Embarking on a serene day beside the revered River Ganges is an enticing prospect for those seeking an authentic cultural experience. Immersing oneself in the tranquil setting of a private bungalow and enjoying a leisurely boat cruise along the sacred waterway promises to create lasting memories. From the scenic journey to the delightful lunch options and potential for local sightseeing, this full-day excursion from Kolkata offers a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city and connect with the timeless beauty of this iconic Indian landmark. The allure of this experience lies in its ability to transport visitors to a world of serenity and cultural enrichment.
Key Points
- A full-day excursion that includes a 20km journey, 1-hour boat cruise, lunch, and options for local sightseeing or classical dance performance along the River Ganges.
- Accommodation in a private 3-storied bungalow beside the river, providing a tranquil environment for meditation and temple visits.
- Flexible scheduling and itinerary to accommodate seasonal variations, with options for in-house entertainment and leisure time for sunset viewing.
- Comprehensive package with hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as complimentary refreshments, snacks, and drinks throughout the day.
- Free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and "reserve now & pay later" option for added convenience and flexibility.
Overview and Pricing
This day out beside the river Ganges offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the serene beauty of the iconic waterway.
For $834.26 per group (up to 10 participants), guests can enjoy a 7-hour excursion that includes pickup from select hotels in Kolkata, a 20km journey to the Ganges, a boat cruise, lunch, local sightseeing or a classical dance performance, and optional drop-off.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and there’s no need to pay upfront – guests can reserve their spot and settle the bill later.
With privacy in a 3-storied bungalow and a chance to experience tranquil meditation or 300-year-old temples, this day trip promises an unforgettable journey along the Ganges.
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Itinerary and Activities
The day’s itinerary promises a well-curated experience for visitors, commencing with a pickup from select hotels in Kolkata and a 1.5-hour journey to the banks of the iconic River Ganges.
Upon arrival, guests are welcomed with refreshments before embarking on a leisurely 1-hour boat cruise.
This is followed by a hearty 2-hour lunch, after which they can choose between local sightseeing or a performance of classical Indian dance.
The experience culminates with free time and sunset viewing, providing an opportunity to take in the tranquil environment.
An optional drop-off at the initial hotel locations completes the day’s activities.
Experience Highlights
A key highlight of this day out is the opportunity to enjoy privacy in a 3-storied bungalow beside the Ganges.
The tranquil environment allows for a leisurely river ride or peaceful meditation. Guests can also explore 300-year-old temples and witness a live classical Indian dance performance.
Throughout the experience, all food is served hot from star restaurants, ensuring a delightful culinary journey.
Whether it’s a refreshing coconut water, indulgent cookies and tea, or a hearty lunch, the inclusions are designed to provide a well-rounded and authentic experience along the historic river.
Seasonal Schedule: November – February
From November through February, the day out beside the Ganges follows a set schedule that allows guests to make the most of the cooler weather. The day begins with a 9:30 AM hotel pickup, followed by a refreshing welcome of fresh coconut water at 11:00 AM. Guests then enjoy cookies and tea or coffee before setting out on the river ride at noon. After a leisurely 1-hour cruise, a 2-hour lunch is served, followed by local sightseeing or a classical dance performance. The day concludes with snacks, tea, and a return to the hotel by 5:00 PM.
Time | Activity |
---|---|
9:30 AM | Pickup from hotel |
11:00 AM | Fresh coconut water |
11:30 AM | Cookies and tea/coffee |
12:00 PM | River ride |
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM | Lunch |
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM | Local sightseeing or dance performance |
4:30 PM | Snacks and tea |
5:00 PM | Return to hotel |
Seasonal Schedule: March – October
During the warmer months from March through October, the day out beside the Ganges follows a similar itinerary, with a few variations to accommodate the seasonal changes.
The schedule includes:
-
In-house light music or carrom board play during the welcome refreshments.
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A relaxing river ride and leisure time for sunset viewing.
-
Exploration of the local area or a classical Indian dance performance.
The overall experience remains centered around enjoying the tranquil environment, exploring the rich cultural heritage, and savoring delectable cuisine.
The flexibility in the seasonal schedule allows guests to tailor their day based on their preferences and the weather conditions.
Inclusions and Important Information
The day out beside the River Ganges includes a comprehensive package of activities and amenities.
Pickup and drop-off from the hotel, a private air-conditioned bungalow, a delicious lunch, a serene boat ride, and local sightseeing are all part of the experience.
Visitors can also enjoy a classical dance performance. While visiting the temples, guests will need to remove their shoes.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and a live guide is available in English, Bengali, and Hindi. A minimum group size of 10 participants is required.
With its diverse offerings, this day out provides a well-rounded and immersive experience along the banks of the iconic Ganges river.
Free Cancellation and Reserve Now
One of the key benefits of this day out beside the River Ganges is the flexibility it offers.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, the "reserve now & pay later" option enables them to secure their spot without any upfront payment.
This convenience makes it easier for visitors to plan their trip and manage their schedules. The ability to cancel with no penalty and pay later provides:
- Peace of mind in case of unexpected changes.
- Flexibility to finalize travel plans closer to the departure date.
- No financial commitment until the last minute.
Travel Duration and Hotel Pickup
This excursion along the River Ganges commences with a convenient hotel pickup, whisking visitors away from the bustling city of Kolkata.
The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, covering a distance of 20km to reach the serene banks of the Ganges. Participants can choose from two pickup locations – the JW Marriott Hotel Kolkata or The Oberoi Grand.
Once at the riverside bungalow, the day’s activities unfold, including a leisurely boat cruise, a hearty lunch, and the option to explore local temples or witness a classical Indian dance performance.
The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize the experience, allowing ample time for relaxation and immersion in the tranquil riverside setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Boat Ride?
Yes, photography is allowed during the boat ride. Participants are welcome to capture the scenic river views and cultural activities from the boat. However, they should avoid disturbing other passengers or blocking their sights.
What Type of Boat Is Used for the River Cruise?
The tour uses traditional wooden country boats, or ‘Dinghis’, for the river cruise. These small, flat-bottomed boats are commonly used for transportation and sightseeing along the Ganges River in India.
Can Vegetarian or Special Dietary Needs Be Accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian and special dietary needs can be accommodated. The tour includes a lunch that’s freshly prepared from local star restaurants, catering to various dietary requirements. Guests can let the provider know about any preferences in advance.
Is the Bungalow Private and Exclusive to the Group?
Yes, the bungalow is private and exclusive to the group. The itinerary states that guests will "Enjoy privacy in a 3-storied bungalow" during their day out beside the River Ganges, ensuring a personalized and secluded experience.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour if Needed?
The bungalow is private and exclusive to the group, but the duration of the tour can’t be extended. Customers must stick to the fixed 7-hour itinerary, which includes various activities along the Ganges river.
Recap
Enjoy the serene beauty of the River Ganges on this full-day excursion from Kolkata. Unwind in a private bungalow, enjoy a leisurely boat ride, and savor a delightful lunch. Explore ancient temples, witness a classical dance performance, and create lasting memories in this picturesque setting. An ideal escape for those seeking tranquility and a chance to connect with the cultural richness of the region.
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