Sail To Explore Ancient Kingdoms On River Ganges In Luxury Cruise [ 19 Days ]
- 19 Days
- Maximum Capacity: 20
- If Cancelled, Please Refer To Our Cancellation Policy
Adult
Description
This tour starts from Kolkata and ends in yoga capital of India – Rishikesh. For the luxury cruise it will be on board for seven-night roundtrip sailing starting from Kolkata into the heart of the Ganges, termed as River Hooghly. On the banks of the river, European powers created colonies to trade, preach and extend while local rulers, saints, farmers, musicians and writers created new ways of life by meeting business, tastes and European power. While in Kolkata you can pay homage to Mother Teresa, discover the Imambara of Bandel, terracotta temples of Kalna, the brassware village of Matiari; the Moghul style garden of Khushbagh, the idyllic village of Baranagar, the grand glory of Murshidabad, the chanting in Mayapur, and the French colonial heritage in Chandernagore.
Later you will be exploring the oldest city of Varanasi and fabulous Taj Mahal and ending with yoga classes by yoga guru in Rishikesh
Duration
19 Days, 18 Nights
Language
English
HIGHLIGHTS
Explore Mother Teresa's Home and Tomb
Sail along the sacred Ganges River
Visit the historic Victoria Memorial Museum
Admire terracotta art at Rajbari Temple Complex
Experience a traditional brass workshop in Matiari
Included
- 18 Nights’ Of Accommodation In 3 Star Hotels As Per Desire With Base Category Of Rooms At Each Place
- Daily Breakfast At All The Hotels
- All Transportation, Driver And Sightseeing Tours Using An AC Medium Car.
- Sightseeing As Per Tour Program.
- Explore Mother Teresa's Home and Tomb
- Sail along the sacred Ganges River
- Visit the historic Victoria Memorial Museum
- Admire terracotta art at Rajbari Temple Complex
- Experience a traditional brass workshop in Matiari
- All Pick-Ups & Drop-Offs As Per Itinerary.
- All Taxes, Parking, Toll Charges, Driver Allowance, And Service Charges
Excluded
- Medical Insurance Of Any Kind
- Any Domestic / International Flight Fares
- Any Meals ( Unless Specified )
- Anything Except In Inclusions.
- Any Guide Services & Monument Fees As Per Tour Plan
- Any Expenses Arising Out Of Unforeseen Circumstances Like Flight Delay/Cancellation/Fare Hike, Strike Or Any Other Natural Calamities.
- Personal Nature Expenses I.E. Telephone Calls, Laundry, Soft / Hard Drinks, Meals, And Tipping
Travel Itinerary
1 - Arrive Kolkata
On arrival at the airport, be met and transferred to your hotel. Night stay is in Kolkata
2 - Embarkation on Luxury Cruise
Morning embark the ship at the Jetty in Kolkata and enjoy lunch on board.
The afternoon excursion includes a visit to Mother Teresa’s Home and Tomb (closed on Thursdays). Mother Teresa started the Missionary of Charity in 1952, then lived and worked here until her death in 1997. The permanent exhibition includes a visit to her personal room, we learn her life story, and see her charity that is still active.
Optional: We continue by foot a short distance to her orphanage, Sishu Bhawan (Children's Home), where one of the sisters will lead us on a tour.
Then we return to the ship for overnight. Enjoy cultural performance onboard.
Today you will be welcomed to the Big City of Kolkata, often regarded as the Cultural Capital of India and is also the gateway to the journey along the world’s holiest river, the sacred Ganges, known in this region as the Hooghly.
Be entertained onboard by Baul musicians, whose music represents a long heritage of preaching mysticism through songs in Bengal. Although Bauls constitute only a small fraction of the Bengali population, their influence on the culture of Bengal (Both in India & Bangladesh) is considerable. The Baul tradition has been included in the list of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Overnight onboard.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
3 - Kolkata - Bandel – Kalna
Guests embark on an early-morning city tour, featuring a Panoramic Tour of the well-preserved British colonial buildings in Kolkata: Writer's Building, General Post Office, High Court, Raj Bhawan (Governor's House), Town Hall, Council House, Treasury Building, Reserve Bank of India and Dalhousie Square.
The day continues with a visit to St. John's Church, the oldest Anglican Church in Kolkata, built in 1756. The tour features the oldest functioning pipe organ in India and several tombs of British Generals who died during the Siege of Kolkata by Nawab Siraj-ud-Daula in 1756. Then we visit the recently renovated Victoria Memorial Museum, which houses the largest collection of British colonial historical artifacts in India.
We set sail upstream to Bandel, meaning port in Bengali. It was founded by Portuguese settlers who built the Church and a Monastery around 1660.
Afternoon, visit the Hooghly Imambara, one of the famous Shiya pilgrimage centres in West Bengal, built in 1841 by Haji Mohammad Mahasin. The two-story building and surrounding rooms provide housing for pilgrims as well as classrooms, or Madrasa that teach the Koran. The structure contains a Victorian-era clock with a winding key weighing 20kg. Large Persian chandeliers and lamps light the Imambara's stunning hallways and passages.
We sail onward to Kalna.
Overnight onboard.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
4 - Kalna – Matiari
In the morning enjoy a rickshaw ride through the town centre of Kalna to visit the enchanting Rajbari Temple Complex, which has the highest concentration of temples in the region.
Visit the Nabakailas Temple, built in 1809 by the Bardhaman Maharaja, which contains 108 eight slope-roofed shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Other temples in the complex feature diverse architecture and terra cotta plaques depict themes of Hindu epics, mythical life of Sree Chaitanya, images of Durga, and various aspects of day-to-day life in the region.
We also visit a local Weaver’s home to see the traditional weaving of Muslin Cloth. Muslin or “malmal” is a cotton fabric of plain weave made in a wide range of weights from delicate sheers to coarse sheeting. Early muslin was handwoven of uncommonly delicate hand-spun yarn.
Return to the ship walking through the local market and sail onward to arrive at the shore-side village of Matiari.
The day is to admire the terracotta art and temple architecture of the region and get an insight into the weaving heritage of Bengal.
Overnight onboard.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
5 - Matiari - Khushbagh
Early this morning enjoy a walk in the village to see and experience the craftsmen at work. The village is known for manufacturing beautiful handcrafted brass items, utilizing traditional methods passed down for generations. These master craftsmen utilize recycled copper to create exquisite pots, platters and more from their workshops in the village.
Sail onward to the village of Plassey, which was the site of the famous battlefield, where Robert Clive of British East India Company defeated the Mogul Nawabs in 1757. The rulers of Bengal and their French allies established the company rule in India, which spread through much of South Asia for the next 190 years.
Early evening we visit Khushbagh, a charming riverside village surrounded by scenic fields. Walk through the farmland to visit the peaceful Khush Bagh, the Moghul-style garden built by Nawab Ali- Wardi-Khan. The complex houses his family's private mosque and the tomb of the last Nawab of Bengal Siraj-ud-Daula who was defeated by the British East India Company at the Battle of Plassey.
Overnight onboard.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
6 - Khushbagh – Baranagar – Murshidabad
Today we sail to the sleepy village of Baranagar where we take a walk to experience rural India at its most idyllic. A lovely example of life in rural India, this village is home to several temples dating from the 18th century (1714-1793). Interact with villagers in Baranagar.
Built by Rani Bhabani, the landlady of Natore (now in Bangladesh), the Char Bangla temple here is considered to be among the best examples of Bengal terra cotta art.
Once you're back on board, enjoy the afternoon to unwind as the ship glides along the Ganges, twisting and turning between banks lined with mustard fields and mango orchards to arrive at Murshidabad, a hidden architectural gem with dramatic whitewashed colonial era structures.
We visit the Hazarduari Palace (closed on Fridays), which dominates the waterfront, built during the reign of Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah (1824-1838 AD) by an English architect, McLeod Duncan, in the Greek “Doric” style. The palace has more than a thousand real and false doors in the vast corridors, and is filled with colonial era antiques, artwork and manuscripts.
Opposite to the Palace is a vast Imambara – built by the Nawab for worship.
Ride the local buggy (horse cart) to the Katra mosque. Built by the first Nawab of Murshidabad – Murshid Quli Khan in the 1724-25, this mosque has distinctive minarets from which the muezzin calls the faithful to Friday prayers.
Overnight onboard
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
7 - Murshidabad – Mayapur
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
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
8 - Mayapur – Chandernagore – Kolkata
Morning sail to Chandernagore, established as a French colony in 1673. The French obtained permission from Ibrahim Khan, the Nawab of Bengal to establish a trading post on the riverbanks of this city, which became a permanent French settlement in 1688.
Explore the French colonial buildings along the promenade, including the former French governor's residence, now converted into the Dupleix Museum (closed on Thursdays & Saturdays) that features an exhibition of items that depict life during this period.
Also visit the Sacred Heart Church, designed by French Architect Jacques Duchatz. The church was inaugurated in 1884 and stands for over two centuries to mark the beauty of the architecture during the French period.
We then return to the ship and continue our journey to Kolkata.
Overnight onboard
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
9 - Kolkata Disembark & Get transferred to your hotel
After enjoying breakfast disembark and proceed for overnight stay in Kolkata.
Meals: Breakfast.
10 - Kolkata – Varanasi [By Air] - River Ganges
Morning checkout and get transferred to Kolkata airport to board your flight for Varanasi. On arrival at Varanasi get transferred, then check in at pre booked hotel.
Situated on the banks of the massive Ganges, the holy city of Varanasi, one of the ancient in India, symbolizes much of the mythos and culture of Hinduism and has been a center for the devotion of Shiva for over 1,200 years.
Many trusts that this is the site where the divine and significant worlds collide, offering it a mystical property that is heightened by the countless thousands of believers who voyage here to bathe in the sanctified waters of the River Ganges.
In the evening join a memorable aarti ceremony on the banks of the river Ganges. The stunning ceremony comprises rituals accomplished by numerous priests, to the sound of bells, drums, cymbals, and Sanskrit mantras. Your opinion on Hinduism and the worship of the River Ganges will be much richer after the ritual and it is not to be ignored.
Night stay is in Varanasi
Meals: Breakfast
11 - Varanasi - River Ganges –Sarnath - New Delhi [By India’s Fastest Train]
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
Meals: Breakfast
12 - Old & New Delhi
After breakfast take sightseeing tour of historic city visiting Old Delhi passing the majestic Red Fort, a marvel in red sandstone, Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India, both built by emperor Shah Jahan of Taj Mahal fame,
Later sightseeing continues to visit New Delhi include Rashtrapati Bhawan, one-time imperial residence of the British viceroys; the India Gate, a memorial raised in honour of the Indian soldiers martyred during the Afghan war; Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, built by Qutub-ud-din Aibek of the Slave Dynasty;
Meals: Breakfast
13 - New Delhi – Agra
Morning drive to Agra. On arrival enjoy a guided tour of the impressive Taj Mahal and Agra Fort. Time permitting, opt to visit the Baby Taj.
[Taj Mahal is closed on every Friday of the week]
Built by the emperor Shah Jahan to honour the memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz, it is built of marble and decorated with the most delicate inlay work, the Taj Mahal needed the labours of 20,000 men and is assessed to have cost something in the region of 3 million rupees (at today’s prices that equates to around $70 million).
We then pay a break to the splendour of Agra Fort. Built by Emperor Akbar and then elaborated by his grandson, Shah Jahan, the fort was once a great city, with palaces, mosques and halls all lying behind the protective clinch of 20m high walls.
Meals: Breakfast
14 - Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Heritage Village
Today you will be taken by a private vehicle to FatehpurSikri ( Approx 1.5 Hours ). Constructed under the supremacy of Emperor Akbhar, it was deserted soon after his death due to scarcity of available water. The magnificent mosque, Jama Masjid, gives an attractive pose within the location, blending Persian and Hindu aesthetics.
See its stunning 54 – metre – high main entrance called Buland Darwaza ( Gate of Victory ) which memorialises Akbar’s great victory in Gujarat.
By road resume your drive to a heritage village , On arrival you will check in to a heritage property which is located in the heart of Rajasthan. This village has everything that a discerning tourist expects in Rajasthan Proximity, Wilderness, Cultural experiences, unspoilt atmosphere, Hillocks, Dunes, Lakes, old step wells, Archageological sites, temples, Jeep, camel cart and horse rides are just to name a few.
Meals: Breakfast
15 - Heritage Village – Jaipur
After breakfast you will go for 2 -3 hours village walk to experience the rural life of India.
Return back to hotel and then drive to pink city of India - Jaipur.
Evening is free for leisure and rest. Night stay is in Jaipur
Meals: Breakfast
16 - In Jaipur – Overnight Train to Yoga Capital - Rishikesh
Set on a hilltop overlooking Maota Lake, visit the Amber Fort, an excellent example of Rajput architecture. The Sheesh Mahal inside the fort is a must-see. As the walls are completely covered in little mirrors, the hall illuminates with the light of a single match. After the tour, you'll have further free time to spend as you wish.
Later carry on Jaipur's Royal City Palace or the observatory of Jantar Mantar to see a collection of intriguing astronomical instruments.
Then head out to explore Rajasthan’s capital which includes a visit to the market and the beehive-like Palace of the Winds (Hawa Mahal), built in 1799 so that women of the royal family could observe street festivities without being seen by the public.
Your evening is free, so perhaps ask to point out the best place to grab dal baati (dal served with wheat rolls).
Tonight, you'll hop on a train bound for Rishikesh.
Meals: Breakfast
17 - In Yoga Capital - Rishikesh - River Ganges
Arrive early in to Rishikesh, a spiritual town lying in the verdant foothills of the Himalayas.
Aptly named the 'Yoga Capital of the World', Rishikesh is a great place to relax and seek a little enlightenment. In your free time, why not visit The Beatles Ashram – a spiritual retreat inhabited by the famous band in the sixties. In the evening, perhaps take a stroll along the holy Ganges River as temple bells ring and the nightly fire ritual of Ganga Aarti begins.
Meals: Breakfast
18 - In Yoga Capital - Rishikesh
This morning, take the opportunity to unwind in Rishikesh and enjoy a one-hour yoga class.
Afterwards, perhaps tuck into a masala dosa for breakfast before embarking on a short walk with your leader on one of the trails along the Ganges. For something more adventurous there is the option to white-water raft down the Ganges.
Full day is to explore on your own. Night stay is in Rishikesh
Meals: Breakfast
19 - Rishikesh – Delhi [By Train] & Depart
Early morning you have to board a train which departs around 0600 Hours and reaches New Delhi at 1100 hours. On arrival at New Delhi railway station you will be transferred to New Delhi airport to board the flight for onwards journey. Tour Ends
Meals: Breakfast
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Book
Have your breakfast and get prepared for a full day excursion tour. Start your day with visit to Gateway of India and the very famous Taj Hotel. You can further proceed to the Prince of Wales Museum and en route to Mumbai High Court and University. You can go for the picturesque view of Marine Drive and Hanging Garden. Pay a visit to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station from outside to get the exquisite beauty of the monuments. Later, visit Tower of Silence from outside and Mani Bhavan (which tends to be the house of Mahatma Gandhi). Pay a visit to Jain Temple, World Trade Centre, and Jehangir Art Gallery. You can cover Nehru Planetarium and Haji Ali.
Welcome
Have your breakfast and get prepared for a full day excursion tour. Start your day with visit to Gateway of India and the very famous Taj Hotel. You can further proceed to the Prince of Wales Museum and en route to Mumbai High Court and University. You can go for the picturesque view of Marine Drive and Hanging Garden. Pay a visit to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station from outside to get the exquisite beauty of the monuments. Later, visit Tower of Silence from outside and Mani Bhavan (which tends to be the house of Mahatma Gandhi). Pay a visit to Jain Temple, World Trade Centre, and Jehangir Art Gallery. You can cover Nehru Planetarium and Haji Ali.
Tour Terms & Conditions
Have your breakfast and get prepared for a full day excursion tour. Start your day with visit to Gateway of India and the very famous Taj Hotel. You can further proceed to the Prince of Wales Museum and en route to Mumbai High Court and University. You can go for the picturesque view of Marine Drive and Hanging Garden. Pay a visit to Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus railway station from outside to get the exquisite beauty of the monuments. Later, visit Tower of Silence from outside and Mani Bhavan (which tends to be the house of Mahatma Gandhi). Pay a visit to Jain Temple, World Trade Centre, and Jehangir Art Gallery. You can cover Nehru Planetarium and Haji Ali.
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