Antara Cruises, a leading name in river cruising within India, recently hosted a memorable journey for 50 travel agents from the UK. The three-night, four-day cruise aboard the Antara Ganges Voyager II, taking place from June 8th to 11th, 2024, aimed to showcase the captivating allure of navigating the Ganges River and exploring its vibrant riverside towns.
The meticulously planned cruise itinerary was enthusiastically embraced by the guests. Mr. Raj Singh, Promoter and Managing Director of Antara Cruises, warmly welcomed them with traditional garlands and tikas, expressing his delight at their opportunity to experience the charm of India’s waterways, particularly the sacred Ganges River, flowing over 1,500 miles from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal. He highlighted the historical significance of the river, mentioning the Buddha’s first sermon at Sarnath on its banks and the establishment of Kolkata, the first British capital, along its course.
Day 1 of the cruise commenced with a scenic journey along the Ganges, offering breathtaking views of Kolkata’s iconic landmarks. The guests were captivated by the High Court, Belur Math, Howrah train station, and the numerous bathing and ferry ghats dotting the riverbanks.
Day 2 brought an exciting excursion to Kalna, where guests explored the remarkable Rajbari Temple Complex via electric rickshaws. This complex boasts the region’s largest concentration of temples, including the magnificent Nabakailas Temple, constructed in 1809 by the Bardhaman Maharaja. The temple features 108 sloped-roof shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, a sight that left the guests in awe. They also visited a vibrant local market, renowned for its seasonal fruits and vegetables, immersing themselves in the local culture and flavors.
Later that day, the cruise continued downstream to Chandernagore, a former French colony established in 1673. Guests strolled along the riverside promenade, taking in the charming atmosphere of this historical site. They explored colonial-era buildings like the former French governor’s residence, now transformed into a museum, and the Sacred Heart Church, designed by French architect Jacques Duchatz and inaugurated in 1884.
The tour concluded with a panoramic exploration of Kolkata, showcasing the city’s well-preserved British colonial architecture. The guests were mesmerized by the Writer’s Building, General Post Office, High Court, Raj Bhawan (Governor’s House), Town Hall, Council House, Treasury Building, Reserve Bank of India, Dalhousie Square, and the impressive St. John’s Church, Kolkata’s oldest Anglican church built in 1756. A memorable photo opportunity at the grand Victoria Memorial capped off the exploration of this historic city.
Antara Cruises, founded in 2003 by travel industry pioneer and naturalist Raj Singh, embodies the belief that the best way to experience South Asia is from its rivers. The company has grown into a fleet of nine thoughtfully designed ships sailing South Asia’s most iconic rivers, including the Ganges, Padma, and Brahmaputra River systems. Antara offers guests luxurious accommodations from which to enjoy vibrant landscapes, local cultures, crafts, and wildlife. Antara also offers the world’s longest river cruises.
In 2024, Antara expanded its reach to the four rivers of Bhitarkanika National Park, India’s second-largest mangrove forest. This expansion reflects Antara’s commitment to showcasing indigenous environments and cultures sustainably, with renowned hospitality and meticulously designed ships. The cruise provided a unique opportunity for the UK travel agents to experience the diverse beauty of India, fostering a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich history, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes.
