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Toll-Free 1-855-952-6526
U.K : +44 1753 201 201
Canada : 1-416-619-7795
Australia : 61-2-86078986
WhatsApp : + 44 ( 0 ) 7739 716978
Ganges Downstream | Varanasi To Patna
7 Nights / 8 Days
The Bengal Despatch 10: City of Light – A Varanasi Summer is a 7-night, 8-day downstream journey from Varanasi to Patna aboard the ABN Rajmahal, weaving together spirituality, history, and colonial legacies along the Ganga. Beginning in Varanasi, one of the world’s oldest living cities and Hinduism’s holiest site, the cruise offers intimate encounters with the city’s soul—rowing boat rides at dawn past its bathing ghats, a walk through its narrow alleys, and the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, where chants and brass lamps illuminate the riverfront. Guests also explore Sarnath, where the Buddha preached his first sermon, and nearby archaeological treasures. Beyond Varanasi, the voyage visits Ramnagar Palace and museum, Chunar Fort with its Mughal and colonial relics, and Jaunpur, home to the Atala Mosque and Mughal Bridge. Sailing downstream, stops include Ghazipur, with Lord Cornwallis’ grand tomb and lively bazaars, and Buxar, the 1764 battlefield town that shaped British rule in India. The journey concludes in Patna, with visits to the Sikh gurdwara and Mughal tomb at Maner, encapsulating centuries of faith and empire. This itinerary offers a powerful blend of sacred traditions, layered histories, and the timeless rhythm of the Ganga.
Historic capital on Ganga
Mughal-era tomb site
Ancient fort with legends
Mesmerizing Ganga ceremony
Buddhist pilgrimage landmark
Riverside fort and museum
Arrive in Varanasi (also known as Benaras) by road, rail, or air. Transfers from the airport or railway station are included in the cruise fare. Known as the City of Light, Varanasi is among the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with a history spanning over 3,000 years. Mark Twain famously wrote, “Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looks twice as old as all of them put together.” The city captivates every sense—intense yet profoundly spiritual for those open to its essence. As Hinduism’s most important religious site, it draws visitors from all over seeking moksha, or salvation.
Embark the ship and sail a short distance downstream before anchoring for the night. Dinner is served on board.
Overnight onboard the Ship ABN Rajmahal
This morning, we sail past the ghats of Varanasi to reach Ramnagar, where we visit the Maharaja’s Palace and its museum. Continuing upstream, we head to Chunar to explore the grand Mughal Fort, the old British cemetery, and nearby Mughal tombs. The area is also known for its traditional carpet weaving and distinctive Chunar pottery. We then sail back downstream to anchor at Ramnagar for the night.
Overnight onboard the Ship ABN Rajmahal
At dawn, we take rowing boats along the lively and colorful bathing ghats of Varanasi. After breakfast, we drive to Sarnath to visit the Deer Park, where the Buddha gave his first sermon, along with the archaeological museum. In the evening, we disembark for a walk through Varanasi’s bustling alleys, offering a close glimpse into the city’s vibrant life. We then join the Ganga Aarti ceremony, where young priests perform rituals with brass lamps and chanting mantras before large crowds from across India and the world. This captivating aarti captures the true spirit of Varanasi. We return to the ship anchored at Rajghat for the night.
Overnight onboard the Ship ABN Rajmahal
After breakfast on board, disembark for a drive to Jaunpur to see the Mughal Bridge, explore the ancient fort, and walk to admire the impressive Atala Mosque. Return to the ship for lunch, then continue sailing downstream towards Ghazipur. Alternatively, guests may choose to remain in Varanasi to enjoy its vibrant shopping scene.
Overnight onboard the Ship ABN Rajmahal
This morning, we sail downstream and disembark at Ghazipur after breakfast. Here, we visit the impressive tomb of Lord Cornwallis, the general defeated by George Washington at Yorktown in 1781, a turning point that led to the loss of the American colonies. If time permits, we may also take a short walk through the bustling Ghazipur bazaar for a classic Indian market experience. Later, we continue sailing downstream towards Buxar.
Overnight onboard the Ship ABN Rajmahal
After breakfast, we disembark at the country town of Buxar, known for the 1764 battle which, along with Plassey, helped establish the foundations of the British Raj. We visit the battlefield memorial and the old East India Company cemetery in town, then take a short cycle rickshaw ride to the ghats of Buxar. The journey continues downstream, anchoring near the confluence with the Ghagra River.
Overnight onboard the Ship ABN Rajmahal
We cruise past the bustling river port of Doriganj and the confluence with the Sone River, stopping at a ghat to visit the small but striking Mughal tomb at Maner. Continuing downstream, we anchor at Patna and visit the prominent Sikh gurdwara.
Overnight onboard the Ship ABN Rajmahal
After breakfast, disembark and transfer to Patna airport or railway station.
This itinerary, including the cruise and approximate driving durations, is subject to river and weather conditions.
Note: At Present 5 % GST is levied by Government of India EXTRA ON TOP OF THE Fares / Prices.
Fares
Fare for the departure -: 18 September 2026
| Price in US Dollars ($) | Price in Sterling Pounds (£) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | Price for Single Cabin | Price for Twin / Double Cabin | Price for Single Cabin | Price for Twin / Double Cabin |
| Upper Deck Cabin | $ 4900 | $ 6720 | £ 4083 | £ 5600 |
| Main Deck Twin / Double Cabin | $ 4165 | $ 5530 | £ 3471 | £ 4608 |
| Main Deck Single Cabin for One Person | $ 2765 | Not Applicable | £ 2304 | Not Applicable |
*** Accommodation: 7 Nights in Cruise on full board basis.
*** Beverages: Complimentary tea, coffee and mineral water throughout
*** Excursions: Shore excursion programme including all admissions and Service of an English-speaking guide on-board and during excursions
*** Service: Cold towel service after excursions, Welcome drink after excursions and Shoe Cleaning after Excursions
*** Special Service: Local on-board dance & song performances
*** Flights: Air travel to, from and within India.
*** Travel Insurance: Medical, trip cancellation, or baggage insurance of any kind.
*** Visa Charges: India visa fees and related processing costs.
*** Tips & Gratuities: Tipping for onboard staff, guides, and drivers.
*** Personal Expenses: Items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone calls, spa treatments, and shopping.
*** Unspecified Services: Any service, activity, or expense not clearly mentioned under “Tour Includes.”
25 Grangewood, Wexham,
Slough, South Bucks,
SL3 6LP, United Kingdom
