Overview
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.
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.
Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
PM: Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
PM: Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
Departure
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.
Embarkation
PM: Arrive in Dhaka, the Capital of Bangladesh and proceed for panoramic drive tour of Central Dhaka’s heritage buildings like the Dhaka University, National Assembly and the Old High Court. Also visit the Dhakeshwari Temple, dedicated to goddess Dhakeshwari, the protector of Dhaka. Lunch at a local restaurant. Thereafter proceed to visit Sonargaon, the medieval capital of undivided Bengal. Here, visit the Panam City, the Sadarbari that houses a Folk Art Museum and the Goaldi Mosque. Transfer to the jetty and embark the ship.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Dhaka - Barisal
AM: Today we sail full day to Barisal enjoying breakfast and lunch and viewing the picturesque countryside, shoreline of coconut palms, bananas, mango trees, fishermen casting their nets, small freighters heading upstream with loads of gravel, bricks, sand and, nouka ferrying passengers across the river. Arrive by evening at Barisal, fondly called the Venice of Bengal.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Barisal
AM: After breakfast visit a Floating Market, which is renowned for its fruits, especially guava.
PM: Return to ship for lunch. Thereafter visit the Oxford Epiphany Church, an Anglican church, which is one of the oldest and arguably the second largest church in Asia.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Barisal - Kaukhali
AM: This morning, we sail to Kaukhali, a small riverine village in the Barisal district of Bangladesh. It has a launch & steamer station which date from British period.
PM: Post lunch visit a Kumar Pada (potters’ colony), the local market, and a Hindu Vaishnavite temple with a Cremation Ground adjacent to it. Return to ship.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Kaukhali - Karamjol - Mongla
AM: Today we sail to Karamjol. Ride the country boat to the Karamjol Forest Reserve Centre, which protects a vast range of mammal, insects, bird species, reptiles, and fish. Gangetic River dolphins and salt-water crocodiles can also be spotted.
PM: Return to the ship for lunch. Sail onward to Mongla town, a link seaport and the gateway to the Sundarbans on the Bangladesh side.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Mongla - Antihara
AM: After breakfast visit the Sixty Domed Mosque, a World Heritage Site which has been described as "one of the most impressive Muslim monuments in the whole of the Indian subcontinent.
PM: Return to ship for lunch and sail to Antihara, the check post for the Immigration & Custom formalities of Bangladesh.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Antihara - Hemnagar
AM: Today we sail through the wildlife area of the Sundarbans towards the Indian side of the Sundarbans to arrive in Hemnagar, the check-post for Customs formalities for crossing the international riverine border between India and Bangladesh.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Hemnagar - Bali Island
AM: Time permitting, we will visit a nearby Watchtower before we sail onward to Bali Island enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard. Bali is a typical Sundarbani village whose inhabitants are engaged in farming, paddy husking, honey packing and fishing.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Sundarban : Sudhanyakhali - Dobanki - Bali Island
AM: After early breakfast excursions by local boat to the Sudhanyakhali and Dobanki Watchtowers. Dobanki offers a canopy walk at an elevation of 20 feet from the ground.
PM: Return to the ship for lunch. Thereafter enjoy a walk in the village of Bali and interact with the villagers. Witness a tribal dance performance onboard the ship. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Bali - Enroute to Namkhana
AM: This morning we cruise through the creek to the Bhagabatpur Island and visit the crocodile project which has a hatchery and sanctuary of the estuarine crocodiles. We continue sail towards Namkhana, anchoring en route.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Namhkana - Kolkata
AM: Early morning depending upon tide conditions we sail full day towards Kolkata.
PM: Leaving behind the Bay of Bengal, we will sail past historical monuments and places that are reminiscent of the colonial period. We arrive by evening at the jetty in Kolkata.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Disembarkation
AM: Morning, enjoy walk in the jetty. Following lunch disembark and transfer to the airport or hotel for onward journey.
Embarkation
PM: Arrival in Kolkata and transfer to the jetty for embarkation. Check-in formalities followed by lunch on board. Post lunch Immigration formalities. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Kolkata - Sailing to Sundarbans
AM: Early morning depending upon tide conditions we sail full day towards the Sundarbans National Park, a World Heritage Site, and the world’s largest delta mangrove forest in the Bay of Bengal. We will sail past historical monuments and places which are reminiscent of the colonial period to arrive in Namkhana. Time permitting walk and visit the Bhagabatpur Island which is known for its crocodile project that has a hatchery and sanctuary of the estuarine crocodiles.
PM: Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Sundarbans - Bali Island
AM: Today we sail towards Bali Island enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard. Bali is a typical Sundarbani village whose inhabitants are engaged in farming, paddy husking, honey packing and fishing. Time permitting, we will visit one of the watch towers in the Sundarbans for nature walk and bird watching.
PM: Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Sundarban : Sudhanyakhali - Dobanki - Bali Island
AM: After early breakfast excursions by local boat to the Sudhanyakhali and Dobanki Watchtowers. Dobanki offers a canopy walk at an elevation of 20 feet from the ground.
PM: Return to the ship for lunch. Thereafter enjoy a walk in the village of Bali and interact with the villagers. Witness a tribal dance performance onboard the ship. Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Bali Island - Hemnagar
AM: We sail early morning towards Hemnagar, the check-post for Customs formalities for crossing the international riverine border between India and Bangladesh. Time permitting, we will visit a nearby Watchtower.
PM: Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Hemnagar - Antihara
AM: Today we sail through the wildlife area of the Sundarbans down towards the Bangladeshi side of the Sundarbans enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard. We arrive in Antihara, the check post for the Immigration & Custom formalities of Bangladesh.
PM: Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Antihara - Mongla
AM: Today we sail towards Mongla town, a link seaport and the gateway to the Sundarbans on the Bangladesh side.
PM: Post lunch visit the Sixty Domed Mosque, a World Heritage Site which has been described as "one of the most impressive Muslim monuments in the whole of the Indian subcontinent. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Mongla - Karamjol - Kaukhali
AM: Morning ride the country boat to the Karamjol Forest Reserve Centre, which protects a vast range of mammal, insects, bird species, reptiles, and fish. Gangetic River dolphins and salt-water crocodiles can also be spotted.
PM: Return to the ship for lunch. Sail to Kaukhali, a small riverine village in the Barisal district of Bangladesh. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Kaukhali - Barisal
AM: After breakfast explore Kaukhali, that has a launch and steamer station that date from the British period. Visit a Kumar Pada (potters’ colony), the local market, and a Hindu Vaishnavite temple with a Cremation Ground adjacent to it.
PM: Return to ship and sail onward to Barisal, which is fondly called the Venice of Bengal. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Barisal
AM: After breakfast visit a Floating Market, which is renowned for its fruits, especially guava.
PM: Return to ship for lunch. Thereafter visit the Oxford Epiphany Church, an Anglican church, which is one of the oldest and arguably the second largest church in Asia. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Barisal - Dhaka
AM: Today we sail full day to Dhaka enjoying breakfast and lunch and viewing the picturesque countryside, shoreline of coconut palms, bananas, mango trees, fishermen casting their nets, small freighters heading downstream with loads of gravel, bricks, sand and, nouka ferrying passengers across the river.
PM: Arrive by evening at a jetty in Dhaka, the Capital of Bangladesh. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Disembarkation
AM: After breakfast disembark and proceed to visit Sonargaon, the medieval capital of undivided Bengal. Here, visit the Panam City, the Sadarbari that houses a Folk Art Museum and the Goaldi Mosque.
PM: Lunch at a local restaurant. Thereafter panoramic drive tour of Central Dhaka’s heritage buildings like the Dhaka University, National Assembly and the Old High Court. Also visit the Dhakeshwari Temple, dedicated to goddess Dhakeshwari, the protector of Dhaka. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Embarkation
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
River day Samtaghat – Bateshwarsthan
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.
Bateshwarsthan – Sultanganj
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.
Sultanganj – Munger
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.
Munger
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Munger – Simaria
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.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
River day Simaria – Patna
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.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Varanasi
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Disembarkation
AM: Following breakfast disembark the ship and transfer for your onward journey.
Embarkation
PM: Arrive in Varanasi in the afternoon and transfer to the jetty for embarkation. Welcome and safety briefing, then enjoy lunch on board.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Samath to Ghats
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Patna – en route to Simaria
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 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: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Munger - Sultanganj
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: We return to the ship and sail towards Sultanganj.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
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.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Murshidabad
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: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
River day Murshidabad – Matiari
AM: We sail a full day today to arrive at the shore-side village of Matiari.
PM: Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Matiari - Kalna
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 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.
Kolkata
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. 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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Disembarkation
AM: Following breakfast disembark the ship and transfer for your onward journey.
Embarkation
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.
Varanasi
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.
Overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.