Ganges River Cruise

Jan 25 - Feb 06, 2023

The name Ganges conjures all of India’s exotic fascination. Considered a living goddess of the Hindu pantheon, the Ganges is also the daily lifeblood that provides food, water, and transportation to millions who live along its banks. Small boats have plied the Ganges for millennia; now you can travel this extraordinary river in considerable comfort on a truly unforgettable river cruise.

We have exclusively chartered the 28-cabin R/V Bengal Ganga for this very special voyage. Based on a traditional 19th century British design, all teak and brass, the river cruiser blends beautifully with the timeless landscape. Over eight leisurely days and 650 kilometres, we will experience the vibrant, complex tapestry of diverse architectural expressions, historical narratives, religious beliefs, and fascinating cultural traditions that thrive along the banks of the Ganges.

Meet in Delhi before heading to Varanasi for an introduction to the Ganges at one of its holiest places. Spend two days in Kolkata, India’s intellectual, artistic, and cultural capital before embarking our cruise. Experience the lush countryside of West Bengal as we observe the enduring rituals of daily life along ‘Mother Ganga’. Every day we’ll be ashore, visiting ancient Bengali temples, splendid garden-tombs, and enduring vestiges of India’s colonial past.

This is an experience for the culturally curious, for photographers of unforgettable landscapes, and for adventurous travellers who relish authentic moments.

Looking for an unforgettable extension to an unforgettable trip? Consider an extension to the Andaman Islands. E-mail Lewie if you are interested.

Tour Cost (per person):

Approx. US$5495 - $6345 (depending on cabin)

Group Size:

Limited to 48 participants

What’s included: Airport transfers, accommodation based on double occupancy in hotels and selected cabin, most meals, domestic flights, all internal transportation by private coach, sightseeing with qualified English-speaking guides, all activities and entrance fees, taxes and gratuities.

FEATURED ON THE BLOG

Varanasi: Achieving Moksha

"It really was a trip of a lifetime. It is incredible India." - 2018 Traveller

"Lewie's passion for India was inspiring." - 2018 Traveller

Itinerary at a Glance

Day	Activity
1	Meet in Delhi
2	Fly to Varanasi for the Aarti Ceremony
3	The ghats of the Ganges; Sarnath ruins
4	Fly to Kolkata, enjoy a heritage walk
5	Kolkata's Jain Temple, Victoria Memorial Hall, Mother Theresa's tomb
6	Visit the Mullik Ghat Flower Market and botanical gardens, embark our ship
7	Visit two outposts of colonial India, Serampore and Chandernagore
8	Shantipur, a region famous for its handloom weavings
9	Ride rickshaws to the enchanting Rajbari Temple Complex
10	Mayapur, headquarters of the ISKCON (International Centre for Krishna Consciousness)
11	Guptipara's terracotta temples dating from the 17th and 18th centuries
12	Ride cycle rickshaws to the Basilica of Our Lady of Bandel
13	Disembark in Kolkata and depart
Optional Extension: Beaches and reefs of India's Andaman Islands

Download Itinerary

Ship Information

Built in Myanmar in 2004 as a replica of the colonial Clyde steamers, the modern R/V Bengal Ganga has 28 outside staterooms. Brass and teak feature prominently in the colonial style. Staterooms are approximately 15 square metres large, have air conditioning and are equipped with twin beds, safe, hair dryers, and bath robes but do not have mini-bars, TVs or phones. Internet access is provided on two computers.

Fine Indian and European cuisine, excellent service, and a hospitable and caring on board team contribute to making this a very special experience. Passengers often describe feeling as if they were guests on a private motor yacht rather than passengers on a cruise ship. Although all staterooms are very comfortable and roomy, most passengers prefer to spend their time outside on the deck, observing the fascinating scenes and scenery along the Ganges River.

Every stateroom has an outdoor seating area, Burma teak floors and walls, and original art and fine local textiles.

Your Tour Leaders

Jaya Basera is a heritage consultant with an extensive research background with the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage. An enthusiastic communicator, Jaya brings a real passion to her tours, connecting the arts to the people engaged in preserving traditions.

Lewie Gonsalves, our peripatetic president, has over 40 years’ experience researching and organizing trips throughout the world. As well as designing and leading our President’s Tours, Lewie is also chief designer of our Private Journey collection of tailored tours.

Faye Wightman, BSN'81 (Nursing)'s life work has focused on the not for profit sector as a leader and change agent focusing on philanthropy, management and governance. An exciting career heading up the largest community foundations and one of the top children’s hospital foundations allowed her make an impact on thousands of lives.

Email Us

Or call 1-800-387-1483 with any questions or to reserve your spot!

Tour Cost (per person):

Approx. US$5495 - $6345 (depending on cabin)

Group Size:

Limited to 48 participants

What You'll See:

What You'll Taste:

Where You'll Stay:

FEATURED ON THE BLOG

Varanasi: Achieving Moksha

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Ganges River Cruise

Jan 25 - Feb 06, 2023