While many of India’s roads and railway tracks are well travelled there are remote spots of the country that remain rarely visited due to accessibility until the introduction of leisure cruises on a network of waterways. There is a fleet of purpose built cruise vessels to enjoy a leisurely journey with a unique view of many historical sights and the country’s scenic beauty. Take in ever changing rural scenes from the top deck or balcony of your river cruiser as you travel to out of the way places, along legendary rivers and on tranquil backwaters.
GANGES RIVER
Cruise onboard the elegant Ganges Voyager to colonial settlements of Bengal, at one time the centre of the global indigo, opium and textile trade. On this cultural voyage of discovery sail from Kolkata to Bandel, Kalna, Matiari, Khushbagh, Barangar, Murshidabad, Mayapur, Chandernagore downstream to Kolkata. With twenty eight regal cabins, dining room, lounge, bar, spa and viewing deck guests enjoy exceptional hospitality and superb cuisine.
OPERATES:
October to April
DEPARTS:
Kolkata
Cruise:
8 days / 7 nights
ASSAM
Cruise along the magnificent Brahmaputra River in the shadow of the Himalayas to Assam a region rich in history, natural beauty and exotic wildlife. Glide along the Brahmaputra in style onboard the MV Mahabaahu a twenty three cabin vessel through one of India’s most fascinating and diverse states. Sail upstream from Guwahati to Jorhat or downstream from Jorhat, the capital of the Ahom Kingdom to Guwahati visiting temples, villages, monasteries, ancient palaces and verdant tea estates. Explore picturesque World Heritage listed Kaziranga National Park and go on a jeep safari in search of the one horned Indian rhino and take a boat safari for an exceptional wildlife and birdlife viewing experience. Life on board is relaxed and comfortable with well appointed cabins and even a pool and spa.
OPERATES:
October to April
DEPARTS:
Guwahati or Jorhat
Cruise:
8 Days / 7 nights
KERALA
Discover Northern Kerala’s palm fringed tropical backwaters in ultimate style and comfort onboard Lotus, a spacious and elegant houseboat. An enchanting way to discover insights of remote village life and observe wildlife as you glide through canals and lagoons. Venture ashore with your guide and explore local villages, hidden temples and magical shrines. With the exterior of a traditional rice boat, the Lotus is a purpose built boat with contemporary sleek interiors, a hint of colonial charm and polished teak floors in the living room. There are two spacious air conditioned bedrooms suites and a roof top deck for the perfect viewing spot with all meals prepared on board by a personal chef.
OPERATES:
Year round
DEPARTS:
Lotus Jetty Point
Cruise:
1 or 2 nights
KERALA
An exclusive cruise in a redesigned kettuvallam is quite simply the best way to explore the languid backwaters and canals. The distinctive styled boat was originally used to transport rice through the backwaters while these days the barges are traditionally built replicas with a thatched roof and contemporary interiors. Most boats will have one or two and sometimes up to five bedrooms with air conditioning, an open deck with loungers for observing daily life on the canals, a dining and lounge area. Your houseboat has a crew with a chef who prepares traditional meals using fresh local ingredients.
OPERATES:
Year round
DEPARTS:
Private Jetty
Cruise:
Day cruise OR 1 night up to 4 nights cruise
KERALA
Discovery, the eco friendly houseboat is a contemporary take on a traditional houseboat. This brightly coloured and unique style of boat is a delightful way to explore the tropical backwaters. The generous guest cabin is contemporary in design with a spacious bedroom and living room. From the large shaded sundeck guests on board enjoy panoramic views of the waterways as you drift along the canals and backwaters.
OPERATES:
Year round
DEPARTS:
Purity Jetty
Cruise:
1, 2 or 3 nights.
Send an enquiry
Our India Specialists exceptional knowledge, personal experience and meticulous planning can custom design your journey through India to include a memorable river cruise. A river cruise or a cruise in an exclusive houseboat is an unforgettable addition to any journey. Send us an enquiry and let’s start planning.
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Wildlife Safari established the Perth, Australia office in 1987 offering a portfolio of destinations within Africa, the Indian Ocean and India.
