Discover a world of color, culture, and the cherished spiritual heritage of India. Your guided tour of India and Ganges River cruise begins in the bustling city of Delhi. First, travel to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities, to observe the striking Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River. Return to Delhi and tour the city with your expert Tour Director. Take a rickshaw ride through the Chandni Chowk bazaar—brimming with everything from silver and spices to saris of every color. You’ll visit Qutub Minar—the world’s largest brick minaret and see Delhi’s largest Sikh gurudwara (house of worship), before traveling to Agra—site of the legendary Taj Mahal. You’ll encounter more stunning sights with a sunset excursion to the Taj Mahal—the iconic memorial built by Moghul emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife. More than 20 years in the making, the Taj Mahal stands as the pinnacle of love’s devotion, where you’ll also have the opportunity to experience this iconic site at sunrise. You’ll continue to the city of Jaipur, with its famous Palace of the Winds, and spectacular Amber Fort, before flying to Kolkata to board your cruise on the Ganges River—the holy river of Hinduism, as it slowly courses through one of the world’s most fertile and populated areas. Along its banks, human life is connected to its waters, and you’ll get a glimpse of life apart from India’s big cities. From fascinating muslin weaving in Nabadwip and pottery making in Guptipara, you’ll explore the fascinating Hare Krishna headquarters in Mayapur and visit the stunning Hooghly Imambara upon your return to Kolkata. In Kathmandu, sightseeing is spread over two leisurely days. Visits include Hanuman Dhoka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Temple of Kumari, residence of the Living Goddess, a child thought to be the reincarnation of a Hindu goddess. You’ll also journey to Patan and Bouddhanath, Nepal’s largest stupa. All of this and more await you on this once-in-a-lifetime guided tour of India and Nepal with a Ganges River cruise.
We’ve packed everything you need for the perfect vacation—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world’s most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi (where available).
FIRE & WATER Witness the light of ancient tradition as night descends on the Ganges River in Varanasi. Witness the devotional offerings made to the Goddess Ganga in the aarti performed at the river’s edge as it has been done throughout the ages. A ritual of fire, faithful Hindus float “diyas” (small candle and flowers) on the waters of the Ganges River, while praying for the blessing of Maa Ganga
Day 2
CULTURE & TRADITION In Hinduism, taking bath in the holy river Ganga sacred as immersing oneself in the holy river Ganga is more than just a ceremonial activity, it is a profound experience in connecting with the supreme power and nature's divine essence. Witness this sacred practice of hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, practicing yoga or meditation
Day 3
LOVE REMEMBERED End your day with a bucket-list sunset visit to the extravagant Taj Mahal, a marble monument to love more than 20 years in the making. Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan built it as a memorial to his beloved wife, who died during childbirth. Your guided tour takes you inside the Mausoleum, with time to explore on your own and reflect
Day 4
THE PINK CITY Visit Jaipur, the legendary city which was painted pink to welcome the Prince of Wales in 1876. Today, this fascinating city is still known as the “Pink City.”
Day 5
FORMIDABLE FORTRESS Visit the legendary Amber Fort, known as the “Sleeping Beauty of Rajasthan,” built entirely of white marble and red sandstone. This fortress-palace has a somber exterior that hides a richly ornate interior of royal apartments, including an alabaster Hall of Victory and a superb Chamber of Mirrors
Day 6
SHIP SPOTLIGHT Antara’s MV Bengal Ganga features vibrant interiors and hand-crafted furniture with a blend of traditional and contemporary textiles and art that mirror the landscape and changing hues of water. Spacious, bright and comfortable rooms create a sense of well-being with large French balconies and free-flowing common spaces that invite the outdoors in. Elegant décor, attentive service, luxurious amenities, and spectacular views await!
Day 7
BRIDGING HISTORY An iconic landmark in Kolkata, the massive, steel Howrah Bridge spans the Hooghly River and is considered one of the longest cantilever bridges in the world. Also known as Rabindra Setu, its 26,500 tons of steel connect Howrah and Kolkata as a lifeline for 100,000 vehicles and countless pedestrians daily since 1943
Day 8
ON THE PROMENADE A marvel of town planning along the Hooghly, the promenade in Chandernagore evokes the French Riviera on the Hooghly River with lush trees and beautiful French colonial architecture as one of the most important French settlements in Asia in the 18th century
Day 9
TIMELESS TEMPLES
The Rajbari temple complex showcases exquisite architecture adorned with intricate terracotta carvings. Here, you’ll visit Naba Kailash Temple, containing 108 slope-roofed shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva
Day 10
HARE KRISHNA ISKCON is a global spiritual movement dedicated to promoting the cultural teachings of ancient Indian traditions. A Krishna leader will guide you throughout your visit to introduce you to their philosophy and life on campus, Along the way, you’ll tour the main temple and have time for questions
Day 11
WEAVING MAGIC The textural motif against an airy muslin fabric is the definition of the heritage Jamdani cloth, on which skilled weavers uses a hand tool made of horn (kandul) to create delicate embellishments on the Jamdani muslin adorned with a wide variety of geometric and traditional floral and figured designs
Day 12
HOLY SITE See the architectural splendor of Hooghly Imambara, the 19th-century holy shrine beloved by the people of Bengal as well as the entire Muslim community of India. It dignifies the western bank of river Bhagirathi-Hooghly with fading grandeur whispering the story of its glorious past
Day 13
A LIVING GODDESS Visit the Temple of Kumari, home to who is believed to be a living goddess thought to be the living incarnation of the goddess Durga. The Sanskrit meaning of the word "Kumari" is derived from the word "Kaumarya,” which means “princess.” A fascinating experience in history and culture in Nepal
Day 14
THE EYES OF BUDDHA The first stupa at Bouddhanath was built sometime after AD 600, when the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo, converted to Buddhism. Its whitewashed dome and gilded tower adorned with the eyes of the Buddha create a perfectly proportioned monument that attracts Tibetan pilgrims to perform morning and evening koras (ceremonial walking ritual).
Accommodations
Delhi
Varanasi
Delhi
Agra
Jaipur
Kathmandu
Hotel Roseate House Superior First-Class
Asset 10 Delhi India
The Roseate House New Delhi is a contemporary hotel located in Aerocity, a blossoming hospitality district in the city. Inspired by a book, each floor has been named a `story¿ and each room category a `chapter,¿ that embodies a perfect blend of contemporary design and functionality.
Taj Ganges, Varanasi Superior First-Class
Nadesar Palace Ground Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Varanasi India
Featured among the top hotels in the city, The Gateway Hotel Varanasi is nestled amidst 40 acres of lush gardens. Enjoy their outdoor pool, fitness center, restaurants and bar. De-stress with their rejuvenating Spa therapies. Inspired by the principles and practices of yoga and yogic lifestyle, the unique experiences infuses your mind, body, and soul with positive energy.
Taj Palace, New Delhi Moderate Deluxe
2 Sardar Patel Marg, Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi Delhi India
Nestled amidst the heart of the historic Indian capital city, the iconic Taj Palace, New Delhi has held a distinguished position amongst the finest hotels of the world for close to four decades. Spread over six acres of lush gardens, the landmark hotel is synonymous with timeless luxury and unmatched hospitality. With panoramic views of the city's verdant protected greens, the hotel offers an inimitable confluence of epitomising elements of Indian art, warm, personalised service and unmatched luxury.
Taj Hotel & Convention Centre Moderate Deluxe
Taj East Gate Road, Uttar Pradesh Agra India
The Taj Hotel & Convention Centre has 239 plush rooms and features views of the Taj Mahal from the rooftop bar. There is also an abundance of dining options, an invigorating spa, and a variety of other amenities to make for an enjoyable stay.
Jai Mahal Palace Superior First-Class
Jacob Rd, Civl Lines Jaipur India
Set amidst 18 acres of beautifully landscaped Moghul gardens, this incomparable Palace dates back to 1745 A.D. A masterpiece in the Indo Saracenic style of architecture, it blends spotlight grabbing opulence with tantalizing comforts that transport guests to a world of Rajasthan magnificence. It is located downtown, close to the main shopping center and historical monuments.
Kathmandu Marriott Hotel Superior First-Class
Manakamana Marga Kathmandu Nepal
Situated in the city center near top shopping, dining and attractions, the Kathmandu Marriott Hotel features modern design, deluxe amentities and excellent service. Take in gorgeous views of the majestic Himalayan mountain range and enjoy spacious rooms while discovering the wonders of Kathmandu.
Destination & Sightseeing
Destination & Sightseeing
MEALS
ITINERARY
Accommodations
