India Cruises

This riverside village in West Bengal sits on the Hooghly, a branch of the Ganges, surrounded by lush countryside. Visitors are given a warm welcome and invited to learn about the community’s long-standing brass-working tradition.

Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is one of the largest cities in India and the capital of West Bengal. It sits on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges, and is a highlight of any cruise along it. The city itself is a cultural heavyweight, with landmarks that showcase its long and layered history.For instance, the Indian Museum, founded in 1814, is the oldest in Asia, while the Victoria Memorial offers a glimpse into colonial-era history. Mallick Ghat, meanwhile, is a lively flower market overflowing with marigolds, while the Botanical Gardens are home to approximately 12,000 plant species.

This ancient city has flourished for over a thousand years, on the banks of a branch of the Ganges known as the Bhagirathi River.During its long and storied history, it has become one of the most sacred sites in West Bengal, earning the moniker ‘the city of temples’. Travellers from far and wide come to see Naba Kailash Mandir, a Shiva temple constructed in 1809, which is structured as two concentric circles. Others come for the Rajbari Complex, known for its terracotta ornamentation depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

You’ll find this historic town in West Bengal, set on the banks of the Bhagirathi River, a distributary of the Ganges. In the 18th century, it rose to prominence as one of the subcontinent’s most prosperous and cosmopolitan centres, known for its wealth, art and culture. That legacy lingers today in the monuments that remain. The 19th-century Hazarduari Palace dominates the riverfront, its neoclassical façade famed for a thousand doors (though only 900 are real). Namak Haram Deorhi, meanwhile, also known as the ‘Traitor’s Gate’, is steeped in intrigue and associated with secret plots. 

This West Bengal town sits on the western bank of the Hooghly River, a distributary of the Ganges. Once a French settlement, it became an important centre for trading indigo, silk and rice. Today, traces of European influence remain. Along the riverside strand, colonial architecture still stands, such as the Sacred Heart Church.Bengali culture, however, is what defines the town in the 21st century. The Nandadulal Temple, for example, is a focal point. Chandannagar is also known for its traditional cuisine, which offers another window into its character.

In this city in West Bengal, you’ll find historical artefacts related to India’s quest for freedom from colonial rule. It served as the country’s oldest British cantonment, dating back to 1772, and was the site of an early uprising against colonial forces. It’s also home to Gandhi Ghat, which has a memorial and is enshrined with part of Mahatma Gandhi’s ashes.  At this port stop, you can also visit the Annapurna Temple, which overlooks the Hooghly River (a branch of the Ganges).

Commonly regarded as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Varanasi is also among the most sacred. For thousands of years, it has featured in myths and religious texts, and today still draws pilgrims in their thousands.That’s partially because Varanasi is one of the holiest places for cremation in Hinduism. The sight of funeral pyres along the ghats is an integral part of its cityscape.And yet, despite the associations with death, the city thrums with life at every turn. Music drifts through its narrow lanes, lassi stalls serve up frothy concoctions and yoga is practised in the open air by the river.

On the southern bank of the Ganges, you’ll find Patna, the capital of the Indian state of Bihar. Today, it’s a modern metropolis in eastern India, but its history stretches back to the sixth century BC.Visitors can still trace echoes from that past, from the archaeological remains of Kumhrar to museums and libraries housing manuscripts and artefacts that span centuries.

This town in West Bengal sits at the confluence of the Jalangi River and the Bhagirathi, a branch of the Ganges. It’s considered a spiritual hub, drawing pilgrims to its temples and sacred sites, many of which are dedicated to Krishna.

In Mangalore, ancient maritime glory meets the tranquil beauty of the coast. This citys warm, humid climate and lush landscapes offer a refreshing retreat from the usual tourist hotspots. As a thriving port city, Mangalore is a living museum displaying the harmonious blend of diverse religious and cultural influences. A unique highlight is the city's famed Kadri Manjunath Temple, celebrated for its bronze statues which are among the oldest in India.

Mumbai, where traditions thread through modernity, offers an entrancing gateway to India's soul. The city's tropical climate and bustling streets encapsulate a dynamic blend of commerce and spirituality. As the heart of the Indian film industry, Mumbai showcases the dreams and dramas of a nation, while the annual Ganesh Chaturthi festival transforms the city into a spectacle of devotion and celebration. A lesser-known fact: Mumbai houses the largest tropical forest in an urban zone, offering a green escape within the concrete maze.

Welcome to Chennai, where ancient Dravidian temples rise majestically alongside bustling markets, telling stories of civilizations that flourished along the Coromandel Coast. This city's tropical climate offers a warm embrace, enhancing an exploration filled with genuine encounters and vibrant street scenes that capture the essence of India. Beyond the usual tourist routes, Chennai serves as a window into the soulful rhythms of everyday Indian life. The city's beaches, longest of their kind in India, are not just sandy stretches but cultural arenas where festivals light up the local spirit.

Goa, with its fascinating legacy of Portuguese influence and vibrant Indian traditions, is the perfect blend of old and new. The region's tropical climate complements its laid-back vibe, offering sun-drenched days perfect for exploration or relaxation. Goa is a genuine reflection of India, from its colorful festivals to its serene beaches and spice-laden cuisine. As a favorite showcase for Indias southwestern charm, it also houses Asias only Naval Aviation Museuma unique gem revealing a proud aeronautical past.

Cochin offers a storied past of spice traders and colonial encounters where you can deep dive into the heart of Kerala. Its tropical climate and lush greenery provide a serene backdrop that contrasts sharply with the bustling energy of typical tourist centers. Cochin exemplifies the essence of India, with its bustling markets and tranquil backwaters. The city is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting the unique sight of Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi, a technique introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan