5 reasons to cruise… the Ganges
At 2,500km long, the Ganges is one of the world's mightiest rivers - and it's also considered very sacred. Flowing through tiny villages and more populous cities, a cruise along the Ganges will open your eyes to fascinating cultures, diverse historical influences and wonderful people. Most cruises will operate along the lower Ganges on a round-trip from Kolkata, but you can also find itineraries that combine the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers.
Is India on your bucket list? Here's five reasons why a Ganges river cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, not to be missed.
The Ganges stands as a living symbol of India's faith and culture, and as you travel along its waters, each ancient temple, historic town and vibrant ghat tells a story of traditions and diverse influences. A river cruise also offers a meaningful way to connect with local communities - from witnessing sacred ceremonies and meeting skilled artisans to exploring lively riverside markets. Along the way, you'll encounter tranquil rural villages and elegant colonial-era towns, gaining a deeper appreciation of India's layered history. Cruising the Ganges is an enriching journey, where every moment reveals a fresh perspective on this timeless river and its people.
While this is the same for most river cruises, there's something about the gentle pace of a Ganges river cruise. Sailing past lush green fields, riverside villages and ancient temples, you'll feel worlds away from the crowded bustling cities. India's landscapes are diverse and the tranquil flow of the river invites you to connect with nature and quietly reflect. Wake up early and watch the golden sunrise on its waters, or take in the soft glow of an evening as you gently meander the tributaries to your next destination. A Ganges river cruise offers the peaceful and picturesque in equal measure.
The beauty of booking a Ganges river cruise is that you can tick off multiple bucket list experiences, as most itineraries will include a pre- or post-cruise land tour with hotel stays to enhance your holiday. For example, our Ganges river cruise with Uniworld includes a five-night land tour of the celebrated "Golden Triangle" which includes Delhi, Jaipur and Agra - where you'll see the Taj Mahal at both sunrise and sunset. A Golden Triangle tour is a great introduction to India's heritage and culture, encompassing further highlights such as Humayun's Tomb in Delhi, ornate palaces, majestic forts and traditional bazaars.
The Ganges river and its basin are home to numerous species of wildlife, ranging from fish and amphibians to birdlife. If you're lucky, you may spot critically endangered creatures like the Ganges river dolphin, one of the world's few freshwater dolphins, and the gharial - a type of crocodile with a long snout. In the surrounding banks, mammals include deer, foxes and otters, and towards the delta, keep an eye out for larger mammals such as the Bengal tiger, Indian elephant and clouded leopard.
Although not strictly along the Ganges, our escorted tour of India includes a two-night stay in the Ranthambore National Park where you venture into the jungle on safaris, searching for the elusive Bengal tiger with an expert naturalist.
The Ganges river holds immense spiritual significance for Hindus, believed to possess the power to cleanse sins and purify the soul. As you float past its ancient ghats and sacred temples, you'll observe timeless rituals performed by devotees - such as acts of prayer, bathing and offerings that have continued for generations. Visiting holy cities and pilgrimage destinations along its banks reveals the profound faith guiding everyday life, from sunrise ceremonies to festival celebrations.
