Ganges River Cruise

The Ganges River Cruise weaves through the heart of Bengal & Varanasi, unveiling the rich tapestry of life along its sacred waters. As you glide along the tranquil river, engulf yourself in the vibrant hues of Kolkata and soak in the spiritual vibe of Varanasi. Here, you’ll step into the bustling streets, steeped in history and brimming with energy & the cultural richness of the towns and villages lining the riverbanks.

Beyond the city’s vibrant embrace, the Ganges River Cruise unveils the serene beauty of the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest. As you float through the emerald labyrinth of waterways, encounter the Royal Bengal Tiger, the majestic guardian of this unique ecosystem, spot crocodiles basking in the sun, monkeys swinging through the trees, and a myriad of birds soaring overhead.

Moreover, the Ganges River Cruise offers a glimpse into the local life of West Bengal, Varanasi, and Patna. Stroll through the village, interact with the warm and welcoming folks, and watch the splendid Ganga Aarti along the banks. Venture into the bustling city and experience the thrill of a canopy walk to reveal the flora & fauna, savoring the sights and sounds of rural India. Cruising is a delightful way to experience every nook and cranny of this often-missed region, as many areas are virtually unreachable by foot.

Explore India’s Heartland from the waters

Two cruises, Antara Ganges Voyager and Bengal Despatch, will offer guests grand experiences and cover iconic locations on the Ganges River. Embrace the allure of a luxurious cruise that will whisk you away to the captivating landscapes of Bengal and Varanasi, where the gentle sway of the ship will serenade you into blissful tranquility.

Antara Ganges Voyager

The Cruise will take you to the city of Kolkata, the serene Sundarban National Park, and the mangrove forests of Bony Camp. Pay a visit to temples like Hanseswari and Ananta Basudeb, and seek blessings from the almighty. Furthermore, sail down the Malta River to the Hero Bhangra Islands to observe aquatic life. The cruise will take you to Bali Island, known for farming and fishing. Marvel at the Prabartak Seva Niketan a shelter for destitute children with a vision to provide education and rehabilitation of the girl child. Also, come across wildlife at the Sundarbans National Park & Mangrove Forest, the fishing port of Namkhana, and a canopy walk will give a spark of thrill.

Bengal Despatch Cruise

This Cruise will lead you to Varanasi’s ghats and Patna’s lanes. Further, visit Ramnagar to see the Maharaja’s Palace and museum. Then, witness the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony, where young priests perform daily rituals with brass lamps and spiritual mantras. Stroll through the busy alleys of Varanasi to experience the city’s beating heart. Besides this, the Cruise will let you visit the Mughal Bridge, the Tomb of Lord Cornwallis at Ghazipur, and the Mughal Tomb. Explore the country town of Jangipur on foot and walk through the paddy field of Baranagar. Also, you will bump into some of the Mughal-style gardens and tombs, whereas Mayapur offers a visit to the ISKCON Temple, which dominates the skyline.

Wildlife Encounters

The Ganges is teeming with life, both spiritual and natural. The region is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts; you can spot various species as you cruise along. You can see Royal Bengal Tigers, crocodiles, and various bird species here. The riverbanks are also home to diverse wildlife and aquatic life, creating a serene and peaceful environment.

Life on Board

The Ganges River Cruise provides a blend of comfort and spirituality. Gather with fellow passengers as evening falls for lively conversations over delectable dinner and drinks. Find solace in the quiet corners of the ship, and indulge yourselves in reading, writing, or simply observing the captivating panorama of life unfolding along the riverbanks. Moreover, catch the glimpses as the sun lowers, painting the sky with hues of crimson. There’s also a spa and swimming pool to relax, rejuvenate yourself, and spot some of Bengal’s most exotic wildlife from the deck.

While surrounded by nature’s rugged beauty, your journey will be one of comfort. Cruise ships offer cozy cabins, delicious cuisine, and open decks for relaxation. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

The Ganges is not just a river; it’s a way of life. Bengal & Varanasi is a fusion of traditions & cultures, and the Ganges River Cruise allows you to feel the essence of its diverse communities. You can step ashore at each port of call and converse with the locals to learn about their lifestyle. Wander through the labyrinthine lanes of Kumartuli, where skilled artisans meticulously craft clay idols of Hindu deities, preparing for the grand Durga Puja celebrations. Walk through Chunar, where carpet weaving and Chunar pottery offer a taste of the traditional industries that still thrive in the region. Also, watch the folk dance forms, which offer a glance into India’s rich heritage and culture through their moves and attire. Witness ancient temples, forts, and palaces that narrate the tales of India’s rich history.

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    SUMMER SEASON

    (March to June)

    Summer in Gir National Park brings heat and humidity, and the temperature fluctuates between 25°C to 42°C. Despite that, Summer is a preferable season to spot wildlife creatures and thus engage in nature photography. It is advised to visit early in the morning as this is when the weather is better for a decent experience in exploring the wildlife. All in all, if your main focus is to sight the lions, you got to visit during the summer months.

    MONSOON SEASON

    (July to October)

    The Monsoon season is set in July and lasts till October in Gir National Park. However, during this season, the southwest Monsoon hits the national park, making the safari impossible for visitors. Hence, the park remains closed, and unfortunately, you cannot plan a wildlife tour to Gir. Though the scenic beauty of this park is said to get doubled in the Monsoon, the rain is a factor that can spoil the plan of your wildlife exploration. Keeping all these factors in mind, it is better to avoid a wildlife tour plan. If you are still inclined to visit, you can check out the nearby Devalia Park, which opens throughout the year.

    WINTER SEASON

    (November to February)

    Winter is an ideal time to visit Gir National park to admire the natural beauty and unique landscapes of the region. During this season, the weather brings a cool and comfortable climate, and the temperature varies from 10°C to 22°C. Enjoying the weather and exploring the jungle is one of the best combo activities you can get to do in Sasan Gir during Winter. You can spot a wide variety of animal species and some endangered birds that flock here during this time. The overall beauty of this park enhances during this season, bringing comfortable climate conditions to explore at any time of the day.

    BEST TIME TO VISIT GANGES RIVER CRUISE

    The best time to embark on a Ganges River Cruise is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is pleasant, and the river’s cultural and spiritual experiences are at their peak.

    HOW TO REACH GANGES RIVER CRUISE

     
    By Flight
    By Train
    By Road
    The nearest airport to start your Antara Ganges Voyages is the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, the primary gateway. Bengal Despatch Cruise starts from Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi. This airport connects to major Indian cities and is the direct gateway for travelers embarking on this remarkable journey. Once you arrive at the airport, transportation is readily available to take you to the Cruise’s departure point.
    The nearest railway station to commence your Antara Ganges Voyager is Howrah Junction. Bengal Despatch commences from Varanasi Junction. These are the major railway stations accessible from various parts of India. You can easily reach the embarkation point for the Cruise from here.
    Road travel is another option to reach the Ganges River Cruise. To reach Antara Ganges Voyager, Kolkata is well-connected by road, and you can reach the city via national highways. Depending on your location, you can hire a taxi, use public transportation, or drive to Kolkata.

    Meanwhile, well-maintained highways connect Varanasi, Haridwar, and other towns along the Ganges to the Bengal Despatch, providing a picturesque journey to your cruise departure point.

    TRAVEL TIPS FOR GANGES RIVER CRUISE

    • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during rituals along the ghats.
    • Carry sufficient cash, as it remains the primary mode of payment in many areas.
    • Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take necessary health precautions during the Cruise.
    • Respect the serene environment and spirituality of the river by maintaining a calm and peaceful demeanor.

    BOOK YOUR GANGES RIVER CRUISE

    A Ganges River Cruise is not just a voyage; it’s a spiritual exploration. Book your Cruise now and immerse yourself in the sacred essence of the Ganges.

    FAQs about Ganges River Cruise

    Is the Ganges River Cruise suitable for spiritual seekers?

    Absolutely! The Ganges River Cruise offers a profound spiritual experience, allowing travelers to witness sacred rituals, explore ancient temples, and immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance of the holy river.

    What amenities are available on Ganges River Cruise ships?

    Ganges River Cruise ships provide comfortable cabins, authentic Indian cuisine, open decks for relaxation, and various onboard activities. The focus is on blending comfort with the spiritual and cultural journey.

    When is the ideal time to take a Ganges River Cruise?

    The best time for a Ganges River Cruise is during the winter months, from October to March when the weather is pleasant and cultural experiences along the river are at their peak.