Varanasi to Dibrugarh Epic Cruise tour with MV Ganga Vilas

Arrive Varanasi : Commence your river journey by embarking on the vessel at the Varanasi Jetty. Following a delightful onboard welcome lunch, embark on a walking tour through the vibrant alleyways leading to the Ghats. As dusk settles, experience the captivating Ganga Aarti ceremony along the riverside. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

ground marks the place where Lord Buddha, enlightened at Bodhgaya, delivered his very first sermon. After this enriching experience return to the ship for a leisurely lunch before setting sail downstream towards the outskirts of Varanasi. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Embark on a day of scenic tranquility as we gracefully navigate towards Ghazipur. Our attentive staff will ensure your comfort onboard, with delectable breakfast and lunch buffets prepared to fuel your exploration. This evening, we arrive in Ghazipur, a town boasting a rich historical tapestry. Founded in 1820 by the British East India Company, Ghazipur played a significant role in the global pharmaceutical industry, serving as a production center for medicinal opium. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following a morning repast, embark on a visit to the Tomb of Lord Cornwallis, a prominent figure in both Indian and British history. Upon returning to the vessel, we will commence a full-day journey downstream towards Buxar, a significant town situated in western Bihar bordering Uttar Pradesh. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Our morning commences with a visit to Ram Rekha Ghat, a revered site steeped in Ramayana lore. Legend recounts that Lord Rama himself bathed in the Ganges here to absolve himself after vanquishing the fearsome demon Tadaka. Following this immersion in Hindu mythology, we proceed to the Sita Ram Upadhyay Museum. Named after a local benefactor, this establishment houses a fascinating collection encompassing archaeological artifacts, historical coins, and even ancient manuscripts. It offers a captivating glimpse into the region's rich past. Afterward, we will return to the vessel and embark on a scenic sail towards Ghaghra Mod. This confluence marks the majestic meeting point of the Ganges and Ghaghra rivers, a breathtaking natural phenomenon. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following a morning breakfast, guests will have the opportunity to partake in a leisurely stroll through a charming riverside village. We will then re-embark on our vessel and set sail for a full day's journey towards Patna, the esteemed capital of the state of Bihar. Renowned for its extensive history, Patna boasts the distinction of being one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to its founding in 490 BCE as Pataliputra. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

After breakfast, it's time to hit the sights in Patna! We'll check out the Golghar, a giant granary with a cool story, and the Patna Museum, which is packed with all sorts of interesting stuff. Back on the ship for lunch, and then we set sail for Simaria, where we'll drop anchor for the night. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

In the morning, our itinerary progresses to Simaria. Following breakfast, engage in a riverside village walk to observe the daily routines of the local populace. Upon returning to the vessel, we continue our downstream journey, navigating under the distinguished bridge at Mokameh Ghat, and subsequently anchoring en route to Munger. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following breakfast on board, we arrive in Munger by afternoon. After lunch, we embark on a visit to the Munger Fort, followed by exploration of the local market renowned for its assortment of fruits, vegetables, textiles, and ready-to-wear garments. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

After breakfast, we will proceed to visit the Chandika Sthan Temple, venerating Goddess Shakti. This temple holds esteemed status as one of the fifty-one Shakti Peethas, intricately linked with the legend of Lord Vishnu's intervention to mitigate the wrath of Lord Shiva. Vishnu's decisive action involved the dismemberment of Devi Sati's corpse, which Shiva carried, to pacify his rage. Following this significant visit, we will return to the ship for lunch as we set sail towards Sultanganj. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

After breakfast, we will embark on an excursion to Sultanganj, renowned for its two significant granite rock islands situated in the river, linked to the mainland by a causeway. One of these islands houses a mosque, while the larger one hosts the Ajgaibinath Temple, devoted to Lord Shiva. Our visit will focus on exploring the revered Shiva temple. Upon returning to the ship, we will continue our journey towards Bateshwarsthan, indulging in lunch onboard while sailing. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

After breakfast, we will depart in cars for the 8th to 9th-century excavation site of Vikramshila University, where we will explore the ancient ruins on foot. Vikramshila University held significant importance as a Buddhist center of learning during the reign of the Pala Dynasty. It offered education in various subjects, including theology, philosophy, grammar, metaphysics, and logic. After our insightful visit, we will return to the ship and continue our journey towards Samtaghat. As we sail, you will be captivated by the scenic landscape and the vibrant river life along the way. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Indulging in breakfast onboard, we embark on our morning voyage, crossing the illustrious Farakka Lock Gate. Navigating through the Feeder Canal offers us an opportunity to observe the diverse avian species native to the region. Upon passing the Lock Gate, our journey progresses through the connecting canal leading to the Hooghly River, the lower stretch of the Ganges. We maintain our course towards Jangipur as we continue our journey along the waterway. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

We embark on a full-day sail towards Murshidabad, savoring breakfast and lunch onboard as we journey along the river. By evening, we arrive in Murshidabad, a concealed architectural marvel boasting striking whitewashed colonial-era edifices. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

After breakfast, enjoy a Toto (e-rickshaw) ride to the distinctive Katra mosque with unique minarets. Return for lunch onboard. Later, visit the Hazarduari Palace, an architectural gem dominating the waterfront. Designed in the Greek "Doric" style by English architect McLeod Duncan, the palace features over a thousand doors and colonial-era antiques. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

We embark on a full-day sailing excursion toward the picturesque shore-side village of Matiari, indulging in breakfast and lunch onboard throughout our journey. Anticipated arrival in Matiari by evening promises an enriching opportunity to explore this charming village nestled along the riverbank. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

At dawn, embark on a village stroll to witness the skilled craftsmen in action. Utilizing recycled copper, these artisans craft stunning pots, platters, and other wares in their village workshops. Following this enlightening experience, return to the ship for breakfast before continuing our journey onward to Kalna. We anticipate our arrival in Kalna by evening. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

At dawn, embark on a village stroll to witness the skilled craftsmen in action. Utilizing recycled copper, these artisans craft stunning pots, platters, and other wares in their village workshops. Following this enlightening experience, return to the ship for breakfast before continuing our journey onward to Kalna. We anticipate our arrival in Kalna by evening. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

After breakfast, visit the Flower Market to witness artisans creating floral garlands and ornaments for various occasions. Next, explore Kumartuli, known for its skilled potters. Return to the ship for lunch, then enjoy a panoramic tour of Dalhousie Square's heritage sites: St. John's Church, Victoria Memorial, and Mother Teresa’s Home. Conclude the day with a cultural performance onboard. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following breakfast, take a leisurely stroll around the historic Indentured Memorial Jetty, commemorating the Indian indentured laborers who departed from here for Suriname in 1873, then a Dutch colony in South America. After lunch, attend to immigration formalities. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following breakfast, we will tour the renowned Indian Museum and explore the local market. Return to the ship for lunch, and depending on the tide conditions, we will set sail towards Namkhana, anchoring en route. Namkhana serves as the gateway to the Sundarbans National Park, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Upon relishing breakfast onboard, we dock at Namkhana. Our excursion takes us to Bhagabatpur Island, celebrated for its crocodile project featuring a hatchery for estuarine crocodiles. Following this visit, return to the ship for lunch. Our journey continues as we sail to Bali Island, navigating through the scenic creek. As a quintessential Sundarban village, Bali is home to residents engaged in diverse activities such as farming, paddy husking, honey packing, and fishing. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following an early breakfast, embark on a country boat ride to the Dobanki Watchtower, where you'll experience a captivating canopy walk at an elevation of 20 feet, unveiling the rich flora and fauna of the region. Return to the ship for lunch. Later, partake in a village walk in Bali, engaging with local artisans as they craft intricate handicrafts, and have the opportunity to witness a traditional tribal dance performance. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Today, we embark on our journey towards Hemnagar, savoring breakfast and lunch onboard while marveling at the untamed beauty of the mangrove forest. Situated as the southernmost settlement of the region, Hemnagar serves as a pivotal check-post for customs formalities, facilitating the crossing of the international riverine border between India and Bangladesh. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Today, while relishing breakfast and lunch onboard, we navigate through the heart of the Sundarbans, progressing towards the Bangladeshi side until we reach Antihara. This location serves as the checkpoint for completing Immigration and Customs formalities required for entry into Bangladesh. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

As we sail towards Mongla town, guests will enjoy breakfast onboard. Mongla serves as the gateway to the Sundarbans on the Bangladesh side. Following lunch, we will embark on a visit to the Sixty Domed Mosque, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Locally known as the 'Shat Gombuj', meaning Sixty Domes in Bangla, this mosque holds significant historical and architectural importance. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

In the morning, we set sail for Karamjol. Following breakfast, we will explore the Forest Reserve Centre, dedicated to the preservation of a diverse array of mammals, insects, bird species, reptiles, and fish. After our visit, we will return to the ship for lunch before continuing our journey towards Kaukhali. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Continuing our voyage, we arrive at Kaukhali while indulging in breakfast onboard. Upon reaching, we'll take a stroll through the village, exploring a Kumar Pada (potters’ colony), the local market, and a Hindu Vaishnavite temple with an adjacent cremation ground. After this insightful visit, we return to the ship for lunch before setting sail for Barisal, affectionately known as the Venice of Bengal. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following breakfast, we'll explore the renowned Floating Market, celebrated for its abundance of fresh fruits, attracting numerous farmers and wholesalers daily. After this excursion, we'll return to the ship for lunch. In the afternoon, we'll visit the Oxford Epiphany Church, an Anglican church revered as one of the oldest in the region. The church's architectural style, characterized by Greek influences, adds to its historical and aesthetic significance. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Today, while relishing breakfast and lunch onboard, we embark on a full-day voyage towards Dhaka, taking in the scenic countryside vistas along the way. Our journey offers views of lush coconut palms, banana and mango trees lining the shoreline, quaint settlements, cargo freighters navigating the river, and traditional nouka ferries transporting passengers. We arrive at the bustling Mawa jetty, situated near Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following breakfast, embark on a panoramic tour of Dhaka's iconic heritage buildings, including Dhaka University, Curzon Hall, Old High Court, Parliament Building, and Dhakeshwari Temple. Enjoy lunch in the city, then continue your exploration with a visit to Sonargaon, known as the 'Golden City,' once the ancient capital of undivided Bengal. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Today, as we delight in breakfast and lunch onboard, we embark on a full-day upstream journey to the Aricha River port. Aricha is renowned for being a prime location for catching the renowned Hilsha fish, with several trawlers visible in the vicinity. Continuing our voyage, we will sail further upstream towards Tangail, anchoring en route. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Continuing our journey, we arrive at Tangail, a significant hub for handloom and cotton weaving, while relishing breakfast and lunch onboard. After lunch, we visit the Atia Mosque, a historic four-domed monument constructed during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir. Notably, it is colloquially referred to as the "10 Taka Mosque" due to its depiction on the obverse side of the 10 Taka banknote issued by the Government of Bangladesh. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Today, our journey takes us towards Sirajganj, a significant center for the collection, processing, and trade of jute. The jute mills here were pioneers in the Bengal area. After lunch, we will visit the Hatikumrul Navaratna Temple, a majestic three-storied temple adorned with nine spires. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Today, we embark on a full-day sail further upstream towards the Indo-Bangladesh border, which touches the northeastern region of India. As we navigate, guests will enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard while soaking in the picturesque riverine countryside scenery along the way. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Continuing our voyage, we arrive at the Chilmari River port, situated on the picturesque banks of the Teesta and Jamuna rivers, near the international border with India. Guests will enjoy breakfast and lunch onboard amidst this serene setting. Following lunch, we will complete the immigration and customs formalities required by Bangladesh. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following breakfast, embark on a journey to Rangpur, known as the "City of Colour." Spend the day immersing yourself in its rich cultural heritage. Explore iconic landmarks such as the majestic Tajhat Palace and Museum, the serene Dimla Kali Temple, and the esteemed Carmichael College. Indulge in a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. By evening, return to the ship, having experienced the essence of Rangpur. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Today, while relishing breakfast and lunch onboard, we undertake an upstream journey, crossing the international riverine border to reach Dhubri in the State of Assam for Indian Immigration and Customs formalities. Dhubri, situated on the banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River (known as the Jamuna River on the Indian side), is a historic town with rich cultural significance. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following breakfast, embark on an exploration of Dhubri town, visiting the Gurdwara (Sikh temple) of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib, a revered religious site. Additionally, we will explore the nearby pottery village, renowned for its traditional craft of terracotta. Return to the ship for lunch before continuing our journey downstream to Goalpara. Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.

Following breakfast, we embark on a drive to explore Sri Surya Pahar, an archaeologically significant yet relatively undiscovered site. Here, valuable cultural remnants of Buddhism, Jainism, and Hinduism are preserved, evident from the myriad sculptures and relics unearthed. After this enriching visit, we return to the ship for lunch before sailing to Sualkuchi, a renowned textile center often referred to as the "Manchester of Assam." Dinner & overnight onboard Ganga Vilas.