From the Ganges to the Taj

Program Overview

Embark on a remarkable journey across India, from the historic waterways of Bengal to the vibrant energy of Mumbai. Aboard the ABN river vessel and the iconic Deccan Odyssey, this experience blends boutique river cruising, sacred encounters and timeless rail travel, revealing a country shaped by history, culture and striking contrasts. Thoughtfully paced, the journey unfolds through colonial towns, spiritual cities, royal capitals and extraordinary landscapes.

Along the way, witness the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, track tigers in Ranthambore and explore the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, Udaipur, Vadodara and the Ellora Caves. Curated excursions, regional flavours and time to unwind on board come together seamlessly. Rooted in the romance of slow travel, the experience feels immersive, enriching and deeply memorable.

Program Routing

Kolkata – Chandannagar – Murshidabad – Mayapur – Varanasi – Delhi – Ranthambore – Agra – Jaipur – Udaipur – Vadodara – Aurangabad – Mumbai

The Awesomeness of the Itinerary

From the historic waterways of Bengal to the architectural grandeur of Rajasthan and Maharashtra, this journey reveals India through river, sacred city and luxury rail. Landscapes and experiences shift continuously, from colonial settlements and riverside ghats to tiger reserves, royal capitals, shimmering lakes and extraordinary rock-cut temples, each destination offering a distinct story shaped by faith, heritage and time.

Along the way, curated excursions bring depth to every stage of the journey. Witness the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, sail along the river at sunrise, explore Sarnath, track wildlife in Ranthambore and encounter landmarks including the Taj Mahal, Amber Fort, City Palace, Lake Pichola and the Ellora Caves. Life aboard the ABN river vessel and the Deccan Odyssey combines comfort, regional flavours and unhurried travel, allowing India’s cultural richness to unfold at a thoughtful and immersive pace.

Bear in mind

Excursions may include walking tours, boat rides, heritage visits and wildlife safaris across varied terrain

Domestic flights and multiple transfers form part of the journey

Train timings and routing may change according to Indian Railways operations

Wildlife sightings in Ranthambore depend on natural movement and cannot be guaranteed

Appropriate clothing may be required for religious sites, formal settings and outdoor excursions

Foreign nationals require a valid Indian Tourist Visa and a passport valid for at least six months

Optional activities are subject to availability and may involve additional charges

Fixed departures and limited cabin availability make advance reservations highly recommended

Program at a Glance

Day 1: Kolkata

Arrive in Kolkata and transfer to the ABN river vessel on the Hooghly River. Settle into your cabin and enjoy a welcome reception followed by dinner on board.

Day 2: Chandannagar

Sail towards Chandannagar and explore its French colonial heritage, including the Strand promenade, church and museum. Return to the vessel for lunch and continue cruising through rural Bengal.

Day 3: Murshidabad & Mayapur

Discover Murshidabad’s Nawabi heritage, including Hazarduari Palace, the Imambara and traditional silk-weaving communities. Continue to sacred Mayapur before returning for a farewell dinner and cultural performance.

Day 4: Kolkata – Varanasi

Disembark after breakfast and fly to Varanasi. In the evening, witness the spiritual Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dashashwamedh Ghat.

Day 5: Varanasi & Sarnath

Begin with a sunrise boat ride along the Ganga as the ancient ghats come to life. Later, visit Sarnath, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon, before returning to Varanasi.

Day 6: Varanasi – Delhi

Explore the historic lanes of Varanasi before flying to Delhi. Transfer to Safdarjung Railway Station and board the Deccan Odyssey for the next stage of the journey.

Day 7: Ranthambore National Park

Arrive near Ranthambore and enjoy an afternoon wildlife safari through one of India’s celebrated tiger reserves. Return to the train as it continues towards Agra.

Day 8: Agra

Visit the Taj Mahal and admire its timeless Mughal architecture. Continue to Agra Fort before returning to the train for the onward journey to Jaipur.

Day 9: Jaipur

Explore Amber Fort, drive past the Hawa Mahal and visit the City Palace. Return to the Deccan Odyssey for dinner as the train departs for Udaipur.

Day 10: Udaipur

Discover the City Palace and enjoy a serene boat ride on Lake Pichola. Walk through the colourful Old City before rejoining the train.

Day 11: Vadodara

Visit the UNESCO-listed Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, followed by Laxmi Vilas Palace and the Maharaja Fateh Singh Museum. Return to the train for dinner.

Day 12: Aurangabad & Ellora

Explore the remarkable Ellora Caves, including the monumental Kailasa Temple carved from a single rock. Return to the train for a farewell dinner.

Day 13: Mumbai

Arrive at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus in Mumbai. Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking, marking the conclusion of the journey.

Your Journey Includes

Overall

12-night journey combining a boutique river cruise, a Varanasi land programme and luxury rail travel
3 nights aboard the ABN river vessel from Kolkata
Two-night stay in Varanasi with daily breakfast
Seven nights aboard the Deccan Odyssey from Delhi to Mumbai
Domestic flights from Kolkata to Varanasi and Varanasi to Delhi
Airport, hotel and railway station transfers as specified in the programme
Entrance fees, park fees and scheduled excursions included

Accommodations

Entertainment

Experiences

Culinary

Your Journey does not Include

Government taxes, including the applicable 5% service tax, and travel insurance
Laundry services and alcoholic beverages unless specifically included
Video and professional still-camera fees at monuments, heritage sites or wildlife parks
Gratuities during the journey
Arrival and departure transfers unless expressly specified in the programme
International and domestic air tickets unless specifically included
Pre- and post-journey accommodation or tour extensions not mentioned as part of the programme
Optional excursions and activities, which are subject to availability and additional charges
Any services not expressly mentioned under “Your Journey Includes”

Plan Your Journey with Us

Discover journeys crafted with care — from serene river cruises to vibrant cultural trails, every experience is designed to inspire, connect, and delight.