8 Days |

The Diwali Cruise tour with mv ganges voyager

Very Good

KOLKATA

KALNA

MATIARI

MURSHIDABAD

MAYAPUR

CHANDERNAGORE

Tour Overview

Embark on an enchanting journey this Diwali with the MV Ganges Voyager Cruise Tour. Glide along the sacred Ganges River, adorned with the twinkling lights of celebration. Experience the magic of Diwali amidst the serene waters, with luxurious accommodations and exquisite dining on board. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of India as you visit historic sites and witness breathtaking fireworks displays. Celebrate Diwali in style with the MV Ganges Voyager Cruise Tour.

Tour highlights

Experience the magic of Diwali amidst the serene waters
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of India

Features / Quality of the ship

How big is the boat : -
How many cabins : over 18+ luxurious cabins & suites.
When was it built : -
Facilities available : spa, private dining, Eat & Drink, Restaurant, Lounge, Cuisine,
Luxurious Accommodation : Maharaja Suite, Viceroy Suite, Heritage Suite, Colonial Suite, Signature Suite.
Immersive Experiences : Sun Deck, Excursions, Cultural Programs.
Relax and Rejuvenate : SPA, Fitness Centre.

Itinerary

Show details

Day 1 EMBARKATION: 04:00 PM (Dinner)

Arrive Kolkata : Arriving in Kolkata by late afternoon, we'll proceed to the jetty for embarkation. During the journey, we'll have the opportunity to witness the vibrant festivities of Diwali or Deepawali, known as the "Festival of Lights." This celebrated occasion holds immense significance across India, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. Homes are meticulously cleaned and adorned with earthen lamps, electric lights, and lanterns. Following sunset, people offer prayers to Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth, and Ganesh, the God of Goodwill and Prosperity, seeking blessings for health, wealth, and prosperity. The sky comes alive with the glow of firecrackers and sky lanterns, adding to the festive atmosphere. Dinner & overnight stay onboard Ganges Voyager

Day 2 KOLKATA - KALNA (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

Following breakfast, we'll visit Mother Teresa's home and tomb, where she founded the Missionaries of Charity and dedicated her life to service until her passing in 1997. The permanent exhibition offers insight into her remarkable life, allowing us to visit her room and witness the ongoing charitable work that continues in her name.
After returning to the ship for lunch, we'll embark on our journey, sailing past iconic bridges and through areas where various European settlers established East Indian Companies, leaving behind remnants of their settlements from the 17th through 19th centuries.
In the evening, we'll gather for a welcome reception, marking the beginning of our journey together. Dinner & overnight stay onboard Ganges Voyager

Day 3 KALNA – MATIARI (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

After breakfast, we'll take e-rickshaws to explore the Rajbari temple complex. The Nabakailas temple within houses 108 eight-slope-roofed shrines devoted to Lord Shiva. Throughout the complex, we'll encounter temples showcasing diverse architectural styles and renowned terracotta plaques depicting themes from Hindu epics and daily life. Upon returning to the ship, we'll leisurely stroll through the local vegetable market before setting sail towards the shore-side village of Matiari, enjoying lunch onboard along the way. Dinner & overnight stay onboard Ganges Voyager

Day 4 MATIARI – MURSHIDABAD (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

Take an early walk in the village to see and experience master craftsmen at work, utilizing recycled copper to create exquisite pots, platters, and more from their workshops in the village. Return to the ship for breakfast and sail to Khushbagh. Lunch onboard. In the evening walk through farmers’ fields to visit the Mughal-style Garden built by Nawab Ali Wardi Khan. It houses the Nawab’s private mosque and the tomb of the last Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daula, whom the British East India Company defeated at the historic Battle of Plassey. Evening cultural music and dance program. Dinner & overnight stay onboard Ganges Voyager

Day 5 MURSHIDABAD – MAYAPUR (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

In the morning, we'll uncover the hidden architectural treasures of Murshidabad, characterized by its dramatic whitewashed colonial-era buildings. We'll embark on horse carts, locally known as buggies, to reach the Katra Mosque. Constructed by the first Nawab of Murshidabad, Murshid Quli Khan, between 1724-25, this mosque boasts distinctive minarets from which the muezzin calls the faithful to Friday prayers. Following this, we'll explore the Hazarduari Palace, a commanding presence along the waterfront. Built during the reign of Nawab Nazim Humayun Jah (1824-1838 AD) by English architect McLeod Duncan, it showcases Greek "Doric" architectural style. The palace features over a thousand real and false doors in its vast corridors and houses colonial-era antiques, artwork, and manuscripts. After our exploration, we'll set sail towards Mayapur, enjoying lunch onboard along the way. Dinner & overnight stay onboard Ganges Voyager

Day 6 MAYAPUR – CHANDERNAGORE - KOLKATA (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

In the morning, we'll take leisurely walks through the pilgrim's bazaar, where we'll have the chance to meet Krishna's followers and catch a glimpse of their fascinating culture, along with colorful statues of Krishna. Our next stop will be the temple, which rivals the Vatican in size and has been generously funded by Alfred B. Ford, the great-grandson of Henry Ford.
After returning to the ship, we'll set sail for the fabled French colony of Chandernagore. There, we'll explore the charming colonial buildings lining the promenade, including the former French governor's residence, now transformed into a museum showcasing life during that period. Additionally, we'll visit the 150-year-old Sacred Heart Church.
Following our exploration, we'll return to the ship and sail back to Kolkata, where we'll arrive by late evening, concluding our memorable journey. Dinner & overnight stay onboard Ganges Voyager

Day 7 KOLKATA (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

After breakfast, we'll venture to the vibrant Flower Market, where artisans craft garlands, ornaments, and various floral items for temples, weddings, and other occasions. Following this colorful experience, we'll meander through the narrow lanes of Kumartuli, a traditional potters' quarter famous for its exquisite sculptures of Goddess idols and more.
Returning to the ship for lunch, we'll embark on a panoramic tour of Dalhousie Square's heritage buildings, including St. John's Church and the Victoria Memorial Museum, renowned for its Indo-Saracenic revivalist architecture.
Today marks Chhath Puja, a folk festival dedicated to the solar deity, Surya (the Sun God), expressing gratitude for life's blessings and seeking divine favor. As we sail on the Ganges, we'll witness devotees congregating along the riverbank for ritualistic activities and hear the resounding chants of Hindu prayers.
In the evening, we'll enjoy a cultural program followed by a farewell dinner, cherishing the memories of our unforgettable journey. Dinner & overnight stay onboard Ganges Voyager

Day 8 DISEMBARKATION (Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner)

KOLKATA : The morning is yours to enjoy at leisure, with breakfast and lunch served onboard the ship. Following this relaxing time, we'll disembark the ship and arrange for your transfer to continue your onward journey.
Important Note:

The itinerary may be altered and adjusted contingent on local conditions and days of the week when monuments/museums are closed. Last-minute sailing adjustments may also happen. The onboard tour staff will announce or post the exact time for each activity in advance.