In 2025, India is expected to be home to river cruise tourism, launching an incredible 51 new cruise circuits along 47 national waterways by 2027. These steps, being taken by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), herald a move to change the face of our inland water transportation system and make India a hotspot of global river tourism. With the government increasing investments and ramping up existing operations, the country’s wide array of things to do and see — from its culture to its landscapes to its job prospects — are an irresistible pull for tourists. The cruising industry—which originally started off in footings of infancy—has now entered a fresh new phase of development while under the auspices of policy support, state cooperation, introduction of foreign companies, such as the well-known Viking Cruises.

India’s dowdy National Waterways, generally overlooked as tourist attractions, are emerging as the ideal pit stop for regional and international travelers looking to explore India’s rivers, towns and villages. At the center of this new rush for river cruising are the questions we all have: how are these efforts reshaping how we travel; what economic consequences will these new plans have for these destinations; what can we expect for the future of river cruises?

India’s Rising River Cruise Tourism: A Glimpse into the Future

India’s river cruise industry has been experiencing exponential growth, a trend that’s set to continue with ambitious new initiatives. In 2024-25, the number of cruise voyages along National Waterways reached 443, a 19.4% increase from the previous year. This surge reflects the growing interest in inland waterway tourism, which offers a unique way to explore the country’s riverbanks, wildlife, and heritage sites in a relaxed yet enriching environment.

The most striking element of this growth is the Cruise Bharat Mission, an initiative aiming to establish 51 new river cruise circuits by 2027. These circuits will span across 47 National Waterways, cutting through 14 states and 3 union territories. By expanding cruise tourism to lesser-known regions, the mission seeks to make river cruises accessible to a broader audience, especially travelers who may have otherwise missed out on these incredible experiences.

The national government is pushing for investments in infrastructure, including the construction of major cruise terminals in cities like Varanasi, Guwahati, Patna, and Kolkata. Additionally, four terminals are slated for development in the Northeast, with Silghat, Biswanath Ghat, Neamati, and Guijan set to welcome passengers. With these initiatives, the sector aims to increase the number of river cruise passengers from 500,000 to 1.5 million by 2027, positioning river cruising as a key player in India’s booming tourism industry.

What’s Driving the Growth of River Cruises in India?

Several factors contribute to the explosive growth of river cruise tourism in India. First and foremost, the government’s proactive approach to expanding river tourism infrastructure is critical. The IWAI’s continuous efforts in dredging and creating more navigable routes have transformed previously underutilized rivers into viable travel pathways.

Additionally, the increasing interest from international cruise operators is a major catalyst for the sector’s development. The announcement of Viking Cruises’ entry into India, with their flagship vessel, Viking Brahmaputra, highlights the immense global potential of the Indian river cruise market. This 80-passenger vessel, built locally at Hooghly Cochin Shipyard in Kolkata, will begin operations in late 2027, primarily cruising along the Brahmaputra River. Viking’s move into India is seen as a significant step toward positioning the country as a global cruise destination, with the potential to attract more foreign investment and tourists.

Another key factor is the growing demand for eco-friendly tourism options. As global travelers become more conscious of their environmental impact, river cruises are seen as a sustainable alternative to traditional forms of travel. With fewer emissions, a slower pace, and a focus on cultural immersion, river cruises present a responsible choice for travelers seeking sustainable adventures.

Iconic River Cruise Circuits: A Growing Attraction for Travelers

The growing success of India’s river cruise sector is partly due to the allure of its unique and iconic cruise circuits. Among these, the Sundarbans (West Bengal), Brahmaputra (Assam), and Alappuzha (Kerala) circuits have seen increasing footfall, captivating travelers with their natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife. These destinations are providing both international and domestic tourists with an opportunity to experience India from an entirely different perspective.

A notable achievement in India’s river cruise history was the MV Ganga Vilas voyage in 2023, which earned its place in the Limca Book of Records as the world’s longest river cruise. The 3,200 km journey, spanning five Indian states and Bangladesh, not only showcased India’s vast river systems but also introduced the world to the potential of Indian river cruises. The voyage was a milestone for India’s cruise sector, offering both local and international travelers a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the country’s historical and cultural heartlands.

Collaborative Efforts and the Role of State Governments

The growth of India’s river cruise tourism is not solely driven by the central government; state governments have also played a vital role in this transformation. Recent MoUs signed between the IWAI and states like Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi, and Jammu & Kashmir are paving the way for new cruise routes along rivers such as the Narmada, Yamuna, Jhelum, Ravi, and Chenab.

These regional partnerships ensure that cruise tourism can thrive across India, with local governments offering support through the development of river terminals, tourism infrastructure, and services. For example, Gujarat is working on establishing cruise routes along the Narmada River, while Jammu & Kashmir is focused on developing the Jhelum River as a cruise destination.

Such collaborations will not only make these waterways more accessible to travelers but also stimulate local economies by creating jobs and promoting small businesses along cruise routes. As river cruise tourism expands, it promises to become a major economic driver for rural and regional communities that are often overlooked by traditional tourism sectors.

Future Prospects and What Travelers Can Expect

Looking ahead, the outlook for India’s river cruise tourism is overwhelmingly positive. With significant investments in infrastructure and state-of-the-art vessels, travelers can expect a more luxurious, comfortable, and immersive experience. As international operators like Viking Cruises establish their presence, competition will also lead to better services, more affordable pricing, and greater options for tourists.

India’s government is fully invested in making river cruises a major part of the nation’s tourism landscape. The Cruise Bharat Mission is designed to cater to a diverse range of travelers, offering everything from luxury cruises to eco-friendly expeditions. Travelers can look forward to cruising along India’s picturesque rivers, exploring cultural landmarks, enjoying unique local experiences, and staying in world-class facilities.

Conclusion: River Cruises as India’s Tourism Game-Changer

India’s river cruise industry is on the cusp of a transformation, with the potential to become a global leader in river-based tourism. The combination of government support, international investments, and the development of new cruise circuits will make river cruises an increasingly attractive option for travelers seeking authentic, sustainable, and immersive experiences. With 51 new circuits planned by 2027, the future of river cruising in India looks bright, promising economic growth, new job opportunities, and a greater appreciation for the country’s natural and cultural wealth.

As the sector expands, travelers from around the world will be able to explore India’s most beautiful riverscapes, creating memories that will last a lifetime while contributing to the sustainable future of India’s tourism industry.