With a voyage of 3,200 km, MV Ganga Vilas is the longest in the world, and it is expected to boost river tourism circuits.
In a major boost to the tourism industry in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is today set to launch the world’s longest river cruise in Varanasi, his parliamentary constituency. The cruise, MV Ganga Vilas which will take passengers along the Ganges River, is expected to boost tourism in the region and provide a major economic boost to the local community.
MV Ganga Vilas
The 51-day luxury cruise, which is being launched by the Ministry of Tourism in partnership with the Uttar Pradesh state government, will cover a distance of 3,200 km, which is from Varanasi to Dibrugarh, via Bangladesh. It passes through major cities such as Allahabad, Patna, Kolkata, Dhaka in Bangladesh, and Guwahati. The journey will take passengers through the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region, offering a unique and immersive experience.
The cruise ship, MV Ganga Vilas, has three decks and 18 suites on board with a capacity of 36 tourists. It will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including air-conditioned cabins, a restaurant, a spa, and a yoga center. It will also feature an open-air deck for passengers to enjoy the scenic views of the Ganges. The cruise is expected to attract both domestic and international tourists, providing a major boost to the local economy.
“This will herald a new era of river cruise tourism for India,” said Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and Ayush.
Maiden Voyage and Costs
The maiden voyage will begin on January 13 from Varanasi. The tickets for the maiden voyage have already been booked by tourists from Switzerland. The journey is estimated to cost ₹ 25,000 per person. The cruise, MV Ganga Vilas is managed by private operators, the Inland Waterways Authority of India, but is supported by the Ministry of Shipping, Ports and Waterways.
Sustainable Tourism
The launch of the river cruise is part of the government’s efforts to promote sustainable tourism in the region, and to provide economic opportunities for the local community. The cruise will also provide employment opportunities for local people, including in the areas of hospitality, tourism, and transportation.
In addition to the launch of the river cruise, the government is also taking several other steps to promote tourism in the region. This includes the development of new tourist destinations, the renovation of existing tourist sites, and the promotion of local culture and heritage.
The Prime Minister’s Office has also announced that several cultural and traditional programs will be organized along the route of the cruise. The cruise will also feature live music and dance performances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The launch of the world’s longest river cruise in Varanasi is being seen as a major step forward in promoting sustainable tourism in the region and providing economic opportunities for the local community. The cruise is expected to attract both domestic and international tourists and will provide a major boost to the local economy.
The office also stated that the government is committed to promoting sustainable tourism in the region and is taking steps to provide economic opportunities for the local community.
