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27 December 2024 by Krishna Ghosh
Wexas expert Krishna Ghosh enjoys an emotional cruise on the sacred Ganges, and finds out why this is an excellent option for first-time visitors to this remarkable country.
When I found out I’d be heading to India on a trip with Uniworld, I was, of course, delighted. When I discovered that the cruise in question would see me sail past my old family home and the school I once attended, it transformed what would have been an exciting adventure into something altogether more personal.
Arriving in Kolkata on a bright, sunny morning, l was met by a Uniworld representative for an hour-and-a-half transfer through the heart of the ‘City of Joy’ to the dock on the banks of the Ganges where my river ship, Ganges Voyager II, was moored. Stepping aboard, I was shown to my accommodation – a Signature Suite with a private bathroom and French balcony – where I had time to relax before setting sail under the famous Howrah Bridge. As the afternoon faded into evening, an optional yoga session on the top deck provided a further chance to unwind before a sail-away cocktail in the lounge and a dinner which celebrated the region’s vibrant cuisine – a delicious way to end a wonderful first day onboard.
Ganges Voyager, II
Then, over the course of two memorable days, Uniworld set about bringing this beautiful corner of India to life. We began with a morning in Kalna, a delightfully serene place, particularly after the chaos of Kolkata. Here, an early-morning excursion by electric rickshaw showcased beautiful terra-cotta carvings depicting local myths and rituals, followed by a stop at a local market selling seasonal vegetable and fruits. Then, following breakfast, there was time to relax onboard, where I joined a cookery demonstration hosted by the ship’s talented chefs, who talked passionately about the region’s unique culinary traditions. We then enjoyed wonderful views of rural river life as we sailed towards Chandernagore – a former French Colony, which only officially became part of India in 1952. And, while the town itself is notable for its rich mix of French-era architecture, including the impressive Sacred Heart Church, for me it was also a homecoming, as it was here, in my childhood, that I attended St Joseph’s Convent School on the banks of Hooghly river.
Kolkaka, India
As another day on the Ganges came to an end, there was more sunset yoga followed by music from a group of traditional Baul singers on the ship’s deck as we began our slow voyage back to Kolkata. I must say, the singing and dancing were infectious, and before long everyone was up and joining in.
Once back in Kolkata, it was time to leave the ship behind. But, as with all of Uniworld’s India itineraries, the adventure was far from over, as I then looked forward to a guided tour of the famed Golden Triangle – Delhi, Jaipur and Agra. The wonderful thing about this ‘extra’ leg of the itinerary is that it offers an introduction to an altogether different side of the country – the one of storybooks and postcards, where iconic sights rise up from the streets of some of the country’s most vibrant cities. Over four memorable days, we explored the markets, temples and tombs of Delhi on guided tours and cycle rickshaw rides; marvelled at the wonders of ‘pink’ Jaipur in Rajasthan, with its grand City Palace and majestic fort; and took two trips to the Taj Mahal, with private viewings at both sunset and sunrise, all without the usual crowds. I was also lucky enough to enjoy the sight of India’s most famous monument from my luxurious hotel room at the excellent Oberoi Amarvilas – a truly wonderful experience.
Oberoi Amarvilas, Agra
Indeed, one of the best parts of the Golden Triangle tour was the excellent choice of hotels – our itinerary included stays at three Oberoi properties – which meant the transition from luxury river cruise to land-based travel was utterly seamless. That, and the guides were fantastic throughout, layering each tour with plenty of colour and lots of information, delivered with infectious energy, passion and pride. We were even treated to a farewell dinner served on the rooftop of the Oberoi Delhi – the perfect end to an unforgettable adventure.
