There can be no river in the world as sacred as the Ganges River and an expedition on the Lower Ganges or Hooghly is one of the prettiest river journeys imaginable. The river wends its way through the lush countryside of West Bengal with its culturally significant towns crammed with temples and palaces. A rich and vibrant rural life abounds and there is never a dull moment as we sedately ply this pleasant waterway.


You will start or end our newly updated 7 night itinerary in either the former colonial capital of Kolkata or Farakka, location of the famous Farakka Barrage where the sacred Ganges flows into the Hoogly River. With one-way first class train ticket included between Farakka and Kolkata this is the perfect way to explore West Bengal in true Pandaw comfort and style.


Highlights


• Land at the country town of Kalna and take cycle rickshaws to see a group of some of Bengal’s most attractive terracotta temples

• Visit the brass-working village of Matiari, a charming riverside village

• Walk to the Khushbagh, a peaceful Mughal-style garden that encloses the tombs of Siraj-ud-Daulah – the last independent Nawab of Bengal – and his family

• Walk through the fields of the delightfully sleepy village of Baranagar to visit its three gorgeous miniature terracotta temples

Transfer from the meeting point at the Oberoi Grand to embark and sail at noon. Sail past the old Danish colony of Serampore to Barrackpore to land and take a walk through the cantonment - past the Semaphore Tower, Government House, the Temple of Fame and Flagstaff House.

After breakfast sail upstream and land at the country town of Kalna and take cycle rickshaws to see a group of some of Bengal’s most attractive terracotta temples, as well as the unique Shiva temple with concentric rings made up of 108 lesser shrines. Sail on through the night to a mooring near Matiari.

Visit the brass-working village of Matiari, a charming riverside village. Interact with the locals of Matiari and witness the whole primitive process of beating out brass water pots and other vessels. Later, cruise on and visit the battlefield of Plassey where, in 1757, Robert Clive, the Commander-in-Chief of British India, defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, to change the course of Indian history. Moor close to Murshidabad for the night.

This morning, walk to the Khushbagh, a peaceful Mughal-style garden that encloses the tombs of Siraj-ud-Daulah – the last independent Nawab of Bengal – and his family. Continue a little way upstream to where the great Hazarduari Palace dominates the waterfront. Built by an English architect in 1837, the palace hosts an extensive collection of pictures, china, weapons and other objects. Carry on to visit the great Katra Mosque and Nashipara Palace before driving out to see the Katgola Palace. Built in classical Georgian style by rich local merchants, Katgola Palace represents the other side of the coin of the 'White Mughal' period when English and Indian cultures came close to fusion. Moor overnight on the riverbank across from town.

Continue up the Hoogly which transforms into a charming waterway twisting and turning between banks lined with mustard fields and mango orchards. Morning walk through the fields of the delightfully sleepy village of Baranagar to visit its three gorgeous miniature terracotta temples. This is rural India at its most idyllic. Visit the Jain temples at Azimganj and the Bara Bari Palace and continue downstream.

Explore the village of Mayapur, the headquarters of the ISKCON movement with a new temple comparable in size to the Vatican and largely funded by Alfred B. Ford, the great grandson of car maker Henry Ford. Meet Krishna followers and walk through the pilgrims’ bazaar.

Sail to Chandernagore, a French possession until 1950. Visit the 18th century church and Dupleix’s House, erstwhile Governor-General of French India. Sail upstream past the old Dutch settlement of Chinsura before landing to visit the imposing Imambara at Hooghly. With verses from the Koran written on its walls, the Imambara is an opportunity to step back in time and relive a slice of Islamic history in Bengal. Sail into the night to a mooring near Kalna.

After breakfast, disembark and transfer to the Kolkata airport or hotel.

Itineraries are subject to change.

Main Deck Twin Sharing. From

$3,751 USD pp
Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10 main deck - 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass - Panoramic French window - Kimonos and slippers - Spa-branded amenities - Unlimited mineral water - Electric mini safe - AC with individual control - Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows - Premium mattresses - Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift - Mirror - Multi-configuration plugs - Generous closet space and under-bed storage - Hair dryer - Daily nightly turndown service - 24h laundry service - Complimentary evening canapés - Yoga mats in all cabins

Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From

$4,114 USD pp
Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
8 upper deck - 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass - Panoramic French window - Kimonos and slippers - Spa-branded amenities - Unlimited mineral water - Electric mini safe - AC with individual control - Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows - Premium mattresses - Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift - Mirror - Multi-configuration plugs - Generous closet space and under-bed storage - Hair dryer - Daily nightly turndown service - 24h laundry service - Complimentary evening canapés - Yoga mats in all cabins

Main Deck Twin Sharing. From

$4,500 USD pp
Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10 main deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From

$5,625 USD pp
Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
4 upper deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Main Deck Twin Sharing. From

$4,500 USD pp
Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10 main deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From

$5,625 USD pp
Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
4 upper deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Main Deck Twin Sharing. From

$4,500 USD pp
Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10 main deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From

$5,625 USD pp
Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
4 upper deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Main Deck Twin Sharing. From

$4,500 USD pp
Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10 main deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From

$5,625 USD pp
Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
4 upper deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Main Deck Twin Sharing. From

$4,500 USD pp
Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10 main deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From

$5,625 USD pp
Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
4 upper deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Main Deck Twin Sharing. From

$4,500 USD pp
Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10 main deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From

$5,625 USD pp
Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
4 upper deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Main Deck Twin Sharing. From

$4,500 USD pp
Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10 main deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From

$5,625 USD pp
Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
4 upper deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Main Deck Twin Sharing. From

$4,500 USD pp
Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10 main deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From

$5,625 USD pp
Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
4 upper deck 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass Panoramic French window Kimonos and slippers Spa-branded amenities Unlimited mineral water Electric mini safe AC with individual control Imported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillows Premium mattresses Welcome flower arrangement and welcome gift Mirror Multi-configuration plugs Generous closet space and under-bed storage Hair dryer Daily nightly turndown service 24h laundry service Complimentary evening canapés Yoga mats in all cabins

Additional charges:

Port Charges. From: 65 USD pp

Vessel Type: River Boat

Length: 57 metres

Passenger Capacity: 36

Built / refurbished: 2014

Kalaw Pandaw is a K-class ship. The K-class dated back to the 1880s and were comprised of stern wheelers designed to reduce draft, their boilers placed in the bow to improve trim. Smaller than the great line steamers of the age, the K-class ships were used on the Chindwin and upper reaches of the Irrawaddy. Where possible we have reused the old IFC names and many of these original K-class ships had fascinating histories, through times of war and peace.

ACCOMMODATION

8 upper deck, 10 main deck - 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass - AC with individual control - Premium mattresses

WINING & DINING

Bistro style dining room with outside seating and air-conditioning inside - Local master chef heading an experienced international culinary team - Semi-buffet breakfast, semi-buffet lunch, and seated theme dinners - Daily lean & light menu options - Complimentary coffee, water, tea, local soft drinks, local beer, local spirits - Extensive wine list with premium wines - Series of cultural performances, educational talks, cooking classes, and ship tour - Welcome drink on arrival - Welcome cocktail - Farewell reception - Theme dinners - 24hrs hospitality bar - Onboard bakery with daily freshly baked breads and rolls

ON EXCURSIONS

Admissions - Shoe cleaning after excursions - Bottled drinking water - We give away aluminium water bottles - Cold towel service after excursions - Refreshing drink following excursions - 1st aid trained assistant guide to follow all tours and excursions

SAFETY & SECURITY

All onboard crew is trained and certified as per international marine standards - Fire alarm system in all cabins, public areas and back areas - Fire fighting system in all ship areas - Expert marine superintendant - 24 hrs watch on duty

ONBOARD STAFF

Captain - River Pilot - First Officer - Chief Engineer - 1st Engineer - Electrician - Bosun & nautical crew - Ship manager - Housekeeping - Dining - Bar keeper - Chefs - Local tour guides

PUBLIC SPACES

Guest relation desk - Library with contemporary and classic literature

Cabin layout for Kalaw Pandaw

Vessel Type: River Boat

Length: 40 metres

Passenger Capacity: 32 passengers (28 passengers from Sept 2019)

Built / refurbished: 2011

ACCOMMODATION

6 upper deck, 10 main deck (4 upper deck, 10 main deck from Sept 2019) - 170 square feet, finished in teak and brass - AC with individual control - Premium mattresses 

WINING & DINING

Local master chef heading an experienced international culinary team - Semi-buffet breakfast, semi-buffet lunch, and seated theme dinners - Daily lean & light menu options - Complimentary coffee, water, tea, soft drinks, local beer, local spirits, juices - Extensive wine list with premium wines - Series of cultural performances, educational talks, cooking classes, and ship tour - Welcome drink on arrival - Welcome cocktail - Farewell reception - Theme dinners - Open air lounge and bar - 24hrs hospitality bar - Onboard bakery with daily freshly baked breads and rolls

ON EXCURSIONS

Admissions - Shoe cleaning after excursions - Bottled drinking water - We give away aluminium water bottles - Cold towel service after excursions - Refreshing drink following excursions - 1st aid trained assistant guide to follow all tours and excursions

SAFETY & SECURITY

All onboard crew is trained and certified as per international marine standards - Fire alarm system in all cabins, public areas and back areas - Fire fighting system in all ship areas - Expert marine superintendant - 24 hrs watch on duty

ONBOARD STAFF

Captain - River Pilot - First Officer - Chief Engineer - 1st Engineer - Electrician - Bosun & nautical crew - Ship manager - Housekeeping - Dining - Bar keeper - Chefs - Local tour guides

PUBLIC SPACES

Guest relation desk - Shop, supporting fair trade - Library with contemporary and classic literature.

Cabin layout for Katha Pandaw

Optional tours & excursions are available. Please contact us for more details.

Inclusions


• Voyage on board in selected cabin categoryWelcome cocktail party
• Signature hors d’oeuvres at cocktails each evening
• Afternoon tea with cakes or cookies when cruising
• Celebration cake and gift on birthdays and anniversaries
• Cookery demonstrations and classes using local produce
• All scheduled excursions
• At least two cultural performances per cruise
• Tour of the engine rooms, galley and working parts of the ship
• Film presentations on local culture and history
• Local mineral water
• Cold towels on deck all day
• Jugged coffee, tea and tisanes on deck from sunrise till sunset
• Crew gratuities are included in your cruise program price

Exclusions


• International and domestic flights
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs
• Port taxes where applicable
• Gratuities for land guides/drivers
• Spa service including foot, head and body massages (Mekong only)
• Personal laundry service
• Local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes are all complimentary. All other drinks will be charged.
Kalaw Pandaw
India Small Ship CruiseSmall Ship Cruise
8 Days from
$3,751 USD pp

or call us on

NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

to help you make your reservation

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