Experience a connection between people and spirituality like never before across India’s most sacred river.
As hallowed as it is vast, the Ganges’ deep cultural richness has resonated with the people of India across the ages.
Set to create memories to last a lifetime, the power of this spiritual sanctuary runs deep. With its powerful aura, storied traditions and religious significance, the Ganges draws in visitors from all corners of the globe.
Beyond its holy importance, you’ll see remnants of India’s colonial past in its architecture, incredible waterside palaces, and villages that offer a glimpse into a different way of life. You might even spot the Ganges river dolphin in its natural habitat.
The cruise lines showing you the Ganges in all its glory
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About the Ganges
There are few rivers as mighty as the Ganges. At 4660 miles, with a delta that spans 41,000 square miles, and with 400 million people living across its surrounding areas, it’s a river of serious magnitude. In fact, there are points where it becomes so wide, it’s nearly impossible to see the opposite bank.
For the locals who live nearby, and even those who travel from far and wide, this holy river of Hinduism offers is steeped in tradition. Bathing in it is thought to wash away sins, while the ashes of thousands of people are scattered on it every single day.
The Ganges holds plenty of other riches for travellers. There are the terracotta temples of Baranagar for you to wander through and Chandannagar’s French-inspired history and skilful craftsmen creating tiny bulbs and fairy lights.
Then there’s Bardhaman’s grand Hindu temples, awe-inspiring places of worship that pay tribute to the maharajas of the past. Follow it up with a guided tour of its local markets and get an extra-sensory experience of the area’s wares.
Onto Kolkata, you’ll see a more metropolitan side of India, where diverse cultures meld and offer up a variety of artistic and intellectual sway.
Finally, Murshidabad reveals landmark after landmark, including the Italian-inspired Hazarduari Palace, the appropriately-named Pearl Lake and Khushbagh Cemetery, a 7.65-acre cemetery garden that serves as the final resting place for 34 members of Bengal’s ruling family.
Ganges highlights
See what sights the Ganges has waiting for you
