Overview
Hooghly River, a tributary of the Ganges, is adorned with historical landmarks, stretching from Kolkata in the south to Jangipur in the north. Whether navigating upstream or downstream on these 7-night excursions, you encounter a series of former European capitals—abandoned remnants of colonial empires boasting magnificent structures. Amid explorations of these monuments, indulge in a cycle rickshaw ride through local villages and leisurely strolls amidst Mughal gardens and tombs. Operating throughout the year, these cruises provide a unique opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path areas inaccessible by any land-based itinerary in West Bengal. The highlighted tour is the 7-night Upstream journey from Kolkata to Farakka, and it is also possible to embark on the reverse journey downstream.
Breakfast
Sightseeing
Hotel
Transport
Trip Highlights
- Kolkata City Tour
- Danish colony of Serampore to Barrackpore
- Semaphore Tower, Government House,
- The Temple of Fame and Flagstaff House
- Imambara
- Dupleix Palace of Governor-General of French India
- Visit the Shiva temple with concentric rings made up of 108 shrinelets
- Visit to Mayapur ISKCON Temple
- Visit the village of Matiari
- Visit the battlefield of Plassey
- Siraj-ud-Daulah Garden Visit
- Katgola Palace
- Visit Gorgeous Terracotta Temples
- Visit to Gaur & English Bazar
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Kolkata
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal. Its unique blend of tradition and modernity, coupled with its warm hospitality, makes it a fascinating destination for travellers and a proud cultural capital of India.
- Arrive at the Kolkata airport and transfer to the hotel.
Day 2: Kolkata - Chandrapur
Chandrapur is a city located in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, India.
- After breakfast, transfer to the jetty to embark on The Rajmahal cruise.
- Sail past the old Danish colony of Serampore to Barrackpore.
- Disembark, visit notable landmarks, and explore the area.
Day 3: Chinsurah
Chinsurah, also known as Hooghly-Chinsurah, is a town located in the Hooghly district of West Bengal, India. Visitors to Chinsurah can explore its historical sites, enjoy the riverside ambience, and learn about the town's colonial legacy.
- Visit an 18th-century church and Dupleix Palace.
- Sail upstream to Chinsura and explore the Imambara at Hooghly.
- Sail to a mooring near Kalna.
Day 4: Kalna
Kalna, also known as Ambika Kalna, is a historic town located in the Purba Bardhaman district of West Bengal, India. Visitors to Kalna can explore its architectural gems, appreciate the craftsmanship of terracotta art, and soak in the historical and cultural ambience of this charming town.
- Explore Kalna, and visit terracotta temples and a muslin-weaving center.
- Continue to Mayapur to visit the ISKCON temple.
- Sail to a mooring near Matiari.
Day 5: Matiari
Matiari is a charming riverside village located along the Hooghly River in West Bengal, India. For those interested in traditional craftsmanship, cultural experiences, and a laid-back riverside setting, Matiari provides a unique and enriching destination in the rural landscapes of West Bengal.
- Visit Matiari village known for brass work.
- Cruise to the Plassey battlefield.
- Moor near Khushbagh for the night.
Day 6: Baranagar
Baranagar is a historical town located along the banks of the Hooghly River in West Bengal, India. With its historical significance and architectural gems, offers a captivating journey through time, providing insights into Bengal's past and cultural diversity.
- Walk to Khushbagh, and visit Hazarduari Palace and Katra Mosque.
- Drive to Katgola Palace.
- Moor overnight at Baranagar.
Day 7: Farakka Bazar
Farakka Bazar is a location in West Bengal, India, situated near the Farakka Barrage. Visitors can enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside and explore the unique aspects of this region in West Bengal.
- Walk through Baranagar's fields, and visit terracotta temples.
- Cruise up the lower Ganges to a mooring near Farakka Barrage.
Day 8: Gaur And English Bazaar
Gaur represents the historical glory of Bengal as a medieval capital, while English Bazar, now Malda, reflects a blend of historical trade, cultural richness, and architectural heritage. Both places offer insights into the diverse history of the region.
- Full-day excursion by road to Gaur near Malda or English Bazar.
- Explore historic mosques, palaces, and gateways.
- Rejoin the ship in the evening.
Day 9: Kolkata
- Disembark, transfer to Farakka station.
- Take a 4-hour train journey to Kolkata.
- Transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 10: Kolkata
- Depending on your onward flight, transfer to the airport.
Important Information
- International flights
- Arrival and departure transfers
- Nine nights of accommodation, including seven nights on the cruise and two nights in Kolkata
- All excursions on board with English-speaking guides
- Meal Plan: Full board on the cruise and Bed & Breakfast in Kolkata.
Packages Exclude
- Airfare is not included in the package.
- Entrance Fee to monuments, and temples. camera charges, cable car charges, boating charges, guide charges, etc.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, mineral water, use of the mini-bar in the room, and shopping expenses are not covered.