+1.305.306.8700 +1.844.306.8700

info@lotusofindia.com

Golden Triangle, Kolkata and Lower Ganges Cruise (Aug 2026 – Mar 2027)

Indian River Cruise

Delhi – Agra – Fatehpur Sikri – Ajabgarh – Jaipur – Kolkata – Bandel – Kalna – Matiari – Khushbagh – Baranagar – Murshidabad – Mayapur – Chandannagar – Kolkata
0 booked

Duration: 17 Days / 16 Nights
Language: English
Tour type: Indian River Cruise
Transport: Domestic Flight / Private Air-Conditioned Coach / River Cruise Ship (Ganges Voyager) / Electric Rickshaw / Heritage Tram
Accommodation: Luxury Hotels (The Imperial New Delhi, ITC Mughal Agra, Amanbagh Ajabgarh, Taj Jai Mahal Jaipur, Taj Bengal Kolkata) & Ganges Voyager River Ship
Meals: 16 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 12 Dinners
Group size: Small Group

Rich Cultural Activities

Cuisine

Sightseeing

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Delhi

Welcome to Delhi, India’s lively and fascinating capital city. Be met at the airport and transferred to your luxury accommodation in the heart of the city. Tonight, soak in the hotel’s rich heritage and admire the fascinating Victorian and Art Deco architecture as you enjoy a Signature Experience.

Day 2: Delhi

Set out to explore Indias’ largest mosque, the Jama Masjid, with a capacity of more than 25,000 worshippers. Then, embark on an electric rickshaw ride through the bustling streets of Old Delhi, driving through the vibrant Chandni Chowk market. Feast on a selection of lesser-known regional cuisines at Cafe Lota. After lunch, enjoy your first Signature Experience. Later, continue your Delhi exploration with a visit to the World Heritage-listed Qutub Minar. Built in the early 13th century, the intricate minaret and victory tower are constructed in red sandstone and carved with words from the Quran. Savour a second Signature Experience nearby tonight.

Day 3: Delhi, Agra

This morning drive along the wide tree-lined boulevards of New Delhi to visit the 16th-century Humayun’s Tomb, which was among the key inspirations for the Taj Mahal. Admire more amazing architecture at India Gate, an iconic sandstone war memorial dedicated to Indian Army soldiers who died in the First World War. Later, travel by road to Agra, the home of the majestic Taj Mahal and a former capital of the Mughal Empire. Tonight, you’ll dine on a delicious dinner at the restaurant of your choice.

Day 4: Agra

Rise early to marvel at the splendour of the Taj Mahal at sunrise as its marble facade lights up with spectacular natural colours. The exquisite mausoleum, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, was built by the order of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to honour his favourite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Next you’ll visit the nearby Agra Fort, another World Heritage-listed site, where Shah Jahan was later imprisoned. You’ll also explore the beautiful Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah, often referred to as the Baby Taj. Tonight, enjoy a Signature Experience.

Day 5: Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, Ajabgarh

Set off on the road to Ajabgarh, stopping en route at the World Heritage-listed Fatehpur Sikri, a spectacular ancient 16th-century fortified city built mainly from vibrant red sandstone by the Mughal emperor Akbar. Stroll among the ruins, admire the intricate carvings and hear stories of this site. Continue to your luxurious hotel in Ajabgarh, a peaceful oasis in rural Rajasthan. Set out on a guided nature walk to discover more of the flora and fauna. Then enjoy a Signature Experience before dinner this evening.

Day 6: Ajabgarh, Jaipur

Begin the day with a peaceful yoga session to prepare for another exciting day of sightseeing. Next, enjoy an exclusive Signature Experience. Later, travel to the enthralling, historical Jaipur known as the Pink City, Rajasthan’s capital and gateway to India’s most vibrant state.

Day 7: Jaipur

You will have a full day to explore the enthralling, historical Pink City of Jaipur, Rajasthan’s spectacular capital. Take a tour of the city’s most iconic attractions including the picturesque Amber Fort, the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), and the City Palace, which is still home of the Jaipur royal family. For lunch, savour delicious local produce at a traditional vegetarian Indian restaurant tucked away in the heart of the lively Johri Bazaar. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in a private workshop of block printing using natural and Azo-free dyes.

Day 8: Jaipur, Kolkata

Today you can further explore Jaipur on your chosen activity. Later, be transferred to the airport and board your flight to Kolkata, the lively ‘City of Joy’, and be transferred to your luxury accommodation. Once the capital of colonial India, Kolkata is a thriving hub of culture and history.

Day 9: Kolkata

Set out on an exploration of Kolkata today during an unforgettable Signature Experience. Later, visit Kumartuli, the city’s traditional potters’ quarter. Here you can admire the potters’ incredible craftwork, spanning from clay pots to elaborate statues of gods and goddesses used for a myriad of festivals. This afternoon, enjoy another Signature Experience before dinner this evening.

Day 10: Kolkata, Embark Ship

Choose your morning sightseeing before transferring to the pier to board the Ganges Voyager, your floating home for the next seven nights. Following lunch on board, head to the Victoria Memorial and its museum, which houses the nation’s largest collection of British colonial artifacts. Later, return to your ship and enjoy a fantastic performance by Baul musicians, whose spiritual customs have been an important cultural contribution in Bengal for hundreds of years, leading to the Baul tradition’s inclusion on UNESCO’s list of Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Day 11: Kolkata, Bandel, Kalna

This morning, set out on a sightseeing bus tour featuring some of Kolkata’s best-preserved colonial buildings including the Writer’s Building, General Post Office, High Court and Raj Bhawan (Governer’s House). Visit St John’s Church, which was built in 1756, and features the tombs of several British generals who died in that year’s Siege of Kolkata. After lunch on board, your ship will begin its journey upstream along the Hooghly River on the Lower Ganges. Later today, visit the 19th-century Hooghly Imambara, a prayer hall and famous pilgrimage centre in West Bengal. Admire the massive Victorian clock, between the twin towers, the makers of which also built London’s iconic Big Ben. Return to your ship and sail on to Kalna.

Day 12: Kalna, Matiari

After breakfast, it’s time to explore magnificent Kalna, known as the City of Temples. Enjoy a rickshaw ride through town to visit some of Bengal’s most distinct terracotta temples, including the Rajbari royal palace complex. You’ll also see the eye-catching Shiva temples. Later, stroll through the local market en route back to your ship. Relax on board as you sail to the village of Matiari.

Day 13: Matiari, Khushbagh

Begin the day with a morning walk through Matiari, where you’ll have the opportunity to peruse beautiful cooking and household items crafted from recycled copper and brass. Visit the small home factories that have been operating for generations and watch the masterful craftspeople at work. Afterwards, continue cruising upstream near to the village of Plassey, the site of the Battle of Plassey. Learn how the British East India Company recorded a victory here in 1757, helping establish the company rule in Bengal and much of India. Sail on to the peaceful garden and cemetery of Khushbagh, and take a stroll passing by local farmers’ fields to the tomb of the last Nawab of Bengal, Siraj ud-Daula.

Day 14: Khushbagh, Baranagar, Murshidabad

This morning you’ll cruise to the sleepy village of Baranagar where you’ll experience rural Indian life with a relaxing walk, admiring local sights including the beautiful terracotta Char Bangla Temples. Back on board, spend the afternoon at leisure as you glide along the beautiful Lower Ganges. As you approach Murshidabad, you’ll notice the Hazarduari Palace, which dominates the waterfront. Take a tour of the impressive palace, which features more than 1000 doors, some of which were faked to deter thieves. After a Signature Experience, ride a toto (electric rickshaw) to the 18th-century Katra Mosque and learn about the Mohammedan rulers.

Day 15: Murshidabad, Mayapur

Enjoy a restful morning as life unfolds along the river before a visit to the village of Mayapur. Here you’ll learn about the Hari Krishna community and culture in a meeting with some of the movement’s dedicated followers. You’ll also view the final stages of construction for the enormous Temple of the Vedic Planetarium – Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir, the world headquarters of ISKCON.

Day 16: Mayapur, Chandannagar, Kolkata

Begin the day with a tranquil cruise to Chandannagar, which was established as a French colony in 1673. Stroll along the lively promenade as you marvel at the French architecture, then visit the 17th-century Sacred Heart Church and the Dupleix Museum, which is housed in the home of former French Governor Joseph François Dupleix. This afternoon, continue cruising along the Ganges and soak in your final night on board.

Day 17: Disembark Ship, Depart Kolkata

After breakfast, disembark and transfer to a hotel in Kolkata, where you can leave your luggage and relax before your onward journey. At the appropriate time, a transfer will be arranged to Kolkata’s Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport for your departing flight.

Experience the grand heritage of India on a 17-day journey combining the historic Golden Triangle with a seven-night luxury cruise along the Lower Ganges. Beginning in Delhi, explore grand Mughal monuments, royal palaces in Rajasthan, and rich local traditions before flying to Kolkata to board the Ganges Voyager.

Explore: Iconic landmarks including the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri, Amber Fort, and colonial heritage along the Hooghly River.
Experience: Electric rickshaw rides in Old Delhi, an Indian gin cocktail workshop, a cooking class in Ajabgarh, block printing workshops in Jaipur, a heritage tram ride in Kolkata, and traditional Baul music performances on board.
Enjoy: High-end accommodations including heritage hotels and luxury resort stays, full-board river cruising, and private transfers throughout.

Price includes

A guided tour of important places.
A two-person English-speaking Travel Director and Driver team with you for the duration of your journey.
Beautifully illustrated souvenir map.
Current Hotel Taxes and Service Charges.
Entrance tickets to monuments and museums mentioned on the itinerary.
Sightseeing and activities as described in your itinerary.
All accommodations – First class or best available hotels in the area based on the hotel price category booked.
Breakfast daily and some evening meals as described in your trip itinerary.
Meals, unless expressly states.
Observation and participation in allowed activities.
Professionally guided tour.
Arrival and Departure Airport transfers.
Transport to and from hotel listed on itinerary
Bottled water.

Price does not include

All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes.
Departure Taxes.
Visa processing arrangements.
Extra pre and / or post hotel nights for before and after your trip. These can be booked through Lotus of India and or your Travel Agent and be added during the booking process.
Handling fees.
Excess baggage charge.
Increases in airfares or Government imposed taxes.
International Air, unless expressly paid for.
Medical Travel insurance and emergency insurance.
Visas and Travel Insurance.
Other International and domestic flights not mentioned on the itinerary.
Personal expenses.
Porterage for a maximum of two bags per person.
All porterage and restaurant gratuities.
Services not specifically stated in the itinerary.
Tips to guide and driver.
Optional Experiences. Optional Experiences are additional add-on experiences unique to the destination that are booked and paid for (credit card or cash) when you are on your tour. As Optional Experiences are pre-bookable, this allows you the flexibility to pick and choose what you feel like when you’re on your trip.
Any taxi fares or personal spending money including for non-included items, meals.

Level of Physical fitness required for the Lotus of India tour?

A moderate amount of walking is involved at both attractions.
Check recommended level for travelers with back problems or any other issues.
Check the dress codes for proper vestments for religious sites or county customs.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, comfortable clothes and hiking or tennis shoes.

Guidelines for Different Religious Sites

Typical Dress Code for Churches and Cathedrals

Churches, particularly in Europe, often require covered shoulders and knees. Bringing a scarf or shawl can be handy if you need to cover up quickly.

Dress Codes in Mosques

Mosques typically require women to cover their hair with a scarf or hijab and both men and women to wear long pants or skirts. Some mosques provide appropriate attire at the entrance.
Typical Dress Code for Temples and Shrines.
In Hindu and Buddhist temples, it is respectful to wear long sleeves and long skirts or pants. Removing shoes is often mandatory, and wearing socks might be required in some places.

Tips for Respectful Attire

Removing Hats or Headwear
While head coverings may be required in some religious sites, hats and caps are generally considered disrespectful and should be removed before entering.

Layering for Comfort and Respect

Bringing a lightweight layer, like a cardigan or shawl, allows you to adapt your outfit as needed. This is especially useful when transitioning from a hot climate outside to a cool interior within religious buildings.

Understanding Local Customs

Researching or asking about local customs before visiting can prevent unintentional disrespect. Each religious site may have unique expectations regarding dress code.

Additional Information

Confirmation will be received at time of booking and payment
Tours can be customized, by request with a multi-lingual guides option: (English, Spanish, French, Italian, German and Portuguese).
Daily Tours departures times will be announced by your guide a day prior to the tour date.
The tour starts times ranges based on the activity booked.
Waiver will need to be signed attesting to good health conditions

Cancellation and Refunds Policies

For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours after booking payment.
In the event of cancellation, Traveler should notify Lotus of India in writing at – least 60 days prior to travel.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Any changes made after paid booking before the experience’s start date / time will be subject to modification fees.
If the experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers ( 2 ). If it’s canceled because the minimum wasn’t met, you’ll be offered options and recalculated prices.
A cancellation fee will be charged by Lotus of India for all cancelled bookings, as per the following cancellation terms.

Land Portions Refund Datelines: ( Hotels, Tours services, Sightseeing tours )

Number of days prior to Departure	Cost of Cancellation (Minimum Cancellation after booking)
120 days or more	15% of the total tour cost
119 to 60 days	25% of the total tour cost
59 to 30 days	50% of the total tour cost
Below 30 days	100% of the total tour cost

Map

Frequently Asked Questions - Deposits, Payments & Customers:

How Much Walking Is Involved?
Foreign travelers often worry about physical strain, especially seniors and couples. Physical comfort is managed proactively rather than reactively. Private tours control walking distances. Vehicles drop travelers close to sites, and visits are planned during less crowded hours.
Is Indian Food Safe for Foreign Tourists?
Food concerns are extremely common. Travelers worry about hygiene, food spice levels, and digestive issues. Private tours ensure meals are taken in reputable restaurants and hotels where hygiene standards are controlled. Spice levels are adjusted, and dietary needs are respected. Most food-related problems occur when travelers eat randomly or without guidance.
What Happens If Something Goes Wrong?
Travel anxiety often peaks around “what if” scenarios. Delays, illness, missed connections, or fatigue worry travelers before booking. Private tours include contingency handling. Drivers, guides and operators respond immediately to changes without traveler involvement. This safety net is one of the strongest reasons foreign travelers choose private tours.
Will the Tour Feel Too Rushed?
Fear of rushed itineraries is common, especially among travelers who have seen aggressive group tour schedules. Private tours are paced according to traveler energy, not preset checklists. Days are balanced, and sightseeing is spread logically. Foreign travelers often say they see less but understand more, which improves satisfaction.
How Much Planning Is Actually Needed?
India requires more planning than many destinations because of its scale and diversity. Foreign travelers often underestimate travel times, climate differences, and regional variations. Private tour planning absorbs this complexity. Routes are optimized, rest is built in, and seasonal factors are considered. Good planning reduces surprises, which is essential for confidence.
Are Private Tours Only for Luxury Travelers?
There is a misconception that private tours are only for ultra-luxury travelers. Private tours exist across comfort levels. The defining feature is personalization, not price. Even mid-range private tours offer better control and ease than budget independent travel. Luxury private tours simply enhance comfort further through premium hotels and experiences. Foreign travelers choose private tours not to show wealth, but to avoid friction.

0/5

0 Reviews

5 stars

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

All With Photos Only

Sort by

Newest

No hay valoraciones aún.

From

From 1 April 2026 to 27 March 2027

Desde el 1 de Abril 2026 al 27 de Marzo 2027