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Colorful India & the Ganges River Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Delhi (India)
Fly from the UK to Delhi and transfer to the hotel.
Day 2 - Delhi
Today’s guided sightseeing tour starts with an orientation to see the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate and the Presidential Palace. After, take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, a captivating local bazaar with its ancient alleyways lined with quaint shops offering everything from silver and saris to spices and electronics. After lunch in a local restaurant, enjoy a bit of leisure time. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a lavish welcome dinner at your hotel. (B, L, D)
Day 3 - Delhi - Agra
This morning, take a guided excursion to visit Qutub Minar, the world’s tallest brick minaret, dating back to the 11th century. Next, visit Humayun’s Tomb and Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, Delhi’s largest and most prominent Sikh gurudwara (house of worship). After lunch, drive to Agra and settle in at your hotel overlooking the Taj Mahal. (B, L)
Day 4 - Agra
Start your day with a sunrise excursion to the incomparable Taj Mahal, Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan’s memorial to his beloved wife which was more than 20 years in the making. Later, take a Guided Tour to Agra Fort, built by the Moghul Emperor Akbar. This formidable fortress of red sandstone conceals the imperial city of the Moghul rulers and its many palaces. An excursion to the Taj at sunset is included. (B, D)
Day 5 - Agra - Jaipur
Travel to Jaipur, the “Pink City” that was painted pink for the Prince of Wales’ 1876 visit. This afternoon, take a guided tour of the City Palace and the adjoining museum, which houses a collection of rare manuscripts. Also, stop at Jantar Mantar and the famous Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). The evening is at your leisure. (B, L)
Day 6 - Jaipur
Today, join a guided excursion to Jaipur’s spectacular Amber Fort, built entirely of white marble and red sandstone, and featuring intricate mosaics, carvings, paintings and mirror works. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a festive dinner with a Cultural Performance. (B, D)
Day 7 - Jaipur - Kolkata
Fly to Kolkata this morning to transfer to your ship. Get acquainted with the ship prior to your welcome reception this evening. Afternoon and evening cruising to Kalna. (B, L, D)
Day 8 - Kalna
Ride on cycle rickshaws during your guided tour of Kalna. Along the way visit the historic terracotta temple complex and receive blessings from the temple priest, and visit a muslin-weaver’s home. Enjoy a free afternoon on board your ship whilst cruising towards Matiari. (B, L, D)
Day 9 - Matiari
Join a morning walk in the brass-making village of Matiari to see and interact with the craftsmen there. You’ll also see traditional sweets being made. Enjoy a free afternoon on board your ship whilst cruising towards Murshidabad. (B, L, D)
Day 10 - Murshidabad
Enjoy a short guided walk through Azhimganj to see the local gold and silversmith workshops. You’ll also visit a local landlord’s mansion for authentic Indian tea, then travel by electric rickshaw in Jiaganj to see the art of Baluchari saree weaving. Relax this afternoon on board your ship whilst cruising towards Mayapur. (B, L, D)
Day 11 - Mayapur - Guptipara
Join a morning walk through the pilgrim’s bazaar, visit the ISKCON temple and meet and interact with a Krishna leader. You’ll also visit a goshala (rescue shelter for cows). This afternoon, take a Rickshaw (Toto) Ride, and explore the village of Guptipara to see pottery and idol-making. You’ll also take an escorted visit to a farmer’s home and interact with the family there. Afternoon and evening sailing towards Kolkata. (B, L, D)
Day 12 - Kolkata
This morning, take a guided walk through the colourful flower market then stop to see Mother Teresa’s former home and the Calcutta rescue. After lunch, join a guided visit to the Victoria Memorial Museum. Built to commemorate Queen Victoria, the museum houses a beautiful collection of paintings, textiles, weapons, and other artefacts from the Victorian era. Tonight, a farewell Dance Performance is presented on the ship. (B, L, D)
Day 13 - Kolkata - UK
Disembark ship after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK. (B)
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary. Key: B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner