varanasi to assam river cruise

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World’s longest river cruise from Varanasi to Assam via Bangladesh to start from January 2023

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , WORLD / Created : Nov 15, 2022, 09:00 IST

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Known as Ganga Vilas Cruise, this cruise will connect Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to Dibrugarh in Assam, and travel through Kolkata and Dhaka.

Known as Ganga Vilas Cruise, this cruise will connect Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to Dibrugarh in Assam, and travel through Kolkata and Dhaka. Read less

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Ganga Vilas

Built in 2022, the luxurious, 18-suite Ganga Vilas is a state-of-the-art, handcrafted riverboat offering guests unparalleled comfort in the region and pioneering exploration of the Indian Subcontinent’s seldom-sailed waterways.

Her itineraries include the longest river cruise in the world, a unique voyage spanning the course of 27 rivers and a distance of some 3200 km (nearly 2000 miles) across India and Bangladesh. Exploring the wonders of the region like no other river cruise before, the route connects the Ganges and Brahmaputra river systems via Bangladesh, traversing both the Gangetic and Bengal Plains, as well as the Sundarbans and Assam Valley.

Life On Board

Exclusively catering for up to 36 guests, the vessel’s 18 sophisticated suites are split over two decks, with 8 on the Main Deck which neighbor a gym and pair of massage rooms, and 10 on the Upper Deck bookended by a panoramic lounge-bar to the bow and dining room to the stern. Above, the half-shaded Sun Deck has a covered observation pavilion with cozy seating and tables, and a selection of loungers with umbrellas all providing unrestricted views of the stunning scenery.

The ship features a vibrant and modern decor inspired by the 1950s art scene that followed the 1947 Partition of India. These bursts of color, from bright magentas and cool blues to lustrous yellows, all delightfully complement the vivid cultures and regions explored during its sailing.

And, with sustainable principles at its heart, the Ganga Vilas incorporates pollution prevention and noise control technologies to honor the ancient rivers traveled through—and environments visited—en route.

To enrich your time on board, butlers are on hand to cater to your every whim, and the industry-leading crew-to-guest service ratios ensure there is always someone on hand to exceed your expectations with warm, personalized and friendly service. As well as being pampered—literally if you visit the on board massage rooms—there are cultural performances, educational talks and cooking classes for your entertainment.

World’s Longest River Cruise

The Ganga Vilas offers lucky guests the chance to embark on the longest river cruise in the world, and what’s more, the rare chance to experience a pioneering route across the Indian Subcontinent with privileged access to pristine vistas untouched by pollution or mass tourism, rich in mythologies, monuments, temples, palaces, artisans and biodiversity.

This is an experiential voyage of epic proportions, not only in terms of its duration—some 50 days of navigation—but also in its exploration of the riches of the region, as you embark on an immersive journey encompassing art, cuisine, wildlife, culture, spirituality, and so much more, visiting World Heritage listed sites, colonial cities, ruins of lost empires, national parks and artisanal villages.

Immersive Experiences

Descend the ghats of the holy city of Varanasi to witness the powerful “Ganga Aarti” ritual, a devotional offering to the river’s goddess, Maa Ganga, and visit the archaeological site of Sarnath, where the Buddha gave his first sermon after reaching enlightenment.

Witness the incredible wildlife and natural wonders of the world’s largest mangrove forest—the Sundarbans—and the bewilderingly biodiverse Kaziranga National Park, home to India’s Big 5: the One-Horned Rhino, Asian Elephant, Royal Bengal Tiger, Wild Water Buffalo and Swamp Deer.

Marvel at mysterious Mayong, a village considered the cradle of Tantra Kriya (black magic) in India where sorcery, voodoo and dark magic were traditionally practiced since time immemorial and passed down over generations.

Explore the unique island of Majuli, cultural capital of Assam and largest river island in the world. The island is home to a myriad of 15th-century Hindu monasteries, each with their own principles and devotional practices, mask-wearing monks, and traditional dances.

Travelers that prefer a shorter itinerary but still want to explore the riches of this remarkable region, the 49-night itinerary can be done in two parts, a 19-night portion from Varanasi to Kolkata (or vice-versa) along the Ganges, and a 30-night portion from Kolkata to Dibrugarh (or vice-versa) via Bangladesh along the Hooghly, Brahmaputra and other rivers.

A lavish, all-suite, and all-inclusive cruise taking you to untouched destinations along the seldom-sailed rivers of the Indian Subcontinent, all with unmatched hospitality and unparalleled comfort, a voyage aboard Ganga Vilas promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

11 Day - Treading the Buddha’s Trail

Embarkation

AM: Board an early morning train in Kolkata to Farakka. Upon arrival at the Farakka train station, transfer to embark the ship followed by lunch while the ship sails to Samtaghat revealing vast panoramas.

PM: Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

River day Samtaghat – Bateshwarsthan

AM & PM: Today we sail full day towards Bateshwarsthan. Enjoy today on board. You will be fascinated by the passing landscape and the lively life on the river.

Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Bateshwarsthan – Sultanganj

AM: Morning drive to the 8-9th century excavation site of the Vikramshila University (approx. 15-mins drive) and walk around the ruins. Vikramshila University was one of the three most important Buddhist monasteries in India during the Pala Empire, along with Nalanda and Odantapuri. It was one of the largest Buddhist universities, with more than a thousand students and over one hundred teachers. Its location is now the site of Antichak village near Kahalgaon, in Bihar. Vikramshila is known mainly through Tibetan sources, especially the writings of Taranatha, the Tibetan monk historian of the 16-17 centuries. 

PM: We return to the ship and sail towards Sultanganj. 

Sultanganj – Munger

AM: After breakfast excursion of Sultanganj, where there are two prominent granite rock-islands in the river connected to the mainland by a causeway. On one island is a mosque and on the other larger one is the 16th century Ajgaibinath Temple. We will visit the temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

PM: Thereafter sail towards Munger.

Munger Sightseeing

AM: Munger is known for its manufacturing of iron articles such as firearms and swords. It is the ancient city of Mahabharata legend Karna, the eldest son of Kunti and the Sun Lord. In the morning visit to the Chandika Sthan Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Shakti it is one of the fifty-one Shakti Peethas, associated with the legend of Lord Vishnu who to save the world from Lord Shiva’s wrath, cut into pieces the corpse of Devi Sati that Shiva was carrying. 

PM: Return to ship for lunch and thereafter walk through the Fort ruins and visit the nearby market. Munger’s Fort houses several religious and historic monuments such as tombs of saints, a palace and a British cemetery. The market is a very popular fruit and vegetable market with other shops of textiles and readymade garments.

Munger – Simaria

AM: We continue our journey further upstream sailing to arrive in Simaria by late afternoon. Visit by walk in the riverside village to see the daily activities of the local people. It has a famous bridge which provides both rail and road connectivity to the local residents.

River day Simaria – Patna

AM: Today we sail full day through wonderful countryside to Patna, the capital of the State of Bihar. Patna is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world founded in 490 BCE as Pataliputra.

Patna Disembark / Nalanda – Bodhgaya

AM: Disembark early morning by 07:00 hrs after early breakfast or with packed breakfast and drive to Nalanda (approx. 2-hrs).  The archaeological ruins of Nalanda, a World Heritage Site, was a renowned Mahavihara (Buddhist monastic university) in ancient Magadha. It is considered by historians to be the world's first residential university and among the greatest centers of learning in the ancient world. Operating from 427 until 1197 CE, Nalanda played a vital role in promoting the patronage of arts and academics during the 5th and 6th century CE. It was supported by numerous Indian and Javanese patrons, both Buddhists and non-Buddhists. Over some 750 years, its faculty included some of the most revered scholars of Mahayana Buddhism. It taught six major Buddhist schools and philosophies as well as subjects such as Vedas, grammar, medicine, logic and mathematics. It was perhaps the oldest seat of learning in India and treasures a glorious past, rich spiritual heritage and some extraordinary architectural ruins.

PM: Continue to nearby Rajgir where lunch can be taken at a local restaurant. 

Rajgir, is a historic town that holds a place of prominence in Hindu, Buddhist and Jain scriptures owing to it being the seat and capital of several dynasties and the dwelling ground of such historical figures as The Buddha and Mahavira. Both Mahavira and Buddha taught in Rajgir during the 6th and 5th century BC. The Buddha was offered a forest monastery in Rajgir, by the king Bimbisara. As such, the city of Rajgir became one of the Buddha's most important preaching locations, where he spent several months meditating. He also delivered some of his famous sermons and initiated king Bimbisara and others to Buddhism. It was here, on one of the hills where the First Buddhist Council was held after Buddha’s death.

Continue drive to Bodhgaya (approx. 2-hrs), which for Buddhists, is the most important of the main four pilgrimage sites related to the life of Gautama Buddha, the other three being Kushinagar, Lumbini and Sarnath.

Dinner and overnight at a local hotel.

Bodhgaya Sightseeing

AM: Begin the day with a visit to the Mahabodhi Temple. Declared a World Heritage Site, it is said to be the place where Gautama Buddha attained Enlightenment under a banyan tree that became known as the Bodhi Tree. Since antiquity, Bodh Gaya has remained the object of pilgrimage and veneration both for Hindus and Buddhists. Buddhist chanting and prayers can be witnessed in the temple premises.

The day can be spent exploring the several Buddhist temples and monasteries that have been built by the people of various countries like Bhutan, Mongolia, China, Japan, Korea, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Tibet and Vietnam in a wide area around the Mahabodhi Temple. These buildings reflect the architectural style, exterior and interior decoration of their respective countries. The statue of The Buddha in the Chinese temple is 200 years old and was brought from China. The Japanese Nippon temple is shaped like a pagoda. The Myanmar (Burmese) temple is also pagoda shaped and is reminiscent of Bagan. The Thai temple has a typical sloping, curved roof covered with golden tiles. Inside, the temple holds a massive bronze statue of Buddha. Next to the Thai temple is a 25-metre statue of The Buddha, located within a garden which has existed there for over 100 years.

PM: Lunch, Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Drive Bodhgaya / Varanasi

AM: After early breakfast we drive to Varanasi (248-kms/approx. 5-hrs), the holiest town for the Hindus. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and have lunch. Varanasi, known variously as Banaras and Kashi, is a major religious hub in India, and is considered the holiest city in Hinduism and Jainism. It also played an important role in the development of Buddhism. Hindus believe that death in this city will bring salvation, making it a major centre for pilgrimage. The city is known worldwide for its many Ghats, which are embankments made in steps of stone slabs along the riverbank where pilgrims perform ritual ablutions. 

PM: Enjoy a walk on these ghats and arrive at the Dashashwamedh Ghat to see the “Ganga Aarti” ritual, performed by a group of priests lined up on the riverbank chanting mantras and performing the prayer ritual with lamps, incense, bells and traditional Hindu instruments to honour the river. Thousands of devotees throng the riverbank to participate in the ceremony every evening.

Dinner and overnight at hotel.

AM: At early dawn enjoy a Sunrise Boat Tour to witness the incredible scenes along the Holy River. Return to hotel for breakfast. 

Thereafter visit Sarnath where, circa 528 BCE, at 35 years of age, Gautama Buddha taught his first sermon after attaining enlightenment at Bodhgaya. The Dhamek Stupa here marks the precise location where Buddha preached his first discourse to his first five disciples, and where all five eventually became fully liberated. It is also where the Buddhist Sangha first came into existence as a result of the enlightenment of his first five disciples. It is also one of the eight stupas where Buddha’s ashes after his cremation were divided and buried.

The Archaeological Museum at Sarnath contains a large collection of sculptures that stand testimony to the fervent artistic and religious activity for more than a thousand years. 

Thereafter transfer to the airport for onward journey. 

20 Day - Kolkata to Varanasi

PM: Embark the ship at the Jetty in Kolkata and enjoy lunch on board. The afternoon excursion features 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 stop at the Grand Victoria Memorial for a photo stop. Proceed to visit 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.

Enjoy cultural performances onboard. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Kolkata - Kalna

AM: Morning after breakfast, visit Kolkata’s Flower Market, a feast for the eyes. Located below and adjacent to the cantilevered Howrah Bridge that spans the sacred river Ganges, the market is bustling from the wee hours of the morning. Countless vendors and buyers exchange money for flowers and countless locals carry bales of flowers that are at least twice their weight. There are several stalls where you can see artists creating a variety of garlands, ornaments, and other items made of flowers and leaves for temples, weddings, and other uses. Thereafter visit Kumartuli, a traditional potters’ quarter in northern Kolkata, renowned for its sculpting prowess, which not only manufactures clay idols for various festivals but also regularly exports them. The potters here fashioned the clay from the river beside their home into pots to be sold at the local market. Gradually they took to making the images of gods and goddesses, worshipped in large numbers in the mansions all around and later at community pujas in the city and beyond.

PM: Return to the ship for lunch and start sailing upstream passing below the Howrah Bridge and seeing

various colonial buildings along the Ganges River.

Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Kalna – Matiari

AM: In the morning enjoy a rickshaw ride through the town center 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 that depict themes of Hindu epics, the mythical life of Sree Chaitanya, images of Durga, and various aspects of day-to-day life in the region.

PM: Return to the ship walk through the local market and sail onward to arrive at the shore-side village of Matiari.

Matiari - Murshidabad

AM: 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.

PM: Sail onward to Murshidabad, a hidden architectural gem with dramatic whitewashed colonial-era structures.

Mushidabad – Jangipur

AM: Morning visit to the Katra mosque. Built by the first Nawab of Murshidabad – Murshid Quli Khan in 1724-25, this mosque has distinctive minarets from which the muezzin calls the faithful to Friday prayers. Thereafter proceed to 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 the Palace is a vast Imambara – built by the Nawab for worship.

PM: Return to the ship and sail towards Jangipur.

River day Jangipur – Samtaghat

AM: We will cast off early in the morning to reach the historic Farakka Lock Gate, which was built during the years 1963-75. The travel through the Feeder Canal will give us a chance to see the different birds of the region. After crossing the lock we cruise through the connecting canal to the Ganges revealing vast panoramas. We can also see the Farakka barrage at a distance, which regulates the Ganges water into Bangladesh and India.

PM: We continue to sail towards Samtaghat. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

AM: Today we sail full day towards Bateshwarsthan. Enjoy today on board. You will be fascinated by the passing landscape and the lively life on the river.

PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

AM: Morning drive to the excavation site of the Vikramshila University and walk around the ruins. In the late 8th or early 9th century, Vikramshila University, along with that of Nalanda, was one of the two most important Buddhist centers of learning under the rule of the Pala Dynasty. Subjects like theology, philosophy, grammar, meta-physics, and logic were taught here.

PM: We return to the ship and sail towards Sultanganj. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

AM: After breakfast excursion of Sultanganj, where there are two prominent granite rock islands in the river that are connected to the mainland by a causeway. On one island is a mosque and on the other larger one is the 16th-century Ajgaibinath Temple. We will visit the temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

PM: Thereafter sail towards Munger, one of the largest and most industrialized cities in the state of Bihar. It is a hub for railway, gun, tobacco, and dairy product manufacturing. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

AM: Morning visit to the Chandika Sthan Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Shakti it is one of the fifty-one Shakti Peethas, associated with the legend of Lord Vishnu who to save the world from Lord Shiva’s wrath, cut into pieces the corpse of Devi Sati that Shiva was carrying. It is believed that Sati Devi's left eye had fallen at this place which subsequently developed into a place of worship.

PM: Return to ship for lunch and thereafter walk through the Fort ruins and visit the nearby market. The Munger Fort is built on a rocky hillock on the south bank of the Ganges River. Its history is not completely dated but it is believed that it was built during the early rule of the Slave Dynasty (12th – 13th century). The Fort had a succession of Muslim rulers followed by the Mughals, till it was finally acceded to the British. The fort became a place of considerable importance to the British in Bengal till India'a independence in 1947. The fort houses several religious and historic monuments such as tombs of saints, a palace, and a British cemetery. The market is a very popular fruit and vegetable market with other shops of textiles and readymade garments.

AM: We continue our journey further upstream sailing under the great bridge at Mokameh Ghat. Until the first half of the 20th century, Mokameh Ghat was an important trade and transport link for ferrying cargo and passengers by ships across the river to the northeastern parts of India. We arrive in Samaria by late afternoon. Visit by walking in the riverside village to see the daily activities of the local people.

AM: Today we sail a full day through the wonderful countryside to Patna, the capital and largest city of the State of Bihar. Patna is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. Patna was founded in 490 BCE as Pataliputra by the king of Magadha as the capital of his empire. It was a seat of learning and fine arts and home to many astrologers and scholars. Patna served as the seat of power, the political and cultural center of the Indian subcontinent during the Maurya and Gupta empires. With the fall of the Gupta Empire, Patna lost its glory. It was revived again in the 17th century by the British as a center of international trade.

Patna – Ghaghra Mod

AM: Morning after breakfast onboard we proceed for a sightseeing tour of Patna visiting the Golghar, Patna Museum, and Gurudwara. The 18th-century Golghar, (closed on Mondays) literally meaning "Roundhouse", is a large beehive-shaped granary that was built "for the perpetual prevention of famine in these provinces" in 1784 by Warren Hastings, the British Governor General of India. Designed by Captain John Garstin of the Bengal Engineers, part of the East India Company’s Bengal Army, this pillar-less building has a height of 29m. One can climb at the top of the Golghar through the spiral stairway around it. The spiral staircase was designed to facilitate the passage of the workers, who had to carry grain bags up one flight, deliver their load through a hole at the top, and descend the other stairs. The top of the Golghar presents a wonderful panoramic view of the city and the Ganges. The Patna Museum (closed on Mondays) was started in April 1917 during the British Raj to house the historical artifacts found in the vicinity of Patna. Items on display in the multipurpose museum include archaeological objects, coins, art objects, paintings, instruments, textiles, paintings, bronze images and sculptures, and terra cotta images by Hindu and Buddhist artists. It has a rare collection of British-period paintings depicting day-to-day life, as well as a collection related to the first President of India Rajendra Prasad, who hailed from the region. Takht Sri Patna Sahib Gurdwara (Sikh Temple) was built to commemorate the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of the Sikhs in 1666. It was built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the first Maharaja of the Sikh Empire. The current shrine was built in the 1950s.

PM: Return to the ship and sail onward towards Ghaghra Mod, the confluence where River Ghaghra meets River Ganges. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Ghaghra Mod – en route to Buxar

AM: Morning enjoy a walk in the riverbank village. Thereafter sail a full day towards Buxar, anchoring en route.

Arrival in Buxar

AM: We arrive in Buxar by late morning. Buxar is one of the most prominent towns of western Bihar, bordering the State of Uttar Pradesh. This town has been known since the epic period for being the seat of eminent saints, the battlefield of gods and demons, and a combat zone between foreign invasion and countrymen in modern Indian history. The discoveries from excavations have established a link between Buxar and the ancient civilizations of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa. It is most famous for the battle fought here in 1764, between the forces of the British East India Company and the combined armies of Mir Qasim the Nawab of Bengal; Shuja-ud-daulah the Nawab of Awadh; and Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II. The battle was a decisive victory for the British East India Company.

PM: Post lunch explore the Ram Rekha Ghat, which is associated with the legend of Lord Ram. It is said that after killing the demoness Tadka, Lord Ram to cleanse himself from the sin of killing a woman, took a bath in the Ganges near this ghat. He also made a “Shivling” from sand and clay and worshipped it. Located on the riverbank is the Sita Ram Upadhyay Museum (closed on Mondays) which houses various types of Archaeological objects, coins, and manuscripts. It is named after a local resident who had donated his personal collection to the museum. The terracotta collection of the Mauryan and Shungan periods deserves special mention.

Buxar – Ghazipur

AM: Today we sail to Ghazipur, in the State of Uttar Pradesh, sailing past the battlefield of Chausa, where in 1539 CE, the Afghan Sher Shah Suri defeated Mughal Emperor Humayun and gained dominion over Bihar and Bengal. Ghazipur is well known for its opium factory, established by the British East India Company in 1820 and still the biggest legal opium factory in the world, producing the drug for the global pharmaceutical industry.

PM: Afternoon, visit to the Tomb of Lord Cornwallis, one of the major figures of Indian and British history. Cornwallis is famous for his role in the American Revolutionary War and then for his time as the Governor-General of India, being said to have laid the true foundation of British rule. He was later Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. He died in Ghazipur in 1805, soon after his return to India for his second appointment as Governor-General. His tomb, overlooking the Ganges, consists of a lofty dome supported by 12 Doric columns. At the center is the bust of Lord Cornwallis, below which is an epitaph in English.

River day Ghazipur – en route to Varanasi

AM: Today we sail full day upstream towards Varanasi.

PM: We will moor for the night before Varanasi, subject to river tide conditions. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Arrival in Varanasi

AM: We sail further upstream through the day to arrive by late afternoon depending upon tide conditions in Varanasi, our final destination of the cruise, Varanasi. Known variously as Banaras and Kashi, Varanasi is a major religious hub in India, and is considered the holiest city in Hinduism and Jainism. It also played an important role in the development of Buddhism. It is also an important industrial center, famous for its muslin and silk fabrics, perfumes, ivory works, and sculpture.

AM: Morning after breakfast onboard, visit the excavation site of Sarnath, the seat where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment in Bodhgaya. The Archaeological Museum (closed on Fridays) here contains a large collection of sculptures that stand testimony to the fervent artistic and religious activity for more than a thousand years.

PM: Return to the ship for lunch. Thereafter, visit the Ghats by walking to experience the activities and hustle-bustle in the by-lanes. Continue to the riverside and witness the evening “Ganga Aarti” ritual.

Disembarkation

AM: Following breakfast disembark the ship and transfer for your onward journey.

20 Day - Varanasi to Kolkata

PM: Arrive in Varanasi in the afternoon and transfer to the jetty for embarkation. Welcome and safety briefing, then enjoy lunch on board.

Samath to Ghats

River Day Varanasi - Ghazipur

AM: Today we sail a full day downstream towards Ghazipur, which is well known for its opium factory, established by the British East India Company in 1820 and still the biggest legal opium factory in the world, producing the drug for the global pharmaceutical industry.

Ghazipur - Buxar

AM: Morning after breakfast visit to the Tomb of Lord Cornwallis, one of the major figures of Indian and British history. Cornwallis is famous for his role in the American Revolutionary War and then for his time as the Governor-General of India, being said to have laid the true foundation of British rule. He was later Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. He died in Ghazipur in 1805, soon after his return to India for his second appointment as Governor-General. His tomb, overlooking the Ganges, consists of a lofty dome supported by 12 Doric columns. At the center is the bust of Lord Cornwallis, below which is an epitaph in English.

PM: Thereafter sail a full day towards Buxar, in the State of Bihar, sailing past the battlefield of Chausa, where in 1539 CE, the Afghan Sher Shah Suri defeated Mughal Emperor Humayun and gained dominion over Bihar and Bengal.

Buxar is one of the most prominent towns of western Bihar, bordering the State of Uttar Pradesh. This town has been known since the epic period for being the seat of eminent saints, the battlefield of gods and demons, and a combat zone between foreign invasion and countrymen in modern Indian history. The discoveries from excavations have established a link between Buxar and the ancient civilizations of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa. It is most famous for the battle fought here in 1764, between the forces of the British East India Company and the combined armies of Mir Qasim the Nawab of Bengal; Shuja-ud-daulah the Nawab of Awadh; and Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II. The battle was a decisive victory for the British East India Company.

Buxar - Ghaghra Mod

AM: Morning after breakfast explore the Ram Rekha Ghat, which is associated with the legend of Lord Ram. It is said that after killing the demoness Tadka, Lord Ram to cleanse himself from the sin of killing a woman, took a bath in the Ganges near this ghat. He also made a “Shivling” from sand and clay and worshipped it. Located on the riverbank is the Sita Ram Upadhyay Museum (closed on Mondays) which houses various types of Archaeological objects, coins, and manuscripts. It is named after a local resident who had donated his personal collection to the museum. The terracotta collection of the Mauryan and Shungan periods deserves special mention.

PM: Return to the ship and sail onward towards Ghaghra Mod, the confluence where River Ghaghra meets River Ganges.Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Ghaghra Mod – Patna

AM: Morning enjoy a walk in the riverbank village. Thereafter sail a full day to Patna, the capital and largest city of the State of Bihar. Patna is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. Patna was founded in 490 BCE as Pataliputra by the king of Magadha as the capital of his empire. It was a seat of learning and fine arts and home to many astrologers and scholars. Patna served as the seat of power, the political and cultural center of the Indian subcontinent during the Maurya and Gupta empires. With the fall of the Gupta Empire, Patna lost its glory. It was revived again in the 17th century by the British as a center of international trade.

Patna – en route to Simaria

PM: Return to the ship and sail onward towards Simaria, anchoring en route. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Arrive in Simaria – en route to Munger

AM: Further sailing in the morning brings us to Simaria. Visit by walking in the riverside village to see the daily activities of the local people.

We continue our journey further downstream sailing under the great bridge at Mokameh Ghat. Until the first half of the 20th century, Mokameh Ghat was an important trade and transport link for ferrying cargo and passengers by ships across the river to the northeastern parts of India. We anchor en route o Munger.

PM : We arrive in Munger by afternoon which is one of the largest and most industrialized cities in the state of Bihar. It is a hub for railway, gun, tobacco, and dairy product manufacturing. Late afternoon thereafter walk through the Fort ruins and visit the nearby market. The Munger

Fort is built on a rocky hillock on the south bank of the Ganges River. Its history is not completely dated but it is believed that it was built during the early rule of the Slave Dynasty (12th – 13th century). The Fort had a succession of Muslim rulers followed by the Mughals, till it was finally acceded to the British. The fort became a place of considerable importance to the British in Bengal till India'a independence in 1947. The fort houses several religious and historic monuments such as tombs of saints, a palace, and a British cemetery. The market is a very popular fruit and vegetable market with other shops of textiles and readymade garments.

Munger - Sultanganj

PM: We return to the ship and sail towards Sultanganj.

Sultanganj – Bateshwarsthan

AM: After breakfast excursion of Sultanganj, where there are two prominent granite rock islands in the river that are connected to the mainland by a causeway. On one island is a mosque and on the other larger one is the 16th-century Ajgaibinath Temple. We will visit the temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Thereafter sail towards Bateshwarsthan.

Bateshwarsthan – Samtaghat

AM: Morning drive to the excavation site of the Vikramshila University and walk around the ruins. In the late 8th or early 9th century, Vikramshila University, along with that of Nalanda, was one of the two most important Buddhist centers of learning under the rule of the Pala Dynasty. Subjects like theology, philosophy, grammar, metaphysics, and logic were taught here.

PM: We return to the ship and sail towards Samtaghat. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

River day Samtaghat – Jangipur

AM: We will cast off early in the morning to reach the historic Farakka Lock Gate, which was built during the years 1963-75. The travel through the Feeder Canal will give us a chance to see the different birds of the region. After crossing the lock we cruise through the connecting canal to come on the Hooghly River. We can also see the Farakka barrage at a distance, which regulates the Ganges water into Bangladesh and India.

PM: We continue to sail toward Jangipur. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Riverday Jangipur – Murshidabad

AM: We sail a full day towards Murshidabad, a hidden architectural gem with dramatic whitewashed colonial-era structures.

Murshidabad

River day Murshidabad – Matiari

AM: We sail a full day today to arrive at the shore-side village of Matiari.

Matiari - Kalna

PM: Sail onward to Kalna. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Kalna - Kolkata

AM: In the morning enjoy a rickshaw ride through the town center 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, the mythical life of Sree Chaitanya, images of Durga, and various aspects of day-to-day life in the region.

PM: Return to the ship walk through the local market and sail onward to Kolkata. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

PM: Return to the ship for lunch. The afternoon excursion features 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 stop at the Grand Victoria Memorial for a photo stop. Proceed to visit Mother Teresa’s Home and Tomb (closed on Thursdays). Mother Teresa started the Missionary of Charity in 1952, then lived and worked there 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. Enjoy cultural performances onboard.

50 Day - Varanasi to Dibrugarh

Embark the ship at the Jetty in Varanasi and enjoy lunch on board. Thereafter, visit the Ghats by walking to experience the activities and hustle-bustle in the by-lanes. Continue to the riverside and witness the evening “Ganga Aarti” ritual.

After breakfast, we will visit the excavation site of Sarnath, the seat where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment in Bodhgaya. Return to the ship for lunch and begin sail downstream towards the outskirts of Varanasi.

Sailing Day - Varanasi - Ghazipur

Enjoy the meandering landscape as you sail to Ghazipur and enjoy the amenities onboard.

In Ghazipur, visit the tomb of Lord Cornwallis, one of the most important figures in Indian and British history. Cornwallis is famous for his time as Governor General of India. His tomb, overlooking the Ganges, consists of a high dome supported by 12 Doric columns. 

Continue to Buxar, famous for the 1764 war between the forces of the British East India Company and the armies of Mir Qasim, Shuja-ud-daulah and the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II. The battle was a decisive victory for the British East India Company. 

After breakfast visit the Ram Rekha Ghat. It is associated with a legend from the epic Ramayana that after killing the demoness Tadka, Lord Ram to cleanse himself from the sin of killing a woman, took a bath in the Ganges here. Also visit the Sita Ram Upadhyay Museum, named after a local resident who had donated his personal collection which includes archaeological objects, coins and manuscripts. Return to ship and sail towards Ghaghra Mod, the confluence where River Ghaghra meets River Ganges. 

After breakfast enjoy a walk in the riverbank village. Thereafter sail full day towards Patna, the capital of the State of Bihar. Patna is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world founded in 490 BCE as Pataliputra.

Patna - En Route To Simaria

After breakfast proceed to visit the Golghar and Patna Museum. Return to ship for lunch and sail towards Simaria, anchoring en route.

Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Simaria - En Route To Munger

Further sailing in the morning brings us to Simaria. After breakfast walk in the riverside village to see the daily activities of the local people. Return to the ship and continue our journey further downstream sailing under the great bridge at Mokameh Ghat and anchor en route to Munger.

Arrive Munger

Enjoying breakfast onboard, we arrive in Munger by afternoon. Enjoy a walk through the ruins of the fort. Afterward visit the local market, famous for fruits and vegetables as well as various textiles.

After breakfast visit the Chandika Sthan Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Shakti. It is one of the fifty-one Shakti Peethas, associated with the legend of Lord Vishnu who to save the world from Lord Shiva’s wrath, cut into pieces the corpse of Devi Sati that Shiva was carrying. Return to ship for lunch and begin sail towards Sultanganj.

Sultanganj - Bateshwarsthan

After breakfast excursion to Sultanganj, which is notable for two prominent granite rock islands in the river connected to the mainland by a causeway. On one of the islands is a mosque; on the other larger one is the Ajgaibinath Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. We will visit the Shiva temple. Return to the ship and sail towards Bateshwarsthan while enjoying lunch onboard.

Bateshwarsthan - Samtaghat

After breakfast drive in cars to the 8-9th century excavation site of the Vikramshila University and walk around the ruins. Vikramshila University was an important Buddhist centre of learning under the rule of the Pala Dynasty. Subjects like theology, philosophy, grammar, metaphysics, and logic were taught here. We return to the ship and sail towards Samtaghat. You will be fascinated by the passing landscape and the lively life on the river.

Samtaghat – Farakka – Jangipur

Enjoying breakfast onboard we sail in the morning to cross the historic Farakka Lock Gate. The travel through the Feeder Canal will give us a chance to see the different birds of the region. After crossing the Lock Gate, we cruise through the connecting canal to the Hooghly River, the lower Ganges. We continue to sail towards Jangipur. 

Jangipur - Murshidabad

We sail full day towards Murshidabad enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard. We arrive in Murshidabad by the evening. Murshidabad is a hidden architectural gem with dramatic whitewashed colonial-era structures.

After breakfast ride the Toto (e-rickshaw) through the countryside to the Katra mosque, which has distinctive minarets. Return to the ship for lunch. Thereafter visit the Hazarduari Palace, which dominates the waterfront. Built 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. 

Mushidabad – Matiari

We sail full day towards the shore-side village of Matiari enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard. We arrive in Matiari by the evening. 

Early this morning walk in the village to see and experience the craftsmen at work. These master craftsmen utilize recycled copper to create exquisite pots, platters, and more from their workshops in the village. Return to the ship for breakfast and sail onward to Kalna. We arrive in Kalna by the evening.

After breakfast ride e-rickshaws to visit the enchanting Rajbari temple complex. The Nabakailas temple contains 108 eight-slope-roofed shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Other temples in the complex feature diverse architecture and terracotta plaques depict themes of Hindu epics and various aspects of day-to-day life in the region. Return to the ship walking through the local vegetable market. Begin sail towards Kolkata and arrive by the evening.

After breakfast, visit the Flower Market, where you can see artists creating a variety of garlands, ornaments, and other items made of flowers and leaves for temples, weddings, and other uses. Thereafter, visit Kumartuli, a traditional potters’ quarter renowned for its sculpting prowess. Return to ship for lunch. Thereafter Panoramic Tour of Dalhousie Square’s heritage buildings; St. John's Church, Victoria Memorial, and Mother Teresa’s Home. Enjoy cultural performance onboard.

Kolkata - Immigration Formalities

After breakfast stroll around the historic Indentured Memorial Jetty, named in memory of the Indian indentured labourers who set sail from here for Suriname, which was then a Dutch colony in South America in 1873. Post-lunch Immigration formalities. 

Kolkata - Namkhana (Sundarbans)

After breakfast visit the Indian Museum and the local market. Return to the ship for lunch and based on the tide situation we will sail towards Namkhana, anchoring en route. It is the gateway of the Sundarbans National Park, a World Heritage Site.

Namkhana – Bali Island

Enjoying breakfast onboard we arrive at Namkhana. We will visit Bhagabatpur Island which is known for its crocodile project that has a hatchery of the estuarine crocodiles. Return to ship for lunch and sail to Bali Island cruising through the creek. A typical Sundarban village, Bali’s inhabitants are engaged in farming, paddy husking, honey packing and fishing.

Bali Island

After an early breakfast ride in the country boat to the Dobanki Watchtower, enjoy a canopy walk at an elevation of 20 feet to reveal the riveting flora and fauna. Return to the ship for lunch. Thereafter enjoy a walk in the village of Bali and interact with the villagers engaged in creating handicrafts and witness a tribal dance. 

Bangar Island – Hemnagar

We sail to Hemnagar today enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard and viewing the wilderness of the mangrove forest. It is the southernmost habitation of the region and the check-post for customs formalities for crossing the international riverine border between India and Bangladesh.

Hemnagar - Antihara (Bangladesh)

Today, enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard, we sail through the core area of the Sundarbans down towards the Bangladeshi side to arrive in Antihara, which is the check post for the Immigration & Custom formalities of Bangladesh. 

Antihara – Mongla

Sail towards Mongla town, while having breakfast onboard. Mongla is the gateway to the Sundarbans on the Bangladesh side. Post lunch visit to the Sixty Domed Mosque, a World Heritage Site. The mosque is locally known as the 'Shat Gombuj', which in Bangla literally means Sixty Domes.

Mongla – Karamjol - Kaukhali

Morning, we sail to Karamjol. After breakfast, we visit the Forest Reserve Centre, which protects a vast range of mammals, insects, bird species, reptiles, and fish. Return to the ship for lunch and sail towards Kaukhali.

Kaukhali - Barisal

A further sail brings us to Kaukhali while we enjoy our breakfast onboard. Upon arrival walk in the village visiting a Kumar Pada (potters’ colony), the local market and a Hindu Vaishnavite temple with a cremation ground adjacent to it. Return to ship for lunch and sail to Barisal, which is fondly called the Venice of Bengal.

After breakfast visit a Floating Market, which is renowned for its fruits. Many farmers and wholesalers gather here every day to sell their produce. Return to ship for lunch. Thereafter visit the Oxford Epiphany Church, an Anglican church, which is one of the oldest in the region. Its structure reflects the Greek architectural style. 

Barisal - Dhaka

Today enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard, we sail full day to Dhaka viewing the picturesque countryside, shoreline of coconut palms, bananas, mango trees, small settlements, cargo freighters and, nouka ferrying passengers across the river. Arrive at the Mawa jetty, a busy ferry ghat near Dhaka, the Capital of Bangladesh.

Dhaka Sightseeing

After breakfast, a panoramic tour of Dhaka’s heritage buildings like Dhaka University, Curzon Hall, Old High Court, Parliament Building, and Dhakeshwari Temple. Lunch in the city, thereafter visit Sonargaon, the ‘Golden City’ which was the ancient capital of undivided Bengal. 

Dhaka – Aricha – Tangail

Today while enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard, we sail full day upstream to the Aricha River port. Aricha is a prime spot for catching the renowned Hilsha fish and several trawlers can be seen in the vicinity. We will sail further upstream towards Tangail, anchoring en route.

Arrive Tangail

A further sail brings us to Tangail, an important handloom and cotton weaving centre, enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard. Post lunch we visit the Atia Mosque, a four-domed monument built during the reign of Mughal emperor Jahangir. In popular culture, it is dubbed as the 10 Taka Mosque when the Government of Bangladesh issued a 10 Taka banknote which had an image of the mosque in its obverse.

Tangail – Sirajganj

Today we sail towards Sirajganj, an important jute collection, processing, and trade centre whose jute mills were the first to be established in the Bengal area. Post lunch visit the Hatikumrul Navaratna Temple, a three-storied temple adorned with nine spires.

Sirajganj - Chandan Boisha

Today we sail full day further up the river towards the Indo-Bangladesh border that touches the north-eastern region of India. Enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard while viewing the riverine countryside.

Chandan Boisha - Chilmari

Further sailing brings us to the Chilmari River port, located on a beautiful scenic bank of the Teesta and Jamuna rivers, close to the international border with India. Enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard. Post-lunch immigration & customs formalities of Bangladesh will be done.

Chilmari – Rangpur Day Trip

After breakfast, drive to Rangpur (approx. 60 km from Chilmari) one of the largest cities in Bangladesh. Spend the day exploring this “City of Colour.” Visit the domineering Tajhat Palace and Museum, the Dimla Kali Temple, and the Carmichael College. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Return to the ship by evening.

Chilmari (Bangladesh) / Dhubri (India)

Today, enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard, we sail upstream crossing the international riverine border to arrive at Dhubri in the State of Assam for Immigrations and Customs of India. Dhubri is an old town on the bank of the mighty Brahmaputra (as the Jamuna River is known on the Indian side).

Dhubri – Goalpara

After breakfast explore Dhubri town visiting the Gurdwara (Sikh temple) of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib and the nearby pottery village notable for its traditional craft of terracotta. Return to the ship for lunch and sail onward to Goalpara.

Goalpara – Sualkuchi

After breakfast, we drive to visit Sri Surya Pahar, a significant but relatively unknown archaeological site, which has the distinction of possessing valuable cultural remains of three important religions of India: Buddhism, Jainism and Hinduism as evident from the innumerable sculptures and other relics that were excavated here. Return to the ship for lunch and sail to Sualkuchi, a textile centre fondly called the "Manchester of Assam."

Sualkuchi – Guwahati

After breakfast, we will visit the silk weaving village in Sualkuchi, which is renowned for the Muga silk, a glossy fabric with fine texture and durability. Return to ship for lunch and sail upstream to arrive at the Pandu Port in Guwahati, a major hub of river transport.

Guwahati – Mayong

After breakfast proceed to visit the ancient Kamakhya Temple (from outside). Dedicated to the goddess Durga, it is an important pilgrimage destination, especially for tantric worshipers. Also, visit the Assam State Museum. Return to ship for lunch further upstream, anchoring near Mayong.

Mayong - Tezpur

We sail further upstream enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard and viewing the riverine countryside along the Brahmaputra River. We arrive by evening at Tezpur, a legendary town whose name translates to the ‘City of Blood,’ a somewhat macabre name, resulting from the legend of Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva waging an epic battle here.

Tezpur - Silghat

After breakfast walk to visit the Cole Park, now called Chitralekha Udyan, a beautiful park established in 1906 by British Deputy Commissioner Mr. Cole. It features two massive ornamented stone pillars and other sculptural remnants of the 9th and 10th centuries. Return to the ship for lunch and sail onward to Silghat.

Silghat - Kaziranga Day Trip

Spend the full day in Kaziranga National Park with morning and afternoon jeep safaris with breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant. A World Heritage Site, Kaziranga hosts two-thirds of the world's Indian rhinoceroses and is home to large breeding populations of elephants, wild water buffalo, swamp deer, and the royal Bengal tiger. It is also recognized as an important bird area for the conservation of avifaunal species.

Silghat – Biswanath Ghat – Dhansiri Mukh

Enjoying breakfast onboard we sail to Biswanath Ghat, popularly called Gupta Kashi due to the cluster of temples of different Gods, like modern-day Varanasi. Visit the Biswanath temple, located at the confluence of the rivers Bridhaganga and Brahmaputra. Return to the ship for lunch and sail onward to Dhansiri Mukh, the confluence of the rivers Dhansiri and Brahmaputra.

Dhansiri Mukh – Majuli

Today we sail full day upstream enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard and arrive at Majuli, a river island in the Brahmaputra. We arrive by the evening at Majuli, which is the abode of the Assamese neo-Vaishnavite culture.

Majuli – Nimati Ghat

After breakfast onboard, visit the two notable satras (monasteries) at Majuli. The Kamalabari Satra is a centre of art, culture, literature, and classical studies on the island; while the Auniati Satra has an extensive assortment of ancient Assamese artefacts, utensils, jewellery, and handicrafts preserved in a museum. Return to the ship for lunch and onward to Nimati Ghat. 

Nimati Ghat – Sibsagar Day Trip

After breakfast set out to explore Sibsagar, which was the capital of the Ahom Kingdom of Assam. The place gets its name from the Sibsagar tank, which translates to “Ocean of Shiv.” Visit the Shiva Dol temple, the Talatal Ghar palace and military base, and Rang Ghar, which was the royal sports pavilion. Return to ship for late lunch.

Following breakfast disembark the ship and transfer to the Dibrugarh airport (approx. 4-hrs drive) for onward journey.

Please note this itinerary is also available in reverse, sailing in the opposite direction from Dibrugarh to Varanasi.

Accommodations

Social areas.

Suites & Cabins

Main deck suite.

The Ganga Vilas' Main Deck Suites have soothing interiors with dedicated color palettes, and huge floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows and have been delightfully furnished with contemporary and comfortable furniture. Amenities include an ensuite bathroom with shower, seating area with sofa, writing desk, closets, LED TV, safe, smoke detectors, life vest, and sprinklers. Cozy double beds can be converted to twins as desired.

Main Deck Suite Front

Same as The Ganga Vilas' Main Deck Suites, Main Deck Suites Front have soothing interiors with dedicated color palettes, and huge floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows and have been delightfully furnished with contemporary and comfortable furniture. Amenities include an ensuite bathroom with shower, seating area with sofa, writing desk, closets, LED TV, safe, smoke detectors, life vest, and sprinklers. Cozy double beds can be converted to twins as desired.

Upper Deck Suite

Located on Upper Deck, The most luxurious and spacious suite aboard, with 265 sq. ft. of space, the Upper Deck Suite is a haven of luxury. Embellished with Persian rugs, Burma teak floors and rich tapestry, on-demand movie service, and a writing desk. Bathrooms are as luxurious as the room and are fitted with both spacious bathtubs and shower panels. 

Upper Deck Suite Front

The most luxurious and spacious suite aboard as the Upper Deck Suite but located at the front of the cruise, with 265 sq. ft. of space, the Upper Deck Suite Front is a haven of luxury. Embellished with Persian rugs, Burma teak floors and rich tapestry, on-demand movie service, and a writing desk. Bathrooms are as luxurious as the room and are fitted with both spacious bathtub and shower panels. 

Technical Information

• Air conditioning
• Excercise room
• Massage room
• Lecture room
• WIFI available
• Souvenir shop
• Hot showers
• Charging areas for electronic equipment
• Flash lights
• Water canteen/bottle
• Insect repellent
• Dry Bags/Plastic bags to protect cameras

Related Cruises

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Kalaw Pandaw

Ganges Voyager

Bengal Ganga

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• All non-charter prices displayed are PER PERSON
• The itinerary may be readjusted due to local conditions and days of the week to avoid the closure of monuments/museums.
• Last-minute sailing and touring adjustments may also occur. The schedule may shift due to the weather or to take advantage of unexpected opportunities. The onboard tour staff will announce or post the exact time for each activity.
• No liquor will be served on board the ship from Farakka to Patna and at the hotel in Bodhgaya, as it is prohibited in the region.
• Due to the location on the Ghats and proximity to the holy Ganges, Non-Vegetarian food and Alcoholic Beverages are not served onboard.
• In the region of Varanasi to Bihar (vice versa), no liquor will be served on board, as it is prohibited.
• As per Government regulations, satellite phones & drone cameras are not allowed in Varanasi, please ensure the same, while traveling to Varanasi.
• Special meal requests like vegan, gluten/lactose-free, etc. can be arranged with advance information.

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How much will it cost to sail aboard the world's longest river cruise from Varanasi to Dibrugarh?

By Arundhati Ail

The Antara Ganga Vilas, the world’s longest river cruise , starts its 50-day journey from Varanasi to Dibrugarh tomorrow. The epic cruise will set sail along the River Ganga and has been designed for people curious to learn and explore the historic river, its rich ecosystems and its biodiversity. On the eve of its maiden voyage, we spoke to Raj Singh, Founder and Chairman of Antara Luxury River Cruises for the inside scoop on what guests can expect from this unique journey. 

First, the basics

Antara Ganga Vilas will set sail from Varanasi on 13 January and disembark at Nimati Ghat in Dibrugarh, Assam, 51 days later. The journey will cover Ghazipur, Buxar, Patna, Munger, Murshidabad, Kalna, Kolkata, Bangar Island, Dhaka, Sirajganj, Guwahati and more. At Nimati Ghat, airport transfers will be provided to Dibrugarh Airport, which is a four-hour drive away. 

What are the rooms like onboard?

The Antara Ganga Vilas is an all-suite cruise . All of the 18 suites onboard come with floor-to-ceiling windows that allow river views 24x7. All the rooms are inspired by the paintings of German artist Josef Albers, whose experiments with colour resulted in abstract paintings that were almost meditative. Each suite is designed to exude a similar sense of peace, with Indian fabrics, weaves and handmade furniture. All modern amenities are available, including a minibar, heater, wardrobe, television, ensuite bathroom with a high-pressure shower and bathroom amenities by Forest Essentials. A range of bath oils, hair oils, sleep mists and face mists are available on demand.

Suites offer unmatched river views

Is there WiFi onboard?

Yes there is, but connectivity will vary since you will be on the river. The best part is, you won’t care much for the internet and will likely be distracted by the riverscapes and curated experiences. 

What kind of experiences can you expect?

Sunbeds on the sundeck

There are both on-shore and off-shore experiences as part of the journey, all of which are designed to help you learn more about the art, culture, history and wildlife that the Ganga offers. There are customised itineraries for every region. For instance, you will get to experience the iconic Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, visit the the 18th century Takht Sri Patna Sahib Temple Golghar in Patna, explore the Bihar Yoga School, ride on a tonga in Murshidabad, visit Kumartuli and the flower market in Kolkata , take a canoe ride in the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans and visit the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam. Onboard, expect movies, games, dance performances, music recitals, book readings and lectures. There's also a spa that offers Balinese and Swedish style therapies, along with Ayurvedic treatments and beauty services.

Jahnavi Bhatt

Condé Nast Traveller

Who are the experts onboard?

Raj Singh , a renowned conservationist, wildlife author and tour leader himself, will be onboard with you on the entire journey, along with guides   Sumit Bhattacharya and  Sabyasachi . Art historian and designer  Annapurna Garimella and poacher-turned-naturalist  Anil Mistry will also be onboard and lead several talks and activities. 

What will the food be like?

The restaurant onboard

There is one onboard restaurant for guests to dine at. While Singh encourages guests to dine at the restaurant to facilitate interaction, meals can be served anywhere you want on request. Lunch will be a light buffet while dinner will be a formal sit-down affair. Everything will be made in-house and from scratch, and the menu will feature Indian and international cuisines. As far as possible, each day's meal will be inspired by that day’s destination to give the guests a wholesome experience. No alcohol will be served onboard. 

Do you have to stay for the 51-day journey?

The short answer is, no you don’t. It’s entirely up to you. “Some guests are checking in at Varanasi and checking out at Kolkata, while some carry on till Dibrugarh,” says Singh. However, he does advise against a short hop-on hop-off schedule since the experience has been curated to be more immersive. While most guests on this maiden voyage have signed up for a minimum of 18 days, Singh recommends at least 5-7 days to truly be immersed in the experience.

  How much does it cost?  

A suite that accommodates two starts at Rs55 lakhs for the 51-day itinerary. This includes all meals, experiences, guided tours, the stay and excursions and excludes taxes. 

When is the next cruise?

The next sailing season begins in October 2023 and bookings are already open. Reservation enquiries at  [email protected] . 

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Ganga Vilas sails today: Here is what the Varanasi-Dibrugarh cruise offers tourists

Set to sail from varanasi, the cruise will cover 3,200 km over 51 days, crossing 27 river systems and several states before ending its journey at dibrugarh in assam..

On January 13, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the Ganga river cruise from Varanasi , his Parliamentary constituency. The 51-day cruise, being pitched as the world’s longest river cruise, is expected to reach its final destination — Dibrugarh in Assam — on March 1.

We bring you all about MV Ganga Vilas, its route, pitstops, and what it looks like.

Set to sail from Varanasi, the cruise ship, MV Ganga Vilas, will cover 3,200 km over 51 days, crossing 27 river systems and several states before ending its journey at Dibrugarh . The voyage is packed with visits to 50 tourist spots, including World Heritage spots, national parks, river ghats, and major cities like Patna in Bihar, Sahibganj in Jharkhand, Kolkata in West Bengal , Dhaka in Bangladesh and Guwahati in Assam.

It will make pit-stops to cover the famous Ganga Arti in Varanasi, the Buddhist site of Sarnath; and even Majuli, the largest river island in Assam. The travellers will also visit the Bihar School Of Yoga and Vikramshila University. The cruise will traverse through the Sunderbans in the Bay of Bengal delta, as well as the Kaziranga National Park.

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The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is the coordinator of this ship tourism project. While speaking on the safety of the tourists travelling through the international borders of India and Bangladesh, Union Minister for Tourism, G Kishan Reddy, said, “All the facilities and security protocols have been taken care of for the tourists. The Government of India is taking several steps to promote cruise tourism in the country.”

Even as the tourists boarded the cruise on January 10, they have spent the first two days in local sightseeing.

The cruise liner

The vessel has three decks,18 suites on board with a capacity of 36 tourists, with all the luxury amenities.The maiden voyage has 32 tourists from Switzerland signing up for the entire length of the journey. It will cost approximately Rs 25,000 per person per day.

While it will be managed by private operators, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), under the Ministry of Shipping, Ports and Waterways (MoPSW), has supported the project.

The operator has told The Indian Express that they have already planned MV Ganga Vilas’s next voyage for the month of September this year, and bookings will open shortly. The tickets can be booked from the website of Antara river cruises.

River tourism

Highlighting the need to develop river cruise tourism in the country, Union Shipping & Ports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that the sector would generate employment opportunities in the hinterland. He said the river tourism circuits will be developed and integrated with the existing tourism circuits for maximum exposure and rapid development of this sector in the country.

In India, eight river cruise vessels are operational between Kolkata and Varanasi while cruise movement is also operation on National Waterways 2 (Brahmaputra), the government statement said.

The government of India has taken several initiatives to boost the country’s cruise tourism industry, including infrastructure upgrades, rationalisation of port fees, removal of ousting charges, priority berthing for cruise ships, and the provision of e-visa facilities. India aims to increase cruise passenger traffic from 0.4 million at present to 4 million. The economic potential of cruise tourism is expected to rise from $110 million to $5.5 billion in the coming years.

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Divya A reports on travel, tourism, culture and social issues - not necessarily in that order - for The Indian Express. She's been a journalist for over a decade now, working with Khaleej Times and The Times of India, before settling down at Express. Besides writing/ editing news reports, she indulges her pen to write short stories. As Sanskriti Prabha Dutt Fellow for Excellence in Journalism, she is researching on the lives of the children of sex workers in India. ... Read More

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World's Longest Luxury River Cruise Covering 4,000 km From Varanasi To Assam Will Start In January

The world's longest luxury river cruise covering a distance of around 4,000 km will start in January 2023, Union minister of ports, shipping, and waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has said.

Called Ganga Vilas Cruise, the voyage connects Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to Dibrugarh in Assam, travelling through Kolkata and Dhaka.

Ganga Vilas Cruise route  

The ship will also pass through national parks and sanctuaries, including the Sundarbans Delta and Kaziranga National Park.

Highlights of the tour include witnessing the ancient "Ganga Aarti", exploring the natural wonders of the world's largest mangrove forest, visiting Mayong, the cradle of 'black magic' in India, and discovering the untold cultural riches of the largest river island in the world.

According to the minister, the first journey will start on January 10 from Varanasi; the cruise will reach Bogibeel in Dibrugarh district of Assam on March 1.

It will travel from Varanasi and reach Patna on the 8th day passing through Buxar, Ramnagar, and Ghazipur. The cruise will cover almost 1,100 km in Bangladesh before entering India. 

Will put India and Bangladesh on river cruise map

This will be possible under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route, which has already opened trade and transit channels connecting the two countries on Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers.

"Ganga Vilas cruise will sail from Varanasi to Dibrugarh in a longest river journey of 50 days covering 27 river systems and visit over 50 tourist sites including World Heritage Sites. This will be the single largest river journey by a single river ship in the world and would put both India and Bangladesh on the river cruise map of the world," Sonowal told Mint.

Operated under PPP model

The cruise will be operated under the PPP model by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), Antara Luxury River Cruises and JM Baxi River Cruises.

According to Antara, it will be operating a river cruise vessel with 18 suites and all other associated facilities. 

It is built with a unique design and a futuristic vision; this cruise will meander across prominent destinations along Kolkata's River Hooghly to Varanasi's River Ganges.

Further details, including ticket pricing, are unavailable yet, and the minister said that the operators will decide on a cost-plus basis.

For more on news, sports, and current affairs from around the world, please visit  Indiatimes News.

Assistant News Editor at Indiatimes. He writes on Environment, Sustainability, Human-Animal conflict and South India.

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World’s longest river cruise ‘Ganga Vilas’ to unlock River Cruise tourism in India: Shri Sarbananda Sonowal • To be flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Varanasi on 13 January • Ship to traverse through 27 different river systems with 50 tourist spots covering a distance of 3,200 kms between Varanasi in UP to Dibrugarh in Assam via Indo Bangladesh Protocol route • MV Ganga Vilas to put India in the river cruise map of the world: Shri Sonowal

The launch of world’s longest river cruise with MV Ganga Vilas by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 13 January, 2023 in Varanasi will herald a new age of river cruise tourism for India, said Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ayush. The luxury cruise will cover a distance of more than 3,200 kms across 27 river systems in 5 states in India and Bangladesh. The huge untapped potential of river cruise is set to get unlocked with the launch of this service, added Shri Sonowal.                                   

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sonowal said, “Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we are exploring the immense wealth that our rich river system has to offer. This avenue of sustainable development via inland waterways has received a tremendous boost as efforts to augment cargo traffic as well as passenger tourism has borne fruit with encouraging results. The MV Ganga Vilas cruise is a step towards unlocking the huge potential river tourism in the country has to offer. Our rich heritage will get further transcended in the global stage as tourists will be able to experience the spiritual, the educational, the well being, the cultural as well as the richness of the biodiversity of India. From Kashi to Sarnath, from Majuli to Mayong, from Sunderbans to Kaziranga, this cruise packs an experience of a lifetime. I believe that this wonderful initiative, under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi ji, is the beginning of a new era in river cruise tourism in India and strengthening our government’s commitment to enable Act East, both through policy and practice.” 

The MV Ganga Vilas cruise is curated to bring out the best of the country to be showcased to the world. The 51 days cruise is planned with visits to 50 tourist spots including World Heritage Sites, National Parks, river Ghats, and major cities like Patna in Bihar, Sahibganj in Jharkhand, Kolkata in West Bengal, Dhaka in Bangladesh and Guwahati in Assam. The MV Ganga Vilas vessel is 62 meters in length, 12 meters in width and comfortably sails with a draft of 1.4 meters. It has three decks, 18 suites on board with a capacity of 36 tourists, with all the amenities to provide a memorable and luxurious experience for the tourists. The ship follows sustainable principles at its core as it is equipped with pollution-free mechanisms and noise control technologies. The maiden voyage of MV Ganga Vilas will witness 32 tourists from Switzerland relishing the Varanasi to Dibrugarh journey. The expected date of arrival of MV Ganga Vilas in Dibrugarh is on 1st March, 2023.

The itinerary of MV Ganga Vilas has been curated to showcase the rich heritage of India with stop overs in spots of historical, cultural and religious importance. From the famous “Ganga Arti” in Varanasi, it will stop at Sarnath, a place of great reverence for Buddhism. It will also cover Mayong, known for its Tantric craft, and Majuli, the largest river island and hub of Vaishnavite cultural in Assam. The travellers will also visit the Bihar School of Yoga and Vikramshila University, allowing them to soak in the rich Indian heritage in spirituality and knowledge. The cruise will also traverse through the biodiversity rich World Heritage Sites of Sunderbans in Bay of Bengal delta, famous for Royal Bengal Tigers, as well as Kaziranga National Park, famous for one horn rhino.

Highlighting the need to develop river cruise tourism in the country, Shri Sonowal said that the development of this sector would generate employment opportunity in the hinterland. The government is making capital expenditure to build capacity for the success of river cruise tourism in the country. He said the river tourism circuits will be developed and integrated with the existing tourism circuits for maximum exposure and rapid development of this sector in the country.

The MV Ganga Vilas cruise is a first-of-its-kind cruise service. With support from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under Ministry of Shipping, Ports and Waterways (MoPSW), the success of this service is likely to enthuse entrepreneurs to explore river cruise in other parts of the country.

The global River cruise market has grown at ~5% over the last few years and is expected to constitute ~37% of cruise market by 2027. Europe has been driving growth with approx. 60% share of river cruise vessels in the world. In India, 8 river cruise vessels are operational between Kolkata and Varanasi while cruise movement is also operation on National Waterways 2 (Brahmaputra). Tourism activities like river rafting, camping, sightseeing, kayaking and so on are operation in many spots in the country. The construction of 10 passengers terminals across NW2 are going on which will further bolster the prospect of river cruise. At present, four river cruise vessels are operational in NW2 while it is operating in limited capacity in NW3 (West Coast Canal), NW8, NW 4, NW 87, NW 97, and NW 5. As the capital expenditure is pumped to build capacity in the inland waterways, the river cruise is set to grow further with systematic forward and backward linkage for the economy, especially across the banks of the rivers.

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World's longest luxury cruise from Varanasi to Assam via Bangladesh to be started in January

Updated Nov 11, 2022, 13:06 IST

World's longest luxury cruise to start from Varanasi in January (Representative image)

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World’s Longest River Cruise: Varanasi to Assam via Bangladesh in 2024!

Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, recently announced that the world’s longest luxury river cruise will set sail in January 2024. About 4000 kilometres will be covered in total. The Ganga Vilas Cruise will go through Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to Dibrugarh in Assam through Kolkata and Dhaka. You can expect to have experiences like never before while travelling on this cruise.

The Cruise Route

The Minister added that the first cruise journey will start from Varanasi on January 10 and the cruise would arrive in Bogibeel in the Assamese region of Dibrugarh on March 1.

The trip would go over 1100 kilometres (kilometres) across Bangladesh before entering India, passing through Buxar, Ramnagar, and Ghazipur before continuing beyond Varanasi and arriving at Patna on the eighth day.

The ship will cruise through a number of amazing national parks and sanctuaries, like the Kaziranga National Park and Sundarbans Delta, offering its passengers wonderful vistas and experiences. Other highlights of this cruise excursion include the Ganga Aarti, travelling through the biggest mangrove forest in the world, and seeing Mayong, which is regarded as the birthplace of “black magic” in India.

Also read: Maldives Cruises from India

India and Bangladesh Cruise Connection 

The Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route, which has already opened commerce and transit lines between the two nations on the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers, made this endeavour possible, the minister added.

The Ganga Vilas cruise, he added, will travel the largest distance by river in 50 days, covering 27 river systems and more than 50 tourist attractions, including World Heritage Sites. This trip will be the world’s longest river voyage made by a single river ship, putting Bangladesh and India on the international river cruise map.

Also read: Cruises In Goa – Happy Cruising!

Visit Pickyourtrail to meticulously plan your cruise voyage and discover the most affordable and ideal  tour packages . You can even customise your vacation itinerary based on your preferences and choices. Don’t wait any longer; go on the wonderful trip you’ve been anticipating.

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Prime Minister Modi flags off MV Ganga Vilas: What to expect from the world's longest river cruise

Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the MV Ganga Vilas. The luxury liner will embark on a journey from Varanasi in UP and reach Dibrugarh in Assam via Bangladesh in 51 days. The voyage will cover a distance of 3,200 km and passengers will be able to visit over 50 tourist sites

It’s a Titanic day for India. Prime Minister Narendr Modi flagged off MV Ganga Vilas, the world’s longest river cruise, in Uttar Pradesh’s Varanasi through video conferencing. MV Ganga Vilas is the first-ever cruise vessel to be made in India and with 32 tourists from Switzerland it will begin its maiden voyage from the temple town of Varanasi and reach its final destination — Dibrugarh in Assam via Bangladesh.

Speaking at the event through video conferencing, PM Modi said: “The beginning of the world’s longest river cruise service on river Ganga is a landmark moment. It will herald a new age of tourism in India.”

He added, “I want to tell passengers onboard river cruise liner MV Ganga Vilas that India has everything you can imagine. It also has lot beyond your imagination. India can’t be defined in words. India can only be experienced from the heart because India has opened her heart for everyone.

Beginning of cruise service on River Ganga is a landmark moment. It will herald a new age of tourism in India. https://t.co/NOVFLFrroE — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 13, 2023

The ‘Ganga Vilas Cruise’, operated by Antara Luxury River Cruises will set sail from Varanasi, covering a total distance of 3,200 km. The ship will pass through Kolkata and Dhaka before dropping anchor in Bogibeel in Dibrugarh.

Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath earlier on Thursday said that the inauguration of the Ganga Vilas river cruise will bring about a new era for Varanasi. “Along with being the biggest centre of education and health, Kashi is now ready to be connected by land as well as waterways. The journey of 52 days covering a distance of 3,200 km is starting from here,” he said.

Let’s take a closer look.

Features of the ship

The MV Ganga Vilas vessel is 62 metres in length, 12 metres in width and comfortably sails with a draft of 1.4 metres. It is also the epitome of luxury. The ship features a mid-20th century modern style and has 18 suites that include furniture and lines made indigenously while some of the pieces are also made along the river Ganga.

The interior of the vessel is washed in vibrant colours which complement the vivid cultures of the regions the cruise will sail through. Shades of magenta, blue and yellow are all one can witness throughout the 51-day voyage.

According to CNN Traveller , the large floor-to-ceiling windows will allow passengers onboard to enjoy the beauty of the river throughout the day. A panoramic lounge, an observation pavilion and a dining room will enhance the travelling experience for travellers.

Apart from the above-mentioned features that define the luxuriousness of the ship, Ganga Vilas Cruise also has an open sundeck to lounge in, and a spa to let passengers relax during their journey.

Travellers will also be able to relish lip-smacking food that is inspired by the various places the ship travels through.

Keeping the environment in mind, the ship also incorporates technologies that will reduce pollution and control noise to ensure its journey stays clean and sustainable.

The ticket for the cruise can be booked from the website of Antara river cruises and cost approximately Rs 25,000 a day — a total coming up to more than Rs 12.59 lakh

The 51-day journey will commence from Varanasi and the cruise ship will reach Patna on the eighth day after passing through Ghazipur, Buxar and Ramnagar.

From Patna, the ship will take 12 days to reach West Bengal’s capital Kolkata on Day 20. The very next day it will sail into a different country, Bangladesh. Passengers will stay in the neighbouring country for 15 days before entering India again to reach Bogibeel in Dibrugarh.

The cruise will be able to cover almost 1,100 km in Bangladesh with the help of the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route, which has already opened up trade and transit channels between the two neighbouring countries. The Route also connects the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers.

Don’t want to travel the full journey? No problem, because the trip also provides options to cater to the needs and choices of the passengers. Sonowal said, “The cruises are of different kinds — luxury, expedition, etc. The tourists also come with different mindsets — some want to stay for the full journey while some may move from one point to another. The service will facilitate all kinds of tourists. Moreover, with the amendment to Indian Vessel Act, cruise lines would have a national permit to move seamlessly across states.”

Along the way, it will stop at 50 tourist destinations which include World Heritage Sites, national parks, and river ghats

The experience

The trip is the perfect opportunity for travel enthusiasts to witness the many cultures of the various stops the ship is going to make.

One highlight of the tour includes the infamous and highly revered ‘Ganga Aarti’ on the banks of the river Ganga. The trip will give a chance to history buffs to learn about the impacts of French and Dutch influences on West Bengal’s architecture.

The village of Matiari in West Bengal will educate passengers on board about creating handmade brassware and textiles. On selected locations, the cruise will also stop for parties with folk music and dance.

At Bagerhat, one of the many locations of the tour, travellers will get a chance to see Khan Jahan Ali’s 60-dome mosque built during the Bengal sultanate period.

Raj Singh, the chairman of the company told Financial Express , “Each experience has been personally vetted and designed by me for fellow enthusiastic travellers. The historical route has been finalised with the support, assistance and cooperation of the governments of India and Bangladesh, which are working together to ensure seamless travel between the two countries.”

Other river cruises in India

Even though it’s the world’s largest, the Ganga Vilas Cruise is not the only cruise ship sailing through Indian rivers.

The Brahmaputra River Cruise is a 10-night cruise travel between Guwahati and Jorhat-Dibrugarh. The cruise passes through the erstwhile kingdom of Ahom kings, Sibsagar, Majuli island and Kaziranga National Park. The trip also includes heritage tours around Tezpur and Sualkuchi, the two famous silk-weaving villages.

In the Western part of India, the Mandovi River Cruise lets tourists to experience the Goan culture. Although the trip is just a couple of hours long, the cruise ship offers an exciting atmosphere that is filled with folk songs, dances and cuisine as passengers sail through Chorao and Divar Islands, according to Times Travel .

Down south, the Mangalore River Cruise allows travellers to relax in the calm Phalguni River. The three-hour-long cruise takes its passengers through the coastal villages of Karnataka. The highlight of the cruise trip, however, is the Mangalorean cuisine that is served onboard.

With inputs from agencies

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ASSAM BENGAL

GANGES RIVER CRUISES

Cruises on the Ganges and Lower Ganges (the Hooghly) offer a chance to witness life as lived in riverbank villages and towns, and marvel at ornate historic temples and monuments. A little-known but fascinating and culturally rich part of India, travelling by boat opens up areas otherwise largely inaccessible to the traveller.

Lower Ganges cruises operate all year round, while cruises on the Ganges operate in the winter months. Itineraries can be taken separately or combined to offer a choice of durations from three to 15 nights. Due to river conditions, we can only cruise all the way up to Varanasi in the months of August and September.

Come and join us on one of the world's best cruise holidays as rated by The Guardian UK.

ITINERARIES

Historic Hoogly (Lower Ganges)

Operating upstream or downstream, these cruises include a return journey by rail, allowing you to sample the quintessential train travel experience, ably assisted by your ABN crew. The cruise itself takes you along the intimate Hooghly, from Farakka down to Kolkata. As well as exploring Kolkata, the cruise takes in Murshidabad, capital of the Nawabs of Bengal, and the many monuments of the mediaeval Islamic capital of Gaur. From silk-weaving villages to a hamlet known for its brass-making artisans, this region offers a glimpse into a traditional way of life through riverside village walks and e-rickshaw rides. Cruises can be combined with Ganges cruises on most dates.

The Holy Ganges

These cruises along the main stream of the Ganges operate between Farakka and Patna, or vice versa. Wander through the Mughal ruins at Rajmahal, explore East India Company relics at Patna and Monghyr, and discover the monuments of Buddha’s homeland, including Bodh Gaya. With such a wealth of cultural, historic and religious sites, the region offers an insight into India’s richly diverse character and is an exciting voyage through largely uncharted territory.

Bengal Memories

This short itinerary has been specially designed to give travellers a taste of Bengal's rich heritage. Visit the imposing Imambara that overlooks the river, the new ISKCON temple of Mayapur - a vast complex of worship that receives over a million Krishna devotees annually - the intricately carved terracotta Hindu temples of Kalna, and Chandernagore, a charming riverside town that was in French possession until 1950.

City of Light:

A varanasi summer.

With our specially designed ship, ABN Rajmahal, we are able to offer two one-week cruises which access the Holy Grail of Ganges cruises, the sacred city of Varanasi itself. Operating only in periods of high water, when India is at its most lush and attractive, they explore the untouched villages and towns of rural India along the river between Patna and Varanasi. Both cruises feature two days of sightseeing in Varanasi itself, including sailing all the way up to the spectacular Chunar Fort.

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Ganga Vilas Cruise – The 4,000 km world’s longest river cruise from Varanasi to Assam will be a journey of 50 days, details inside

Updated Nov 11, 2022, 05:06 PM IST

Image credit - Pexels

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Infrastructure

Varanasi To Dibrugarh On A Ship: How MV Ganga Vilas Brings Ultra-Luxury Tourism To India’s Waterways

Ankit Saxena

Jan 13, 2023, 05:09 PM | Updated 05:42 PM IST

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The cruise will cover a distance of more than 3,000 km, passing through a total of 27 river systems on its course. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the MV Ganga Vilas today (13 January) in a ceremony in Varanasi.  

The MV Ganga Vilas is a cruise from Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) to Dibrugarh (Assam) via Bangladesh through a network of water systems of both the countries. It marks the launch of ultra-luxury tourism on the waterways of India.  

Beginning from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, the cruise will go on a journey of 50 days before it reaches Dibrugarh. It will also cruise through Bangladesh for a little more than two weeks. 

Operated by the Antara Luxury River Cruises, the price of a single day on the cruise, for one person, would be between Rs 25,000-50,000, and the entire journey would cost Rs 20 lakh per ticket. 

This includes the major rivers Ganga and Brahmaputra in Uttar Pradesh and Assam respectively. Additionally, it will sail through West Bengal on the rivers Hooghly, Malata and also through the Sundarbans. In Bangladesh, the cruise is set to cover rivers Padma, Meghna and Jamuna. 

What Will 50 Days On-Board Look Like?

The trip plans to cover around 50 selected sites and travel destinations. At the stopovers, the MV Ganga Vilas would also include activities for tourists to experience India’s art, culture, and music at recognised World Heritage Sites, national parks, and river ghats , among others. For example, the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi is a part of the Ganga Vilas itinerary. 

The itinerary also includes Sarnath, near Varanasi, which is recognised as amongst the most important sites in Buddhism. 

In Bihar, the travellers will visit the Bihar School of Yoga and the Vikramshila University.  

In Bengal, the cruise will sail through the Sunderbans, the largest mangrove ecosystem in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The cruise would also cover Mayong (Assam), known for its rich heritage of the Tantric tradition, and Majuli, the largest river-island and first island district, again in Assam. Additionally, the Assam leg of the journey includes a visit to the Kaziranga National Park as well. 

Apart from the important cultural destinations, the cruise would also allow visitors to explore the urban centres of Varanasi, Patna, Sahibganj, Kolkata, Guwahati, Sibsagar and Dibrugarh.

Growth For Inland Waterways

While the Ganga Vilas caters to the niche category of ultra-luxurious tourism, a good response to the cruise would be good news for the entire water-based tourism industry.

At local levels, the growth of organised river-based tourism is expected to generate formal and regular employment opportunities.

“This will be the single-largest river journey by a single river ship in the world and would put both India and Bangladesh on the river cruise map of the world,” said Sarabananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways at the Varanasi event today. 

Considering the aesthetics, interiors, along with the hospitality planned for visitors on board, the Ganga Vilas cruise may soon bring India’s river tourism to the international league of prominent cruise journeys and become a major attraction of global luxury tourism.

• Varanasi To Dibrugarh Cruise
• MV Ganga Vilas
• Luxury cruise
• ganga cruise

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Varanasi to Bogibeel river cruise service to begin from early 2023

India's longest river cruise service will give the people of assam a chance to use waterways to promote trade and livelihood in tourism and cargo transportation. it will cover a distance of more than 4,000 kilometres through the ganga, indo bangladesh protocol route (ibpr) and brahmaputra..

The country's longest river cruise service between Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and Bogibeel in Assam will begin from early 2023, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said on Monday.

It will cover a distance of more than 4,000 kilometres through the Ganga, Indo Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR) and Brahmaputra.

This will give the people of Assam a chance to use waterways to promote trade and livelihood in tourism and cargo transportation, the minister added.

"Our government is also identifying avenues to promote inland navigation, river cruise tourism, and construction of suitable terminals across the Brahmaputra," the minister of ports, shipping and waterways said.

On Monday, the minister launched multiple projects for the development of the Bogibeel region near Dibrugarh in Assam. In this regard, the minister laid the foundation stones to construct two floating jetties at Bogibeel and Guijan.

He also inaugurated Bogibeel Riverfront Passenger Jetty.

Two floating jetties, at Bogibeel in Dibrugarh district and Guijan in Tinsukia district in the north eastern state, will be constructed as state-of-art terminals using the most advanced and updated technology.

Both the jetties are being constructed by Inland Waterways Authority of India over the National Waterways - 2 (NW-2), popularly known as river Brahmaputra.

The work has been awarded to Coastal Consolidated Structures Pvt Ltd on an Engineering, Procurement, Construction (EPC) contract mode .

The two jetties are estimated to be built at a cost of ₹ 8.25 crore and scheduled to be completed by February next year.

• Uttar Pradesh
• Bogibeel Bridge
• Cruise Industry
• Cruise Tourism
• Cruise Ship
• Cargo Shipping
• Brahmaputra

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India’s Longest River Cruise From Varanasi To Assam's Bogibeel To Begin Next Year

Curated By : Lifestyle Desk

Trending Desk

Last Updated: September 29, 2022, 08:45 IST

New Delhi, India

The cruise services will open opportunities for the people of the state to use inland waterways in promoting trade and livelihood in tourism and cargo transportation.

Are you excited to take this iconic cruise journey? We sure are!

India will soon have its longest river cruise service connecting Uttar Pradesh and Assam. Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, said that the service of a cruise between Varanasi and Bogibeel will begin next year. The cruise will be navigating more than 4,000 kilometres via Ganga, Indo Bangladesh Protocol Route (IBPR) and the Brahmaputra river.

Speaking at the launch of multiple projects in Assam’s Bogibeel on September 19, the minister stated that the start of the cruise services will open opportunities for the people of the state to use inland waterways in promoting trade and livelihood in tourism and cargo transportation.

Sonowal mentioned that the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to harness the potential of an economic and ecologically sound logistics avenue of Inland waterways.

He added that the PM Gati Shakti National Master plan is going to be the key to unlocking the huge potential of inland water transportation in Assam using National Waterways 2 and the Brahmaputra river.

“We must tap this opportunity and build an economic advantage which will power the whole of Northeast India as the New Engine of growth for India. Our government is also identifying avenues to promote inland navigation, river cruise tourism, and construction of suitable terminals across the Brahmaputra," he added.

In the event, the Union Minister also laid foundation stones for the construction of two floating jetties at Bogibeel and Guijan. He inaugurated the Bogibeel Riverfront Passenger Jetty which has been developed by the Northeast Frontier Railways (NFR) as part of riverfront development near the Bogibeel bridge.

The two floating jetties will be constructed as state-for-terminals using the most advanced and updated technology. The project has been assigned to Coastal Consolidated Structures Pvt Ltd on an EPC contract mode (engineering, procurement, construction). The two jetties are estimated to be built at a cost of Rs 8.25 crore and scheduled to be completed by February, next year.

Read all the Latest Lifestyle News and Breaking News here

• Indian tourism
• river cruise

NORTHEAST NOW

NORTHEAST NEWS

World’s longest river cruise from Varanasi to Dibrugarh, here is all you need to know

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Guwahati:  The world’s longest river cruise from Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh to Dibrugarh in Assam via Bangladesh is supposed to be launched on January 10 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and here is all you need to know about it.

The cruise will start from Varanasi on the River Ganga and will end in Dibrugarh on the River Brahmaputra. The cruise will pass through Bangladesh during its journey.

The Ganga Vilas  cruise  on its longest river journey of 50 days will cover 27 river systems and visit over 50 tourist sites including World Heritage Sites. 

Also Read: Assam: Guwahati Airport introduces fast charging EV stations at VIP parking

This will be the single largest river journey that a single ship would cover.

In total, the ship is expected to cover 3,200 kilometres sailing through the Ganga-Bhagirathi-Hooghly, Brahmaputra, and West Coast Canal.

Also Read: Assam: Congress  MP Pradyut Bordoloi seeks visa stamping facility in Guwahati

The Ganga Vilas is capable of hosting 80 passengers and has 18 suites will all necessary amenities.

Apart from this, the luxury yacht is also loaded with a restaurant, spa, and sundeck. For foodies, the ship’s restaurant serves Continental and Indian cuisine. 

The Upper Deck of the ship/yacht also has a bar.

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Northeast Now is a multi-app based hyper-regional bilingual news portal. Mail us at: [email protected] More by NE NOW NEWS

‘Children of the Ganges’ - the boatmen of India’s Varanasi

Their lives are deeply entwined with the sacred river Ganges but Varanasi’s mallah community say they have been overlooked.

Varanasi, India - “ Hum paani ke jeev hain . We are creatures of water,” says 29-year-old Vishwakarma Sahni.

Sahni belongs to Varanasi’s community of approximately 8,000 mallah , the boatmen whose lives are deeply intertwined with the Ganges - a river considered sacred in India and which they hold in profound reverence.

To them, the Ganges is not merely a river; it is their lifeline.

On its journey eastward from the Himalayas, the Ganges traverses more than 2,500 km (1,550 miles) before flowing into the Bay of Bengal in the northeastern Indian Ocean. Along its route, it passes through several regions, including the ancient city of Varanasi, also known as Kashi or Banaras in Hindi. "Banaras" is derived from the word "Banarasi" in the Pali language.

Varanasi has long fascinated historians, anthropologists, artists and storytellers and is often celebrated as one of the world’s oldest inhabited cities. It also happens to be the constituency of India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, who rode to power in 2014 with a promise to transform Varanasi into a Kyoto-style smart city , and who is facing elections again from later this month.However, the lives of Varanasi’s boatmen have remained largely overlooked, they say.

In 2018, despite widespread protests from the community, the Government of India granted permits to three private cruise ships to operate along the ghats of Varanasi - the small staircases which descend to quays and cremation facilities along the river.