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Peregrine Travel Centre

The Hooghly – India River Cruise

The Hooghly – India River Cruise

From AUD $4,147

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Description

We are pleased to announce an exciting new expedition on the Hooghly River, that connects Kolkata with the Ganges, starting October 2025. The 18 stateroom Kalaw Pandaw will sail from Kolkata to Baranagar and back on this most enchanting of rivers. This adventure captures the essence of the real India: lovely countryside, magnificent palaces, mystical temples and artisanal villages not to mention very friendly folk.
The itinerary also includes two nights in Kolkata allowing passengers two full days sight-seeing in the former capital of the Indian Raj, with its huge museum, 18th century churches, temples, mosques and architectural splendours from the glory days of the Raj.
Late check out on the 10th day enables passengers to stay on board, with full board, as most international flights from India go at night. Currently with Indian hotels competing with London or Paris in costliness, a ten-day itinerary such as this offers travellers real value as the cruise becomes a stand-alone Pandaw India trip which means that pre and post cruise hotels in Kolkata are not required.
Weather Condition WarningRiver cruising on the Lower and Upper Ganges can be severely affected by fog during the months of December and January. This may impact the sailing schedules and the planned excursions. While every effort will be made to make up time and include all activities this is not always possible. Similarly temperatures can drop significantly overnight and in the early mornings, though during the day warmer temperatures can be expected. Winter temperatures can be below average with many destinations in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh experiencing long spells of cold.

Trip Name
The Hooghly - India River Cruise
Days
10
Overview
Vessel Type: River Boat Length: 57 metres Passenger Capacity: 36 Built / refurbished: 2014 The RV Kalaw Pandaw, sister ship to the Kindat and identical in design, was launched in 2014 and carries with it a rich history. Named after the original PS Kalaw from 1917, which was sunk during the Second World War, her legacy was revived when Paul Strachan salvaged the vessel’s name plate and bell in 1998—the former now proudly displayed on board. This ultra-light ship is specially crafted with one of the shallowest draughts on the river, ensuring smooth navigation, while also offering one of the highest passenger space ratios afloat. With just 18 staterooms accommodating 36 guests, she provides an intimate, elegant cruising experience along the rivers of Myanmar. On board, guests enjoy thoughtfully designed teak and brass staterooms with panoramic French windows, premium amenities, and attentive service. Dining is a highlight, with a bistro-style restaurant led by a local master chef and an international team, offering semi-buffet meals, themed dinners, and freshly baked breads. Cultural performances, cooking classes, and educational talks enrich the journey, while shore excursions are complemented by cold towels, refreshments, and expert local guides. With exceptional service, comfortable public spaces, and a focus on both safety and hospitality, the RV Kalaw Pandaw delivers a refined yet authentic river cruise experience.

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1 EMBARK KOLKATA
Transfer from your Kolkata hotel or the airport to embark by 1200 for lunch on board followed by city orientation tour with a walk round Dalhousie Square, the prominent Writers’ Building the former HQ of the East India Company, and step inside St John’s Church with its painting of The Last Supper. Experience the serenity of the Victoria Memorial with a stroll through the splendid gardens. Admire the domed white marble hall built in memory of Queen Victoria and discover Victorian memorabilia and British Raj-era paintings. We take lunch in a local restaurant before enjoying the rest of the afternoon at leisure. On return to ship welcome cocktails and briefing.
Day 2 - DAY 2 KOLKATA IMMERSION
Early morning visit to the vibrant flower market, one of Asia’s largest. Wind through the mountains of marigolds and jasmine and watch as people buy flowers for temple offerings and prayers. Stroll down to the river to witness a traditional Akhara. Step inside and watch men of all ages practice a traditional form of wrestling known as kushti. We return to ship for breakfast.Afternoon visit to the Indian Museum and then free time in the nearby New Market before returning to ship for dinner.
Day 3 - DAY 3 KOLKATA - SEREMPORE
Morning visit to the market and sail at noon to cross the Hooghli to the old Danish colony of Serampore, founded in 1676, and visit the tavern, church, and museum. After, cruise past the iconic landmarks of Kolkata: the Tower, Government House, the Temple of Fame, and Flagstaff House.
Day 4 - DAY 4 KALNA
After breakfast, embark on a scenic cruise upstream, arriving at the charming country town of Kalna. Take a rickshaw ride to explore a group of Bengal's most impressive terracotta temples, culminating in a visit to the unique 18th-century Shiva Temple. This remarkable temple is adorned with concentric rings of 108 smaller shrines, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight.Sail on through the night, mooring near Maitari.
Day 5 - DAY 5 MATIARI
Step ashore in Matiari, a charming riverside village renowned for its brass-working traditions. Engage with the local artisans and witness the fascinating process of crafting intricate brass water pots and other vessels. Time permitting, venture to the historic battlefield of Plassey. Here, in the pivotal year of 1757, Robert Clive, the Commander-in-Chief of the British East India Company, decisively defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, marking a turning point in Indian history.Moor close to Murshidabad for the night.
Day 6 - DAY 6 MURSHIDABAD
Embark on a walk to the Khushbagh, a peaceful Mughal-style Garden that encloses the tombs of Siraj-ud-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, and his family. Continue upstream to witness the grandeur of Hazarduari Palace, an architectural masterpiece built by an English architect in 1837. Explore its opulent interiors, showcasing a fascinating collection of paintings, china, weapons, and other artifacts. Next, visit the magnificent Katra Mosque and the impressive Nashipara Palace, a testament to the wealth and influence of the local merchants during the "White Mughal" era – a period of cultural exchange between English and Indian influences. Finally, we visit Katgola Palace, an exquisite example of Georgian architecture built by wealthy local merchants, further highlighting the unique blend of cultures that flourished during this era.Moor overnight on the riverbank across from town.
Day 7 - DAY 7 BARANAGAR - AJIMGANJ
Sail upstream along the Hoogly River, a picturesque waterway winding through a landscape of lush mustard fields and vibrant mango orchards. Disembark in Baranagar, a charming village, and enjoy a leisurely walk through its serene countryside. Visit three exquisite miniature terracotta temples, dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, a testament to the region's rich artistic heritage. Continue sailing downstream, stopping at Azimganj to explore the intricately carved Jain temples. This itinerary offers a glimpse into the idyllic rural life of Bengal and its fascinating cultural and architectural heritage.
Day 8 - DAY 8 MAYAPUR
Immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of the Hare Krishna movement at Mayapur, its global headquarters. Explore the magnificent ISKCON temple complex, a modern marvel comparable in size to the Vatican and generously funded by Alfred B. Ford, the great-grandson of automotive pioneer Henry Ford. Interact with devotees and wander through the vibrant pilgrims' bazaar.
Day 9 - DAY 9 CHANDERNAGORE - HOOGHLY
Continue sailing downstream before landing to visit the imposing Imambara at Hooghly. With verses from the Quran written on its walls, the Imambara is an opportunity to step back in time and relive a slice of Islamic history in Bengal. Sail past the old Dutch settlement of Chinsura to Chandernagore, a French possession until 1950. Visit the 18th-century church and Dupleix's House, erstwhile Governor-General of French India. Enjoy a TukTuk ride to the Hangseshwari Temple before sailing into the night to a mooring near Kolkata.
Day 10 - DAY 10 DISEMBARKATION KOLKATA
Early morning moor in Kolkata Port and transfer to hotels or airport. Passengers with night flights may stay in their cabins and are at leisure during the day with a lunch served on board and a light supper prior to departure.
Day 11 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 
Day 12 - Weather Condition Warning
River cruising on the Lower and Upper Ganges can be severely affected by fog during the months of December and January. This may impact the sailing schedules and the planned excursions. While every effort will be made to make up time and include all activities this is not always possible. Similarly temperatures can drop significantly overnight and in the early mornings, though during the day warmer temperatures can be expected. Winter temperatures can be below average with many destinations in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh experiencing long spells of cold.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
01-10-202610-10-2026AUD $4,608Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
01-10-202610-10-2026AUD $4,608Main Deck Twin Single Use
01-10-202610-10-2026AUD $5,545Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
01-10-202610-10-2026AUD $5,545Upper Deck Twin Single Use
10-10-202619-10-2026AUD $4,147Main Deck Twin Sharing
10-10-202619-10-2026AUD $4,991Upper Deck Twin Sharing
10-10-202619-10-2026AUD $5,553Main Deck Twin Single Use
10-10-202619-10-2026AUD $6,959Upper Deck Twin Single Use
11-10-202620-10-2026AUD $7,404Main Deck Twin Single Use
11-10-202620-10-2026AUD $9,278Upper Deck Twin Single Use
11-10-202620-10-2026AUD $5,529Main Deck Twin Sharing
11-10-202620-10-2026AUD $6,654Upper Deck Twin Sharing
20-10-202629-10-2026AUD $5,529Main Deck Twin Sharing
20-10-202629-10-2026AUD $6,654Upper Deck Twin Sharing
20-10-202629-10-2026AUD $7,404Main Deck Twin Single Use
20-10-202629-10-2026AUD $9,278Upper Deck Twin Single Use
21-10-202630-10-2026AUD $4,997Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
21-10-202630-10-2026AUD $4,997Main Deck Twin Single Use
21-10-202630-10-2026AUD $6,014Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
21-10-202630-10-2026AUD $6,014Upper Deck Twin Single Use
31-10-202609-11-2026AUD $5,529Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
31-10-202609-11-2026AUD $6,654Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
31-10-202609-11-2026AUD $7,404Main Deck Twin Single Use
31-10-202609-11-2026AUD $9,278Upper Deck Twin Single Use
10-11-202619-11-2026AUD $5,529Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10-11-202619-11-2026AUD $6,654Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
10-11-202619-11-2026AUD $7,404Main Deck Twin Single Use
10-11-202619-11-2026AUD $9,278Upper Deck Twin Single Use
20-11-202629-11-2026AUD $5,529Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
20-11-202629-11-2026AUD $6,654Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
20-11-202629-11-2026AUD $7,404Main Deck Twin Single Use
20-11-202629-11-2026AUD $9,278Upper Deck Twin Single Use
20-12-202629-12-2026AUD $4,147Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
20-12-202629-12-2026AUD $4,991Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
20-12-202629-12-2026AUD $5,553Main Deck Twin Single Use
20-12-202629-12-2026AUD $6,959Upper Deck Twin Single Use
30-12-202608-01-2027AUD $4,608Main Deck Twin Sharing
30-12-202608-01-2027AUD $5,545Upper Deck Twin Sharing
30-12-202608-01-2027AUD $6,170Main Deck Twin Single Use
30-12-202608-01-2027AUD $7,732Upper Deck Twin Single Use
09-01-202718-01-2027AUD $4,835Main Deck Twin Sharing
09-01-202718-01-2027AUD $5,818Upper Deck Twin Sharing
09-01-202718-01-2027AUD $6,474Main Deck Twin Single Use
09-01-202718-01-2027AUD $8,113Upper Deck Twin Single Use
09-01-202718-01-2027AUD $4,835Main Deck Twin Sharing
09-01-202718-01-2027AUD $5,818Upper Deck Twin Sharing
09-01-202718-01-2027AUD $6,474Main Deck Twin Single Use
09-01-202718-01-2027AUD $8,113Upper Deck Twin Single Use
19-01-202728-01-2027AUD $4,147Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
19-01-202728-01-2027AUD $4,991Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
19-01-202728-01-2027AUD $5,553Main Deck Twin Single Use
19-01-202728-01-2027AUD $6,959Upper Deck Twin Single Use
29-01-202707-02-2027AUD $4,608Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
29-01-202707-02-2027AUD $5,545Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
29-01-202707-02-2027AUD $6,170Main Deck Twin Single Use
29-01-202707-02-2027AUD $7,732Upper Deck Twin Single Use
08-02-202717-02-2027AUD $5,529Main Deck Twin Sharing
08-02-202717-02-2027AUD $6,654Upper Deck Twin Sharing
08-02-202717-02-2027AUD $7,404Main Deck Twin Single Use
08-02-202717-02-2027AUD $9,278Upper Deck Twin Single Use
18-02-202727-02-2027AUD $4,608Main Deck Twin Sharing
18-02-202727-02-2027AUD $5,545Upper Deck Twin Sharing
18-02-202727-02-2027AUD $6,170Main Deck Twin Single Use
18-02-202727-02-2027AUD $7,732Upper Deck Twin Single Use
28-02-202709-03-2027AUD $5,529Main Deck Twin Sharing
28-02-202709-03-2027AUD $6,654Upper Deck Twin Sharing
28-02-202709-03-2027AUD $7,404Main Deck Twin Single Use
28-02-202709-03-2027AUD $9,278Upper Deck Twin Single Use
10-03-202719-03-2027AUD $4,608Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
10-03-202719-03-2027AUD $5,545Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
10-03-202719-03-2027AUD $6,170Main Deck Twin Single Use
10-03-202719-03-2027AUD $7,732Upper Deck Twin Single Use
20-03-202729-03-2027AUD $5,529Main Deck Twin Sharing. From
20-03-202729-03-2027AUD $6,654Upper Deck Twin Sharing. From
20-03-202729-03-2027AUD $7,404Main Deck Twin Single Use
20-03-202729-03-2027AUD $9,278Upper Deck Twin Single Use
01-10-202710-10-2027AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
01-10-202710-10-2027AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
01-10-202710-10-2027AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
01-10-202710-10-2027AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
11-10-202720-10-2027AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
11-10-202720-10-2027AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
11-10-202720-10-2027AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
11-10-202720-10-2027AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
21-10-202730-10-2027AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
21-10-202730-10-2027AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
21-10-202730-10-2027AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
21-10-202730-10-2027AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
31-10-202709-11-2027AUD $4,562Main Deck Twin Sharing
31-10-202709-11-2027AUD $5,490Upper Deck Twin Sharing
31-10-202709-11-2027AUD $6,108Main Deck Twin Single Use
31-10-202709-11-2027AUD $7,655Upper Deck Twin Single Use
10-11-202719-11-2027AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
10-11-202719-11-2027AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
10-11-202719-11-2027AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
10-11-202719-11-2027AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
20-11-202729-11-2027AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
20-11-202729-11-2027AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
20-11-202729-11-2027AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
20-11-202729-11-2027AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
18-12-202727-12-2027AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
18-12-202727-12-2027AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
18-12-202727-12-2027AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
18-12-202727-12-2027AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
28-12-202706-01-2028AUD $4,562Main Deck Twin Sharing
28-12-202706-01-2028AUD $5,490Upper Deck Twin Sharing
28-12-202706-01-2028AUD $6,108Main Deck Twin Single Use
28-12-202706-01-2028AUD $7,655Upper Deck Twin Single Use
07-01-202816-01-2028AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
07-01-202816-01-2028AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
07-01-202816-01-2028AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
07-01-202816-01-2028AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
17-01-202826-01-2028AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
17-01-202826-01-2028AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
17-01-202826-01-2028AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
17-01-202826-01-2028AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
27-01-202805-02-2028AUD $4,562Main Deck Twin Sharing
27-01-202805-02-2028AUD $5,490Upper Deck Twin Sharing
27-01-202805-02-2028AUD $6,108Main Deck Twin Single Use
27-01-202805-02-2028AUD $7,655Upper Deck Twin Single Use
06-02-202815-02-2028AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
06-02-202815-02-2028AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
06-02-202815-02-2028AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
06-02-202815-02-2028AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
16-02-202825-02-2028AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
16-02-202825-02-2028AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
16-02-202825-02-2028AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
16-02-202825-02-2028AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
26-02-202806-03-2028AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
26-02-202806-03-2028AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
26-02-202806-03-2028AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
26-02-202806-03-2028AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
07-03-202816-03-2028AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
07-03-202816-03-2028AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
07-03-202816-03-2028AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
07-03-202816-03-2028AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use
17-03-202826-03-2028AUD $5,069Main Deck Twin Sharing
17-03-202826-03-2028AUD $6,100Upper Deck Twin Sharing
17-03-202826-03-2028AUD $6,787Main Deck Twin Single Use
17-03-202826-03-2028AUD $8,505Upper Deck Twin Single Use

Inclusions

    • Explore Kolkata's rich colonial heritage, vibrant markets, and serene Victoria Memorial gardens.
    • Cruise through historic river towns, visiting terracotta temples, brass-working villages, and majestic palaces.
    • Immerse in Bengal's spiritual and cultural history with stops at Mayapur, Chandernagore, and the iconic Hooghly Imambara.

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