive medieval architecture, including forts and palaces known for their detailed carvings and vibrant murals. A key attraction is Bundi's collection of step-wells, showcasing unique designs and historical significance. The striking Taragarh Fort, winding along the hillside, is a must-see, once praised by Rudyard Kipling for its beauty. In the evening, you'll be transferred (1.5-hour drive) to a convenient station to board your overnight train to Mumbai. Enjoy a night's rest on the train.

Emerging from the Arabian Sea as a constellation of seven islands, Mumbai pulses with an energy that captivates all who visit. This dynamic city is also the dazzling realm of Bollywood. After settling in, your morning unfolds with a visit to the golden-hued Gateway of India and the intriguing Towers of Silence, a poignant testament to the Parsi community's unique customs. You'll then be immersed in the artistic wonders of the Prince of Wales Museum, showcasing exquisite Indian miniatures, and gain a deeper understanding of Mahatma Gandhi's life and ideals at his dedicated museum.

Leaving Mumbai promptly, our journey to Goa unfolds aboard a train traversing the Konkan Railway, an engineering marvel offering unparalleled views of the majestic Western Ghats – arguably India's most scenic rail route. We arrive at Thivim and step into Goa, whose palm-lined coasts were shaped by Portuguese colonization from the 16th century. Once a vital East-West trading center, Goa still retains its colonial echoes in its Roman Catholic majority and the relaxed pace of afternoon siestas. Be sure to savor Goa's distinctive cuisine, including the famous pork vindaloo, and perhaps try the local spirit, feni.

Beyond its famed beaches, Goa offers the intriguing city of Panjim, which we'll explore today. Notice its distinct European-influenced architecture, harmoniously mixed with traditional temples. Our afternoon takes us to a local spice plantation, where you'll discover the plants that have made this part of India renowned for its aromatic bounty. A guided tour will showcase the abundance of spices like pepper, nutmeg, vanilla, and cinnamon, a reminder of the riches that once drew global trade. Overnight stay in Goa

Enjoy a relaxed start to your day in Goa with a leisurely morning. Should the allure of the sandy shores beckon, the beach is conveniently located just a short ride away, offering a perfect opportunity to soak up the Goan sunshine.

Enjoy a relaxed final day in Goa at your leisure. In due course, you will be transferred to Goa Airport to board your flight for your onward journey, marking the end of your memorable Indian experience.