Plains of Bengal | India | Experience Travel Group

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An intriguing holiday that will appeal to India second-timers who want to explore a fascinating and off-the-beaten-track region. Spend time on The Ganges, explore multicultural Kolkata, take in some incredible monuments and discover the rich history of the region. You’ll explore the sights with knowledgeable guides and, while staying in heritage hotels, you’ll likely encounter fascinating owners who have a passion for the life and history of Bengal.

Highlights include -

Stay in fabulous characterful properties such as a recently refurbished palace that evokes a bygone era
Explore a wide array of well-maintained monuments dating back hundreds of years.
Discover a rich tapestry of history from the varied colonial rulers of Bengal.
Experience an array of flavours with delicious local cuisine and afternoon tea on the Ganges.

Your holiday will include private transport and guides which allows you a level of flexibility and spontaneity. We believe our guides are some of the very best and will bring your travel to life.

As with all our holidays, this itinerary is just a starting point. We can tailor it completely to suit your budget, pace and style. Get in touch to find out how this suggested itinerary could inspire your trip.

Day 1 Depart the UK

Depart the UK on your overnight flight to Kolkata.

Day 2 - 4 The Contrasts of Kolkata

On arrival at Kolkata Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel for a 3-night stay. Venture out in the afternoon in an iconic Ambassador taxi to visit the memorial to Queen Victoria, the last Empress of India.

Spend the following two days discovering the vibrant and diverse city by public ferry, car and on foot. You’ll take in the captivating sights, sounds and aromas at the markets, historical monuments and landmarks in the company of your knowledgeable local guide. Explore different neighbourhoods and the street food stalls of Gariahat Food market - a fascinating window into Bengali culture.

Day 5 & 6 Bari Kothi

Depart Kolkata on the train out of Howrah Station, bound north through West Bengal. On arrival at Murshidabad you’ll be transferred to Bari Kothi for a 2-night stay. The property itself is part of the region's heritage. During your time here a Sheherwali lunch is a must - think vegetables prepared using lotus pods and banana flowers, regional chutney, steamed rice dumplings and mango pudding. You’ll be in for a simply delectable feast of cuisine distinct to this particular part of Bengal.

Sit back and take in local life with a boat ride on the Ganges complete with afternoon tea. Disembark to explore the Char Bangla Temples and to take a walk around the nearby ghats. There’s also time to explore the heritage and monuments of Murshidabad.

Day 7 & 8 Shantiniketan

From Bari Kothi you’ll transfer southwest to Shantiniketan for a 2-night stay. The town is known primarily as the erstwhile home of artist, writer and educationalist, Rabindranath Tagore who founded a school and later a university with a focus on the arts, humanities and philosophy. The town is characterised by leafy lanes and an artistic ambience. Spend time getting acquainted with the history and monuments.

Day 9 Bishnupur

Today head south to Bishnupur, often referred to as the 'Temple City' on account of the large number of intricately decorated terracotta temples. Your accommodation here is a simple option that provides the best base from which to explore the 16th and 18th Century relics.

Day 10-12 Bawali

A fairly long drive south today to your accommodation at Rajbari Bawli, a recently restored palace with beautiful architectural motifs, breezy balconies and graceful colonnades. This is a great place to slow down amidst traditional Bengali village life...

As well as relaxing by the pool, using the spa or settling down in the common spaces that are dotted around the grounds, there are options to explore as well.

Visits to the local village can be arranged and the property is surrounded by five Krishna Temples that date back 500 years. Bengali cooking demonstrations can be organised too. And you'll be able to finish your day off by seeing the palace gloriously lit up at night! If the owners are there, they'll be more than happy to talk you through the amazing history and renovations of the property - they are great hosts.

Day 13 Fly home

Depart Bawali for the drive to Kolkata where you’ll board your flight home.

As every holiday is unique to you, prices vary. To give you an indication, two-week holidays range from roughly £3,000 to £8,000 per adult, with an average price of £3,500. We also offer substantial child and seasonal discounts.

To start your journey, talk to one of our friendly consultants today.

Since every traveler is unique - Call our experts on 1-888-577-8452 or use the quote request form below for your personalised vacation itinerary.

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the hotels and villas within this holiday as standard...