Discover India in effortless luxury and absolute comfort with APT

Every journey to the Ganges is sacred, and a cruise along this waterway – revered as the holiest river by Hindus – offers an immersive way to experience India’s spiritual heart. Designed to deepen your connection to India’s heritage, APT’s expertly crafted tours feature a range of enriching cultural interactions, like witnessing the captivating ceremony of Ganga Aarti in the ancient city of Varanasi. Purpose-built to navigate this majestic river, the lavish Ganges Voyager is the perfect base for exploring the Lower Ganges, a destination far from the usual tourist trail. With five-star accommodation and every detail considered throughout your journey, you can explore the true spirit of India in complete ease. 

Sacred Rituals on the Ganges 

As the sun dips below the horizon and dusk descends on the holy Ganges, thousands of devotees gather around the ghats that line Varanasi’s riverbank for the ritual of Ganga Aarti. A tradition dating back hundreds of years, the Hindu ceremony is held every evening after sunset as an offering to the Ganges River. In an act of effortless alchemy, the sky transmutes golden hues into the ink blue of twilight before meeting another sea of yellow: the flickering glow of flaming oil lamps and piles of marigolds. The flowers’ herbaceous, musky scent coalesces with earthy notes of frankincense and sandalwood as incense smoke fills the air. Chiming bells and the chanting of Vedic mantras create a cosmic symphony that echoes across the river. 

Priests clad in white and saffron robes move with a hypnotising synergy, each step an act of worship: the blowing of a conch, the swaying of a prayer lamp, the waving of a peacock feather. Crowds gather on both land and sea: people huddle on the steps that lead down to the river, while wooden boats filled with onlookers gently nudge each other. For 45 minutes, Varanasi – one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities – buzzes with the energy of devotion. The atmosphere makes an enduring impression on all who experience it. 

India’s Holiest River 

Originating at the terminus of the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas, the Ganges River snakes 2,525 kilometres before emptying in the Bay of Bengal and forming the largest river delta in the world. A lifeline for India and neighbouring Bangladesh, the Ganges sustains hundreds of millions of people and supports one of the most fertile agricultural regions across the globe. And it’s far more than a river. For Hindus, the Ganges is considered an extension of Lord Shiva and a physical manifestation of Ganga Ma – meaning Mother Ganga – a goddess worshipped for purification and forgiveness. 

Spiritual Importance of the Ganges 

The Ganga Aarti is just one of countless rituals that take place on India’s Ganges River. Kumbh Mela is an important Hindu pilgrimage and festival celebrated at different sacred river sites every few years. Held in Prayagraj at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers, the recent Maha Kumbh Mela was a once-in-144-year event, coinciding with a rare alignment of seven planets on the same side of the sun. 663 million people made the journey over 45 days, taking a dip in the sacred waters of the Ganges to cleanse their sins. Many Hindus also travel to Varanasi to spend their final days and be cremated on the banks of the Ganges in order to attain moksha – liberation from the endless cycle of death and rebirth. 

Our 12-day Kolkata, Varanasi and Lower Ganges Cruise takes you on an unforgettable seven-night roundtrip from Kolkata along the rarely travelled Lower Ganges. Journey aboard the luxurious Ganges Voyager to witness authentic life on the riverbanks, discovering remote villages, ancient temples and vibrant markets along the way. The Lower Ganges cruise is also bookended by two-night stays in Kolkata and Varanasi, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich heritage of these two spectacular cities. Throughout your luxury tour in India with APT, delve into meaningful encounters that go well beyond the surface of local culture, history and tradition. 

Ganga Aarti in Varanasi 

Be captivated by the mesmerising ceremony of Ganga Aarti in the soul-stirring city of Varanasi. Enjoy private seating as you witness the chants of holy Vedic mantras, accompanied by traditional music. The ceremony draws to a close as the priests pour their offerings of milk, roses and marigolds into the river. Devotees float flower-filled, flaming diyas (oil lamps) on the Ganges, freckling the waters in a soft, amber glow. 

Sunrise Cruise in Varanasi 

As the riverbanks begin to stir with life and the sky dances between brilliant shades of yellow, orange and pink, take to the sacred waters of the Ganges in a decorated boat for a mystical sunrise cruise. Glide by the city’s historic ghats and observe the practice of morning Hindu rituals, accompanied by the soulful sounds of the tabla and sitar. 

E-Rickshaw Ride Through Kalna 

A cruise through the Lower Ganges takes you well off the tourist trail and into the heart of India’s remote towns. Dubbed the ‘City of Temples’, weave through Kalna on an e-rickshaw to discover Bengal’s ornate terracotta architecture, including the Rajbari royal palace complex and striking Shiva temples. More popularly known as Ambika Kalna, the ancient town is named after the revered Hindu goddess Kali. Elaborate structures can be found in every corner of Kalna, echoing tales of the past. 

High Tea at Kathgola Palace in Murshidabad 

Savour a delectable high tea in the four-storey Kathgola Palace, situated in the storied town of Murshidabad in West Bengal. Nestled amid lush gardens featuring exotic trees and plants, this 19th-century architectural marvel reflects the grandeur of Bengal’s heritage. Constructed by a wealthy Jain merchant, the mansion blends European and Bengali influences, with a brilliant ornamental facade. 

With the feel of a floating temple, this exceptionally designed vessel offers all the modern comforts of a five-star hotel. Intricate interiors and a serene ambience add another layer to the sanctity of experiencing this revered destination. Guests are transported to the past as soon as they step aboard, greeted by a seamless blend of Indian hand-stencilled murals and elegant colonial-style furnishings in rich, dark woods. With a gym, spa, and comfortable lounges, there are an array of areas to spend your time on board. 

Ganges Voyager Guest Suites 

Bathed in natural light, every suite features a French balcony with floor-to-ceiling glass doors for panoramic views, as well as a modern en suite. High-end amenities include premium linens, plush robes and slippers, a flat screen television with on-demand entertainment, and personal climate control. The most luxurious suite on board – the Maharaja Suite – also includes an expansive en suite with a deluxe bath, laundry service and daily butler service. 

Fine Dining on Board Ganges Voyager  

Dining on board is an experience in its own right, with chef-prepared meals blending regional Indian specialties with familiar international favourites. Each day begins with a buffet breakfast, offering classic morning staples alongside daily specials. Lunch is served à la carte, while sumptuous four-course dinners offer a choice of salads, soups, entrees, and dessert or cheese. Guests can enjoy complimentary wine and local spirits with lunch and dinner, as well as a daily cocktail hour. Tea and coffee are available at all times. 

Impeccable Onboard Service  

With just 56 guests on board and a high crew-to-guest ratio, the Ganges Voyager ensures an intimate and personalised experience as you uncover the soul of this spellbinding destination. There is simply no better way to experience the mystique of the Ganges. 

At APT, we make luxury travel in India effortless. Everything you need throughout your tour is included and organised, so you can rest assured knowing all the details have been taken care of. 

Luxury Five-Star Accommodation in India  

Stay in leading properties on your India luxury tour, each hand-picked for its distinctive character, unrivalled service and spectacular settings. Set amid leafy surrounds teeming with birdlife in Kolkata’s coveted neighbourhood of Alipore, the Taj Bengal combines effortless sophistication with an air of serenity. With interiors designed by legendary architect Bob Fox, the five-star landmark hotel balances classical and contemporary styles with a striking atrium, priceless art, authentic antiques and state-of-the-art amenities. Located near the city’s commercial centre, the Taj Bengal captures the rich tapestry of Kolkata’s art, culture and history. 

Taj Ganges in Varanasi strikes the perfect balance between modern opulence and tranquillity, honouring the mystical charm of this ancient city set on the banks of the Ganges. Positioned within 12 acres of flourishing landscaped gardens filled with mango orchards, the five-star hotel radiates timeless charm, with historic artefacts and works of art complementing the modern interiors. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, work out in the fitness centre, or discover the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda at the J Wellness Circle. With renowned service, your stay here will be nothing short of exceptional. 

Luxury Inclusions 

Throughout city stays and the luxury Ganges River cruise, your APT Tour and Cruise Director is with you every step of the way. Masterfully curated to captivate and inspire, one-of-a-kind Signature Experiences reveal the deeper stories woven into the fabric of each destination. From exploring Kolkata’s kaleidoscopic Mallick Ghat Flower Market to visiting the famous silk weavers of Varanasi, a host of Freedom of Choice activities offer flexible sightseeing. With transfers, porterage, port charges and gratuities included, you’re empowered to explore with total freedom. 

Discover the wonders of India in effortless opulence with APT. View our upcoming luxury India tours and request an Asia 2026 brochure today. 

Words by Jemma Glucina-Henderson