Explore India by River Cruise

India is one of the most exotic and ethnically diverse countries in the world. It features a rich history that spans five millennia, many languages, religions and sects, and a diverse terrain, from the Himalayas and surrounding mountain ranges to the Indian Ocean coastline.

If you’ve always wanted to travel to the vibrant and mysterious cities of this South Asian destination, consider an India river cruise. With modern ships that can navigate waters ocean vessels can’t and the convenience of docking right in the heart of cities, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection offers a one-of-a-kind India travel experience on land and sea.

One of Uniworld’s India river cruises explores Delhi, Jaipur and Agra – known as India’s Golden Triangle of iconic sights and must-see destinations, as well as the Sacred Ganges.

Delhi, which consists of two cities, is a captivating mix of ancient and modern. The 13-day trip begins in New Delhi, where open green spaces and wide straight avenues are a far cry from Old Delhi’s matrix of winding paths and alleys mainly accessible by foot. Inhabited for at least 2,500 years, New Delhi has been rebuilt many times, and the capital city still harbors the ancient relics to prove it. River cruisers will enjoy a well-paced tour through the old and new, the sacred and secular, and visit some of the city’s remarkable landmarks.

In Agra, travelers will get a chance to cross another destination off their bucket list at the Taj Mahal. Viewed at sunset and at sunrise the next morning, cruisers are offered two stunning views of this “elegy in marble.” A grand tribute to love, the Taj Mahal is considered one of the most beautiful monuments in the world.

Next on the itinerary is Jaipur, known as “Pink City” for the color of its trademark buildings. The city’s color scheme of terracotta pink historically represents welcoming and hospitality, and this India river cruise welcomes you to see it all. At the city’s center stands the City Palace complex, featuring gold-inlaid ceilings, ornate gateways, beautiful gardens and courtyards, and a museum. Travelers will also get a chance to see Jantar Mantar, an ancient observatory still frequented by local astrologers. The 13 architectural astronomy instruments on site are mesmerizing.

As the itinerary unfolds, the adventure continues to many other cities, landmarks and destinations. On the meandering cruise along the Scared Ganges, a seat out on the sun deck offers views ranging from rowboats transporting cows to former colonial settlements featuring European architecture. The trip ends early morning in Kolkata, considered by many Indians to be the nation’s intellectual capital, where travelers will journey into the enduring legacies of Mother Teresa and the colonial-era British Raj.

Multifaceted and mesmerizing, India is a place unlike any other. The country is rich with natural beauty, history and religion, the ancient and modern, even sights of romance. It is bursting with culture and mystery. And on Uniworld’s second India river cruise option, travelers are given the opportunity to get up close and personal.

The 12-day trip explores the same portion of India’s Golden Triangle and the Sacred Ganges, but the four day pre-cruise tour with Uniworld partners ME to WE offers travelers a more immersive experience through India’s countryside. This preliminary excursion begins in Udaipur, where guests call the stunning Araveli Cottages and Tented Camp in Rajasthan home for two nights. To prep for the immersive transition into India’s vibrant culture, there is a lesson in basic Hindi phrases before heading out into a local village where a Hindu tradition awaits. In the village, cruisers join the community for a Poja, a Hindu prayer ceremony that marks the beginning of an auspicious event.

The four days are spent mingling with community members, learning about daily life in rural India, savoring traditional cuisine, waking up to yoga sessions that overlook the vast Aravalli Mountain Range and more. Then the next phase of the journey begins as travelers board the lavish and elegant Indian-inspired décor of the Ganges Voyager II and head to the site of Kalna’s magnificent Hindu temples.

On both of Uniworld’s India river cruises, guests can enjoy plenty of all-inclusive perks and amenities on board, from the elegant and serene décor that characterize the suites, staterooms, and shared spaces, to the stylish restaurants run by top chefs. Head over to the expansive sun deck for beautiful views, get a massage at the spa, or visit the plush lounges and full-service bars for dancing and after-dinner entertainment.

Available on every sailing is a complimentary wellness program, where relaxed yoga sessions that are designed to promote holistic health at every stage are led by a certified yogi. Guests will even find an accompanying menu featuring organic meals and healthy eating guidelines during breakfast, lunch and dinner.

From ship to city, Uniworld promises an attentive, thoughtful and exhilarating experience. Their mission: to provide discerning guests with a truly unsurpassed and unforgettable river cruise experience.

Looking to book one of Uniworld’s India river cruises or explore a more detailed itinerary? You can browse upcoming departures and find more information here.