MV Ganga Vilas is the world’s longest river cruise, spanning 2,525 miles along the Ganges River in India. The cruise takes passengers through some of the most beautiful and culturally rich areas of the country, offering an immersive experience that showcases India’s history, cuisine, and spirituality.
MV Ganga Vilas – Overview
The MV Ganga Vilas is a luxurious river cruise ship that is designed to offer a comfortable and enjoyable experience to passengers. The cruise itinerary starts from Kolkata and travels upstream to Varanasi, with stops at several important historical and cultural sites along the way. The journey takes passengers through the heart of India, passing through rural villages, ancient cities, and sacred sites that are steeped in history and tradition.
One of the highlights of the cruise is a visit to the city of Murshidabad, which was once the capital of the Bengal region during the Mughal Empire. Here, passengers can visit the Hazarduari Palace, a stunning 19th-century palace that now serves as a museum of the region’s history and culture. The palace is known for its impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts that offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region.
Another must-visit site on the itinerary is the ancient city of Varanasi, which is considered to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Varanasi is a spiritual and cultural hub, with a rich tradition of music, art, and literature. Here, passengers can take part in a morning boat ride along the Ganges River, where they can witness the daily rituals and ceremonies that take place along the riverbank.
MV Ganga Vilas – Construction
MV Ganga Vilas is world’s longest river cruise ship that sails on the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers in India. It was built in 2016 by the Indian company Nordic Cruise Line Pvt. Ltd. and is owned and operated by the Assam Bengal Navigation Company.
The ship has a length of 56.8 meters and a width of 13.2 meters, with a draft of 1.5 meters. It has a total of 28 cabins, including 14 deluxe cabins, 12 superior cabins, and 2 suites. The cabins are equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and large windows for scenic views.
The ship is powered by two 500 HP engines and has a maximum speed of 22 km/hour. It also has a backup generator and a water filtration system to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for its passengers.
MV Ganga Vilas – Features & Amenities
World’s longest river cruise, MV Ganga Vilas, offers a wide range of amenities to ensure passengers have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here are some of the amenities provided on board:
- Air-Conditioned Cabins: The ship features 28 air-conditioned cabins with en-suite bathrooms, providing passengers with a comfortable and private space to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing. The cabins are spacious and elegantly decorated, with all the modern amenities that travellers would expect, including a television, mini-bar, and safe.
- Lounge: The ship’s lounge is the perfect place to relax and socialize with fellow travelers. It offers a comfortable seating area and stunning views of the Ganges River. Passengers can enjoy a drink or a snack while taking in the beautiful scenery.
- Restaurant: The MV Ganga Vilas has an onboard restaurant that serves delicious Indian cuisine, prepared by expert chefs using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Passengers can enjoy a variety of dishes that reflect the region’s diverse culinary traditions.
- Sun Deck: The ship’s sun deck offers panoramic views of the Ganges River and is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Passengers can enjoy the beautiful scenery as the ship makes its way up the river.
- Activities: The MV Ganga Vilas offers a range of onboard activities to keep passengers entertained during the cruise. Passengers can take part in cooking classes, where they can learn how to prepare delicious Indian dishes using local ingredients. There are also yoga and meditation sessions available, providing passengers with an opportunity to unwind and connect with their spiritual side.
- Cultural Performances: The ship features cultural performances showcasing the region’s music, dance, and art. These performances provide passengers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of India’s diverse and vibrant culture, and are a highlight of the cruise experience.
- Spa Services: The MV Ganga Vilas also offers spa services to help passengers relax and rejuvenate during the cruise. Passengers can enjoy a range of massages and beauty treatments, providing a pampering experience that is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
MV Ganga Vilas Ticket Booking
Antara Luxury River Cruises is providing the opportunity to embark on an MV Ganga Vilas. Interested individuals can book tickets directly from their website.
MV Ganga Vilas Ticket Prices
The daily cost for a trip on MV Ganga Vilas cruise is estimated to be between ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 per day. The total expense for a single passenger for the entire trip is likely to be approximately ₹20 lakh.
MV Ganga Vilas – Itineraries
The Ganga Vilas offers a range of itineraries to explore the cultural, historical, and spiritual sites of India. Here are some of the popular itineraries:
- Kolkata to Varanasi: This 10-day itinerary starts in Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, and takes passengers on a journey along the Ganges River to Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Along the way, passengers will visit historic temples, vibrant bazaars, and traditional villages.
- Varanasi to Kolkata: This 10-day itinerary takes passengers on a journey from Varanasi to Kolkata, exploring the spiritual and cultural sites of India along the way. Passengers will visit ancient temples, witness traditional ceremonies on the banks of the Ganges River, and experience the vibrant bazaars and bustling streets of Kolkata.
- Kolkata to Farakka: This 7-day itinerary starts in Kolkata and takes passengers to Farakka, a small town located at the confluence of the Ganges and the Mahananda rivers. Along the way, passengers will visit historic temples, traditional villages, and wildlife reserves, including the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Farakka to Kolkata: This 7-day itinerary takes passengers on a journey from Farakka to Kolkata, exploring the cultural and historical sites of India along the way. Passengers will visit ancient temples, experience traditional village life, and witness the unique flora and fauna of the Sundarbans.
- Kolkata to Guwahati: This 14-day itinerary starts in Kolkata and takes passengers on a journey along the Brahmaputra River to Guwahati, the gateway to the northeastern region of India. Along the way, passengers will visit wildlife reserves, traditional villages, and ancient monasteries.
- Guwahati to Kolkata: This 14-day itinerary takes passengers on a journey from Guwahati to Kolkata, exploring the cultural and natural wonders of India’s northeast region. Passengers will visit wildlife reserves, experience traditional village life, and witness the unique culture and traditions of the region.
Kolkata to Varanasi MV Ganga Vilas Day-wise Itinerary
Here is a day-wise itinerary of the Kolkata to Varanasi journey aboard MV Ganga Vilas:
- Day 1: Kolkata
You will be greeted at the Kolkata airport or railway station and transferred to MV Ganga Vilas. After settling into your comfortable cabins, you can take a leisurely stroll around the ship and get acquainted with the amenities. In the evening, there will be a welcome dinner on board the ship.
- Day 2: Kolkata
You will explore the city of Kolkata, once the capital of British India. You will visit the Victoria Memorial, an iconic building that is now a museum showcasing the history of the British Raj. You will also visit the Howrah Bridge, a cantilever bridge that spans the Hooghly River and is one of the busiest bridges in the world. In the evening, there will be a cultural program on board the ship.
- Day 3: Kalna
The ship will dock at Kalna, a small town known for its beautiful terracotta temples. You will visit the Rajbari complex, which includes several temples and a palace built by the local rulers in the 18th century. You will also visit the Shantipur weaving village, where you can see the traditional art of handloom weaving.
- Day 4: Matiari
Matiari is a small town famous for its brass-making industry. You will visit the workshops where artisans make beautiful brass utensils and other items using traditional techniques. You can also interact with the locals and learn about their way of life.
- Day 5: Murshidabad
Murshidabad is a historic city that was once the capital of the Bengal region during the Mughal era. You will visit the Hazarduari Palace, a grand building that now houses a museum showcasing the history of the region. You will also visit the Katra Mosque, a beautiful mosque built by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
- Day 6: Mayapur
Mayapur is a holy town that is the headquarters of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). You will visit the ISKCON temple, which is one of the largest temples in the world and a major pilgrimage site for devotees of Lord Krishna.
- Day 7: Chandannagar
Chandannagar is a former French colony known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. You will visit the Sacred Heart Church, a stunning church built by the French in the 19th century. You will also explore the town on foot and see the beautiful buildings and streets.
- Day 8: Varanasi
Today, you will arrive in Varanasi, one of the oldest cities in the world and a major center of Hindu culture and spirituality. You will visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, one of the most sacred temples in India. You will also take a boat ride on the Ganges River and witness the evening aarti ceremony, a spiritual ritual that is a must-see in Varanasi.
- Day 9: Varanasi
You will spend the day exploring Varanasi and its many cultural and spiritual sites. You will visit the Sarnath Museum, which showcases the history of Buddhism in India. You will also visit the Dhamek Stupa, a beautiful stupa built by the Emperor Ashoka to mark the spot where the Buddha gave his first sermon.
- Day 10: Departure
Today, you will bid farewell to MV Ganga Vilas and be transferred to the Var anasi airport or railway station for your onward journey. The journey aboard MV Ganga Vilas comes to an end, but the memories and experiences will last a lifetime.
Kolkata to Farakka MV Ganga Vilas Day-wise Itinerary
Here is a day-wise itinerary of the Kolkata to Farakka journey:
- Day 1: Kolkata
Upon arrival at the Kolkata airport or railway station, passengers will be transferred to MV Ganga Vilas. After settling into their cabins, passengers can explore the ship’s amenities and enjoy a welcome dinner in the evening.
- Day 2: Kolkata
Passengers will spend the day exploring Kolkata, once the capital of British India. The itinerary includes a visit to the iconic Victoria Memorial, a museum showcasing the history of the British Raj, and the Howrah Bridge, one of the busiest bridges in the world. In the evening, passengers can enjoy a cultural program on board the ship.
- Day 3: Chandernagore
Chandernagore, a former French colony, is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Passengers will visit the Sacred Heart Church, a stunning church built by the French in the 19th century, and explore the town’s streets and buildings on foot.
- Day 4: Kalna
The ship will dock at Kalna, a small town famous for its terracotta temples. Passengers will visit the Rajbari complex, which includes several temples and a palace built by the local rulers in the 18th century, and the Shantipur weaving village, where they can witness traditional handloom weaving.
- Day 5: Matiari
Matiari is a small town renowned for its brass-making industry. Passengers will visit the workshops where artisans make beautiful brass utensils and other items using traditional techniques, and have the opportunity to interact with the locals.
- Day 6: Murshidabad
Murshidabad is a historic city that was once the capital of the Bengal region during the Mughal era. Passengers will visit the Hazarduari Palace, a grand building that now houses a museum showcasing the history of the region, and the Katra Mosque, a beautiful mosque built by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
- Day 7: Farakka
The ship arrives at Farakka, a small town located at the confluence of the Ganges and the Hooghly rivers. Passengers will disembark and transfer to the Farakka railway station or airport for their onward journey. The cruise aboard MV Ganga Vilas comes to an end, but the memories and experiences will last a lifetime.
Kolkata to Guwahati MV Ganga Vilas Day-wise Itinerary
Here is a day-wise itinerary of the Kolkata to Guwahati journey:
- Day 1: Kolkata
Upon arrival at the Kolkata airport or railway station, passengers will be transferred to MV Ganga Vilas. After settling into their cabins, passengers can explore the ship’s amenities and enjoy a welcome dinner in the evening.
- Day 2: Kolkata
Passengers will spend the day exploring Kolkata, once the capital of British India. The itinerary includes a visit to the iconic Victoria Memorial, a museum showcasing the history of the British Raj, and the Howrah Bridge, one of the busiest bridges in the world. In the evening, passengers can enjoy a cultural program on board the ship.
- Day 3: Chandernagore
Chandernagore, a former French colony, is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Passengers will visit the Sacred Heart Church, a stunning church built by the French in the 19th century, and explore the town’s streets and buildings on foot.
- Day 4: Kalna
The ship will dock at Kalna, a small town famous for its terracotta temples. Passengers will visit the Rajbari complex, which includes several temples and a palace built by the local rulers in the 18th century, and the Shantipur weaving village, where they can witness traditional handloom weaving.
- Day 5: Matiari
Matiari is a small town renowned for its brass-making industry. Passengers will visit the workshops where artisans make beautiful brass utensils and other items using traditional techniques, and have the opportunity to interact with the locals.
- Day 6: Murshidabad
Murshidabad is a historic city that was once the capital of the Bengal region during the Mughal era. Passengers will visit the Hazarduari Palace, a grand building that now houses a museum showcasing the history of the region, and the Katra Mosque, a beautiful mosque built by the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
- Day 7: Jangipur
Jangipur is a small town located on the banks of the Ganges River. Passengers will visit the Bara Imambara, a grand complex built by the local ruler Nawab Nazim Mansoor Ali Khan Feradun Jah in the 18th century.
- Day 8: Bateshwarsthan
Bateshwarsthan is an important religious site for Hindus, as it is believed to be the birthplace of the god Rama’s brother Bharata. Passengers will visit the Bateshwar Nath Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and learn about the history and mythology associated with the site.
- Day 9: Sultanganj
Sultanganj is a small town located on the banks of the Ganges River. Passengers will visit the ancient rock-cut sculptures of Lord Shiva at the Sultanganj temple, and explore the town’s markets and streets.
- Day 10: Bhagalpur
Bhagalpur is a historic city known for its silk production. Passengers will visit the Vikramshila University, an ancient university established during the Pala dynasty, and the Bhagalpur Silk Weaving Factory, where they can witness the process of silk production.
- Day 11: Bateshwarsthan
Passengers will return to Bateshwarsthan for another day of exploring the town’s temples and historical sites, and learning more about its religious significance.
- Day 12: Silghat
Silghat is a small town located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, known for its tea gardens and wildlife. Passengers will visit the Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its population of the one-horned rhinoceros, and enjoy a jeep safari through the park.
- Day 13: Tezpur
Tezpur is a historic town located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, known for its ancient temples and natural beauty. Passengers will visit the Mahabhairav Temple, a 9th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the Agnigarh Hill, a scenic spot with panoramic views of the town and river.
- Day 14: Guwahati
The final day of the cruise will be spent in Guwahati, the largest city in Assam. Passengers will visit the Kamakhya Temple, a revered Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, and explore the city’s markets and streets. In the evening, passengers will enjoy a farewell dinner on board the ship.
On the morning of Day 15, passengers will disembark from MV Ganga Vilas and be transferred to the Guwahati airport or railway station for their onward journey.
Sustainable tourism
The MV Ganga Vilas is operated by Assam Bengal Navigation, a company that specializes in river cruises in India and Southeast Asia. The company is known for its commitment to sustainable tourism, and the MV Ganga Vilas is designed to have minimal impact on the environment. This makes it a great choice for travellers who are conscious about their impact on the environment and want to experience India’s culture and history in a responsible way.
Conclusion
The MV Ganga Vilas which is also world’s longest river cruise, is a unique and unforgettable way to explore India’s culture and history. The cruise offers a luxurious and comfortable experience, while also providing passengers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of India’s diverse and vibrant culture. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or a spiritual seeker, the MV Ganga Vilas has something to offer everyone. We highly recommend this river cruise to anyone interested in exploring India’s rich history and culture.
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