India’s river tourism is witnessing a remarkable transformation, fueled by strong government support, improved infrastructure, and increasing global interest. With inland waterways offering a unique blend of cultural richness, scenic beauty, and eco-friendly travel, the country is positioning itself as a premier destination for river cruising.
According to the latest data for 2024–25, the number of cruise voyages on India’s National Waterways has surged to 443, reflecting a 19.4% rise from 371 voyages in the previous year. This growth not only highlights the rising popularity of river cruises among domestic and international tourists but also signals the immense untapped potential of India’s inland water-based tourism.
At the forefront of this transformation is the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), which is driving key initiatives to establish India as a global river cruise hub. A central pillar of this vision is the Bharat Mission, an ambitious program aiming to launch 51 new river cruise circuits across 47 National Waterways by 2027. These waterways span 14 states and 3 union territories, offering diverse cultural and natural experiences to travelers.
One of the most significant developments in the sector is the entry of Viking Cruises, a renowned international cruise line. Viking has announced the launch of Viking Brahmaputra, a luxury river cruise vessel with a capacity for 80 guests. What makes this venture even more significant is that the vessel will be built in India by Hooghly Cochin Shipyard Limited in Kolkata. Scheduled to begin operations in late 2027 on National Waterway-2 (the Brahmaputra River), the cruise is expected to set a benchmark for international standards in Indian river tourism and boost foreign investment in the sector.
India’s River Cruise Tourism Set for a Major Expansion with 51 New Circuits by 2027
The journey of India’s river sector over the past decade has been impressive. In 2013–14, only five cruise vessels operated across three waterways. By 2024–25, this number has grown to 25 vessels navigating 13 national waterways. This expansion is a clear testament to sustained policy efforts and rising traveler demand.
Some of the most popular river circuits in the country include the Sundarbans in West Bengal, the Brahmaputra in Assam, and the backwaters of Alappuzha in Kerala. These destinations are drawing both domestic and international tourists seeking immersive cultural experiences and scenic journeys.
A landmark moment for the sector came in 2023 with the launch of the MV Ganga Vilas, the world’s longest river , which covers 3,200 km across five Indian states and Bangladesh. Flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has earned a place in the Limca Book of Records and symbolizes the potential of India’s inland waterways to host world-class cruise experiences.
To maintain momentum and foster growth, the IWAI is actively collaborating with various state governments. Recent Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed with Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, and Jammu & Kashmir to promote cruise tourism on rivers such as the Narmada, Yamuna, Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab.
In parallel, efforts are underway to develop infrastructure that supports this growth. Major cruise terminals are being planned and constructed in Varanasi, Guwahati, Patna, and Kolkata, while the Northeast region will see the addition of terminals at Silghat, Biswanath Ghat, Neamati, and Guijan.
Looking ahead, Bharat Mission aims to triple cruise passenger numbers from the current 0.5 million to 1.5 million. By fostering eco-friendly travel, showcasing India’s diverse heritage, and creating new economic opportunities for local communities, India’s river tourism is poised to enter a new golden era.
