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Riverside ghats, Varanasi, India

Cruises in India

Riverside ghats, Varanasi, India

Exploring India by boat offers some wonderful opportunities to see sites and scenery inaccessible by road. In Kerala, sail along the quiet rivers and lagoons of the northern backwaters aboard a traditional rice barge allows you to immerse yourself in local culture. Alternatively, head to the northeast to embark on a cruise on the Ganges, Hugli or Brahmaputra Rivers to visit remote villages, river islands and national parks.

Cruise durations are varied and all vessels have specialist guides and managers on board.

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James, an Audley Travel specialist

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Our suggested India cruising itineraries

Each of these itineraries features an element, big or small, of experiencing India by boat. As we've discovered, cruising lets you slow the pace and gain a different — sometimes exclusive — perspective on a destination. As with all our itineraries, treat these as just inspiration for your uniquely created trip.

Ships selected by our specialists

Ranging from luxurious floating hotels to far simpler options, the selection of India cruise vessels you can choose from all have one thing in common: they offer unparalleled access to sights well off the beaten track.