THE world’s longest river cruise, Ganga Vilas, that was flagged off in 2023, covers five states in India and Bangladesh and spans 27 river systems which are part of the Ganga basin. The luxurious cruise, like a floating hotel, is expensive — costing Rs 50-55 lakh per person. Obviously, it is beyond the reach of an average Indian. Some smaller cruises between Varanasi and Kolkata began in 2009. Before the advent of the railways, this waterway served as India’s principal transport artery. In the late 18th century, an estimated 30,000 boats plied the waters between Dhaka and Benaras, transporting merchandise along this vital trade route.