Palace Tours − Luxury Tours Collection

Grand Voyage on the Ganges: Kolkata to Varanasi

Grand Voyage on the Ganges: Kolkata to Varanasi

Explore the sights and cultures of Bengal as you cruise the holy River Ganges on the Luxury RiverCruiser M.V. Paramhamsa, the only one of its kind in Eastern India. This 15−day expedition takes ina number of the most important historical sites in India including the colonial splendors of Kolkata,the sacred places of Buddhism around Bodhgaya and Benares, now called Varanasi, the greatcultural center of Hinduism. In addition, the vessel stops daily in smaller towns and villages to seehandicrafts, rural life and a variety of local cultures. A river cruise is a relaxing and practical way tocover this vast landscape in comfort and safety as you explore India well off the beaten track.

ITINERARY

PLEASE NOTE: The above rates are calculated based on the local currency (INR) and are subject to change based onexchange rate fluctuations. Your balance payment will be due and payable based on the exchange rate at that time. Anoption to pay in full and lock in today's exchange rate is also available; please contact us for details.

Your tour cost includes:

11 Nights accommodation on board M.V. Paramhamsa• All meals daily (breakfast, lunch and dinner)• Guided shore excursions to destinations as per the itinerary• Entrance fees and camera fees at places specified in the itinerary• All onboard entertainment• Bottled water throughout the tour, non−alcoholic beverages at mealtimes•

Your tour cost does not include:

Transfer to Millennium Jetty in Kolkata• Transfer from the disembarkation point in Varanasi• Any hotel accommodation in Kolkata or Varanasi• Domestic or international airfare• Visa fees or travel insurance• Gratuities, alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, or any items of a personal nature• Any item not specifically mentioned as included•

Day 1 − Your Grand Voyage on the Ganges begins!•

Check−in at the embarkation point Millennium Park, this is situated in the centre of Kolkata 30 minutes from airport.Kolkata City Tour.

Day 2 − Set Sail•

The cruiser sails off. Safety and tour briefing. The Vessel will sail past the Howrah Bridge to reach Belur Math, Visit BelurMath Famous RamaKrishna Temple founded by Great Sage of India Swami Vivekananda. Visit Serampore / Barrackporeboth have colonial heritage significance. Serampore was a Danish colony till 1805. The Church, Museum, cemetery andthe college have been preserved as a part of heritage. Barrackpore was the country residence of the Viceroy in Office.Visit Chandannagore A colony of the French till 1950. Chandannagar Strand: Walk along this superbly decoratedpavement studded with lights surrounded by lush green trees for tour of the other French architecture. Sacred HeartChurch: The beautiful church stands over for two centuries to mark the beauty of the architecture during the Frenchperiod. Museum / Institute of Robert Dupliex: Residence of Governor General of the French East India Company nowturned into a Museum / Institute of Robert Dupliex.One of the oldest and finest museums of the entire region. It boasts abeautiful collection of French items (e.g cannons used in Anglo French war, wooden furniture of the 18th century, etc.).

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Day 3 − Kalna•

Kalna is more popularly known as Ambika Kalna, named after a very popular Deity of Goddess Kali, Maa Ambika.Terrakota Temples: Nava Kailash or 108 Shiv Mandirs, built in 1809 of terrakota is a beautiful architecture. Others areKalna Pratapeshwar Temple &Lalji Temple, RajBari, the palace. Weavers Colony of fine Bengal cotton known as TANTat Shantipur. Mayapur, the headquarters of ISKCON. Opposite is the quiet village of Nabadwip. The evening prayers anddance in praise of the lord will be highlight of the visit.

Day 4 − Katwa•

Visit to Katwa . Visit the Kansari artisans at Matiari. Kansari aritsans make brass and bell metal utensils. Cruise further toMurshidabad passing through quite country side.

Day 5 − Murshidabad•

Whole day tour of Murshidabad. Murshidabad is one of the oldest cities of West Bengal and has a rich heritage. TheNawab Murshid Ali Khan made Murshidabad the capital city of Sube Bangla, comprising of Bengal, Bihar and Orissa. Itwas the last capital of independent Nawabs of Bengal and the first capital of Bengal under the British. Nizamat Kila (theFortress of the Nawabs), also known as the Hazaarduari Palace (Palace of a Thousand Doors), built by Duncan McLeodof the Bengal Engineers in 1837, in the Italianate style. Moti Jhil (Pearl Lake), beautiful horseshoe shaped lake, just tothe south of the palace. Muradbagh Palace and the Khushbagh Cemetery, where the remains of Ali Vardi Khan and SirajUd Daulah are interred. Katgola Gardens: Katgola, the palace garden of Raja Dhanpat Singh Dugar and LakshmipatSingh Dugar and their famous Adinath Temple were built in 1873, by Harreck Chand. A typically Jain style ofornamentation lends a unique beauty to this Jain temple.

Day 6 − Farrakka•

Farrakka: Sail through Farakka barrage. The Farakka Barrage is the longest barrage in the world and has recently beenentered into the Guinness Book of World Records. It has 101 gates and it is from here the water is shared between Indiaand Bangladesh. Visit Malda (Gaur) is the first capital of the Buddhist Pala dynasty, then it became the seat of the HinduSena dynasty, and finally the capital of the Muslim Nawabs.

Day 7 − Rajamahal•

Visit Rajmahal and walk through village of Rajmahal then the vessel sails up to Manihari

Day 8 − Vikramshila•

Visit Vikramshila is the Buddhist learning centre. It is built by Bengal King Dharmapala in 8th Century. The Monasterygradually gained importance and became a centre for Tantric Buddhism. Visit Silk weaver's place at Bhagalpur.

Day 9 − Munger Fort•

Munger Fort, and 18th century British cemetery: Munger Fort is built on a rocky hillock on the south bank of the GangaRiver. The fort houses a number of religious and historic monuments such as the Tomb of Pir Shah Nufa (died 1497),Palace of Shah Suja, Tomb of Mulla Muhammad Said (died 1704 AD), the Kashtaharini Ghat on the Ganges River,Chandisthana (an ancient temple) and an 18th century British cemetery SitaKund spring, the hot spring which is so calledafter the well known episode of the Ramayana. According to the local legend, Sita, the consort of Lord Rama, underwenther ordeal of standing on fire at this place; and after she took bath in the spring, its cold water became very hot. Thetemperature of this varies in a remarkable manner and goes to the highest of 138o F and even above.

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Day 10 − Nalanda•

The guest will be transferred by road to visit Nalanda, Budhgaya and stay overnight at Budhgaya while the cruiserreaches Patna. Nalanda, the world famous ancient learning centre in the ancient days. Great scholars of China and otherlands came here to study Buddhism and practice ways of faith. Archaeological Museum housing the Nalanda Universityseal, sculptures and other remains found on the site. Great Stupa The brickbuilt remains are extensive and include theGreat Stupa, with steps, terraces and a few intact votive stupas around it, and the monk's cells. Whole day tour of themost important Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Rajgir means 'the royal palace', it is here Lord Buddha had delivered many ofHis sermons over 12 years of stay. Shanti Stupa has been constructed on top of a hill by Japanese Buddhists. Vultures'sPeak, the favourite abode of Lord Buddha where he used to give his sermons. Its rocks are shaped like vultures henceits name. Cyclopean Walls, ruins of the ancient walls which provided protection to the ancient city of RajgirLaxmiNarayan Temple, main site include parts of the ruined city, caves and places associated with Ajatsatru and hisfather Bimbisara, whom he imprisoned and murdered. The pink building by the crowded hot springs is the Laxmi NarayanTemple. Bodh Gaya and Gaya: 12 kilometres from Gaya, Bodh Gaya is a place of international renown and is one of thefour holy spots for Buddhists. It was here that prince Siddhartha found enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree and becamethe Buddha. Mahabodhi Temple having 25 mtr. Great Buddha Statue in the Japanese Kamakura style, a portion of whichis believed to be more than 200 years old. Monasteries and Temples built lately by several Buddhist countries in theirarchitectural style. Museum containing rare Buddhist relics. Gaya is a centre of Hindu Pilgrims. Vishnu is said to havegiven Gaya the power to absolve sinners. Pilgrims offer Pindas (funeral cakes) at the ghat along the river here entitlesthe soul of the departed to a place in heaven and free their ancestors from bondage to earth.

Day 11 − Patna•

Half day city tour at Patna on arrival from Budhgaya Embarkation Visit Sher Sahi, the heavy doomed built by Afghan rulerSher Shah in 1545, is the oldest mosque in Patna. Golghar, a huge building shaped like a beehive, constructed in 1786as a granary to store surpluses against possible famines Kumrahar Excavations, the remains of Patliputra, the ancientcapital of Ajatasatru (491 459 BC ), Chandragupta (311297 BC ) and Ashoka ( 274237 BC have been uncovered.

Day 12 − Sail on the Vessel•

The Vessel will sail past Balia towards Buxar, no excursion.

Day 13 − Sail on the Vessel• The vessel will sail past Gazipur &reach Saidpur, no excursion.

Day 14 − Varanasi• The vessel will reach Varanasi around noon. Visit Sarnath, where Buddha chose to deliver his first sermon on Nirvana.Sarnath, a number of countries in which Buddhism is a major (or the dominant) religion, among them Thailand, Japan,Tibet, Sri Lanka and Myanmar, have established temples and monasteries in Sarnath in the style that is typical for therespective country. Ashokan Pillar where sculpture of the Mauryan Period carved. The base of the Ashoka pillar inSarnath which was broken during Turk Islamic invasions, it was originally surmounted by the "Lion Capital of Ashoka"which is presently at display at the Sarnath Museum. This particular Lion Capital of Ashoka, originally atop this pillar inSarnath has been adopted as the "National Emblem of India". Benaras Hindu University founded in 1916, one of theoldest university, is a Central university which is also the largest residential university in Asia. Museum having interestingcollection of Buddhist artifacts. Das Ashwamedha Ghat on river Ganges for the soulful Aarti (worshiping the God).Boatride across river Ganges for amazing glimpses of the religious practices and rituals performed by thousands of devoteeson the banks of river Ganges.

Day 15 − Varanasi•

Varanasi: Commonly known as Benaras and Kashi is probably the oldest city of India and regarded as holy by Hindus,Buddhists and Jains. People often refer to Varanasi as "the city of Temples", "the holy city of India", "the religious capitalof India", "the city of lights", and "the city of learning". Whatever be the name, it draws millions to the Banks of RiverGanges here and shows the essence of how "Incredible India" is. Temples: Durga Temple, Bharat Mata Temple, TulsiManas Temple. Check out at 12 noon.

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DESTINATION INFORMATION

Belur Math•

Belur is a neighborhood in Bally Municipality, West Bengal, India. It is situated on the west bank of the HooghlyRiver. It is a part of the area covered by Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. Belur is most well−known forBelur Math, a religious abbey, containing a complex of temples. Belur Math is famous for being the headquarters ofthe Ramakrishna Math, a monastic order, as well as that of the related Ramakrishna Mission, both founded bySwami Vivekananda.

Calcutta / Kolkata•

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal and wascapital of British India until 1912. The urban agglomeration of Kolkata covers several municipalcorporations, municipalities, city boards and villages and is the third largest urban agglomeration inIndia and the seventh largest in the world. Situated on the banks of the Hooghly River (adistributary of the Ganges), Kolkata was arguably second only to London in administrative importance in the BritishEmpire. The city lost its past glory and economic importance in the years following Indian independence. The city isalso noted for its revolutionary tradition, from the pre−independence era to the Naxalite movements. Home ofluminaries like Rabindranath Tagore, Amartya Sen, Mother Teresa, and Satyajit Ray, the city is often referred to asthe "cultural capital of India", while other sobriquets like "the city of processions" and "the city of joy" also adornKolkata. Once called a "dying city", Kolkata is now undergoing a process of economic uplift and revival.

Chandannagar•

Chandannagar, formerly known as Chandernagore is a small city and former French colony located 30 kilometersnorth of Kolkata, in West Bengal, India. It is head quarters of a subdivision in Hooghly District. It is a part of the areacovered by Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. Situated along the banks of river Ganga, the city has beenable to maintain a separate identity different from all other cities and abide by her own characteristics. The remainsof French buildings at Chandannagar make for a good sight. Other tourist attractions include the Strand, Church,Museum, Rabindra Bhavan and Temples. The long forgotten French colonial aura can still be witnessed in the nookand corners of Chandannagar.

Farakkah Barrage•

Completed in 1974−75 , the Farakkah Barrage is a dam on the Ganges River located in the Indian state of WestBengal. The dam was built to divert the Ganges River water into the Hooghly River during the dry season, fromJanuary to June, in order to flush out the accumulating silt which in the 1950s and 1960s was a problem at the majorport of Kolkata on the Hooghly River. This is the Longest Barrage in the world and has recently been entered into

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the Guinness Book of World Records.

Kalna•

The town of Kalna is a subdivision in Bardhaman District, at West Bengal (India). Being on thewestern bank of the river Bhagirathi, the town is infested with historical monuments. The place is ata distance of 25 kilometers from Nabadwip and is 77 kilometers from Kolkata. The place is at23.22° N 88.37°. Kalna is close to the pilgrimages of Mayapur and Nabadwip and is betterknown as 'Ambika Kalna', named after the famous deity of Goddess Kali, Ambika. The place once housed the Rajasof Bardhaman. Kalna is the meeting point of the Vaishnava and Shakta forms of worship. The temples here aremade of bricks and displays detailed terracotta artworks.

Katwa• Katwa is head quarters of Katwa subdivision in the district of Bardhaman, West Bengal. The area has a rural charmand natural beauty, but many trading and other business activities has made it clumsy and congested. It is a goodmiddle class residential area.

The small town has a historical background of five hundred years. The earliest name of Katwa was IndraneePargana. Later the name was changed to 'Kantak Nagari' and became the fort area of Murshid Kuli Khan, Nawab ofBengal. Katwa was invaded by the Bargis (break−away Maratha groups) several times.

Munger• Munger town is the headquarters of Munger district, in the Indian state of Bihar. Historically, Munger is known for itsmanufacturing of iron articles such as firearms and swords. Previously named Monghyr, this town has manyhistorical sites. During the reign of Nawab Mir Qasim the capital of Bengal had been shifted from Murshidabad toMunger away from British influence. The town is on the right bank of the Ganges, and has a railway station, withsteam ferry service to the railway on the opposite bank of the river.

Murshidabad•

Murshidabad, the grand heritage of Bengal is distanced at 182 kilometers from Kolkata and just about 11 kilometersfrom Behrampore. A city of grand stature, Murshidabad, has been named after the Nawab Murshid Quli Khan, whowas the Diwan of Bihar, Orissa, and Bengal, during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. One of the mostprominent cities in Bengal, the place Murshidabad is of immense historical significance. It constitutes ancientmonuments and forts that speak bold of the turmoil they have witnessed in the past. The Hazarduari Palace, built in1837 by Duncan Macleod, in the European style of architecture, is a museum of thousand doors that pulls a gooddeal of visitors. Then there is the Nimak Haram Deohri or the Traitors Gate, the Khusbagh, the Garden ofHappiness, which is a boat−ride over the river where Siraj is buried. The Katra Mosque stands in a market place. Itis encompassed by an array of two−storied dome chambers. Among other attractions, the eminent ones are MotiJhil − the Pearl Lake, the Great Imambara, and the Nasipur palace, Topkhana, Wasif Manzil, the Jain ParashnathTemples, the Bhavaniswar Temple, Syedabad and the Jafraganj Cemetery.

Nalanda•

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Patna•

Patna is the capital of the Indian state of Bihar, and one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. Themodern city of Patna lies on the southern bank of the Ganges. The city also straddles the rivers Ghagra, Sone andGandak. Patna is approximately 25 km long and 9 km to 10 km wide. Ancient Patna, known as Patliputra, was thecapital of Nandas, Mauryans, Sungas, and the Guptas down to the Pala Empires. Patliputra was also a famous seatof learning and fine arts. Apart from being the administrative centre of the state and its historic importance, the city isalso a major educational and medical centre.

Rajmahal•

River Ganges•

River Ganges is worshiped by the Hindus in India and is considered one of the holiest rivers in the world. Ganga orGanges is considered the Mother of India and it is a belief that the water of the Ganges can get you rid of your sins.The Ganges runs over 1557 miles. The river has its origin at Gangotri glacier (southern slopes of the Himalayas).The mouth of the Ganges forms a vast delta (Sundarban delta), which is the largest delta in the world. Ganges hasserved as the lap of human civilization from the ancient times. It has been a practice for the Indians to depend onthe river for psychological, physical and spiritual sustenance. River Ganga is rich in wildlife but the show−stealer isthe dolphins, which can be seen swimming with only their beaks protruding out of the waters. The people of Indiamake extensive use of the Ganges for agricultural and fishing purposes. The Ganges is also famous fortransportation as India relies greatly on river transportation.

Sarnath•

Sarnath is the deer park where Gautama Buddha first taught the Dharma, and where the Buddhist Sangha cameinto existence through the enlightenment of Kondanna. Sarnath is located 13 kilometers north−east of Varanasi, inUttar Pradesh, India. Sarnath has been developed as a place of pilgrimage, both for Buddhists from India andabroad. Most of the ancient buildings and structures at Sarnath were damaged or destroyed by the Turks. However,amongst the ruins can be distinguished the Dhamek Stupa, Dharmarajika Stupa, Chaukhandi Stupa, the ruins of theMulagandhakuti vihara mark the place where the Buddha spent his first rainy season, Mulagandhakuti Vihara is amonastery built in the 1930s by the Sri Lankan behind it is the Deer Park (where deer are still to be seen).

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Serampore•

Serampore (also called Serampur, Srirampur) is a city and a municipality in Hooghly district in the Indian state ofWest Bengal. It is a part of the area covered by Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority. It is a pre−colonialtown on the right bank of the Hoogli River. It was part of Danish India under the name Frederiksnagore from 1755 to1845.

Shantiniketan•

Shantiniketan is a famous university town in West Bengal and is world famous because of itsassociation with Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore. Maharshi Debendranath Tagore, father ofRabindranath Tagore, bought a few acres of land and founded Shantiniketan. Later, in 1901, hisson Rabindranath (1861−1941) founded a school here, starting with five students. Today the schoolis world renowned. The main attractions of Shantiniketan include the various buildings of the Visva−Bharati campus.It consists of several buildings, one of them is Bichitra Bhavan, which was designed by Rathindranth Tagore. Alsoknown as the Rabindra Bhavan it houses a research institute and a museum.

Varanasi•

Varanasi stands on the west bank of the river Ganges as it flows through the north Indian state ofUttar Pradesh. This city has found a prominent place in the Buddhist scriptures as well the epic ofMahabharata. In Pali language, Varanasi is called Banarasi, Banaras, or Benares. From timeimmemorial Varanasi has been a center of education, religion, art and culture. Varanasi has alsoexcelled in the art of silk weaving. The Banarasi silk sarees and brocades are cherished as collectors' items acrossthe world.

Vikramasila• Vikramasila is located in Antichak village, Bhagalpur district, Bihar. Vikramasila University was one of the two mostimportant centers of Buddhist learning in India during the Pala dynasty, along with Nalanda University. Vikramasilawas established by King Dharmapala (783 to 820) in response to a supposed decline in the quality of scholarship atNalanda. Vikramasila was one of the largest Buddhist universities, with more than hundred teachers and about onethousand students. It produced eminent scholars who were often invited by foreign countries to spread Buddhistlearning, culture and religion. The most distinguished and eminent among all was Atisa Dipankara, a founder of theSarma traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. Subjects like theology, philosophy, grammar, metaphysics, Indian logic etc.were taught here, but the most important branch of learning was tantrism.

Price Chart

PLEASE NOTE: The above rates are calculated based on the local currency (INR) and are subject to change based onexchange rate fluctuations. Your balance payment will be due and payable based on the exchange rate at that time. Anoption to pay in full and lock in today's exchange rate is also available; please contact us for details.

Your tour cost includes:

11 Nights accommodation on board M.V. Paramhamsa• All meals daily (breakfast, lunch and dinner)• Guided shore excursions to destinations as per the itinerary• Entrance fees and camera fees at places specified in the itinerary• All onboard entertainment• Bottled water throughout the tour, non−alcoholic beverages at mealtimes•

Your tour cost does not include:

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Transfer to Millennium Jetty in Kolkata• Transfer from the disembarkation point in Varanasi• Any hotel accommodation in Kolkata or Varanasi• Domestic or international airfare• Visa fees or travel insurance• Gratuities, alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, or any items of a personal nature• Any item not specifically mentioned as included•

HOTELS AND RESORTS

M.V. Paramhamsa , River Ganges (5 −Star)•

14, Southern AvenueKolkata − 700 026, West Bengal, India

Sailing aboard this inland luxury cruiser is all about grandeur, comfort and imbibing the flavor ofone of the greatest rivers of the world � the Ganges. M.V. Paramhamsa is 53 meters long and 32meters broad. The ship flaunts four decks � under deck, main deck, first deck, and sun deck.There are 20 deluxe rooms on the main deck and 12 luxury rooms on the first deck. The spaciousrooms, coupled with great hospitality, helps you relax and unwind. The chefs aboard theship prepare delicious fresh seafood dishes as you float along the serene river.

FacilitiesSteam room/Sauna " Juice counter " Library and TV " Loungers " Gift Shop " Conference rooms " Fax facilities " Internetconnection " Library " Massage rooms " Cruise gym " Bar " Restaurant " Art gallery " Entertainment programs onboard "Room facilities: King−sized beds " Attached bath " Telephone connection " Emergency kit " Tea and coffee maker " AllRooms are River Facing " Air conditioned with individual controller " Attached Bath with Hot & Cold water " Intercomfacility " Locker on request " The suites have extra bed provision.

SUGGESTED EXTENSION TOURS

A Week in Wonderland : Palace on Wheels

Climb aboard the legendary Palace on Wheels train for a week−long odyssey recreating the ambiance and glorious pastas you travel through the heart of Rajasthan. You will feel like royalty on board one of the top ten luxury trains in the worldas you visit little−seen and well−known attractions, including the famous Taj Mahal.

Welcome aboard the Palace on Wheels on its splendid and enchanting royal rail journey through the bygone era of theerstwhile Maharajas. Though times have changed and the winds have shifted, the Palace On Wheels cruises along inroyal style, the kind only the Maharajas of yesteryears could have perpetuated and enjoyed.

The exquisite and exclusive Palace On Wheels has luxurious cabins, wall to wall carpeting, a well stocked bar, two diningcars and very personalized service... in fact, almost everything that could promise heaven on earth for seven days!

The Palace on Wheels has been rated one of the ten best luxurious train journeys in the world. Originally the train had 12fully furnished non−air conditioned saloons, once owned by former Maharajas, Governor Generals and Viceroys of theBritish period. The Palace on Wheels started as a unique holiday concept hauled by a steam engine with its inaugural tripon January 26, 1982.

In 1991, a new air−conditioned meter gauge Palace on Wheels on the lines of the old heritage train was launched. Theinteriors of the current 14 saloons are authentic replicas of the historic coaches. Each saloon is equipped withtwin−bedded cabins, each with channel music, intercom, with attached baths and running hot and cold water and ashower.

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TRAVEL TIPS & FAQ's

What are the passport/visa requirements for travel to India?A passport with validity at least six months beyond your departure from India is required. Also, visas must be obtainedprior to arrival in India. Please note that Palace Tours cannot provide visas. Please visit www.mea.gov.in, click on"Welcome" and then under "MEA Links" at the right, click on "Missions and Posts Abroad" and then click "ConsulateGenerals". You can then select your appropriate Consulate General office and link directly to its website, where detailedvisa information and application forms can be found. Please budget at least 14 days to receive it from the consulate.

What is the best time of year to visit the area?September to March. The region has a tropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. Maximum and minimumtemperatures during the summer are 42°C and 37°C respectively. In winters, the maximum and minimumtemperatures are 29°C and 9.2°C respectively.

What precautions should I take on the tour?Drink only purified water provided in the cruise, only consume food that is served in the cruise. Carry sunscreen, a hat,mosquito repellent, and don't forget your camera! Also do not forget to carry your personal medicines if you are onmedication.

What kinds of clothing are recommended?During the winter season (December, January and February) light woolens are required during the night. For the rest ofthe year, casual cotton outfits would be the most comfortable. Fully covered shoes with good traction are advisable. Thereis no official dress code on board the cruise ship.

What onboard facilities does the ship have?The 4−decked luxury cruiser M.V. Paramhamsa was built in 2006. It has a gym, Ayurvedic massage parlor, steam room,activity room with satellite television, library, art gallery, conference rooms with internet connectivity and fax facilities,fully−stocked bar, sun deck, onboard entertainment and laundry service. There is a terrace coffee shop as well as a kebabcorner for delicious snacks outside of mealtimes.

Please describe the rooms on board.The 32 comfortable rooms of M.V. Paramhamsa are air−conditioned, spacious, are river−facing and possess attachedbaths for your convenience. The ship has 12 luxury rooms on the first deck and 20 deluxe rooms on the main deck.Luxury rooms measure 5.4m x 3m (approx. 162 sq. ft) while deluxe rooms are slightly smaller at 4.5m x 3m (approx. 135sq. ft). All rooms are equipped with telephone, ample reading material, tea and coffee maker and even an emergency kit.

What kind of cuisine is served throughout the tour?The ship's spacious restaurant, The Mangrove, offers a variety of delectable Oriental, continental and Indian dishes. Takeyour pick from the lunch buffet selections and the mouthwatering seafood section. Vegetarian options are alwaysavailable, and special requests can be accommodated for; please inform Palace Tours upon booking and please adviseupon boarding if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

What kinds of electrical outlets are there on board?The ship has 220−240 volt outlets.

What types of onboard cultural entertainment are planned?The evening programs showcase rural Bengal through various folk songs and cultural activities.

Is it permissible to smoke on board?Smoking in confined areas is prohibited. You may, however, smoke on the open decks of the vessel.

Is the tap water safe to drink?Bottled water is provided complimentary throughout your tour, on board and on land excursions. We also recommendbrushing your teeth with bottled water.

What is the recommended gratuity?Tipping is a matter of individual preference. We advise that you do not tip the individual directly for services; separateboxes are kept for such a purpose. As a guideline, a tip of about 7,000 rupees for the 11−night tour would be appropriate.

Can the tour accommodate passengers with special needs?

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Yes, if you require a wheelchair, one can be provided (please mention upon booking) and can fit through thepassageways on board. If you have a medical condition that might put you at risk, discuss it with your doctor and informus at the time of booking. And, whenever you travel, check to see what your health insurance covers. We do have someprofessionals to handle emergency situations and can arrange immediate medical facilities.

What is the recommended currency?The local currency is the Indian rupee. We recommend that you utilize currency exchange facilities in Kolkata before yourtour, as some of the smaller towns may not be able to accommodate an exchange. On board accounts may be settled bymajor credit card or cash.

1 . Do I need a Visa for India? All visitors to India need a Visa

2 . Do you help with getting a Visa

Unfortunately, we don't offer Visa assistance but we can provide you with all the information that you need for getting avisa to India

Palace Tours Contact Information

If at any time you have questions, concerns or feedback, please do not hesitate to contact us via any of the belowmethods:

On the Web: www.palacetours.com

By e−mail: travel@palacetours.com

By phone: 1−800−724−5120

USA: Princeton, NJ: 609−580−1372 New York, NY: 212−920−2543 Houston, TX: 832−446−2709

International: Spain : +34 912919229 United Kingdom: 800−8456−201 Hong Kong: (852) 30518159 South Africa : (+27)11−46133299 Australia: 1800−156−671 New Zealand: 0800−442−510

By FAX: 1−609−683−9772

By postal mail: Palace Tours Ltd. 20 Wall Street Princeton, New Jersey 08540 USA

DIRECTIONS TO OUR CORPORATE OFFICEPlease call ahead for hours and appointments!

By Car:

From Princeton area:

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Our office is located on the north side of Route 206 in Princeton, New Jersey. We are in the Research Park officecomplex, directly opposite from the Princeton Airport.

From points North:Via Route 1: Take Route 1 South towards Trenton. After you pass Forrestal Village Campus, you will begin to see signsfor "Downtown Princeton &Shopping". Turn right on Washington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turn right on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.

Via Route 287: Take Route 287 South towards Somerville. Take exit 17 for Route 206 South (Somerville). You will passthrough a traffic circle � follow signs for Route 206 South. Follow Route 206 South for approximately 12 miles. Turn leftonto Wall Street.

From points South:Via the Garden State Parkway: Take the Parkway North/South to exit 98 for Route 138 West toward Trenton. Route 138West becomes Route 195 West. Follow 195 West for approximately 17 miles. Merge onto Route 295 North towardTrenton. Follow directions below.

Via Route 95/ 295: Take Route 95 North until it becomes Route 295 North toward Trenton. Take exit 67A and mergeonto Route 1 North. Follow Route 1 North for approximately 5 miles. Take the exit for Washington Road. Turn right onWashington Road. Follow Washington Road for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left on Nassau Street (Route 27). Turnright on Stockton Street (Route 206 North) &follow for approximately 4 miles. Turn right onto Wall Street.

By train:Princeton Junction is the main train station along the Northeast Corridor for Amtrak and New Jersey Transit. Visitors cantake a cab from here to Princeton or transfer to a one−car train to Princeton called the "Dinky". The train ride takes about5 minutes, and drops you at University Place across from McCarter Theatre. If you choose this option, be sure topurchase a rail ticket to "Princeton" for presentation upon boarding the Dinky.

Our office is a 10−minute cab ride from Princeton station (approx. 4.5 miles).

By bus:Several buses arrive and depart daily from Princeton Research Park (i.e., New Jersey Transit's 605 Montgomery Line). From the bus station, walk into the Research Park office complex. We are located at #20 Wall Street.

For emergencies while traveling within India, you may contact our Jaipur office. Details will be provided in your travel vouchers, which are issued upon full payment.

Terms &Coniditions

PAYMENT TERMS:25% of total tour cost due at the time of booking75% or balance no later than 65 days prior to tour departure date CANCELLATION FEES:(i) 25% of the total tour value if cancelled more than 45 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ /PALACE TOURS(ii) 55% of the total tour value if cancelled 20−44 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACETOURS(ii) 100% of the total tour value if cancelled 0−19 days prior to date of first service sold by TRAVBUZZ / PALACETOURS We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to cover the losses incurred in case of cancellation. Forinformation on available plans or to purchase travel insurance, please visit www.palacetours.com/insurance.Â

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