KOLKATA TO MURSHIDABAD SHORT CRUISE

Transfer from your hotel to your Pandaw ship usually moored at the Botanical Gardens Jetty. After checking in and lunch on board sail past the iconic landmarks of Kolkata: the Tower, Government House, the Temple of Fame, and Flagstaff House.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic cruise upstream, arriving at the charming country town of Kalna. Take a rickshaw ride to explore a group of Bengal's most impressive terracotta temples, culminating in a visit to the unique 18th-century Shiva Temple. This remarkable temple is adorned with concentric rings of 108 smaller shrines, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Step ashore in Matiari, a charming riverside village renowned for its brass-working traditions. Engage with the local artisans and witness the fascinating process of crafting intricate brass water pots and other vessels. Time permitting, venture to the historic battlefield of Plassey. Here, in the pivotal year of 1757, Robert Clive, the Commander-in-Chief of the British East India Company, decisively defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, marking a turning point in Indian history.

Walk to the Khushbagh, a peaceful Mughal-style Garden that encloses the tombs of Siraj-ud-Daulah, the last independent Nawab of Bengal, and his family. Continue to witness the grandeur of Hazarduari Palace, an architectural masterpiece built by an English architect in 1837. Explore its opulent interiors, showcasing a fascinating collection of paintings, china, weapons, and other artifacts. Next, visit the magnificent Katra Mosque and the impressive Nashipara Palace, a testament to the wealth and influence of the local merchants during the "White Mughal" era – a period of cultural exchange between English and Indian influences. Finally, we visit Katgola Palace, an exquisite example of Georgian architecture built by wealthy local merchants, further highlighting the unique blend of cultures that flourished during this era.

In afternoon transfer to the Murshidabad station for the express train 1st class to Kolkata (approximately 4 hours) on arrival in Kolkata transfer to your hotel.