- Veranda Stateroom from £7,995pp
- Explorer Suite from £13,795pp
- £25pp Deposit - Ends 30th September
- Return flights from London and selected regional airports
- One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call
- Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
- All onboard meals, featuring regional specialties & always available classics
- Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner
- 24-hour specialty coffees, teas & bottled water
- Port taxes & fees
- Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase
- Visits to UNESCO Sites
- Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances
- Onboard gratuities
- Explore Agra’s fabled Taj Mahal, stroll through the winding streets of Old Delhi and witness Jaipur’s Palace of Winds as you delve into the rich history of India’s Golden Triangle. Discover the cultures of Majuli, one of the world’s largest river islands, and search for the one-horned rhinos and buffalos of Kaziranga National Park as you sail the Brahmaputra River. Encounter thriving riverside villages and see the temple of Guwahati.
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NEW! Wonders of India II
Viking Ganges
5th Oct 29
14 Nights
1
Delhi, India
Arrive and check in to your hotel. Delhi, a vibrant and historic city, has been a nucleus of power for nearly a millennium. Before India’s independence in 1947, dynasties and empires alike have occupied the city and their impressive remnants can be found dotted throughout its modern streets. The towering Qutb Minar minaret, a 12th-century marvel constructed by the Delhi Sultanate, and the Mughal Empire’s impressive Red Fort, a vast complex, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that invite visitors to step back in time. New Delhi, built by the British Raj in 1931, now holds all three branches of the Indian government.
2
Delhi, India
New Delhi is a municipality of the National Capital Territory of Delhi and the capital of India. It’s wide streets and government buildings stand in stark contrast to Old Delhi’s historic gems and narrow roads. Established in 1936 by the British Raj, it was their new capital before India attained its independence through political organization and nation-wide actions, including the Quit India and Non-Cooperation Movements. On August 15, 1947, the Indian flag was raised above the ramparts of the Red Fort as a symbol of independence and New Delhi became the current capital. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
3
Agra, India
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and embark your motor coach to begin your transfer. Founded as the capital for a Delhi sultan and converted into the Mughal Empire’s seat of power for 150 years, Agra is no stranger to ceremonial splendor and is studded with some of the most impressive architecture in India. The Taj Mahal, perhaps the most renowned Mughal structure in the world, is a marble pearl that gleams alongside the Yamuna River. Commissioned in 1631 by Shah Jahan to memorialize his empress consort, Mumtaz Mahal, as a depiction of her home in the afterlife, the Taj Mahal features colorful inlays of semi-precious stones and intricate Arabic calligraphy. Taj Mahal under clear blue sky
4
Agra, India
The splendor of the Taj Mahal is best appreciated at sunrise, when the early morning rays cast the ornate mausoleum in gold hues. Visitors at this time can glimpse the Taj’s impressive silhouette and explore the grounds before the crowds. Another of Agra’s Mughal treasures, the Agra Fort, is crafted from vibrant red sandstone and has been shaped by each of its successive rulers. Its regal grounds recall the elegant tastes of the sultans and emperors of its past. Shah Jahan, the commissioner of the Taj Mahal, was deposed and kept prisoner here.
5
Jaipur, India
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and embark your motor coach to begin your transfer. In 1727, Sawai Jai Singh II of the Kachwaha Rajputs built a new capital, Jaipur, to accommodate the growing population of his people. The new city was designed according to the principles of Vastu Shastra, a Hindu architectural science where buildings are crafted in harmony with the natural environment. At its heart is the City Palace, an impressive complex comprised of colorful gates, the ornate Chandra Mahal and the intricate Hawa Maha. Just outside the City Palace’s gates lies the Pink City, where every building is mandated by law to be painted its namesake color. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
6
Jaipur, India
The artistic nature of Jaipur is hard to deny; the complex windows of the Hawa Mahal, the scientific precision of the Jantar Mantar and the marvelous Jal Mahal all attest to this. Set mere miles from these stunning constructions is their predecessor, the Amber Fort. Perched atop a hill, the 16th-century fort is a striking example of Rajput architecture and a veritable palace constructed of sandstone. It contains the Sheesh Mahal, which gleams in the sunlight due to its coating of concave mirrors, and the impressive marble lattices and floral inlays of Jas Mandir.
7
Nimati Ghat, India
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and head to the airport for your flight. Nimati Ghat, like the rest of the state of Assam, sits within the Brahmaputra Valley, land which was once home to the mighty Ahom Kingdom. Ruling for an impressive, uncontested 600 years, the Ahoms created a multi-cultural society which still persists, with more than 14 languages and 5 religions co-existing in the state of Assam today. The Ahom Kingdom also left behind a rich architectural legacy; their former capital city of Sivasagar is home to the stately royal palace and Temple to Lord Shiva, a Hindu pilgrimage site situated on a vast man-made lake. Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom.
8
Nimati Ghat, India
A quaint river port called on by colorful fishing boats and popular ferries, Nimati Ghat serves as an embarkation point for travelers and locals alike looking to sail to Majuli Island, one of the largest river islands in the world, or set out on a journey along the Brahmaputra River. From its shores, the sheer expanse of the river can truly be appreciated as it stretches toward the horizon, with just a thin strip of green on the opposing bank separating it from the sky.
9
Majuli, India
Majuli is one of the world’s largest river islands but is constantly challenged by the ever-changing Brahmaputra. Birthed from a flood during the 17th century, the island spans over 136 square miles and is home to more than 150,000 people, three languages and a multitude of cultures. Many people practice neo-Vaishnavite, a major Hindu denomination, and partake in Bhaona, or stage performances of events well documented in Hindu scripture. Handcrafted bamboo and clay masks that depict deities and characters feature in these performances, bringing the scriptures to life.
10
Biswanath Ghat, India
A quaint village along the Brahmaputra River, Biswanath Ghat gets its name from the ancient Biswanath temple that was situated here and its Ghat—a set of stairs that lead down to the river’s edge. Selected as India’s Best Tourism Village in 2023, Biswanath Ghat features a collection of temples that dot its streets, including an ancient temple dedicated to Shiva, now mostly ruins that lie along the banks of the Brahmaputra. Intriguing animals, including elephants and the Ganges river dolphin, can be spotted from the shores of this colorful village.
11
Kaziranga National Park, India
Like many national parks, Kaziranga has its roots in conservation. When Mary Curzon, Vicereine of India, visited the area in 1904 to see the one-horned rhino, all she found were footprints. Her guide, Balaram Hazarika, told her of the species's endangerment and pressed upon her the need for conservation. Now, the park is home to two-thirds of the one-horned rhino’s global population and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is noted for its biodiversity. From the river, visitors can truly appreciate the park’s verdant landscape and keep an eye out for its magnificent residents.
12
Scenic Sailing: Brahmaputra River
The Brahmaputra rises and falls with the rainfall of monsoon season and is a river of constant change that shapes both the landscape and lives of those who rely upon it. Its deposits of rich silt allow for fertile farmlands and flourishing communities, but its ever-fluctuating shoreline brings seasonal flooding. Local architecture features houses built on stilts, and ghats, or steps, that lead down into water, allow access regardless of water level. Bridges are rarely found, but a flow of ferries and fishing boats ease life along this dynamic river.
13
Guwahati, India
Along the banks of the Brahmaputra River lies Guwahati, widely considered to be the gateway to the northeast. A city of cultures, it owes its diversity to its past. Since its origin as the capital of Kamarupa, a Hindu kingdom, Guwahati has seen the rule of the Ahom people, and the Mughal and British Empires. As a result, a collection of temples, mosques and gurdwara are peppered throughout the streets and a multitude of festivals bring celebration to the city. Exhibits at the Assam State Museum display artifacts and historic art that emphasize the region's storied past.
14
Guwahati, India
Guwahati owes its existence to its lush riverfront. Ancient cities stood on these banks, drawing their livelihood from the Brahmaputra’s waters. Today, this legacy can be seen in the boats that navigate Guwahati’s harbor and the temples, including the renowned Hindu Kamakhya Temple, that cluster near its shores and on its island. Markets pop up along the water, with stalls featuring woven bowls, fruit and chop, a dish of mashed and fried potatoes served with chutney. From the decks of boats sailing the Brahmaputra, the daily life of villages lining the river can be glimpsed. After breakfast, disembark your ship and head to the airport for your flight.
15
Delhi, India
Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.
Why Book
Viking Ganges
Overview
The name of the Viking Ganges derives from the Sanskrit word gaṅgā, meaning “river,” or “swift goer.” In India, the word is also associated with the Hindu goddess Ganga, who represents purity, life, spirituality and grace.
An identical sister ship to the Viking Brahmaputra, the Viking Ganges is specifically built to navigate the Brahmaputra River. The ship pairs understated elegance with the clean, Scandinavian design principles for which Viking is known. Explore the natural beauty of the northeastern region of India in comfort, with outdoor verandas, hotel-style beds and light-filled public areas offering panoramic views.
Terms & Conditions
Advertised offers are based on 2 adults sharing the lowest category stateroom/cabin/suite unless otherwise stated. Single supplements may apply. Offers are subject to availability and can change without any prior notice and may go up or down in price. Cruise Line campaign(s) and saving messages are strictly controlled by the Cruise Line(s) and are subject to change or be withdrawn without notice. Flight inclusive packages, where promoted, are based on the cheapest UK departure airport so please ask for further details. Advertised hotels, if any, are suggested however are changeable at a possible additional cost. All prices and port itineraries are correct at the time of print but are subject to change by the Cruise Line(s) without prior notice. Hays Travel reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions in this brochure. Some ports of call may be tendered whereas vessels drop anchor a short distance away and use small boats to reach the shore. Full board to all-inclusive inclusions vary by the Cruise Line(s) and restrictions may apply. Some onboard facilities and items may incur a charge. Select destinations may require travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to be completed prior to travelling. Hays Travel LTD excepts no responsibility or compensation for any incomplete forms or declined entries from the respective country or countries that the individual(s) are visiting.
NEW! Wonders of India II
FROM £7,995PP
Viking Ganges
5th Oct 29
14 Nights
From
£7,995PP
