Heritage of India & the Ganges River with Varanasi
Discover a world of color, culture, and the cherished spiritual heritage of India. Your guided tour of India and Ganges River cruise begins in the bustling city of Delhi. First, travel to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities, to observe the striking Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River. Return to Delhi and tour the city with your expert Tour Director. Take a rickshaw ride through the Chandni Chowk bazaar—brimming with everything from silver and spices to saris of every color. You’ll visit Qutub Minar—the world’s largest brick minaret and see Delhi’s largest Sikh gurudwara (house of worship), before traveling to Agra—site of the legendary Taj Mahal. You’ll encounter more stunning sights with a sunset excursion to the Taj Mahal—the iconic memorial built by Moghul emperor Shah Jahan for his beloved wife. More than 20 years in the making, the Taj Mahal stands as the pinnacle of love’s devotion, where you’ll also have the opportunity to experience this iconic site at sunrise. You’ll continue to the city of Jaipur, with its famous Palace of the Winds, and spectacular Amber Fort, before flying to Kolkata to board your cruise on the Ganges River—the holy river of Hinduism, as it slowly courses through one of the world’s most fertile and populated areas. Along its banks, human life is connected to its waters where you’ll get a glimpse of life apart from India’s big cities. From fascinating muslin weaving in Nabadwip and pottery making in Guptipara, you’ll explore the fascinating Hare Krishna headquarters in Mayapur and visit the stunning Hooghly Imambara upon your return to Kolkata. All of this and more await you on this once-in-a-lifetime guided tour of India with a Ganges River cruise.
Tour Itinerary
Hello, Delhi! Welcome to Delhi, India’s capital city. Hotel check-in available mid-afternoon.
Loyal Pilgrimages Today, fly to Varanasi, the holiest of Hindu pilgrim cities. Transfer to your hotel for lunch and time at leisure. Early this evening, join your Local Guide and experience the Ganga Aarti (spiritual worship) on the ghats (steps) leading down to the sacred Ganges River. (B,L) Please note: Guided sightseeing in Varanasi is as outlined in the itinerary. You will meet your Tour Director on day 4 in Delhi. TOUR HIGHLIGHT FIRE & WATER Witness the light of ancient tradition as night descends on the Ganges River in Varanasi. Witness the devotional offerings made to the Goddess Ganga in the aarti performed at the river’s edge as it has been done throughout the ages. A ritual of fire, faithful Hindus float “diyas” (small candle and flowers) on the waters of the Ganges River, while praying for the blessing of Maa Ganga.
Sacred Rituals Near dawn, join your Local Guide and board a boat to watch a meaningful religious ritual—the Hindus’ devotional bathing in the Ganges. Return to your hotel for breakfast and time at leisure. This afternoon, travel to nearby Sarnath, the “Cradle of Buddhism,” where the Buddha first spoke of his philosophy after enlightenment. (B,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION In Hinduism, taking bath in the holy river Ganga sacred as immersing oneself in the holy river Ganga is more than just a ceremonial activity, it is a profound experience in connecting with the supreme power and nature's divine essence. Witness this sacred practice of hundreds of pilgrims gathered at the river’s edge, practicing yoga or meditation.
On to India’s Capital Today, fly to Delhi. The balance of the day is at your leisure. (B)
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