India
As Featured on Susan Calman's Cruise of a Lifetime
As a country of well over a billion people, it should come as no surprise that India is a place of diverse wonders. Yet somehow, it always is—surprising, that is. At times you’ll find yourself delightfully overwhelmed by everything there is to experience: intricately decorated forts, tombs, and palaces; cities swathed entirely in shades of pink or blue; dramatic temple complexes; richly spiced cuisine; and so much more. At other times, particularly cruising down the sacred Ganges River, the world seems to stand still with picture-perfect serenity.
Our river cruises in India emphasize finding ways to give back to the communities along the Ganges. A selection of MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences will be available during your cruise. Support sustainable cities and communities as you watch brass craftsmen at work in the village of Matiari or stroll the impressive “Temple City” of Kalna.
Landmarks
Numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites await in India—particularly in the Golden Triangle—made up of New Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. You’ll see the beautiful Taj Mahal, a mausoleum dedicated to the third wife of the 17th century Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
Humayun’s Tomb is the first garden-tomb in India. Its remarkable design inspired such monuments as the Taj Mahal. Its red and white exterior, geometric motifs, and domed rooftops are truly breathtaking.
Just outside of the rose-hued streets of Jaipur, the Amber Palace presides over a rocky hill. As imposing as it appears at first glance, a tour of the fort’s interior reveals a gorgeously ornate design.
Cuisine
Indian cuisine is famously complex and generous in spices—of which there are so many that we like to host a fascinating spice workshop onboard our Ganges cruises.
Don’t be tempted to paint the entire country with one brush, however, as regional differences in cuisine abound. While you’ll find meat and seafood integral to plenty of Indian dishes, there are primarily Hindu regions that avoid beef and primarily Muslim areas that avoid pork—and many that eschew meat entirely, with a broad range of delicious vegetarian dishes.
While traveling in the Golden Triangle, you may be more likely to dine on rich dishes, such as creamy curries and stews. The international influence skews Tibetan here, so dumplings and noodles find their way onto many local menus. Along the Ganges, fresh fruits and vegetables are plentiful, as is seafood. This is the Bengali region of India, and desserts are especially popular here. Think sweet rice pudding and donuts soaked in syrup.
Festivals
Numerous holidays and festivals are held throughout India every year, creating a special opportunity to engage with local culture from a unique perspective. When our sailings overlap with these holidays, you may have the chance to witness local celebrations. Dance on the sun deck amidst the splash of bright colors during Holi, light firecrackers for Diwali, and listen to the chants rising from the riverbanks outside the ship during Chhath Puja.
Wellness
Celebrate the holistic health benefits of yoga with us through our complimentary Wellness Program, available on every India river cruise. Led by a certified, resident yogi, this program introduces travellers to the different types of yoga with group lectures and daily classes as well as individualized meetings, so that guests at every stage of their practice can participate in this culturally immersive program comfortably.
