Classic Northeast: Sacred Ganges & Holy Cities
Example Itinerary
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Overview
This offbeat adventure focuses on the beauty of India and its people, experiencing first-hand the daily life of different communities and visiting fascinating cities rich with history and culture. Get lost in the stunning foothills of the Himalaya, discover remarkable architecture with visits to famous UNESCO sites, and explore the hustle and bustle of some of the most vibrant city streets in all of India.
Starting in ...
This offbeat adventure focuses on the beauty of India and its people, experiencing first-hand the daily life of different communities and visiting fascinating cities rich with history and culture. Get lost in the stunning foothills of the Himalaya, discover remarkable architecture with visits to famous UNESCO sites, and explore the hustle and bustle of some of the most vibrant city streets in all of India.
Starting in Kolkata where you will explore the highlights, continue on to the holy Buddhist town of Bodhgaya, and on to the banks of the Ganges River to the ancient city of Varanasi. Discover life along the Ganges as you enjoy boat trips at dawn and dusk, and witness the magical evening aarti ceremony. Spend time in the small town of Allahabad where the Ganges and Yamuna Rivers meet, before heading to explore Lucknow and finally ending in the foothills of the Himalaya. This is a wonderful trip that will stay with you for a very long time.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
How Tailor-Made Works
Discuss your initial ideas with one of our experts, the types of things you want to see and do.
Your expert will start designing your perfect trip. Within a day or two we'll send a suggested itinerary.
At this stage you can still tweak anything from accommodation to experiences and dates, using our expert advice.
Time to prepare for your trip, safe in the knowledge you'll be in the expert hands of local guides and drivers throughout.
Relax and enjoy...through our partners you'll have support on the ground as well as 24-hour emergency assistance in the UK.
Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 ARRIVE KOLKATA
The adventure begins in Kolkata (Calcutta), once the capital of British India and one of the largest and most vibrant cities in India. Home to one of the largest museums in Asia and a city with a proud tradition in cultural and political thinking, Kolkata is known for its cuisine and colourful markets, and is one of India's truly great cities, with a rich mix of culture, Bengali tradition and nationalistic fervour that still retains a touch of colonial architecture that harks back to its days of the Raj.
Day 2 KOLKATA
Enjoy a guided tour of Calcutta (Kolkata) and discover one of the most culturally fascinating cities in India. Start early with a visit to the vibrant Mallick Ghat Flower Market, which offers a colourful, scent-filled overload near the banks of the River Howrah. Then make your way to see the clay model-makers’ haven of Kumartuli, where dramatic life-size idols are crafted out of river clay and straw, before continuing on to the impressive Parshwanath Temple (Jain temple) for a visual treat. Finally, explore the colonial side of the city, visiting the beautiful St John's Church and the fine architecture of B.B.D. Bagh's old buildings. End the afternoon on the banks of the river, where along with a specialist guide, you will climb aboard your boat to take a private gentle cruise down the Hooghly, a tributary of the Ganges River.
Day 3 KOLKATA - BODHGAYA
Today you will be transferred from your hotel to Kolkata airport for a short flight to the holy Buddhist town of Bodhgaya. On arrival at Bodhgaya you will collected from the airport and transferred a short distance to your hotel. Enjoy some time to rest and relax in preparation for more exploring tomorrow.
Day 4 BODHGAYA
Today you will get the chance to explore one of India's most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites, said to be the site where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment. Here you can spend some time at the renowned Mahabodhi Temple which houses a 25-metre-tall statue of Buddha, and visit the Bodhi Tree located nearby, thought to be a direct descendant of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.
Day 5 BODHGAYA - VARANASI
Today you will be transferred to Varanasi, a journey of 7 hours. En route stop at the tomb of Sher Shah Suri at Sasaram to explore one of India’s finest Indio-Islamic tombs. The mausoleum of Sher Shah Suri dates from the 16th century and is set on a small island in the lake. This exquisite tomb was built for Sher Shah Suri, a provisional warlord who defeated the great Mughal Emperor Humayun. After visiting Sasaram, continue your journey to Varanasi.
Day 6 VARANASI
You’re up early today for a beautiful dawn boat ride on the river Ganges, the holiest river in India. Head back onto land for an insight into the colourful and lively holy city of Varanasi. Meander through the streets and lanes of the old town which are strewn with temples (there are approximately 2000 in Varanasi alone), while your guide points out places of interest. The main temple in the city is the Golden Temple, which glitters through the alleys, but even though you cannot access this, your guide will show you the best spot to peer over the walls for a view. From here, head out of the central old town to the 'Sarnath', where Buddha preached his first sermon. This is an important site for Buddhists and, as such, they come here on pilgrimages from all over Asia. In the evening, witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony in the Ghats. The ritual is performed in the three holy cities of Haridwar, Rishikesh and Varanasi to offer fire, in the form of floating candles, to the Goddess Ganga. Afterwards, retire to your hotel for the night.
Day 7 VARANASI
Heading north up the banks of the holy River Ganges, this morning you will have the opportunity to explore a lesser-known part of the city on foot. Home to fascinating markets, beautiful hidden temples and chaotic colourful backstreets, this is a wonderful way to explore another side to the city and learn more about daily life in this area, also accessing some of the city’s most historic buildings that offer some truly breath-taking views across the city and holy river.
Day 8 VARANASI – ALLAHABAD
Today you will be collected from your hotel and transferred to Allahabad, the holy town at the confluence of the Yamuna and Ganges Rivers. This meeting point of the rivers, the Sangam, is believed to have great soul cleansing powers and is a major pilgrimage site. It’s even more holy as the invisible Saraswati River is believed to join the Ganges and Yamuna Rivers at this point and every 12 years is the scene of the extraordinary Kumbh Mela. Later today with your guide, you will explore the highlights of Allahabad, which includes Anand Bhawan, Mayo Hall and Khurso Bridge, and in the late afternoon you can soak up the atmosphere by the river.
Day 9 ALLAHABAD - LUCKNOW
Today you will be transferred to Lucknow, a journey of 5 hours. After the long drive you can relax on arrival and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 10 LUCKNOW
Today with your guide offers the opportunity to discover the stunning historical and cultural sites of Lucknow. On the tour you will get to visit La Martiniere College, the British Residency which also houses a small museum and gardens, continuing to explore the amazing Imambaras - Bara Imambara and Hussainabad Imambara, two of the most the iconic architectural monuments of Lucknow. Next head on to Rumi Gate and the Dhobi Ghat, before sampling some of Lucknow's famous kebabs. After lunch continue to Dilkusha Palace and Saadat Ali & Begum Tomb, before continuing to colourful Chowk Bazaar, the oldest market of Lucknow, located in the city’s atmospheric old quarter.
Day 11 LUCKNOW – RISHIKESH
After breakfast you will be taken on a special heritage walk exploring Kaiserbagh Palace, ending with a cup of tea at Kotwara House. This afternoon is then free to relax or explor at your leisure, before transferring to the railway station for the overnight train to Rishikesh.
Day 12 RISHIKESH
This morning you will be met at Rishikesh railway station and transferred to your hotel with the rest of the morning and afternoon at leisure. This evening once again you will experience the Ganga Aarti, this time in the less-visited Rishikesh. This is an unforgettably spiritual experience, generally beginning at sunset and lasting for about an hour to an hour and a half. The performance of the aarti by the Guru, the singing of bhajans (hymns) by the saffron robed disciples, the fragrance of incense and camphor as it permeates the air, the mesmerising light of myriad diyas, the sound of the rushing river, the setting sun mirrored in sparkling ripples on the flowing water and the intensity of the people as they sway in unison, all combine to create a surreal atmosphere of peace that pervades every sense and remains with you long after you have left Rishikesh.
Day 13 RISHIKESH
Today you can enjoy some time at leisure to relax or explore Rishikesh, also known as the 'place of sages'. Its many ashrams – some clearly humbly ascetic, with others verging on opulent - continue to draw devotees and followers from around the world. The whole place is considered to be sacred, as it is believed that meditation here leads to attainment of salvation. There are some wonderful activities on offer, including river rafting, bird-watching walks, yoga classes, market visits, visiting the Beatles Ashram, mountain hikes, and many more. According to popular Hindu legend, it was said that Goddess Ganga was created when Lord Shiva released the mighty river from the locks of his hair. The River Ganga, after flowing from its source at Gaumukh at the edge of the Gangotri Glacier, enters the Gangetic Plain for the first time at Haridwar.
Day 14 RISHIKESH - DELHI
Ending your journey, you travel back to Delhi by train this morning. On arrival in the Indian capital you will met and transferred to the airport in time to catch your onward flight
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
The Oberoi Grand - CLOSED - 2025, Kolkata
The Oberoi Grand, a five star deluxe option, located in the commercial centre of Calcutta, creates a secluded haven of luxury that will give its guest a truly magnificent experience of Indian hospitality. From the elegant dccor of the rooms to the delicious cuisine from one of the many dining options throughout the hotel, one is spoilt for choice on how to spend their time relaxing. By far the most popular attraction is the Spa and Fitness centre, where guests can ease away the stress of their day of shopping and sightseeing by getting pampered with treatments based on Aromatherapy and Ayurveda techniques. It is a truly royal experience.
Hotel Kanha Shyam, Allahabad
The four star Hotel Kanha Shyam is possibly the best option in Allahabad. Situated 2 km from the railway station and close to the banks of the Ganges, it offers 85 spacious and comfortable en suite rooms with all your expected amenities and a team of staff who are friendly and very welcoming. The restaurant serves great local and speciality Indian food and there is a lovely small bar and 24hour coffee shop, This is a good option in the city, well located and informal with a relaxed ambiance.
Brijrama Palace, Varanasi
Located on the banks of the Ganga River, the Brijrama Palace and the Darbanga Ghat are one of the oldest landmarks of the city. The palace was commissioned in 1812 and features the first ever lift in India and South Asia. The Brijrama experience starts before you arrive, as guests are escorted across the Ganges in a Bajra (a traditional, wooden, Indian boat) to arrive at the hotel. All 32 rooms are spacious and well-appointed with standard 5-star amenities. The building is truly a historical piece of work, with Maratha dynasty architecture and sandstone walls and pillars, resulting in a wonderful old-world feel. Maratha art and a signature, ancient betel leaf runner adorns the palace walls, ceilings and corners and 19th century, European-style furniture and original artworks can be found throughout. Bansari touches also elegantly decorate the rooms, such as traditional lamps and silk furnishings. This luxury heritage hotel also enjoys a spa and a plethora of dining options including a Maharaja style dining experience at the Chota Angan (small courtyard), a wonderful Banarasi menu at the vegetarian Darbhanga restaurant and hi-tea at the Kamalya Cafc with the Ganges as a backdrop. The hotel can also arrange for a river boat trip so that guests can dine to the sound of temple bells and chirping birds.
Saraca Lucknow, Lucknow
The Saraca Lucknow is a gorgeous heritage property located in the centre of Lucknow. The pretty white bungalow has been beautifully restored to blend a traditional haveli with the rich 'Ganga-Jamuna' culture of Lucknow. The interiors and atmosphere are reminiscent of the early 1900s and the Art Deco period, with vintage furniture, handcrafted artwork and provincial embroidery. View the huge green lawn and glistening outdoor pool from the rooftop bar. All the forty-one rooms open out onto the courtyard or the terrace. Choose to dine in the courtyard surrounded by verandas and the gentle sound of the water fountains, or in the private Urdu tents on the lawns (perfect for a romantic meal), in the traditional Indian and Pan Asian restaurant or the 1936 Italian restaurant – named after the year the bungalow was built. For business travellers there is also a gym. The hotel offers special interest walks around the city exploring the culinary and heritage highlights.
Taj Rishikesh Resort & Spa, Rishikesh
Blessed with a location by the banks of the river Ganges, Taj Rishikesh is situated 30km from the spiritual capital of Rishikesh, in the village of Singthali. Hidden in the Himalayan foothills, the luxury resort is set within 12.5 acres of terraced gardens, interspersed with private villas and guestrooms. The rooms showcase minimalist, fresh interiors using white colour palettes to bring peace and calm to your stay. Many of the materials used are resourced from local villages, bringing a rustic charm. The amenities are modern and include private balconies, rain showers, Wi-Fi and flat-screen televisions. There is one restaurant on site serving Indian and international dishes, which has a smart casual dress code.
Hotel Rating
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Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
| Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
| Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
| Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
| Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
Positive Impact of this Trip
Making a Difference
Community Tourism
People and local communities have always been at the heart of Wild Frontiers and the travel experiences we offer. Through community tourism we have the opportunity to generate real positive impact, supporting people we visit through sustainable local development, and in turn help to alleviate poverty and protect culture and environments in often more vulnerable destinations. While doing so, our clients gain richer travel experiences and more meaningful connections with the people they meet.
Conservation and Climate Action
As a travel company, we hold a responsibility to minimise our environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability, and work closely with local communities to support their efforts. By implementing initiatives such as carbon measuring, tree-planting, reducing single-use plastic and promoting eco-friendly practices, we can help mitigate the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and local communities. Additionally, prioritising conservation efforts helps preserve natural habitats and wildlife, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of our planet.
Wild Frontiers Foundation
The Wild Frontiers Foundation aims to provide a platform to create awareness, raise money and deliver funding to projects in countries where we operate as a travel company. Through the foundation, we are able to channel money into grass roots projects, which we have either established ourselves or support through charity partners. These include initiatives focused around education, the empowerment of local people and community conservation.
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Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
Speak to Shalmali by calling
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