Lower Ganges Cruise
Day 01: Upon reaching the airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to your exquisite accommodation, the renowned Taj Bengal Hotel.
Day 02: Embark on a captivating journey through Kolkata, exploring iconic sights like the lively Mullik Ghat Flower Market, the majestic Howrah Bridge, and ‘Nirmal Hriday’, famously known as Mother Teresa’s House. Spend your afternoon at leisure or opt for a Heritage Walk (extra cost). Round off the day with a delightful Welcome Dinner at your hotel.
Day 03: Embark on an enchanting adventure from Kolkata to Farakka aboard a charming local train. Navigate through bustling food stalls and bustling porters to reach your carriage. Sit back, relax, and witness the mesmerizing beauty of India’s landscapes. Upon reaching Farakka, prepare for an unforgettable seven-night cruise aboard your river ship.
Day 04: Explore the enchanting city of Gaur, once a bustling hub that thrived under Hindu and Muslim reign in Eastern India. Wander through its silent streets adorned with ancient relics and mosque remnants. Return to the ship near Jangipur and continue your journey downstream along the Lower Ganges, docking for the night at Baranagar.
Day 05: Begin your day by leisurely wandering through the picturesque landscapes of Baranagar. Explore a trio of charming miniature terracotta temples nestled amidst the greenery, then embark on a tranquil journey along the Lower Ganges. Glide downstream until you reach Murshidabad, where the majestic Hazarduari Palace commands attention along the riverbanks. Afterward, marvel at the architectural beauty of Katra Mosque before delving into the history of Kathgola Palace.
Day 06: Navigate downstream briefly before stopping at the Khushbagh garden. Then, sail onward to a rural dock near the historic Plassey battlefield, where a pivotal 1757 conflict reshaped India’s trajectory.
Day 07: Discover the quaint riverside hamlet of Matiari before journeying through picturesque countryside to reach Mayapur. Marvel at the imposing ISKCON temple that commands the town’s horizon. Serving as the epicenter of the Hare Krishna movement, this temple draws in more than a million joyful devotees annually, converging from all corners of the globe to sing and dance in reverence.
Day 08: Explore the wonders of Kalna now, where you can marvel at its renowned terracotta temples and the exceptional Shiva temple featuring 108 shrinelets arranged in concentric circles. Continue your journey to Hooghly to behold the grandeur of the Imambara, and then proceed to Chandannagar for more enriching experiences.
Day 09: Explore Chandannagar, once under French rule until 1950, where you can marvel at the 18th-century French church and Dupleix’s House. Journey onward to Barrackpore for a stroll through the cantonment, where landmarks like the Semaphore Tower, Government House, and Flagstaff House await. Weather permitting, glide beneath the iconic Howrah Bridge to arrive at the heart of Kolkata.
Day 10: This morning, arrive in Kolkata and explore the iconic landmarks of Victoria Memorial and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Later, savor a delightful Farewell Dinner at Sonargaon Restaurant.
Day 11: Your vacation concludes today. Enjoy a leisurely morning before heading to the airport for your next flight.