See India by cruise ship
Cruise around India
An India Cruise ship can bring you a taste of the exotic east with its
fragrant spices and vivid colours. But, unlike the early mariners in their chase
to open up the spice routes, yours is a mission of relaxation on a luxury vessel interrupted only
by the opportunity to visit a few well-chosen landmarks. But which route should
you follow and what should you aim to see on your India Cruise?
Mumbai (or Bombay) is the capital of India and has grown from a small fishing
village into a huge bustling metropolis. Despite this, Mumbai manages to
maintain much of its original colour and is friendly and welcoming to the
visitor. The Victorian presence is very noticeable here and there are many large
Victorian buildings which are worth seeing. Mumbai is also renowned for its
collection of mosques and temples. It is a very popular destination for an
India cruise.
If you are looking for gifts, spices, jewellery and made-to-measure suits are
all good value. Don't forget to try the world-famous Bombay Duck (actually a
fish dish).
Then it's back onto your India cruise ship with more sights to see.
Cochin (or Kochi) is one of the original spice cities and is in the Indian state
of Kerala, Southern India. Its importance has much to do with its geographical
location which is on the route between China and Europe. The Chinese influence
can still be seen from a walk along the beach where hundreds of Chinese fishing
nets can be seen. If your India cruise gives you time to sightsee Cochin, try
to take in the bird sanctuary which is right in the centre of Cochin, the
museums and the motley variety of religious buildings. Try cruising around the
harbour and also the islands of Bolgatty, Gundu and Willingdon is also
worthwhile as is an inland cruise to see the paddy fields.
Rosewood and sandalwood carvings make good presents along with hand-made saris
and all handicrafts.
Fish curry is the standard dinner but why not try the local delicacy of puttu
(coconut and rice flour steamed into a cake) for dessert?
What other destination should you consider for your India cruise?
Chennai (or Madras as it was called during colonial times and until relatively
recently) is the capital of the southern state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of
India's largest cities and was once an outpost of the British East India company
as is borne witness to by the many surviving grand buildings of the period.
Chennai's coastal location moderates its climate but it still gets very humid
during the months of June and July and tourists are better advised to aim to
visit during the winter months.
The best way of seeing Chennai is by public transport which is very cheap. Only
consider driving in Chennai if you are well-supplied with lucky charms. The
auto-rickshaws have a bad reputation for ripping off visitors so be warned.
Taking a late-evening picnic to the beach is popular with both locals and
tourists as well as shopping at one of the late-night malls or bazaars (make
sure you bargain a good deal). Look for crafts and jewellery as ideal gifts to take home.
Food tends to be light and vegetarian meals are very popular.
We hope this free guide will be helpful when planning your India cruise.
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