Travel in India doesn’t necessarily have to mean “trains, planes and automobiles”. In the east of the country, the great rivers of the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Hughli – have been the principal transport arteries of the subcontinent for thousands of years – these now also provide ideal routes for leisure cruises through some of the most experiential, remote and rarely visited parts of the country.

Pioneered by the Assam–Bengal Navigation Company with its colonial-style steamers, a host of internationally renowned Pandaw and Antara Cruises now ply these ancient waterways, pausing at the historic sights, wildlife parks and cultural centres that line the riverbanks. The perspective yielded by these is unique as they traverse rural areas that have changed little since the days of the East India Company, several of whose ruined trading posts rise from the paddy fields and sandbars.

Quite apart from being elegant, the ships along these waters are handsomely furnished and extremely comfortable, with air-conditioned cabins, wood-lined decks, and dining rooms serving world-class cuisine - all coming together to create one of the most relaxing ways to experience rural India.

ABN offer a wide choice of cruises, varied mixes of landscapes and experiences. Contact one of our India-specialist consultants to find out more.