The mode of travel has been evolving with time and era and has got some faster modes too. People have become of the same mindset to travel more in lesser time. But in the past few years this thought process has changed and people are now open to exploring the world in a more easy and relaxed way and here comes the over-water tourism. Although traveling by cruise in India is still in a growing phase and government is also determined to promote this mode. There are a few tours by cruise in India which have gained fame between the tourists. The four greatest cruises in India this year include trips to Kerala's backwaters, the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers with their bustling ports, and ancient cities they cover.
Best Cruise in India to See Exotic Coastal Wonders
The trips by cruise in India offers the best kind of sights that you may not find while traveling on wheels or air. These water voyages let you relax and slow down the pace of life and keep you close to the things that matter the most- peace of mind and soul. You got it right. Discover the towns, religious sites, and historic marvels which are on the banks of the rivers or seas. Spend your vacation on of the cruises in India and delicious food, top-notch hospitality and high-end entertainment activities in the most relaxed way. You can choose from the boat-tours to the luxury cruises in India, which have been the dreams for many. Sounds great, right? So, read the complete blog and choose the perfect over-water trip for you.
- Sundarbans River Cruise
- Brahmaputra Cruise
- Mumbai-Kochi-Lakshadweep-Mumbai Cruise (Angriya Cruise)
- Kerala Back Water Cruise
- Ganges Heritage River Cruise
- Andaman Islands Cruise
- Goa Cruise
- Chilika Lake Cruise
1. Sundarbans River Cruise: Discover the Wild Heart of Bengal
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the mystical mangroves of the Sundarbans in India through this river cruise in India. A Sundarbans River Cruise offers an intimate encounter with nature's wonders which is among the best adventures in India to embark on. Travel through narrow waterways, catching glimpses of royal Bengal tigers, exotic wildlife, and the serene beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you navigate through the water channels, the lush greenery and tranquil environment will leave you mesmerized, making this journey an eco-tourism haven for nature enthusiasts.
Boarding: Kolkata or Godkhali
Best Season: September to March
Cost: $200 - $500
Duration: 2-4 days
Few Cruises: MV Paramhamsa,
Specialty: UNESCO World Heritage Site, Home of Bengal Tigers, One of the largest mangrove forests in the world
2. Brahmaputra Cruise: Sail Through the Serene Brahmaputra
Set sail on the mighty Brahmaputra River for the best cruise in India and experience the untouched beauty of Assam in the lap of the Himalayas. The Brahmaputra Cruise offers an ideal opportunity to explore the best places to visit in India, particularly for those who enjoy cultural immersion and nature-friendly experiences. Immerse yourself in Assam's vibrant traditions, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. Witness the sunset over the Kamakhya Temple, explore ancient monasteries, and spot the one-horned rhinoceros in Kaziranga National Park. This cruise is a unique blend of nature's grandeur and cultural richness.
Boarding: Guwahati, Assam
Best Season: October to April
Cost: $1,000 - $3,000
Duration: 7-10 days
Specialty: Enjoying landscape, Witnessing local cultures, Wildlife safari in Kaziranga National Park, Shopping, Photography
Suggested Read: Islands In India You Should Visit For Romancing In Nature
3. Angriya Cruise (Mumbai-Kochi-Lakshadweep-Mumbai): Cruise the Arabian Sea in Style
Indulge in the epitome of opulence and adventure with the Angriya Cruise from Mumbai to Kochi via the enchanting Lakshadweep Islands. This luxury cruise in India is a seamless fusion of comfort and thrill. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Mumbai, experience the serene beauty of coral reefs and enchanting places to visit in Lakshadweep, and bask in the tropical paradise of Kochi. Whether you seek relaxation, water sports, or cultural exploration, this cruise promises a once-in-a-lifetime journey of opulence and excitement.
Boarding: Mumbai
Best Season: November to May
Cost: Starting at $300
Duration: 3 days
Specialty: Explore the attractions of Kochi, admire beautiful blue lagoons and several coral reefs at Kadmat Island, enjoy lounges, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs on the cruise
Suggested Read: Adventures In Kochi For A Mesmerizing Vacation In This Port City
4. Ganges Heritage River Cruise: Journey Along the Sacred Ganges
Embark on a spiritual and historical odyssey along the sacred Ganges River with Ganga Vilas Cruise, an ambitious approach by Government of India to develop the over-water tourism in the country. The Ganges Heritage River Cruise, the longest river cruise in India, is a profound journey that takes you to the spirituality and heritage. Visit ancient temples of Varanasi including one of the Jyotirlingas in India, the Vishwanath Temple, ashrams, and famous Ganga Aarti, a timeless ritual on the riverbanks. Not only this, with this cruise in India, you can explore the old capital of India, Kolkata including the small villages, towns, markets, temples and culture of Bengal. As you sail through the ever-changing landscapes, you'll be immersed in the mystique and divinity of this sacred river, making it a pilgrimage for the soul. The Ganga Vilas Cruise price in India may vary from INR 25,000 to INR 50,000 which will let you explore the beauty of Varanasi and Kolkata in 51 days.
Boarding: Kolkata or Varanasi
Best Season: October to March
Cost: $1,500 - $4,000
Duration: 7-10 days
Specialty: World's longest river cruise, Covers Varanasi to Dibrugarh via Bangladesh
Suggested Read: Top Places to Visit in Varanasi: Experience the Eminence of India's True Culture
5. Kerala Back Water Cruise: Sail on the Gorgeous
Kerala's Backwater Cruise is a tranquil voyage through the emerald lagoons, palm-fringed canals, and lush paddy fields allows to do enjoy one of the best things to do in Kerala. Explore the serene waters of Alleppey and Kumarakom aboard a traditional houseboat, experiencing the serenity and rustic charm of this coastal paradise by booking this adventure on your honeymoon in Kerala. Immerse yourself in local culture, relish authentic Kerala cuisine, and witness traditional art forms. These cruise ship packages in India are soul-soothing escape into the heart of God's Own Country, where nature and culture merge harmoniously. Alleppey, the Venice of the East is one of the best destinations in Kerala to cover on cruise in India. You may enjoy the authentic Kerala cuisine, along with the green landscapes, villages, and backwater-ways.
Boarding: Alleppey or Kumarakom
Best Season: October to March
Cost: $150 - $300 per night
Duration: 1 night to 1 week
Specialty: Enjoy canoe ride, Toddy tapping, fishing, birdwatching, village exploration
Suggested Read: A Guide to Kerala: Visit One of the Ten Paradises in the World
6. Andaman Islands Cruise: Explore the Andaman Archipelago
Discover the pearl of the Bay of Bengal on a cruise to explore the most captivating places to visit in Andaman. This voyage takes you to a paradise of turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant marine life. To get the best experience, indulge yourself in some amazing things to do in Andaman like diving into the underwater world, exploring pristine coral reefs, and encountering rare species of marine creatures. Above the waterline, relish the exotic blend of cultures, savor seafood delights, and explore historical remnants. Escape to a tropical wonderland, offering adventure and relaxation with the best cruise in India.
Boarding: 1. Port Blair to Port Blair, 2. Chennai to Chennai
Best Season: November to April
Cost: $500 - $2,000
Duration: 4 to 10 days
Specialty: Sightseeing, on-board activities, water activities, islands exploration, cultural visits
Suggested Read: Best Attractions in Port Blair: Make Your Island Getaway Special by Discovering the Beauty of Islands
7. Goa Cruise: Cruise into the Beach Paradise
Experience the vibrant spirit of Goa on one of the most thrilling cruises in Goa. Goa is commonly known for its lively beaches, party scenes, and rich history, thus it has something for everyone. Sail along the sun-kissed coastline, explore the Portuguese style architecture, and soak in the lively beachfront markets. This cruise is a celebration of life, with opportunities for water sports, cultural exploration, and relaxation by the sea, making it a perfect escape for those seeking adventure as well as leisure. Not only this, but the cruise in India also let you experience the best New Year celebrations in Goa specially on the beaches along with the glittering fireworks. One may have the most romantic honeymoon in Goa on of these cruises.
Boarding: Goa
Best Season: November to February
Cost: Starting at $50
Duration: Few hours to a day
Specialty: New Year celebration, water sports, and cultural exploration
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Goa: Explore Pristine Beaches, Historical Sites, and Vibrant Culture
8. Chilika Lake Cruise: Sail on Odisha's Gem
Journey to the tranquil Chilika Lake in Odisha, one of the largest coastal lagoons in the world with brackish water. This cruise in India offers a serene escape into a unique ecosystem. Witness the migratory birds that flock to this wetland, visit the vibrant fishing villages, and explore ancient temples on the lake's islands. As you navigate through the pristine waters and witness the sunset over the vast expanse of the lake on this cruise trip in India, you'll be enchanted by the natural beauty and cultural heritage that Chilika has to offer. You may take a visit to the famous Puri in Odissa during the tour.
Boarding: Satpada, Odisha
Best Season: November to February
Cost: $30 - $100
Duration: Few hours to a day
Specialty: Largest winter ground for migratory birds, the largest brackish water lagoon in Asia and second largest coastal lagoon in the world, Bird and Dolphin watching
Suggested Read: Honeymoon in Darjeeling: A Scenic Retreat for Honeymooners
Embarking on a cruise in India is an enchanting journey through a land famous of incredible diversity. From the untamed beauty of the Sundarbans and the cultural richness along the Ganges to the tropical paradises of Goa and the Andaman Islands, India's cruise destinations offer extraordinary experiences. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a seeker of luxury, the Indian cruises cater to all tastes and preferences. With a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a myriad of activities, a cruise in India promises not just a vacation but an adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. So, set sail on the azure waters of India and discover a world that is as diverse as it is beautiful by availing yourself of the best India cruise tour packages.
FAQs
Popular cruise destinations in India include the Sundarbans, Brahmaputra, Andaman Islands, Goa, Kerala's backwaters, and more.
The ideal time varies by location, but generally, the post-monsoon period from October to March is excellent for most Indian cruises.
India is new in cruise touring but in a very short span of time, there are several ultimate luxurious cruises in India. Few of them are:
- Sundarbans River Cruise
- Brahmaputra Cruise
- Mumbai-Kochi-Lakshadweep-Mumbai Cruise
- Kerala Back Water Cruise
- Ganges Heritage River Cruise
Yes, India offers luxury cruises such as the Angriya Cruise, which provides a high-end experience with world-class amenities. It starts from Mumbai and covers Kochi and Lakshadweep and returns to Mumbai.
Activities may include wildlife safaris, water sports, cultural excursions, and onboard entertainment, depending on the cruise.
It depends on the cruise operator and the location. Some cruises offer Wi-Fi, but connectivity may be limited in remote areas.
MV Ganga Vilas is not only India’s but the world's longest Motor Vessel (MV) river cruise. It will cover total of 3200 km of waterway in India from Varanasi to Bangladesh via Kolkata.
Cruise tours have always been fascinating for couples and they seek to include them in their honeymoon. For your convenience, here are a few of the greatest honeymoon cruises in India:
- Kerala Back Water Cruise
- Mumbai-Kochi-Lakshadweep-Mumbai Cruise (Angriya Cruise)
- Ganges Heritage River Cruise
- Andaman Islands Cruise
- Goa Cruise