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Historic Hoogly

Program Overview

Sail along the sacred Ganges and its lower reaches, the Hooghly, for an intimate glimpse into Bengal’s timeless soul — where sacred traditions, colonial heritage, and village life flow together along the riverbanks.
Whether travelling upstream from Kolkata to Farakka or downstream to Kolkata, discover a land of terracotta temples, Mughal palaces, and forgotten European settlements. Aboard the elegant ABN Rajmahal, experience Bengal’s living history in comfort and quiet refinement.

Program Routing

Upstream: Kolkata – Chandernagore – Kalna – Matiari – Plassey – Murshidabad – Baranagar – Farakka

Downstream: Farakka – Baranagar – Murshidabad – Plassey – Matiari – Kalna – Chandernagore – Kolkata

Duration

7 Nights / 8 Days

Next departure

13 to 20 August 2026

Starting from

$4,305 per passenger

For reservation

+91 97119 92059

Book this itinerary

The Awesomeness of the Itinerary

Journey along the Hooghly, where every bend of the river tells a story — of empire and devotion, of craftsmanship and community. Cruise past centuries-old settlements like Chandernagore, Murshidabad, and Kalna, where temples, palaces, and river life come alive in a rare harmony of past and present.
Discover the battlefield of Plassey, stroll through the craft villages of Matiari, and explore Majestic Murshidabad’s Hazarduari Palace and Katra Mosque. Witness artisans at work, monks in prayer, and fishermen casting nets as life unfolds at its own timeless pace.
Unwind with a sunset cocktail on the sundeck, dine on exquisite Bengali and Continental cuisine, and retreat to your cabin as the river whispers its ancient rhythm. Each experience — from curated excursions to on-board hospitality — is crafted to blend discovery with relaxation.

Bear in mind

Some excursions involve walking over uneven terrain or through heritage sites; comfortable footwear is essential.
The Bengal plains can be warm and humid — light clothing, sunscreen, and hydration are recommended.
Local customs and rural rhythms shape the pace of travel; flexibility enriches the experience.
River conditions can affect routing or timings — your cruise director will keep you informed of any changes.

Program at a Glance

Day 1: Kolkata – Chandernagore

Embark in Kolkata, India’s vibrant cultural capital. Sail past Serampore and Barrackpore, once strongholds of the British Raj, and take a heritage walk through colonial-era monuments tied to India’s freedom movement. Continue upstream to the former French settlement of Chandernagore.

Day 2: Chandernagore – Kalna

Visit Chandernagore’s Dupleix Palace and the beautiful Imambara at Hooghly, reflecting Bengal’s Indo-Islamic architecture. Sail onward through the tranquil countryside toward Kalna.

Day 3: Kalna – Matiari

Explore Kalna, renowned for its intricate 108 Shiva Temples and stunning terracotta temple complex. Visit Mayapur, the international headquarters of ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness). Later, cruise toward Matiari.

Day 4: Matiari – Khushbagh (via Plassey)

Disembark at Matiari, a riverside village famed for traditional brass craftsmanship. In the afternoon, visit the historic Battlefield of Plassey (Palashi), where the 1757 battle reshaped India’s destiny. Moor overnight near Khushbagh.

Day 5: Khushbagh – Murshidabad – Baranagar

Walk through Khushbagh’s Mughal-style garden tombs, then cruise to Murshidabad, once the opulent capital of Bengal. Explore the grand Hazarduari Palace, Katra Mosque, and Katgola Palace before continuing to Baranagar.

Day 6: Baranagar – Sailing the Countryside

Stroll through Baranagar, a serene village lined with exquisite miniature terracotta temples and traditional homes. Continue cruising through Bengal’s heartland — past mustard fields, mango orchards, and riverside hamlets.

Day 7: Gaur Excursion (from Farakka)

Disembark for an excursion to Gaur, the ancient capital of medieval Bengal. Explore its atmospheric ruins — mosques, palaces, and gateways — echoing centuries of history.

Day 8: Farakka – Kolkata (Disembarkation)

Disembark at Farakka, where the Hooghly meets the mighty Ganges. Transfer to Kolkata by train, marking the end of your unforgettable river journey through Bengal’s living heritage.

Program at a Glance

Day 1: Farakka – Gaur – Baranagar

After breakfast, disembark to visit the medieval city of Gaur, once the capital of Bengal, rich with ruined mosques and palaces. Reboard the ship at Farakka and cruise past tranquil villages to Baranagar.

Day 2: Baranagar – Murshidabad

Walk through the charming village of Baranagar, visiting its exquisite terracotta temples. Sail on to Murshidabad, exploring the grand Hazarduari Palace, Katra Mosque, and Katgola Palace.

Day 3: Murshidabad – Plassey

Cruise to Plassey, site of the famous 1757 battle that reshaped India’s history. Visit the battlefield and memorials before sailing on toward Matiari.

Day 4: Matiari – Kalna

Stop at the artisanal village of Matiari, known for its handcrafted brassware. Watch local craftsmen at work before cruising onward to Kalna.

Day 5: Kalna – Mayapur – Chandernagore

Explore Kalna’s terracotta temples and continue to Mayapur, headquarters of ISKCON. Later, sail toward Chandernagore, the former French colony.

Day 6: Chandernagore – Barrackpore – Kolkata

Visit Dupleix House and the historic Imambara at Hooghly. Continue downstream to Barrackpore, where British colonial heritage blends with India’s freedom struggle landmarks.

Day 7: Kolkata – Disembarkation

Arrive in Kolkata and disembark after breakfast. Transfer to your hotel or onward destination with memories of Bengal’s riverine splendour.

Your Journey Include

Overall

  • Immersive 7-night river cruise along the Ganges and its lower reaches, the Hooghly
  • Boutique cruising experience aboard ABN Rajmahal, blending heritage and comfort
  • Expert-led excursions revealing Bengal’s sacred, colonial, and cultural heritage

Accommodations

  • Stylish, air-conditioned cabins with French balconies offering panoramic river views
  • Indian-inspired contemporary interiors with hand-block textiles and local artwork
  • En-suite bathrooms and daily housekeeping for a seamless onboard experience
  • Personalized service and legendary ABN hospitality throughout the journey

Entertainment

  • Guided excursions to historic towns, terracotta temples, and colonial landmarks
  • Cultural performances and onboard talks on Bengal’s history and river life
  • Scenic cruising through serene countryside, mustard fields, and mango orchards
  • Library, lounge, and sundeck for quiet reflection and leisure

Experiences

  • Visit to Murshidabad’s Hazarduari Palace and Katra Mosque
  • Walks through Kalna’s terracotta temples and Matiari’s brass-working village
  • Exploration of Chandernagore’s French heritage and the Battlefield of Plassey
  • Sunset views and tranquil evenings aboard the Rajmahal

Culinary

  • Freshly prepared regional and Continental cuisine using local ingredients
  • Selection of wines, beers, and spirits served on board
  • Special Bengali-themed dinner celebrating the region’s flavours and traditions
  • Intimate dining spaces with river views and warm service

Your Journey does not Include

  • International or domestic flights to and from embarkation/disembarkation points
  • Visa fees, travel insurance, or personal expenses
  • Optional spa treatments and premium beverages beyond inclusions
  • Gratuities for the crew and local guides
  • Any excursions or activities not specified in the itinerary

Itinerary curated in partnership with Assam Bengal Navigation River Cruises. Photo credits: ABN.

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