Artisans of Bengal​ on the Bengal Ganga

8 day expedition
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    Class of Ship

    Small River Ship
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    Sustainability

    Low Impact, Locally Built
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    Berths

    40
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    Ice Class

    Not applicable
/media/s4zhaf0m/ship-icon.png
Class of Ship
Small River Ship
/media/2flfscuh/leaf-icon.png
Sustainability
Low Impact, Locally Built
/media/dx3mvpdd/bed-icon.png
Berths
40
/media/jzdbslpr/iceclass_2.png
Ice Class
Not applicable

Expedition overview and highlights

  • Witness Bengal’s textile traditions in the weaving villages of Fulia and Kalna
  • Explore Mayapur, the spiritual hub of the ISKCON movement
  • Discover colonial heritage in the former French and Danish settlements of Chandernagore and Serampore
  • Experience daily life along the Hooghly River

This themed cruise on board the Bengal Ganga explores the cultural heritage of Bengal. From the vibrant cityscape of Kolkata to the temple town of Kalna and the textile-rich villages of Fulia and Guptipara, each stop reveals a living tapestry of craftsmanship and culture. Discover handwoven saris, terracotta temples, and devotional music while cruising in comfort and style. Enjoy immersive encounters with local artisans and heritage towns, all set against the ever-changing backdrop of Bengal’s riverside scenery. Ideal for culturally curious travellers, this journey offers a rare and intimate glimpse into India’s artistic soul.

Artisans of Bengal​ on the Bengal Ganga

Arrive in Kolkata in the morning, then transfer to the jetty to board the ship. Have lunch on board. Afterwards, enjoy a panoramic tour of the well-preserved British colonial buildings in Dalhousie Square, including St John's Church and the Victoria Memorial. Dinner and an overnight stay on board the Bengal Ganga.

After breakfast, visit the Flower Market, where you can see artists creating a variety of garlands, ornaments, and other items made of flowers and leaves for temples, weddings, and other uses. Thereafter, visit Kumartuli, a traditional potters’ quarter renowned for its sculpting prowess. Return to the ship for lunch and begin sail upstream, passing below the Howrah Bridge and seeing various colonial buildings along the Ganges River to Bally Bridge. Dinner & overnight onboard Bengal Ganga.

We sail further upstream to Bandel while enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard. After lunch, we visit the Hooghly Imambara. This famous Shiya pilgrimage centre provides classrooms and housing for pilgrims. Dinner & overnight onboard Bengal Ganga.

We sail to Kalna, enjoying breakfast and lunch onboard. Upon arrival, we ride e-rickshaws to visit the Rajbari temple complex. The Nabakailas temple contains 108 eight-slope-roofed shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Other temples in the complex feature diverse architecture and terracotta plaques depicting themes of Hindu epics and day-to-day life. We return to the ship, walking through the local vegetable market.

Today, we sail to Nabadwip while having breakfast and lunch. Upon arrival walk in the riverbank village known for its handloom weaving of cotton fabric, mainly saris and stole/scarves, and other activities. Ride the country boat across the river to Mayapur, the headquarters of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Stroll in the pilgrim’s bazaar, meet Krishna followers, and visit the temple, which is comparable in size to the Vatican.

This morning a short sail brings us to Guptipara. After breakfast explore the town visiting the Vaishnav temples that contain some fantastic terracotta works. Also, visit a potter’s home to see and interact with the artisans creating various clay items. Return to ship for lunch. Thereafter sail to the opposite bank and visit the weaving village of Fulia which specializes in a combination of jacquard and jamdani saree weaving.

Enjoying breakfast onboard, sail to Chandernagore which was established as a French colony. Upon arrival, explore the colonial buildings along the promenade, including the former French governor's residence, now converted into a museum that features items depicting life during that period. Also, visit the Sacred Heart Church. Return to the ship and sail to Serampore. Post lunch walk in the old quarters to see the Danish Tavern, St. Olav's Church, and other Danish heritage monuments. Continue sail to Kolkata, arriving by the evening.

Following breakfast disembark the ship and transfer for your onward journey. Important Note: The itinerary may be readjusted due to local conditions and days of the week to avoid closure of monuments/museums. Last-minute sailing adjustments may also occur. The onboard tour staff will announce or post the exact time for each activity.

Fares & Departure Dates

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 Deluxe Cabin Main Deck (single occupancy) 

Bengal Ganga Deluxe Suite 3617
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Located on the Main Deck, these comfortable cabins feature fixed twin beds and access to the communal balcony with outdoor seating—ideal for watching life along the river drift by.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds Two single beds
Rooms 0 room
Footage 145 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony Communal Balcony
View River
Location Main Deck
Suitable for Solo Travellers
Accessibility None
Amenities Each cabin includes air conditioning, electronic safe, and built-in wardrobe. Slippers, bathrobes, and a hairdryer are also provided. The en-suite bathroom includes a shower and is stocked with all-natural toiletries for a refreshing and eco-conscious experience.
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 Deluxe Cabin Main Deck (double occupancy) 

Bengal Ganga Deluxe Suite 3617
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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Located on the Main Deck, these comfortable cabins feature fixed twin beds and access to the communal balcony with outdoor seating—ideal for watching life along the river drift by.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds Two single beds
Rooms 0 room
Footage 145 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony Communal Balcony
View River
Location Main Deck
Suitable for Couples
Accessibility None
Amenities Each cabin includes air conditioning, electronic safe, and built-in wardrobe. Slippers, bathrobes, and a hairdryer are also provided.
More details

Show details

 Deluxe Suite Upper Deck (double occupancy) 

MV Bengal Ganga Deluxe Suite
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Located on the Upper Deck, these spacious suites offer a refined retreat with generous living space. Each suite features twin beds that can be pushed together, a separate lounge area, and access to a communal balcony with outdoor seating—perfect for enjoying the river views in comfort.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds Twin beds that can be pushed together
Rooms 0 room
Footage 290 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony Communal Balcony
View River
Location Upper Deck
Suitable for Couples
Accessibility None
Amenities Inside, you’ll find thoughtful amenities including air conditioning, a mini-bar, kettle, writing desk, and built-in storage. The suite also includes two en-suite bathrooms, each with a shower and stocked with all-natural toiletries, along with bathrobes and slippers for added comfort.
More details

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 Deluxe Suite Upper Deck (single occupancy) 

MV Bengal Ganga Deluxe Suite
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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

Located on the Upper Deck, these spacious suites offer a refined retreat with generous living space. Each suite features twin beds that can be pushed together, a separate lounge area, and access to a communal balcony with outdoor seating—perfect for enjoying the river views in comfort.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds Twin beds that can be pushed together
Rooms 0 room
Footage 290 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony Communal Balcony
View River
Location Upper Deck
Suitable for Solo Travellers
Accessibility None
Amenities Inside, you’ll find thoughtful amenities including air conditioning, a mini-bar, kettle, writing desk, and built-in storage. The suite also includes two en-suite bathrooms, each with a shower and stocked with all-natural toiletries, along with bathrobes and slippers for added comfort.
More details

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 Premier Suite Upper Deck (double occupancy) 

Bengal Ganga Premier Suite
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PER PERSON

There are 2 Premier Suites with a King size bed, an ensuite 3-fixture bathroom, and wide windows with colonial balconies.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds King-size
Rooms 0 room
Footage 236 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony Yes
View River
Location Upper Deck
Suitable for Couples
Accessibility None
Amenities Spacious, airy rooms, a range of amenities, and well-equipped bathrooms with luxurious, all-natural spa-quality bath products. Large balconies, a seating area, writing desk and chair, generous built-in wardrobes, a flat screen TV with preloaded movies and documentaries, and a minibar with soft beverages serve your every modern need.
More details

Multi-configuration electrical plugs.

Show details

 Premier Suite Upper Deck (single occupancy) 

Bengal Ganga Premier Suite
Show gallery
STARTING AT:
PER PERSON

There are 2 Premier Suites with a King size bed, an ensuite 3-fixture bathroom, and wide windows with colonial balconies.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds King-size
Rooms 0 room
Footage 236 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony Yes
View River
Location Upper Deck
Suitable for Solo Travellers
Accessibility None
Amenities Spacious, airy rooms, a range of amenities, and well-equipped bathrooms with luxurious, all-natural spa-quality bath products. Large balconies, a seating area, writing desk and chair, generous built-in wardrobes, a flat screen TV with preloaded movies and documentaries, and a minibar with soft beverages serve your every modern need.
More details

Multi-configuration electrical plugs.

Show details

About the Ship

Premier Suite Bengal Ganga (1)

The Bengal Ganga is an expedition river craft built entirely from Burma teak and iron, blending traditional craftsmanship with a spirit of exploration. Inspired by traditional Burmese river vessels and colonial Clyde steamships, the Bengal Ganga combines vintage design with modern comfort. With just 20 cabins, it offers an intimate small-ship experience. The design reflects timeless elegance, featuring wood-panelled interiors, classic fittings and panoramic views throughout the vessel.

Bengal Ganga Ship Exterior (B)

Boutique exploration

The Bengal Ganga offers a unique window into life along the Ganges and Hooghly Rivers. It sails from Kolkata to Munger and downstream to Kolkata between October and late March when the river’s waters are plentiful yet calm.The Bengal Ganga is well suited for in-depth cultural exploration, connecting guests with eastern India's rhythms, landscapes and heritage.

Bengal Ganga Dining Room (B)

The expertly trained culinary team on board ensures a refined dining experience that blends comfort, variety and regional flavours. Guests can enjoy various meals designed to suit different tastes and preferences. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style, featuring a mix of Indian dishes and international favourites, while evenings end with relaxed, multi-course dinners.

Bengal Ganga Dining Room

The ship can accommodate special dietary requirements, including vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. Guests can enjoy complimentary beverages such as water, tea, coffee, fruit juices and soft drinks throughout the day.

Bengal Ganga Main Deck

Main Deck

  • Deluxe Cabins (201-210)
  • Dining Room
  • Galley

 

Bengal Ganga Upper Deck (1)

Upper Deck

  • Saloon
  • Deluxe Suites (301-308)
  • Premier Suites (309-310)

Bengal Ganga Sun Deck

Sun Deck

  • Wheel House
  • Spa
  • Outdoor Lounge
  • Sundeck

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