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Kalaw Pandaw

Namesake of a historic paddle steamer navigating the Hooghly River between Kolkata and Baranagar.

Overview

Like her twin sister ship Kindat, the Kalaw Pandaw was originally built and launched in Yangon in 2014 and boasts an ultra light, shallow draft design ideal for sailing the silty waters of the River Ganges’ lower stretches along the Hooghly River, and an elegant air reminiscent of the bygone days of the British Raj.

The Vessel

Despite her 36 passenger capacity, the double-decked ship doesn’t feel crowded at all, indeed the boat features one of the highest passenger space ratios on India’s rivers. Her two ample decks mean there is lots of outdoor deck space to enjoy, and her 18 cabins—10 main deck cabins and 8 upper deck cabins— are all generously sized, each measuring 170 square feet (16 square meters) and include plenty of closet space and under-bed storage, kimonos and slippers, spa-branded amenities, yoga mats and panoramic French windows.

Quite literally named after the historic paddle steamer PS Kalaw that was launched in 1917 and sunk in 1942 in the War—her owner witnessed the salvaging of the Kalaw in 1998 and managed to acquire her name plate and bell, the former of which the vessel now features—she is no longer sports a paddle or steam power, but still resembles upscale versions of the colonial-style ships of the past, all decked out in teak and brass, and her Sun Deck does come aptly adorned in steamer chairs, the perfect spot to settle in with an afternoon G&T and watch the world float by.

She also features a guest relation desk, library with contemporary and classic literature, and a flexible bistro space offering passengers indoor (air-conditioned) or outdoor dining depending on inclination, often prompted by the season. Breakfast and lunch are semi buffet-style, while dinners are served and often themed, all prepared by the master chef who heads an experienced international culinary team.

The Journey

A range of journeys from Kolkata take visitors on voyages through the rich history and lush countryside of West Bengal to discover places that the average traveler wouldn’t ordinarily get to see. Meandering through some of the prettiest parts of deepest India, stop off to walk through mustard fields and mango orchards, explore sleepy villages and traditional towns, and witness some of the most impressive temples and palaces this majestic country has to offer.

Off ship excursions and on board enrichment activities are all focused on engaging with the local culture, religious monuments and rich village life along the banks of one of the world’s most sacred and culturally significant rivers. Take a rickshaw ride to see a unique Shiva temple with concentric rings made up of 108 lesser shrines, visit a brass-working village and history-changing battlefield, learn of the Hare Krishna movement and its connections to Henry Ford, explore the tiger-rich Sundarbans, and so much more.

An elegant ship with great attention to detail and interesting cultural experiences, not to mention a generous policy of waiving single supplements on several select sailings throughout the year, it’s no wonder the vessel is as popular with solo passengers and groups of odd-number size as it is with intrepid couples. For all who step aboard the RV Kalaw Pandaw, an eye-opening exploration of rural India along the lower Ganges’ River Hooghly awaits.

Itineraries & Prices

All itineraries are subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions (and resultant variations in river and tributary water levels) affecting accessibility to locations. Thus navigation routes, times and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain’s or your guide's discretion.

1 / 7
8-Day A
8-Day B
8-Day C
8-Day D
15-Day E
15-Day F
15-Day G

8 Day - The Lower Ganges River: Kolkata - Farakka

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM & PM: Transfer from your hotel or airport in Kolkata 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River: Kolkata - Farakka - Day 1
Location
Kolkata
Day
1 / 8

Chandernagore

AM & PM: Continue sailing upstream to Chandernagore, a French possession until 1950. Visit the 18th century church and Dupleix’s House, erstwhile Governor-General of French India.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River: Kolkata - Farakka - Day 2
Location
Chandernagore
Day
2 / 8

Kalna

AM: After breakfast sail upstream and land at the country town of Kalna and take 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.

PM: Sail on through the night to a mooring near Matiari.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River: Kolkata - Farakka - Day 3
Location
Kalna
Day
3 / 8

Mayapur

AM & PM: 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River: Kolkata - Farakka - Day 4
Location
Mayapur
Day
4 / 8

Matiari

AM & PM: 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. Continue cruising upstream and time permitting 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River: Kolkata - Farakka - Day 5
Location
Matiari
Day
5 / 8

Murshidabad

AM: 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 visiting 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.

PM: Moor overnight on the riverbank across from town.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River: Kolkata - Farakka - Day 6
Location
Baranagar
Day
6 / 8

Ajimganj-Farakkka

AM & PM: 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 before continuing on to the Farakka barrage.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River: Kolkata - Farakka -Day 7
Location
Katgola Palace
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: After breakfast, disembark and receive a group transfer to your hotel or the train station in Farakka for your train journey back to Kolkata.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River: Kolkata - Farakka -Day 8
Location
Farakka
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

8 Day - The Lower Ganges River : Farakka - Kolkata

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM & PM: Join your Pandaw ship in the afternoon following your train journey from Kolkata. For those arriving of their own accord, please arrive to the ship docked at Bamuha no earlier than 2pm. Be welcomed aboard your Pandaw by our crew and enjoy evening entertainment onboard before cocktails and dinner.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River : Farakka - Kolkata - Day 1
Location
Farakka
Day
1 / 8

Murshidabad

AM: After breakfast, take a 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 before continuing our voyage downstream.

PM: In the afternoon we enjoy a city tour of Murshidabad, visiting 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River : Farakka - Kolkata - Day 2
Location
Katgola Palace
Day
2 / 8

Khushbagh

AM: 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.

PM: Continue sailing downstream in the afternoon with onboard activities and wildlife watching on the sun deck.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River : Farakka - Kolkata - Day 3
Location
Baranagar
Day
3 / 8

Matiari

AM: In the morning we 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.

PM: After lunch we continue downstream to 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River : Farakka - Kolkata - Day 4
Location
Matiari
Day
4 / 8

Mayapur

AM & PM: 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River : Farakka - Kolkata - Day 5
Location
Mayapur
Day
5 / 8

Kalna

AM & PM: After breakfast visit the country town of Kalna. Take 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River : Farakka - Kolkata - Day 6
Location
Kalna
Day
6 / 8

Chandernagore

AM: Continue sailing upstream to Chandernagore, a French possession until 1950. Visit the 18th century church and Dupleix’s House, erstwhile Governor-General of French India. In the afternoon we sail toward Barrackpore and take a walk through the cantonment - past the Semaphore Tower, Government House, the Temple of Fame and Flagstaff House.

PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner with your crew as we moor in Mayapur for the night.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River : Farakka - Kolkata - Day 7
Location
Chandernagore
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: After breakfast transfer to your hotel or airport for your onward journey.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges River : Farakka - Kolkata - Day 8
Location
Kolkata
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

8 Day - The Upper Ganges River: Farakka-Varanasi

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Join your ship in the afternoon following your train journey from Kolkata. For those arriving of their own accord, please arrive to the ship docked at Rajmahal no earlier than 3pm. Be welcomed aboard your Pandaw by our crew and enjoy evening entertainment onboard before cocktails and dinner.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Farakka-Varanasi - Day 1
Location
Farakka
Day
1 / 8

Sailing

AM & PM: We sail up the mighty Ganges River toward the confluence with the Koshi river. Stop along the way for a short village walk and enjoy our onboard entertainment.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Farakka-Varanasi - Day 2
Location
Bodhgaya
Day
2 / 8

Bhaglapur - Sultanganj

AM: We sail early morning toward Bhaglapur, a hub of silk production. We witness the silk weaving and explore this small town before returning to the ship for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon we visit Sultanganj with its pair of great granite rocks, one crowned with a mosque and the other a small temple dating from the 16th century.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Farakka-Varanasi - Day 3
Location
Baranagar
Day
3 / 8

Munger

AM & PM: Munger is now a large and industrialised city but has an interesting history. In 1762, Mir Qasim, the Nawab of Bengal, shifted his capital from Murshidabad to Munger, and established a firearms manufacturing centre here. Explore the Mughal fort, East India Company cemetery and step inside the Bihar School of Yoga founded in 1964 by Satyananda Saraswati. One of the leading yoga schools in the country. The institution has developed yogic techniques through a synthesis of traditional yogic, vedantic and tantric practices and contemporary health science.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Farakka-Varanasi - Day 4
Location
Gaur
Day
4 / 8

Mokama

AM & PM: Stop at Mokama, once home to Jim Corbett the naturalist and protector of the Indian tigers. Surrounded by farmlands, Mokama has the second hightest production of lentils in the country. Learn about the freedom fighters from Mokama such as Lalldin Saheb, whose during the freedom struggle was sentenced to jail during the British rule.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Farakka-Varanasi - Day 5
Location
Ghazipur
Day
5 / 8

Barh

AM & PM: Explore Barh, a town famous for Hindu ritual cremation at Urmanath and the Alakhnath Temple.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Farakka-Varanasi - Day 6
Location
Barh
Day
6 / 8

Patna

AM: Enjoy a city tour of Patna, capital of Bihar state including a visit to The Golghar, a large stupa styled granary built in 1786.

PM: Farewell dinner with your crew.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Farakka-Varanasi - Day 7
Location
Katgola Palace
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: Disembark your vessel ready and transfer to Patna station for your 1st class train to Varanasi. Upon arrival to Varanasi, transfer to your hotel or the airport.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Farakka-Varanasi - Day 8
Location
Varanasi
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

8 Day - The Upper Ganges River: Varanasi-Farakka

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM & PM: Depart Varanasi in the morning and head to the train station for your journey to Patna where we meet your vessel. Relax onboard and meet your crew and fellow passengers for the next 7 nights.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Varanasi-Farakka - Day 1
Location
Varanasi
Day
1 / 8

Barh

AM: Morning city tour of Patna including a visit to The Golghar, a large stupa styled granary built in 1786.

PM: Sail downstream during lunch before arriving to Barh, a town famous for Hindu ritual cremation at Urmanath and the Alakhnath Temple.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Varanasi-Farakka - Day 2
Location
Barh
Day
2 / 8

Mokama

AM & PM: Stop at Mokama, once home to Jim Corbett the naturalist and protector of the Indian tigers. Surrounded by farmlands, Mokama has the second hightest production of lentils in the country. Learn about the freedom fighters from Mokama such as Lalldin Saheb, whose during the freedom struggle was sentenced to jail during the British rule.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Varanasi-Farakka - Day 3
Location
Ghazipur
Day
3 / 8

Munger

AM & PM: Munger is now a large and industrialised city but has an interesting history. In 1762, Mir Qasim, the Nawab of Bengal, shifted his capital from Murshidabad to Munger, and established a firearms manufacturing centre here. Explore the Mughal fort, East India Company cemetery and step inside the Bihar School of Yoga founded in 1964 by Satyananda Saraswati. One of the leading yoga schools in the country. The institution has developed yogic techniques through a synthesis of traditional yogic, vedantic and tantric practices and contemporary health science.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Varanasi-Farakka - Day 4
Location
Gaur
Day
4 / 8

Sultanganj

AM: Continue to Jahanigra Island, a place of pilgrimage with many rock carvings in high relief dating from the eighth century depicting aspects of Siva and Vishnu. In the evening moor off Sultanganj, with its pair of great granite rocks, one crowned with a mosque and the other a small temple dating from the 16th century.

PM: In the afternoon land at Bhaglapur, a centre of silk production, and visit the 18th century mansion of the Collector, Augustus Cleveland.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Varanasi-Farakka - Day 5
Location
Bhaglapur
Day
5 / 8

Bateshwarsthan

AM & PM: Passing the confluence of the Kosi river that flows down from Nepal, moor at the pretty town of Bateshwarsthan to uncover the 8th century Buddhist site of Vikramshila, one of the two most important centres of learning in India during the Pala Empire, along with Nalanda.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Varanasi-Farakka - Day 6
Location
Nalanda
Day
6 / 8

Farakka

AM & PM: Continue sailing along the Ganges before stopping at Rajmahal, a quaint town on the banks of the Ganges for an afternoon walk.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Varanasi-Farakka - Day 7
Location
Farakka
Day
7 / 8

Disembarkation

AM: After breakfast, depart your Pandaw and transfer to Farakka to your hotel or train journey to Kolkata.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Upper Ganges River: Varanasi-Farakka - Day 8
Location
Kolkata
Day
8 / 8
1 / 8

15 Day - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM & PM: Transfer from your hotel or airport in Kolkata 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 1
Location
Kolkata
Day
1 / 15

Chandernagore

AM & PM: Continue sailing upstream to Chandernagore, a French possession until 1950. Visit the 18th century church and Dupleix’s House, erstwhile Governor-General of French India.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 2
Location
Chandernagore
Day
2 / 15

Kalna

AM: After breakfast sail upstream and land at the country town of Kalna and take 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.

PM: Sail on through the night to a mooring near Matiari.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 3
Location
Kalna
Day
3 / 15

Mayapur

AM & PM: 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 4
Location
Mayapur
Day
4 / 15

Matiari

AM: 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. Continue cruising upstream and time permitting 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.

PM: Moor close to Murshidabad for the night.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 5
Location
Matiari
Day
5 / 15

Murshidabad

AM: 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.

PM: Moor overnight on the riverbank across from town.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 6
Location
Katgola Palace
Day
6 / 15

Ajimganj-Farakkka

AM & PM: 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 before continuing on to the Farakka Barrage.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 7
Location
Baranagar
Day
7 / 15

Farakka - Rajmahal

AM & PM: Today pass through the Farraka Barrage onto the Ganges proper. In the afternoon we explore the quaint town of Rajmahal.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 8
Location
Farakka
Day
8 / 15

Sailing

AM &PM: We sail up the mighty Ganges River toward the confluence with the Koshi river. Stop along the way for a short village walk and enjoy our onboard entertainment.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 9
Location
Rajmahal
Day
9 / 15

Bhagalpur - Sultanganj

AM: We sail early morning toward Bhaglapur, a hub of silk production. We witness the silk weaving and explore this small town before returning to the ship for lunch.

PM: In the afternoon we visit Sultanganj with its pair of great granite rocks, one crowned with a mosque and the other a small temple dating from the 16th century.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 10
Location
Bhaglapur
Day
10 / 15

Munger

AM & PM: Munger is now a large and industrialised city but has an interesting history. In 1762, Mir Qasim, the Nawab of Bengal, shifted his capital from Murshidabad to Munger, and established a firearms manufacturing centre here. Explore the Mughal fort, East India Company cemetery and step inside the Bihar School of Yoga founded in 1964 by Satyananda Saraswati. One of the leading yoga schools in the country. The institution has developed yogic techniques through a synthesis of traditional yogic, vedantic and tantric practices and contemporary health science.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 11
Location
Moghul Tomb
Day
11 / 15

Mokama

AM & PM: Stop at Mokama, once home to Jim Corbett the naturalist and protector of the Indian tigers. Surrounded by farmlands, Mokama has the second hightest production of lentils in the country. Learn about the freedom fighters from Mokama such as Lalldin Saheb, whose during the freedom struggle was sentenced to jail during the British rule.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 12
Location
Mokama
Day
12 / 15

Barh

AM & PM: Explore Barh, a town famous for Hindu ritual cremation at Urmanath and the Alakhnath Temple.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 13
Location
Barh
Day
13 / 15

Patna

AM: Enjoy a city tour of Patna, capital of Bihar state including a visit to The Golghar, a large stupa styled granary built in 1786.

PM: Farewell dinner with your crew.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 14
Location
Patna
Day
14 / 15

Disembarkation

AM: Disembark your vessel ready and transfer to Patna station for your 1st class train to Varanasi. Upon arrival to Varanasi, transfer to your hotel or the airport.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Kolkata-Varanasi - Day 15
Location
Varanasi
Day
15 / 15
1 / 15

15 Day - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata

itinerary map

Embarkation

AM & PM: Depart Varanasi in the morning and head to the train station for your journey to Patna where we meet your vessel. Relax onboard and meet your crew and fellow passengers for the next 14 nights.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 1
Location
Varanasi
Day
1 / 15

Barh

AM: Morning city tour of Patna including a visit to The Golghar, a large stupa styled granary built in 1786.

PM: Sail downstream during lunch before arriving to Barh, a town famous for Hindu ritual cremation at Urmanath and the Alakhnath Temple.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 2
Location
Barh
Day
2 / 15

Mokama

AM & PM: Stop at Mokama, once home to Jim Corbett the naturalist and protector of the Indian tigers. Surrounded by farmlands, Mokama has the second hightest production of lentils in the country. Learn about the freedom fighters from Mokama such as Lalldin Saheb, whose during the freedom struggle was sentenced to jail during the British rule.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 3
Location
Mokama
Day
3 / 15

Munger

AM & PM: Munger is now a large and industrialised city but has an interesting history. In 1762, Mir Qasim, the Nawab of Bengal, shifted his capital from Murshidabad to Munger, and established a firearms manufacturing centre here. Explore the Mughal fort, East India Company cemetery and step inside the Bihar School of Yoga founded in 1964 by Satyananda Saraswati. One of the leading yoga schools in the country. The institution has developed yogic techniques through a synthesis of traditional yogic, vedantic and tantric practices and contemporary health science.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 4
Location
Moghul Tomb
Day
4 / 15

Sultanganj

AM & PM: Continue to Jahanigra Island, a place of pilgrimage with many rock carvings in high relief dating from the eighth century depicting aspects of Siva and Vishnu. In the evening moor off Sultanganj, with its pair of great granite rocks, one crowned with a mosque and the other a small temple dating from the 16th century. In the afternoon land at Bhaglapur, a centre of silk production, and visit the 18th century mansion of the Collector, Augustus Cleveland.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 5
Location
Bhaglapur
Day
5 / 15

Bateshwarsthan

AM & PM: Passing the confluence of the Kosi river that flows down from Nepal, moor at the pretty town of Bateshwarsthan to uncover the 8th century Buddhist site of Vikramshila, one of the two most important centres of learning in India during the Pala Empire, along with Nalanda.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 6
Location
Nalanda
Day
6 / 15

Farakka

AM & PM: Continue sailing along the Ganges before stopping at Rajmahal, a quaint town on the banks of the Ganges for an afternoon walk.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 7
Location
Farakka
Day
7 / 15

Farakka Barrage

AM & PM: Depart Rajmahal and sail down to cross the Farakka barrage, entering the Hooghly River. In the afternoon take a gentle walk through a local village.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 8
Location
Rajgir
Day
8 / 15

Murshidabad

AM: After breakfast, take a 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 before continuing our voyage downstream.

PM: In the afternoon we enjoy a city tour of Murshidabad, visiting 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 9
Location
Baranagar
Day
9 / 15

Kushbagh

AM: 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.

PM: Continue sailing downstream in the afternoon with onboard activities and wildlife watching on the sun deck.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 10
Location
Katgola Palace
Day
10 / 15

Matiari

AM: In the morning we 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.

PM: After lunch we continue downstream to 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 11
Location
Matiari
Day
11 / 15

Mayapur

AM & PM: 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 12
Location
Mayapur
Day
12 / 15

Kalna

AM & PM: After breakfast visit the country town of Kalna. Take 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 13
Location
Kalna
Day
13 / 15

Chandernagore

AM: Continue sailing upstream to Chandernagore, a French possession until 1950. Visit the 18th century church and Dupleix’s House, erstwhile Governor-General of French India.

PM: In the afternoon we sail toward Barrackpore and take a walk through the cantonment - past the Semaphore Tower, Government House, the Temple of Fame and Flagstaff House. Enjoy a farewell dinner with your crew as we moor in Kolkata for the night.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 14
Location
Chandernagore
Day
14 / 15

Disembarkation

AM: After breakfast transfer to your hotel or airport for your onward journey.

Kalaw Pandaw - The All Ganges River : Varanasi-Kolkata - Day 1
Location
Kolkata
Day
15 / 15
1 / 15

15 Day - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River

itinerary map

Embarkation

PM: Join your ship in the afternoon following your train journey from Kolkata. For those arriving of their own accord, please arrive to the ship docked at Bamuha no earlier than 2pm. Be welcomed aboard your Pandaw by our crew and enjoy evening entertainment onboard before cocktails and dinner.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 1
Location
Farakka
Day
1 / 15

Murshidabad

AM: After breakfast, take a 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 before continuing our voyage downstream.

PM: In the afternoon we enjoy a city tour of Murshidabad, visiting 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 2
Location
Baranagar
Day
2 / 15

Kushbagh

AM: 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.

PM: Continue sailing downstream in the afternoon with onboard activities and wildlife watching on the sun deck.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 3
Location
Moghul Tomb
Day
3 / 15

Matiari

AM: In the morning we 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.

PM: After lunch we continue downstream to 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 4
Location
Matiari
Day
4 / 15

Mayapur

AM & PM: 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 5
Location
Mayapur
Day
5 / 15

Kalna

AM & PM: After breakfast visit the country town of Kalna. Take 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.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 6
Location
Kalna
Day
6 / 15

Chandernagore

AM: Continue sailing upstream to Chandernagore, a French possession until 1950. Visit the 18th century church and Dupleix’s House, erstwhile Governor-General of French India. In the afternoon we sail toward Barrackpore and take a walk through the cantonment - past the Semaphore Tower, Government House, the Temple of Fame and Flagstaff House.

PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner with your crew as we moor in Mayapur for the night.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 7
Location
Chandernagore
Day
7 / 15

Kolkata - Guwahati

AM: After breakfast, disembark and receive a group transfer to the airport for your onward journey to Guwahati to join The Brahmaputra cruise. Explore this pleasant Assami city visiting the Nilachai Hill temple and Commonwealth Graves.

PM: Late afternoon cast off upriver.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 8
Location
Guwahati
Day
8 / 15

Sailing

AM & PM: Sail all day making headway against strong currents through the lush Assami countryside. Get acquainted with your crew and guide with onboard activities such as lectures and food demonstrations.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 9
Location
Guwahati
Day
9 / 15

Tezpur

PM: Afternoon exploration of Tezpur by trishaw we visit the De Parbatia temple with its richly carved portals and Cole Park with its collection of medieval carvings collected from across the region.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 10
Location
Tezpur
Day
10 / 15

Nameri National Park

AM: After an early breakfast, drive for some two hours to the Nameri National Park at the foot of the blue hills of Arunachal Pradesh, the old North East Frontier Agency. Here, we take a float trip of around two hours down the Jia-Bhoreli River through the park. Enjoy the breath-taking scenery and bring your binoculars for a chance to spot some birdlife.

PM: After lunch, take a village walk before returning to the ship. We are treated to a traditional Assamese folk dance before dinner and moor at Silghat for the night.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 11
Location
Nameri National Park
Day
11 / 15

Kaziranga National Park

AM: Jeep safari to Kaziranga, with an area of approximately 430 sq kms, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the world’s largest population of the Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros as well as the Indian Wild Water Buffalo. It also has the highest density of Royal Bengal Tigers with one every five sq. km however these remain extremely illusive and are unlikely to be spotted. The park is an incredibly rich biodiversity hotspot with its marshy swamps and thickets of elephant grass which supports large populations of Indian elephants, Indian bison, swamp deer, and capped langurs.

Besides wildlife, Kaziranga National Park is also a birding paradise. A few of the bird species found here are the oriental honey buzzard, black-shouldered kite, white-tailed eagle, Himalayan griffon to mention a few.

PM: In the afternoon we set sail again downstream.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 12
Location
Kaziranga National Park
Day
12 / 15

Village Life

AM & PM: As we sail along the vast Brahmaputra River downstream, riding the strong currents, we stop for a walk through a typical Assamese village and learn more about their simple lives.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 13
Location
Brahmaputra River
Day
13 / 15

Tea Garden & Silk Village

AM: Early morning visit to Noonmati Tea Garden on the outskirts of Guwahati to witness the tea producing process.

PM: After lunch sail down past Guwhati to moor at Sualkuchi, a major centre for weaving in Assam. We learn about the entire silk making production from the cocoon, to spinning and weaving to make the typical saree worn by Assami women.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 14
Location
Guwahati
Day
14 / 15

Disembarkation

AM: Disembark in the morning and transfer to airport.

Kalaw Pandaw - The Lower Ganges & Brahmaputra River - Day 15
Location
Guwahati
Day
15 / 15
1 / 15

Accommodations

Social Areas

Salad Bar
Dining
Front Deck
Relax
Sundeck
Outdoor Restaurant
Recreation
Traditional
Local Performance

Suites & Cabins

Kalaw Pandaw - Main Deck Kalaw Pandaw - Main Deck - 2 Kalaw Pandaw - Main Deck - 3
10 Cabins

Main Deck

Guests
2
Size
16 m² / 170 ft²
Beds
Double / Twin

The river level cabins of the Main Deck have been delightfully finished in teak and brass, and feature panoramic French windows and an ensuite bathroom with spa-branded amenities and hairdryer. Inviting beds with premium mattresses and linens are convertible between twin and double as desired.

Kalaw Pandaw - Upper Deck - 1 Kalaw Pandaw - Upper Deck - 2 Kalaw Pandaw - Upper Deck - 3 Kalaw Pandaw - Upper Deck - 4
8 Cabins

Upper Deck

Guests
2
Size
16 m² / 170 ft²
Beds
Double / Twin

The Upper Deck cabins are slightly fewer in number but equally spacious and well equipped to ensure guests have a comfortable stay. Whichever cabin you choose, guests can expect air conditioning, kimonos and slippers, an electric mini safe, multi-configuration plugs, and generous closet space and under-bed storage, not to mention unlimited mineral water.

Technical Information

Deck Plan

Features

  • Air conditioning
  • Lecture room
  • WIFI available
  • Kosher Meals
  • Medical staff
  • Souvenir shop
  • Hot showers
  • All inclusive
  • Charging areas for electronic equipment

Equipment

  • Bicycles
  • Yoga mats
  • Flash lights
  • Water canteen/bottle
  • Insect repellent
** Use of certain equipment at additional cost, ask for details
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