Hooghly Ganges River Cruise

Day 1 : Kolkata

On arrival, transfer from your hotel or the airport in Kolkata to embark on your incredible journey at noon.

Enjoy a guided tour of Dalhousie Square, the Writers’ Building (once the headquarters of the East India Company), and step inside St John’s Church with its painting of The Last Supper. Experience the serenity of the Victoria Memorial with a stroll through the splendid gardens. Admire the domed white marble hall built in memory of Queen Victoria and discover Victorian memorabilia and British Raj-era paintings.

On return to the ship you will enjoy cocktails and a short briefing about your upcoming journey.

Day 2 : Kolkata

Early morning visit to one of Asia’s largest flower markets. Stroll through the mountains of marigolds and jasmine and watch as locals buy flowers for temple offerings and prayers. Walk down to the river to a traditional Akhara, where ancient Indian martial arts are practiced. Here, men of all ages practice a traditional form of wrestling known as Kushti. Return to your ship for breakfast.

This afternoon visit the Indian Museum then enjoy free time nearby the New Market before returning to the ship for dinner.

Day 3 : Kolkata > Serampore

Morning visit to the market. Sailing at noon to cross the Hooghly River to the old Danish colony of Serampore, founded in 1676. Visit the local tavern, church, and museum. After, cruise past the iconic landmarks of Kolkata: the Clock Tower, Government House, the Temple of Fame (a Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kali), and Flagstaff House.

Day 4 : Kalna

After breakfast, embark on a scenic cruise upstream, arriving at the charming town of Kalna. Take a rickshaw ride to explore a group of Bengal’s most impressive terracotta temples, culminating in a visit to the unique 18th-century Shiva Temple. This remarkable temple is adorned with concentric rings of 108 small shrines, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight. Later return to your ship and continue sailing through the night, mooring near Matiari.

Day 5 : Matiari

Step ashore in Matiari, a charming riverside village renowned for its brass-working traditions. Engage with local artisans and witness the fascinating process of crafting intricate brass water pots and other vessels. Time permitting, venture to the historic battlefield of Plassey. Here, in the pivotal year of 1757, Robert Clive, Commander-in-Chief of the British East India Company, decisively defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, marking a turning point in Indian history.

Day 6 : Murshidabad

Embark on a walk to the Khushbagh, a peaceful Mughal-style garden that encloses the tombs of Siraj-ud-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, and his family. Continue upstream to witness the grandeur of Hazarduari Palace, an architectural masterpiece built by an English architect in 1837. Explore its opulent interiors, showcasing a fascinating collection of paintings, china, weapons, and other artifacts. Next, visit the magnificent Katra Mosque and the impressive Nashipara Palace, a testament to the wealth and influence of local merchants during the “White Mughal” era – a period of cultural exchange between English and Indian influences.

Finally, visit Katgola Palace, an exquisite example of Georgian architecture built by wealthy local merchants, further highlighting the unique blend of cultures that flourished during this era.

Day 7 : Baranagar > Ajimganj

Sail upstream along the Hooghly River, a picturesque waterway winding through a landscape of lush mustard fields and vibrant mango orchards. Disembark in Baranagar, a charming village, to enjoy a leisurely walk through its serene countryside. Visit three exquisite miniature terracotta temples, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, a testament to the region’s rich artistic heritage. Continue sailing downstream, stopping at Azimganj to explore the intricately carved Jain temples. You will get a glimpse into the idyllic rural life of Bengal and its fascinating cultural and architectural heritage.

Day 8 : Mayapur

Immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of the Hare Krishna movement at Mayapur. Explore the magnificent ISKCON temple complex, a modern marvel comparable in size to the Vatican and generously funded by Alfred B. Ford, the great-grandson of automotive pioneer Henry Ford. Interact with devotees and wander through the vibrant pilgrims’ bazaar.

Day 9 : Chandannagar > Hooghly

Continue sailing downstream before landing to visit the imposing Imambara at Hooghly. With verses from the Quran written on its walls, the Imambara is an opportunity to step back in time and relive a slice of Islamic history in Bengal. Sail past the old Dutch settlement of Chinsura to Chandannagar, under French rule until 1950. Visit the 18th-century church and Dupleix Palace, once home of the Governor-General of French India. Enjoy a tuk tuk ride to the Hangseshwari Temple before sailing into the night to a mooring near Kolkata.

Day 10 : Kolkata

Disembark after breakfast in Kolkata, where arrangements conclude.