Antara Cruises, a pioneer in luxury river cruising in India, has announced the arrival of the MV Bengal Ganga to Varanasi, marking the start of new cultural and spiritual river journeys along the iconic Ganga River. After relocating the ship from Kolkata, the company is now offering exclusive river cruises that showcase the religious, cultural, and historical richness of Varanasi and its surrounding districts. The ship will dock at Namo Ghat, allowing passengers to embark on a journey that explores both well-known and hidden gems of the region.
The MV Bengal Ganga, now fully renovated, begins its maiden journey from 23rd October 2024, with itineraries crafted to provide an immersive experience into the ancient and sacred rituals of the Ganga, including the famous Ganga Aarti and excursions to nearby religious and historical sites. The cruises will travel both upstream and downstream, offering unique routes based on water conditions. Destinations include Chunar, Mirzapur, Prayagraj, Kaithi, Ghazipur, Ballia, and Patna, showcasing areas of beauty and cultural importance that are lesser known to travelers.
The new journeys offer 3 Nights/4 Days Cruises, departing every Friday. Guests will be welcomed aboard with a delicious lunch, followed by an exploration of Varanasi’s famed attractions. Highlights include the Kashi Vishwanath Temple, the Sarnath Buddhist site, and a tour of the bustling local bazaars. Travelers will also experience the Ganga Aarti on local boats, enjoy scenic river views, and visit Kaithi and Chunar, where they will stay onboard overnight.
Raj Singh, Founder Chairman of Antara Cruises, emphasized the significance of this new offering: “These new journeys from Varanasi will not only offer tourists a cultural, exceptional, and elegant experience, but we will also create new economic opportunities and support for local communities. Our cruises are designed to promote tourism along the waterways without affecting traditional local employment. We believe in sustainable tourism that supports local livelihoods while providing travelers with an unforgettable experience of the rich cultural traditions of the region.”
The MV Bengal Ganga offers luxury accommodation with 20 elegantly designed suites, featuring Burmese red teakwood craftsmanship and a 1970s chic décor. The cruise’s dining options are all vegetarian, with a mix of local specialties and international cuisine. The upper deck Saloon provides a cozy atmosphere with breathtaking river views, where guests can relax and enjoy non-alcoholic beverages, including sherbets, teas, and coffees.
With prices ranging from ₹12,000 to ₹25,000 depending on accommodation preferences, the cruise offers a luxurious way to explore the cultural heart of India, combining comfort and an intimate connection with the sacred Ganga River. Antara Cruises is set to provide a transformative experience for travelers while supporting local communities through sustainable tourism practices.
Continuing its network expansion to meet the growing travel demands of both local and international passengers, Vietjet on Thursday announced the launch of its new direct route connecting Ahmedabad, India, with Da Nang, Vietnam’s stunning coastal city. The inaugural flight was warmly received by people in both cities, marking a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity between India and Vietnam.
The Ahmedabad-Da Nang route will operate two return flights per week, adding to Vietjet’s existing network of eight routes and 60 weekly flights between the two nations. This new route is set to boost economic, tourism, and cultural exchanges between India and Vietnam, further strengthening ties between the two regions. The airline is a pioneer in operating direct routes connecting Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang with major Indian cities including New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Kochi.
Flights from Da Nang to Ahmedabad will depart every Wednesday and Saturday – 19:10 (local time), landing at 23:25 (local time), with return flights from Ahmedabad operating every Thursday and Sunday 00:25 (local time), landing at Da Nang International Airport at 06:55 (local time). Passengers can enjoy the airline’s- signature services, including frequent promotions, modern aircraft, and a variety of meals, providing a seamless and affordable travel experience.
Ahmedabad, a major city in Gujarat, is known for its rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culinary scene. Da Nang, celebrated for its beautiful beaches and scenic spots, is Vietnam’s most livable city and a gateway to Central Vietnam’s cultural treasures.
