Welcome to Kolkata

Your journey begins in Kolkata, India's cultural capital and one of the country's most fascinating cities.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel where the remainder of the day is yours to relax or begin exploring the city at your own pace. Once the capital of British India, Kolkata offers a captivating blend of colonial architecture, vibrant street life and rich artistic traditions.

Today, explore the historic heart of Kolkata with a guided city tour.

Visit the elegant Victoria Memorial, admire the iconic Howrah Bridge, discover remarkable collections at the Indian Museum, and step inside the beautiful St. Paul's Cathedral. Complete your day at Kolkata's colourful flower market, where fragrant blooms, local traditions and daily life come together in one of the city's most vibrant settings.

This morning, transfer to your elegant river vessel and begin your journey along the historic Hooghly River.

As the cruise sets sail, pass the former Danish settlement of Serampore before arriving in Barrackpore, an important location in India's struggle for independence.

Later, continue to Chandernagore, once a thriving French colony, where elegant colonial buildings still reflect its European heritage.

Wake to another day of discovery along the river.

Explore the historic churches and colonial architecture of Chandernagore before sailing past the former Dutch settlement of Chinsurah.

Continue to the impressive Hooghly Imambara, an architectural masterpiece featuring beautiful Islamic calligraphy and intricate craftsmanship that offers a fascinating glimpse into Bengal's Islamic heritage.

Step ashore in the peaceful town of Kalna, renowned for some of Bengal's finest terracotta temples.

Travel by traditional rickshaw to visit the remarkable 108 Shiva Temples, arranged in concentric circles, before learning about the region's traditional muslin weaving.

Later, continue to Mayapur, home to the impressive headquarters of ISKCON, where one of the world's largest Hindu temple complexes rises above the surrounding countryside.

Experience everyday life along the Hooghly River with a visit to the charming village of Matiari, where skilled artisans continue centuries-old brass-working traditions.

Later, visit the historic Battlefield of Plassey, where one of the most significant events in India's colonial history took place in 1757, forever changing the future of the Indian subcontinent.

Today's journey explores the former capital of Bengal.

Walk through the peaceful gardens of Khushbagh, where the last independent Nawab of Bengal rests, before visiting the magnificent Hazarduari Palace, home to an extraordinary collection of royal artefacts.

Continue to the historic Katra Mosque and elegant Katgola Palace, reflecting the remarkable blend of Indian and European influences that shaped this region for centuries.

This morning, discover the quiet village of Baranagar, where beautifully preserved terracotta temples stand surrounded by peaceful rural landscapes.

As the cruise continues north, enjoy one of the journey's most scenic stretches. The Hooghly gradually transforms into the Lower Ganges, winding through lush countryside, mango orchards and mustard fields that showcase the timeless beauty of rural Bengal.

Leave the ship for a fascinating excursion to Gaur, once one of the most powerful cities in the Indian subcontinent.

Today, peaceful ruins, ancient gateways, impressive mosques and palace remains reveal the legacy of a city that flourished under both Hindu and Muslim rulers for centuries before being abandoned.

Disembark your river cruise before travelling by train back to Kolkata.

Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Take time to revisit a favourite neighbourhood, explore the city's cafés or simply reflect on the remarkable experiences of the past week.

After breakfast, transfer to Kolkata International Airport for your onward journey, bringing your exploration of Bengal to a close.