*Country & City Name

*Country Flag
*Port Name (if meron, pero meron namna halus lahat)
*Port History
*Port Detail
*Port Photo

EAST ASIA -China, Hong Kong, Japan, Macau, Mongolia, North

Korea, South Korea, and Taiwan

SOUTHEAST ASIA -Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Timor-

Leste, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand
and Vietnam.

CENTRAL ASIA -Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and

Turkmenistan. Central Asia.

WEST ASIA -Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Cyprus, Georgia, Iraq,

Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi
Arabia, Syria, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

SOUTH ASIA -Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri

Lanka;

SOUTHEAST ASIA
1. Hoi An, Vietnam
2. Long Khanh Island (Vietnam)
3. Hong Ngu (Vietnam)
4. Hanoi (Vietnam)
5. Cai Be (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)
6. Chau Doc (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)
7. My Tho (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)
8. Tan Chau (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)
9. Xeo Quyt Forest (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)
10. Cho Gao (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)
11. Cu Lao Gieng Island (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)
12. Vinh Long (Vietnam)
13. Sa Dec (Mekong Delta, Vietnam)
14. Chiang Khong (Thailand)
15. Angkor Ban (Cambodia)
16. Prek Bang Kong (Cambodia)
17. Kratie (Cambodia)
18. Oudong (Cambodia)
19. Koh Oknha Tey Island (Silk Island, Cambodia, Chong Koh Village)
20. Koh Chen (Cambodia)
21. Kampong Tralach (Cambodia)
22. Kampong Chhnang (Cambodia)
23. Kampong Cham (Cambodia)
24. Tonle Sap Lake (Cambodia)
25. Siem Reap (Angkor Wat, Cambodia)
26. Phnom Penh (Cambodia)
27. Champasak (Wat Phou temple, Laos)
28. Pak Ou Caves (Laos)
29. Luang Prabang (Laos)
30. Tigyaing (Myanmar)
31. Yandabo (Myanmar)
32. Pakokku (Myanmar)
33. Shwe Pyi Thar (Myanmar)
34. Katha (Myanmar)
35. Pyay (Prome, Myanmar)
36. Thayetmyo (Myanmar)
37. Tant Kyi Taung (Myanmar)
38. Magway (Myanmar)
39. Yangon (Rangoon, Myanmar)
40. Sagaing (Myanmar)

41. Kyun Daw, Myanmar

 Kyun Daw is a fishing village located on a small island on Irrawaddy
River in Burma. Currently, Avalon Waterways is the only river cruise
company visiting the village. Locals' primary source of income is fishing.
Catfish (as heavy as 270 kg) are recorded, and tourists can see local
women carrying baskets of fish throughout Kyun Daw, along with
traditional houses constructed on wooden poles along the roads.
 Cruise tourists also visit the Buddhist nunnery, where nuns bless the
food donated to them. Kyun Daw has over 7,000 stupas (mound-like
religious buildings used for meditation) surrounding the convent. River
cruises ordinarily include the monastery as shore excursion option. A
visit to Kyun Daw also includes a stop at the village schoolhouse. There,
 tourists can interact with local kids (from kindergarten age to 5th
grade).

42. Bhamo, Myanmar

 Bhamo was a major trading post with the Chinese Empire up to the
19th century when copper coins out of China flowed into Burma
through Bhamo. The records of VOC (United Dutch East India Company)
identified the copper coins as an important profit source, and also
mention the presence of Customs Office in Bhamo, regulating the
border trade.
 During 1869-1879, Bhamo was the seat of the British colonial Assistant
political agent. As of 1935, the city was situated at the river's highest
navigable point and was the terminus of caravan routes from Burma
and India, by which jade was brought into China.
 Bhamo is a city of Kachin State located in the northernmost part of
Myanmar (Burma), 186 km (116 miles) south from the capital city of the
state of Myitkyina (Kachin). It lies on Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy) River,
within 65 km (40 miles) of the border with the Chinese Yunnan
Province. The population of 47,920 inhabitants (2009 census) consists
of Shan and Chinese, with Kachin peoples found in the hills around the
city. Bhamo is also the administrative center of Bhamo Township and
Bhamo District.

43. Bagan, Myanmar

 Bagan (aka Pagan) is an ancient city located in Burma's Mandalay
Region. In the period 9th-13th centuries it was the Pagan Kingdom's
capital city. During the Bagan's height (11th-13th centuries), in the
plains around the city were constructed over 10,000 pagodas, temples,
and monasteries, of which over 2200 still remain.
  The Bagan Archaeological Zone is Myanmar's main draw for the river
cruising and tourism industries. The Bagan temple complex in Burma is
often compared as equal to the Angkor Wat temple complex in
Cambodia.

44. Salay, Myanmar

 Salay is one of the most beautiful and least visited places in all of
Burma, its history rooted in the twelfth and thirteenth centuries as an
overspill of Old Pagan. To this day, Salay remains an active religious
centre with almost fifty monasteries and many Pagan-era shrines to
explore on foot, offering a truly peaceful insight into Buddhist culture.
These are amazingly well-preserved thanks to the constant loving
attention of the monks who tend to them.
 This colourful, ancient village lies twenty-two miles from Pagan. Once a
bustling trading port under British rule, Salay is now a sleepy village
filled with colonial architectural treasures and timeless teak
monasteries. The only remnants of the Burma Oil Company are the
crumbling colonial houses in hues of peeling blues and greens which
housed rig workers in the area from 1886. These are now partly
disguised behind an avenue of starfruit trees. Today, the small local
economy relies on family farming of mainly peanuts and plums.
 Salay (Sale) is an Irrawaddy) River cruise port and town in Yenangyaung
(Magway District, Magway, Burma / Myanmar). Inearest city is Chauk -
approx 21 km (13 mi) away. Salay developed in the 12th-13th-centuries
as a satellite of Bagan. Today, the town is still an important religious
center. It houses Bagan-era monuments as well as 50 active Buddhist
monasteries. Salay is a major center for lacquerware manufacturing.

45. Myanaung, Myanmar

  Myanaung is an Irrawaddy River cruise port and town in southwestern
Burma (Myanmar)). The town is located in northwestern Irrawaddy
Division and has population around 1000.
 Irrawaddy Division occupies Irrawaddy Delta and is bordered Bago
Region (north), Bago and Yangon Region (east) and Bay of Bengal
(south-west). The region covers an area of 35 km2 (14 mi2) and has
population around 6,2 million, ranking it Burma's largest by population.
Pathein is the region's capital city.
 The region is flanked by Arakan Mountains (in the west). Vast areas
were cleared for paddy cultivation, which resulted in increased rice
production. The region features scenic lakes and Irrawaddy River
branches, including Pathein, Toe, Ngawun.
 Ngwesaung Beach and Chaungtha Beach are popular resorts for both
domestic and foreign tourists. They are in the region's west coast, a 1-
hour drive distance from Pathein City and 4 hours from Yangon.
 Myanaung Dam (Ma Mya Dam) provides power and irrigation water to
the rural areas. Before its construction (2001-2007), farmers relied on
rainwater. The dam also prevents from floods (during the rainy season).
Dam's total irrigating capacity is around 17,000 acres.

46. Monywa, Myanmar

 Monywa, town, central Myanmar (Burma). It is situated on the left bank
of the Chindwin River, about 60 miles (97 km) west of Mandalay. During
World War II, the town was a Japanese communications centre and was
captured by the British in 1945. In October of 1952, the Triple Alliance
Pact was signed near Monywa, demarcating zones throughout
Myanmar in which various ethnic and political groups, including the
Karen, Shan, Kachin, and communists, would have power. Monywa is
situated in the dry zone above the confluence of the Mu and Chindwin
rivers; paddy rice, sesame, millet, peas, wheat, and cotton are
cultivated in the surrounding area.
  Monywa is a River Chindwin (Irrawaddy River) cruise port and city in
Sagaing Region, Burma (Myanmar). It is located approx 136 km (85 mi)
northwest of Mandalay and has population around 370,000.
Monywa is an important center for commerce, trade and agricultural
produce, especially jaggery (palm sugar), orange, beans and pulse
crops. Local industry is represented by mills producing flour, noodles,
edible oils and cotton, reed and bamboo products. Budalin sarong
(longyi / traditional cloth) is renowned for the fabric strength. Rough
cotton blankets produced here are also very popular throughout
Myanmar.

Monywa's major tourist attraction is Thanboddhay Pagoda - Buddhist

temple with a large stupa resembling Borobudur (in Indonesia). The
temple is from 1303 AD, but was rebuilt in 1939. The pagoda holds over
0,5 million images of Buddha.
Maha Bodhi Tahtaung Laykyun Sekkya is a unique standing Buddha
statue, ranked world's tallest (height 116 m). Another attraction is the
Phowintaung cave complex, approx 25 km (16 ml) west of Monywa.

47. Minhla, Myanmar

 Magway Region is Myanmar's 2nd largest of all 7 divisions, with total
area 4820 km2. It is bordered by Mandalay Region (east), Rakhine and
Chin (west), Sagaing (north) and Bago (south).
Fossils of the early primates more than 40 million years old were
excavated in Ponnya and Pondaung areas in Magway Region, which led
the government to proclaim Burma "the birthplace of humanity". The
ancient city of Pyu (Peikthano-myo) is nearly 2000 years old, located in
Taungdwingyi Township (Magway).
 Minhla is a Irrawaddy River cruise port and town in Magway Region
(central Burma / Myanmar). The town is where cruise ship tourists visit
the popular Minhla Fort built by the Italians against the British during
Royal Burma times. The square-shaped fort was constructed in 1864 to
gun down British ships sailing upstream the river.
48. Mingun, Myanmar
 Mingun temple's construction was started in 1790 but was not
completed, as a royal astrologer claimed that after finishing the temple
King Bodawpaya would die. If completed, the stupa (mound-like
religious structure) would have been the world's largest - wit hheigth
150 m (490 ft). The earthquake of March 1839 caused huge cracks in
the building. Like many of Burma's large pagodas, the working model of
the uncompleted building is located nearby.
King Bodawpaya had a gigantic bell cast for the huge temple. Mingun
Bell weighs 90 tons, and is currently ranked the world's largest ringing
bell. In Burmese measurement, it weighs 55,555 peiktha, representing
the importance of number 5 in Burmese numerology and astronomy.
Two hundred yards from the unfinished temple and bell is located the
white Myatheindan Pagoda modelled after Mount Meru (Hindu's
sacred 5-peaked mountain).
 Mingun is an Ayeyarwady River cruise port and town in Sagaing Region,
northwestern Burma (Myanmar). The town is located approx 10 km (6
mi) from Mandalay. The main attraction of Mingun are the ruins of
Mingun Pahtodawgyi (incomplete stupa).

49. Maubin, Myanmar

 The Irrawaddy Delta covers an area of over 1000 square miles with
Rangoon, its most famous port and capital of all Burma from 1886 to
2005.
Originally a vast inhabited wetland and jungle, much of it was cleared
and cultivated by the British who annexed Lower Burma in 1855. It
 subsequently became the rice basket of Asia, effectively feeding much
of the Indian Raj. During this period of prosperity a number of rice
towns developed in the colonial style. The most famous of which was
Bassein.
 Maubin is an Irrawaddy River cruise port and town in southwest Burma
(Myanmar), with population around 42,000. Twante Canal (opened in
1932) connects Maubin with Yangon (Rangoon), located approx 65 km
(40 mi) to the east.
The town Maubin is protected from overflows via flood-control
embankments. Its southern coastline is along Andaman Sea (eastern
Indian Ocean). Fishing and rice-growing are local economy's main
contributors, as well as communication and transportation services.
Among the best-known tourist attractions are Paw Taw Mu Ceti pagoda
(on Toe River in the town's southern part). Shwe Phone Myint Ceti
pagoda (built in late 19th-century), also the pagodas
Akyawsulyanmyattonetan and Shwephonemyint.

50. Mandalay, Myanmar

 Mandalay is an Irrawaddy River cruise port, Burma's last royal capital
and country's 2nd-largest city (population over 1,3 million). The city is
located approx 716 km (445 mi) north of Yangon/Rangoon, on the
Irrawaddy's east bank. The Sagaing-Mandalay metro area has
population over 1,8 million. Sagaing City is approx 20 km (12 mi)
southwest of Mandalay.
Despite the rise of Naypyidaw Union Territory (Myanmar's current
capital city), Mandalay is the economic centre of Upper Burma and is
considered the centre of Burmese culture. The continuing influx of
 Chinese immigrants in the past 20 years, has reshaped the city's ethnic
makeup and increased commerce with China.
 Among Mandalay City's most popular tourist attractions are:

 Atumashi Monastery
 Buddha's Replica Tooth Pagoda (Swedaw Pagoda in Amarapura)
 Kuthodaw Pagoda (aka "World's Biggest Book")
 Kyauktawgyi Pagoda
 Mahamuni Buddha Temple
 Mandalay Hill (city's holy mount)
 Mandalay Palace complex (partially rebuilt after being destroyed during
WW2 / 1939-1945)
 Shwenandaw Monastery
 Chinese Temple
 Yadanabon Zoological Gardens (zoo with over 300 species)
Via flights from Mandalay are offered cruisetours to Inle Lake.

Inle Lake
Inle Lake (aka Inlay Lake) is a large freshwater lake and wetland
sanctuary in Burma. The lake is the country's 2nd largest (after
Indawgyi Lake) with total area approx 116 km2 (45 mi2),. During dry
season, the lake's average depth is 2 m (7 ft). Its deepest point is just 4
m (12 ft). The lake drains through the stream Nam Pilu (Kayah).

Nyaungshwe is lake's entry point. This small town has a main street
with shops, restaurants, stupas, travel agency offices, open-air market.
The town also serves as river cruise port (boat marina) for tour boats on
the lake. The lake itself is located just a few km to the south and is
accessible through a channel.

Inle Lake can't be reached by river cruise ships, so foot passengers are
transported to Nyaungshwe via buses. The town is reachable by car
 from Shwenyaung (approx 16 km / 10 mi to the north) and also by
plane via the Heho Airport (at approx 1-hour drive distance).

Inle Lake cruisetours by major river cruise companies are offered with
flights from Mandalay to Heho (travel time approx 1,5 hours), then
follows bus travel from Heho to Nyaungshwe.

51. Kyaukmyaung, Myanmar

 Kyaukmyaung is an Irrawaddy River cruise port in Sagaing, Myanmar.
The town has population around 15,000 and is located approx 75 km
(46 mi) north of Mandalay. Kyaukmyaung is popular among tourists for
its large-scale pottery industry, having one of Burma's all 4 glaze
factories (Nweyein has the largest).
 Kyaukmyaung has become a very popular tourism travel destination via
cruise ships on Irrawaddy River that stop here on cruisetours between
Bagan and Mandalay. Following the tourism boom was created a
dedicated gift shop where cruise tourists can buy handmade pottery.
Kyaukmyaung pots are used for food and drink storing, most commonly
for liquor fermentation, fish paste and chili paste fermentation, storing
drinking water, grain, rice.

52. Inwa, Myanmar

 Inwa (aka Ava, Innwa) is an Irrawaddy River cruise port in Myanmar
(Burma). It was Burma's ancient imperial capital (between 14th-19th
centuries). As capital city it was abandoned in 1839, after a series of
 devastating earthquakes. However, as Burma's former capital Inwa is a
popular cruise tourist destination on itineraries leaving from Mandalay.
Starting on March 22, 1839 Inwa-Amapura area was hit by a series of
earthquakes. The capital city of Ava was the hardest hit: everything was
leveled and many people perished. However, the city was not rebuilt as
King Tharrawaddy chose to rebuild a new palace in Amarapura. In
February 1842 he moved the seat of the government there.
 Inwa is located 21 km (13 mi) south of Mandalay, and on the way from
Mandalay International Airport to Mandalay City. Have in mind that
cars can go up to Myitnge River and crossing over to the former capital
site takes a 3-minute boat ride. On Inwa side, several horse-drawn carts
await tourist business.
The former capital city site is a popular tourist day-trip destination from
Mandalay. Tourists can still observe a few remnants of the capital,
including Nanmadaw Me Nu Ok Kyaung, the Nanmyin Tower, the inner
and outer brick city walls, etc.
The 16 span cantilever Ava Bridge was the only structure to span
Irrawaddy River until recently. Although now superseded by another,
parallel road bridge constructed in 2005, Ava Bridge is still in use for
local road and railway traffic.
The site of the deserted Ava Palace is now marked by a masonry 27 m
(89 ft) high watchtower, which is an example of the early 19th-century.
Burmese architecture. It is all that remained of the Palace reared by
King Bagyidaw.

53. Danubyu (Myanmar)

 Battle of Danubyu (March–April 1825)

 The commander in chief of Burmese army, Maha Bandula (1782-1825),

fell back to the rear base at Danubyu, in Irrawaddy delta. Having lost
 some of his most experienced men in Yangon, Burmese forces already
numbered about 10,000 including some of the king's best soldiers and
many barely armed and untrained conscripts.
 In March 1825, a 4,000 strong British force supported by gun boats'
flotilla attacked Danubyu. However, the first British attack failed, so
Bandula tried a counter charge, with cavalry, 17 fighting elephants and
foot soldiers. The elephants were stopped due to rocket fire and it
turned impossible for the cavalry to move against the British artillery
fire.
 On April 1, the British launched their major attack, pounding down on
Danubyu with heavy guns and raining their rockets on the whole
Burmese line. Maha Bandula was killed by a mortar shell. He had
walked around the fort in order to boost the morale of his men,
discarding the warnings of the generals that he would prove a target for
the enemy's guns. After the death of Bandula, the Burmese evacuated
the town of Danubyu
 Danubyu is a town in Ayeyarwady Division, south-west Myanmar. It's
the seat of Danubyu Township in Maubin District. Danuphyu Township
consists of 450 villages, 63 village groups, 16 wards and 1 city. The
capital city is Danubyu, split into sixteen wards. The cruise season in
Danubyu lasts from January through December. The local currency is
Kyat (MMK), the language spoken here is Burmese.

54. Amarapura (Myanmar)

 Amarapura is the former capital of Myanmar. Now it is a township of
Mandalay, bounded by Chanmyathazi township in the north, Irrawaddy
river in the west, and the ancient capital site of Ava in the south.
Amarapura was twice the capital of Myanmar during the Konbaung
period (1783–1821, 1842–1859) before in 1859 finally being displaced
 by Mandalay 11 km north. It is historically referred to as Southern City
(Taungmyo) in relation to Mandalay. Today, Amarapura is part of
Mandalay, which is the result of urban sprawl.
 It is famous for its traditional cotton and silk weaving, and bronze
casting. Amarapura is also a popular day-trip tourist destination from
Mandalay. Sights of interest in Amarapura include the Pahtodawgyi
(stupa built in 1816 by King Bodawpaya outside the city walls), Bagaya
Monastery (wooden monastery that was founded by King Mindon),
Kyauktawgyi Pagoda (stupa built in 1847 by King Pagan at the farther
end of U Bein bridge), U Bein Bridge (1.2 km wooden footbridge which
is the world's longest teak bridge, built by mayor U Bein salvaging
unwanted teak columns from Amarapura's old palace during a move to
Mandalay), Amarapura Palace ruins (tombs of King Bodawpaya, King
Bagyidaw, and part of old moat), Chinese Temple (built 1838 during the
reign of King Tharrawaddy), Maha Gandhayon Monastery (modern
monastery complex well known throughout the country), Yadanabon
University (major liberal arts university).

55. Kuching, Borneo Malaysia

 Kuching is a Sarawak River cruise port on Borneo Island, and the capital
city of Malaysia's Sarawak state, with population around 325,000.
Kuching is a major food travel destination and one of Borneo's main
gateways. Kuching Port first started port operations at Ban Hock Wharf
in 1948.
To set up port facilities for trading and economic development of the
State, KPA was established under the Port Authorities Ordinance, 1961
and it became the first organised port in Sarawak, serving the State and
the people.
 KPA was officially established on April 4 in 1961 and began its operation
on June 5 at Tanah Puteh with a single wharf of 800 feet in length and
storage space of 60,000 square feet.
 Among city's best-known tourist attractions are:

 Kuching Wetlands National Park (former Sarawak Mangrove Forest

Reserve) is located some 30 km (19 mi) from the city and covers an area
of around 170 km2.
 Bako National Park covers an area of around 27 km2.
 Semenggoh Wildlife Centre
 Rainforest World Music Festival is an annual 3-day long festival
celebrating the world music's diversity.
 The Astana palace (built 1870) is located on the Sarawak River's north
bank (opposite the Kuching Waterfront).
 Fort Margherita (built 1879) is an English castle designed to protect the
port from pirates.
 Kuching Cat Museum (founded 1993) is the world's first of its kind. It
has all 4 galleries with over 4000 artifacts and paintings related to cats.
Among those is a mummified cat from ancient Egypt.
 Sarawak State Museum (built 1891) is Borneo's oldest museum. It
displays indigenous arts and crafts, as well as collections of local
animals.
Other Malaysian Borneo ports are Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan and Bintulu.
Among the many riverboats cruising on Sarawak River is Pandaw
Cruises' ship RV Tonle Pandaw leaving roundtrip from Kuching. The
following table shows an exemplary itinerary with the sequence of
visited ports of call on Borneo Island.
 EAST ASIA
56. Wuhan (China, Yangtze River)
 The Port of Wuhan is the capital of Hubei Province in central People’s
Republic of China on the Jianghan Plain. Lying where the Han and
Yangtze Rivers meet, it was formed in 1949 from the consolidation of
three cities: Wuchang, Hanyang, and Hankou. Located centrally
between Beijing and Guangzhou (Canton) and between Shanghai and
Chongging, it is called the “thoroughfare of nine provinces.” It is an
important hub for transportation, with many roads and railways
meeting here. The most populous city in China, over 7.2 million people
lived in the urban area in 2007.
The Port of Wuhan has become a major economic, finance,
information, and education center for Central China. Its important
industrial sectors are auto manufacturing, bio-engineering,
pharmaceuticals, optic-electronics, manufacturing of steel, and
environmental protection. The Port of Wuhan is home to 35 institutions
of higher education and three development zones. It stands third
among China’s cities for science and technology.
 Wuhan is an Yangtze River cruise port and the capital city of Hubei
province (central China), with population around 10,6 million (metro
over 19 million). Wuhan is embarkation / disembarkation port for river
cruises between Chongqing and Wuhan. The city is located at the
intersection of the rivers Han and Yangtze.
Wuhan metro city combines three cities (Hankou, Hanyang, Wuchang)
and is a major transportation hub with important railways and
highways passing through the city. It is ranked Central China's
economic, financial, transportation, cultural and educational center.

Among the main tourist attractions is Yellow Crane Tower (originally

built in 223 AD). The current tower is on Yangtze River and was
 constructed in 1981 on Sheshan (Snake Hill), approx 1 km (o,6 ml) away
from its original location. The original tower has been destroyed and
rebuilt several times (by both warfare and fire) and majorly repaired at
least 10 times. The last original tower was built in 1868 and destroyed
in 1884. In 1957 was built the Wuhan Yangtze River Bridge (trestle
bridge), with one trestle on the tower's original site. In 1981 started the
building of the new tower (on its new location). Its construction was
completed in 1985. Yellow Crane Tower is one of the sout China's Three
Great Towers - together with "Pavilion of Prince Teng" (located
northwest of Nanchang) and the "Yueyang Tower " (located in
Yueyang).
China river cruise deals are inclusive of internal / domestic flights
between Beijing-Xian-Chongqing and between Shanghai-Wuhan.

57. Beijing (China)

 Beijing (fka Peking) is the capital of China and currently the world's 4th
largest city by population (urban over 21,45 million, metro over 24
million) - after Chongqing, Shanghai and Delhi. Beijing is also the
world's most populous capital city (having 1,52% of China's total
population). In the top-5, China's capital is followed by New Delhi India
(16,8 million, 1,1%), Tokyo Japan (9,3 million, 10,3%), Manila
Philippines (12,9 million, 29%) and Moscow Russia (11,5 million, 8%).
Beijing is in northern China and is governed as a direct-controlled
municipality with 16 rural, suburban and urban districts. The
municipality is surrounded by Hebei Province - except Tianjin
Municipality (southeast).
 Since 2018, Guangshengang XRL (Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong
Express Rail Link) - high-speed railway - connects Beijing with Hong
Kong (Kowloon Station) via Guangzhou and Shenzhen. The largest cities
 connected to Hong Kong via HSR (without interchange) also include
Changsha, Guiyang, Wuhan, and Nanning.
 Beijing is China's cultural, educational and political center. Here are the
headquarters of the largest Chinese state-owned companies. The city is
the largest hub for China's national railway system, high-speed rail,
highway and expressway networks. Beijing Capital International Airport
is the world's 2nd busiest by passenger traffic - following only
Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Atlanta, Georgia USA).
The city's subway network is among the world's longest and busiest.
 The city is famous for its temples, tombs, palaces, nature parks, and
gardens, gates, walls, universities and art treasures. Beijing City has
seven UNESCO Sites - Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City, Summer
Palace, Zhoukoudian, Ming Tombs, Grand Canal, The Great Wall. Beijing
hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics and will host the 2022 Winter
Olympics.
 Beijing is a departure point for Yangtze River cruises leaving from
Chongqing to Wuhan. These China river cruise deals are inclusive of
internal/domestic flights between Beijing-Xian-Chongqing and between
Shanghai-Wuhan.

58. Xian (Wei River, China)

 Xian is a Wei River cruise port and the capital of Shaanxi province in
northwest China. One of the China's oldest cities, before the Ming
dynasty Xian was named Changan. It is also the oldest of the Four Great
Ancient Capitals of China. Xian is famous for being the starting point of
the ancient Silk Road (connecting China to Europe / Mediterranean
Sea), and with the Terracotta Army. Since the 1990s, Xian re-emerged
as an important industrial and educational centre of the country's
central-northwest region.
 Here were built numerous research facilities for the China's national
security and space exploration programs. The city has a population of
 around 9 million, while the Xian-Xianyang metropolitan area has a
population of around 14 million.
China river cruise deals are inclusive of internal / domestic flights
between Beijing-Xian-Chongqing and between Shanghai-Wuhan. Lhasa
Tibet is visited on 13-15-day Yangtze River cruisetours with flights from
Xian to Lhasa, then return flights from Lhasa to Chongqing.

59. Chongqing (China)

 Chongqing is one of the Southwest China's major cities.
Administratively, it's one of the 4 direct-controlled municipalities
(together with Beijing, Shanghai and Tianjin). The Chongqing
municipality was created in 1997 succeeding the sub-provincial
administration (part of the Sichuan Province). The municipality has a
population of over 30 million, with urban population of around 19
million. The city's population is around 9 million. The total urban area
of Chongqing is 5,472.8 km2 (2,113.1 ml2).
The official abbreviation of Chongqing city, Yu, was approved on April
18, 1997 by the State Council. The abbreviation is derived from an old
name of part of Jialing River which runs through Chongqing and feeds
into Yangtze River. Chongqing city was also a municipality of the ROC
(Republic of China) administration. During the Second Sino-Japanese
War (1937–1945) it served as its wartime capital.
Chongqing features a significant history and culture and is also the
economic centre of upstream Yangtze basin. It is an important
manufacturing centre and transportation hub. In 2012, Chongqing was
described as one of China's "13 emerging megacities" by the Economist
Intelligence Unit.
 Chongqing is an embarkation / disembarkation port for Yangtze River
cruises between Wuhan and Chongqing. These China river cruise deals
are usually inclusive of internal flights between Beijing-Xian-Chongqing
and between Shanghai-Wuhan. Lhasa Tibet is visited on 13-15-day
 Yangtze River cruisetours with flights from Xian to Lhasa, then return
flights from Lhasa to Chongqing.
Chongqing cruise terminal
According to the Yangtze River cruise itinerary route, passengers board the
ships docked at either Yichang-Chongqing or Shanghai-Chongqing terminals.
 Chongqing Chaotianmen Cruise Terminal - Chaotianmen Cruise
Terminal is located at the junction of Jialing River with Yangtze River. All
Yangtze-based cruise ships are anchored at this terminal, regardless
departing or arriving from/in Chongqing. Sometimes, in dry season, due
to low river levels some boats can't dock at the Chaotianmen terminal.
Then they are berthed either at the Fuling Wharf or at the Fengdu
Wharf - both located outside Chongqing. In such cases, cruise
companies provide shuttle buses to transfer their passengers between
the wharf and Chongqing.
 Yichang Cruise Terminal - The Yichang cruise ship terminal has 2 main
wharves used for docking of Yangtze cruise boats. These are the
Taohuacun Wharf and the New Century Wharf. During flood season (or
in cases when the waterway is controlled), the ships are docked at the
Maoping Wharf.
 Shanghai Wusong Wharf - Shanghai Wusong Wharf is located in
Shanghai City's Baoshan District (at Chenghua Road, number 271,
Wusong Passenger Centre). This cruise ship terminal is used only by
Yangtze ships operating on the Shanghai-Chongqing itinerary route.

60. Yichang (China, Yangtze River)

 Yichang is an ancient city that underwent many changes of name and
was constantly disputed during periods when China was politically
divided, being the key gateway to the rich province of Sichuan. Until the
17th century it was usually known either as Yiling Zhou or as Xia Zhou.
It received the name Yichang only under the Qing dynasty (1644–
 1911/12). It was opened to foreign trade as a treaty port in 1877. A
Western quarter then grew up alongside the ancient walled city, and its
trade grew rapidly; many Western commercial firms established
branches there.
 Yichang is an Yangtze River cruise port and city in China's Hubei
province, ranked Hubei's 2nd largest by population (over 4 million) after
the capital Wuhan. Three Gorges Dam is located within its
administrative area. Maoping Town features a cruise ship wharf.
(serving passenger riverboats) Qing River (in prefecture's southern part)
is also an important waterway.
Yichang is an important river port on Yangtze and has long been a
prime transshipment port and distribution center of goods. It serves as
the economic hub of western Hubei and intermediary between the
cities Wuhan and Chongqing. Yichang's main industries are shipbuilding
and shipping.
China river cruise deals are inclusive of internal / domestic flights
between Beijing-Xian-Chongqing and between Shanghai-Wuhan.

61. Three Gorges Yangtze River (Qutang-Wu-Xiling, China)

 For 2000 years the Yangtze River was the backbone of transportation of
goods in China. In 1835 the first merchant steamboat named the
Jardine journeyed down the river. Before steamboats small Chinese
ships called Sampan traveled up and down her banks. Jardine was to be
a boat used for mail and passenger carrier.
The Chinese were against the steamboat, and said it could not sail on
their waters. They attacked Jardine and the British, whose ship it was,
retaliated by bringing their warships onto the Yangtze River. This was
the start of the Opium Wars. The warships could not be stopped and
 the empire was forced to surrender. They allowed British steamboats
onto the river bringing higher technology to their land.
 Qutang Gorge - is a canyon and the first of the Three Gorges on Yangtze
River in China. It is located immediately downstream of Baidicheng
(ancient village) as the river passes between two great mountains -
Chijia (on the north) and Baiyan (on the south). The other two gorges
that follow are named Wu Gorge (2nd) and Xiling Gorge (3rd and
largest).
 Wu Gorge - Wu Gorge (aka Great Gorge) is a canyon and the second of
the Three Gorges system. Wu Gorge is formed by Wu River and
stretches approx 45 km (28 mi) between Wushan and Guandukou. The
gorge is located between Qutang Gorge (1st and shortest /
downstream) and Xiling Gorge (3rd and largest / upstream).
 Xiling Gorge - Xiling Gorge is a canyon and the third (and largest) of the
Three Gorges. It is located between Xiangxi and Yichang. The gorge is
named after Mount Xiling (at the gorge's eastern end. Xiling Gorge
forms almost half the Three Gorges system's length. The other two
gorges are named Qutang Gorge (1st and shortest) and Wu Gorge
(2nd).

62. Three Gorges Dam (China, Yangtze River)

 When construction of the dam officially began in 1994, it was the
largest engineering project in China. At the time of its completion in
2006, it was the largest dam structure in the world. The dam and
accompanying hydroelectric plant were built in phases and over the
course of many years. It reached its full generating capacity in 2012.
The dam allows the navigation of oceangoing freighters and generates
hydroelectric power. It was also intended to provide protection from
floods, but efficacy on this point is unclear and has been debated.
 Three Gorges Dam is located in the middle of Xiling Gorge - the 3rd (and
largest) of the Three Gorges on Yangtze River in China. Construction
works started in 1994. The dam was completed (opened) in 2003 and
 became fully functional in July 2012. The project's cost was around USD
32 billion. The dam's full cost was recovered by the end of 2013.
In terms of capacity, Three Gorges Dam is the world's largest
hydroelectric plant - with 22,500 MW power output. In 2014 it
produced 98,8 TWh of electricity. For comparison, the previous world
record was held by Itaipu Dam (Brazil-Paraguay border) which in 2013
generated 98,63 TWh of electricity.
Three Gorges Dam is included in the regular schedule of the world's
largest river cruise ship - Victoria Sabrina. The 2020-launched riverboat
has 7 decks, LOA length 150 m (492 ft) and max passenger capacity 690
(plus 195 crew/staff).

63. Guilin (Li River, China)

 A small settlement was founded along the banks of Li River in 314 BC.
During the campaigns of Qin Dynasty (221–207 BC) against Nanyue
state, the first administration was set up in the region around Guilin.
 During the reign of Emperor Wu of Han Dynasty, in 111 BC Shi An
County was founded, which is regarded as the beginning of Guilin city.
In AD 507, the settlement was renamed to Guizhou.
 Guilin prospered in Tang and Song dynasties. However, it remained a
county. Guilin was a nexus between the southwest border and the
central government, and it was where armies were placed to guard the
border. Canals were created through so that food supplies could be
transported directly from food-productive Yangtze plain to empire's
farthest southwestern point.
 In 1921, the city of Guilin became one of the headquarters of Northern
Expeditionary Army led by Dr.Sun Yat-sen. The city acquired its present
name in 1940.
 Guilin city was listed by the State Council in 1981 as one of the 4 cities
(the other 3 being Hangzhou, Suzhou and Beijing) where the protection
of cultural and historical heritage, plus natural scenery, should be
treated as priority project.
 Until 1949, only a cement works, thermal power plant, and a number of
small textile mills existed in Guilin as signs of industrialization.
However, since the 1950s the city has agricultural, electronics and
engineering equipment, rubber, medicine and buses, and it also
features textile and cotton yarn factories. The most important industry
remains food processing, including local agricultural produce. More
recent industry features high technology and tertiary industry
characterized via tourism trading and service.
 Guilin is a Li River cruise port located in the northeast of Guangxi
Zhuang, China. The city has population around 4,75 million. It is located
on the river's west bank and to the north borders Hunan. Its name is
translated to "Forest of Sweet Osmanthus", due to the many fragrant
sweet osmanthus trees found in the city.
The prefecture-level Guilin has been renowned for a long time for its
beautiful scenery of karst topography. Currently it is one of the most
popular tourist travel destinations in China. Li River flows in southern
direction through Guilin, then approx 83 km (52 ml) to Yangshuo. In
Pingle, the river merges with the rivers Lipu and Gongcheng, then
continues south (under the name Gui River). The confluence of the
rivers Gui and Xun is at Wuzhou, where they form Xi River

64. Lhasa (Tibet, China)

 Lhasa literally translates to "place of gods" in the Tibetan language.
Chengguan literally translates to "urban gateway" in the Chinese
language. Ancient Tibetan documents and inscriptions demonstrate
that the place was called Rasa, which meant “goat’s place,” as it was a
herding site. The name was changed to Lhasa, which means “place of
gods” upon it’s establishment as the capital of Tibet, and construction
of the Jokhang temple was completed, which housed a holy statue of
the Buddha. Lhasa is first recorded as the name, referring to the area's
temple of Jowo, in a treaty drawn up between China and Tibet in 822
C.E.
  Lhasa is the capital city of Tibet (autonomous territory of China), with
total area 60 km2 (20 ml2), and population around 900,000. The closest
seaport is Kolkata India, located approx 1100 km (680 ml) from Lhasa.
Nathu La pass connects connects India (Sikkim state) with Tibet and
provides Chinese companies with access to Port Kolkata for
transshipments to and from Tibet.
Lhasa City is visited on 13-15-day Yangtze River cruisetours with flights
from Xian to Lhasa, then return flights from Lhasa to Chongqing. Lhasa
is located at altitude 3490 m (11450 ft), ranking it one of the world's
highest cities. Lhasa is Tibet's capital since the mid-17th century. It has
many culturally significant Buddhist buildings, including Jokhang
Temple, Potala Palace and Norbulingka Palace (all designated UNESCO
sites).
There are some night spots with cabaret style entertainment. There
performers sing in Nepali, Tibetan, Chinese and English, while dancers
are in traditional Tibetan traditional costumes. Several small bars offer
live music, but offer limited drink menus.
Local economy is based on service and tourism industries. Many rural
residents practice traditional animal husbandry and agriculture. Lhasa is
also Tibet's trade hub. Mining (lead, zinc, copper) is another major
industry.

65. Chengdu (China)

 Chengdu (aka Chengtu), is an Yangtze River cruise port (actually on Jin
River) and the capital city of China's Sichuan province. The city covers a
total metro area of approx 3680 km2 (1420 ml2) and has population
around 10,5 million.
Chengdu is one of Western China's 3 largest and most populous cities -
together with Chongqing and Xian. The city surrounding plain is known
as "Country of Heaven" and "Land of Abundance". The city maintained
its name almost unchanged throughout China's imperial, republican,
communist eras. Chengdu served as China's capital for a short time -
following the fall of Nanjing to the Japanese in 1937.
  The city is currently one of Western China's major financial, economic,
commercial, transportation, communication and cultural hubs.
Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is among the world's 30
busiest airports, and Chengdu Railway Station is among China's 6
largest. The city also headquarters numerous large international
companies. Over 260 in the "Fortune 500" companies list have
branches in Chengdu. For 2006, China Daily ranked the city China's 4th-
most-livable.
Chengdu's cruise passenger traffic is via expressways from the located
directly on Yangtze River port cities Yibin and Luzhou. Both are easily
and fast reachable from Chengdu by the local expressways.
The giant panda (Chinese national treasure) is among the world's rarest
animals. Their total number is estimated to be around 1500 - including
those living in the wild, 80% of all panda bears are in the Sichuan
Province. Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding was founded
in the city's north suburbs. This research center is the only one of its
kind in the world.

66. Suzhou (China, Yangtze River)

 Suzhou is a major Inland port and city in southeastern Jiangsu Province
(East China), approx 100 km (62 ml) northwest of Shanghai. The city has
population around 10,7 million.
Suzhou is an economic center of commerce and trade. It is also
province's 2nd largest city - after its capital Nanjing. Suzhou is on Lower
Yangtze River and Lake Tai's shores (Yangtze River Delta region).
Established in 514 BC, the city is popular for its numerous historical
sites and ancient relics. Until 1860, during Ming and Qing dynasties, the
city was world's largest non-capital city. After Taiping Rebellion, its
place was taken by Shanghai.
Due to major economic reforms (started in 1978) Suzhou became one
of world's fastest growing cities, with annual GDP growth rates around
14%. With high per capita incomes, its Human Development Index is
comparable to that of a moderately developed country. City's
 meticulously designed gardens, stone bridges, canals and pagodas
make it one of China's top tourist destinations. Suzhou is often dubbed
"Venice of China" ("Venice of the East").
 Port Suzhou is located on Yangtze River's right bank. The name is
actually collective, signifying 3 different seaports around Suzhou - in
Zhangjiagang, Changshu and Taicang.
By annual cargo shipping capacity (around 480 million tons) and annual
containership cargo volumes (around 5 million TEUs / containers),
Suzhou is ranked world's largest inland river port and world's 6th
largest port by annual freight tonnage. The port specializes mainly in
coal, ore, steel, construction materials.
Port's infrastructure includes over 230 berths, of which 106 serve
vessels with DWT tonnage over 10,000 tons. The port is included in
over 400 shipping lines.

67. Lesser Three Gorges (Daning River, China)

 Daning River is a large Yangtze River tributary joining the Yangtze at the
Wu Gorge's western end. Lesser Three Gorges stretch north-south
approx 25 km (16 ml) in the lower Daning River. They are among the
Yangtze River cruises' highlights (cruising upstream from Yangtze). Their
names are Longmen Gorge, Bawu Gorge and Dicui Gorge. Cruise ship
passengers are usually transfered to a smaller ship at the Daning River's
mouth. Among the Lesser Three Gorges route's highlights are the
mountinous scenery and historical sites, including Hanging Coffins and
the plank road along the cliffs.
Daning River entrance is at Wushan Town, at approx 500 km (300 ml)
northeastfrom Chongqing and approx 200 km (130 ml) upriver from
Yichang.
 The Longmen Gorge is the shortest (length 3 mk / 1,8 ml). Here can be
seen the plank road along its cliffs.
 Bawu Gorge (length 10 km / 6,2 ml) is famous for its mountainous
scenery and the Hanging Coffins (2000+ years-old). Hanging coffins
 were a local funeral customof the Bo people. The Hanging Coffins were
made with one whole wood piece and sit on rocks in the mountains.
 Dicui Gorge is the longest (length 20 km / 12 ml) and with flourishing
vegetation all around. Small-sized tourist ships are used for peaceful
scenic sightseeing.
 At the end of Dicui Gorge, Yangtze cruise passengers enter Madu River
(branch of Daning River) with another set of 3 (smaller) gorges called
"Mini Three Gorges". They are named Sancheng Gorge, Qinwang Gorge
and Changtan Gorge. These gorges are too narrow for a tourist ship, so
passengers are embarked on small wooden boats to travel through
them. China river cruise deals are inclusive of internal / domestic flights
between Beijing-Xian-Chongqing and between Shanghai-Wuhan.

68. Jingzhou (China, Yangtze River)

 Jingzhou has been inhabited for approximately 5,000 to 6,000 years,
with the historic Daxi culture residing in present-day Jingzhou. Situated
in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, the area has been a
strategic location of military importance since ancient times. The
contemporary city of Jingzhou is named after ancient province of the
same name, which was one of the nine provinces of ancient China. Said
province was named after the nearby Jing Mountains.
 Jingzhou is an Yangtze Rivercruise port and prefecture-level city in
southern Hubei (China), with population over 1, 6 million (metro over
5,7 million). The city is covered by a thick network of waterways and
lakes. The Old Town forms city's cirrent main urban area (Jiangling
county). Located within the current city, Ying was capital city of 20 kings
over a period of 411 years. The city walls (rebuilt in 1646) have height 9
m (30 ft) height and thickness 10 m (33 ft), with perimeter extending
for 9,3 km (6 ml).

69. Yueyang (Yangtze-Dongting Lake, China)

  The area now called Yueyang has been inhabited for over 3,000 years. It
was originally established as a prefecture called Hanchang in 210 AD
during the Three Kingdoms period. It was called Ximi during the Spring
and Autumn period and Warring States period under the Chu state.
Under the Song Dynasty (AD 960-AD 1279) it was heavily fortified, with
walls 4 miles (6.4 km) in circumference, and became the seat of the
military prefecture of Yueyang, whence its present name. During the
Taiping Rebellion, its capture by the rebels in AD 1852 was an
important stage in their advance up the Yangtze River valley to Nanjing.
At the time of the foundation of the Republic of China in AD 1911, it
became a county, taking the name Yueyang.
 Yueyang is an Yangtze River cruise port and city located on Dongting
Lake's southern shores. The city is part of China's Hunan province (its
northeastern part) and has population around 5,5 million.
 Its most famous tourist attraction is Yueyang Tower. Yueyang Tower
dating dates from the Three Kingdoms Period (220–280 AD). It was built
by chief commander Lu Su (commanding the Wu forces) who was sent
to this area to built fortifications and to train the local river fleet. The
tower was constructed in a strategic location where Dongting Lake and
Yangtze River join and from where the whole lake is visible. The tower
was first called Ba Ling Tower (after Ba Ling city, located nearby).
Yueyang Tower is one of the sout China's Three Great Towers - together
with "Pavilion of Prince Teng" (located northwest of Nanchang) and the
"Yellow Crane Tower" (located in Wuhan).
China river cruise deals are inclusive of internal / domestic flights
between Beijing-Xian-Chongqing and between Shanghai-Wuhan.

70. Shibaozhai (China, Yangtze River)

 At the top of Shibaozhai is a three-storied hall dedicated to Manjusri
built during the reign of the Xianfeng Emperor (1850–1861), called the
Purple Rain Pavilion. In the year 1819, the nine-story pavilion was
constructed adjacent to the cliff to aid people in getting to the top of
 the hill. Prior to the construction of the pavilion, visitors to the temple
were hoisted to the top using a system of chains. In 1956, three more
stories were added at the top of the structure. On the top of the
pagoda is a Buddhist temple.
 Shibaozhai is a hill on Yangtze River, located in Zhong County
(Chongqing, China). The rocky hill features extremely steep sides and
heigth around 200 m (660 ft). On the river side there is a red pavilion
leaning against the hill, which provides walkway to the temple at top,
with entrance at its base. At the hill's base alongside the bank of the
river is a row of merchant stalls that follows the path from the dock to
pavilion's entrance. Many river cruise ships dock at Shibaozhai for a
couple of hours to allow their passengers to tour the famous pavilion
and temple.
 SOUTH ASIA
71. New Delhi, India
 New Delhi is Yamuna River (Ganges River) cruise port and India's capital city, with total area of
approx 43 km2 (17 mi2) and population around 260,000 (metro around 26,5 million). Unfortunately,
Delhi City has India's highest literacy rate (90%).

 City's foundations were laid in March 1911, with city plan designed by British architects and
architecture representing British supremacy over the colonial country. India's new capital city was
officially inaugurated on February 13, 1931. The names New Delhi and Delhi are used
interchangeably, but New Delhi is just a small part of Delhi City.
 New Delhi is a cosmopolitan city due to the multi-cultural presence of the Indian political system.
The status of India's capital amplifies its importance for helding national events (Independence Day,
Republic Day parade, Gandhi's birthday). India Gate (built 1931) was inspired by Paris City's
triumphal arch. It is India's national monument commemorating the 90,000 soldiers of Indian Army
who lost their lives while fighting for the British Raj in WW1 (1914-1918) and Third Anglo-Afghan War
(1919).
 Among the most famous tourist attractions are Connaught Place (business district), architecture
(Jantar Mantar, India Gate, Rashtrapati Bhavan palace, Laxminarayan Temple, Gurudwara Bangla
Sahib gurdwara, Nehru Planetarium), national museums (Indira Gandhi, Modern Art Gallery, Natural
History, Rail Museum, Handicrafts and Handlooms Museum, Philatelic Museum, Shankar's Dolls
Museum), beautiful gardens (Buddha Jayanti Park, Lodi Gardens, Presidential Estate, Rajpath and
India Gate, Shanti Path, Rose Garden, Nehru Park, Railway Garden).

72. Chandannagar (India)

 Chandannagar is a Hooghly River cruise port in West Bengal, India.
Hooghly River is a distributary of (branch flowing away from) Ganga
River. The city covers a total area of 19 km2 (7 ml2) and has population
around 170,000. Chandannagar was established as a French colony in
1673, obtaining permission from Ibrahim Khan, the then Nawbab of
Bengal, to establish a trading post on the right bank of the river
Hooghly.
It became a permanent French settlement in 1688. In 1730 Joseph
francois Dupleix was appointed governor of the city. In 1756 war
broke out between France and Great Britain, and the British Navy
captured Chandannagar on 23 March 1757. Chandannagar was
 restored to the French in 1763, but recaptured by the British in 1794.
The city was returned to France in 1816, along with a 3 sq miles (7.8
km2) enclave of surrounding territory. It was governed as part of
French India until 1950, under the political control of the governor-
general in Pondicherry, though India became independent of Britain in
1947.
 Chandannagar is headquarter of subdivision of same name located in
Hooghly District. It is also one of the seven municipal corporations
found in West Bengal and part of the area that is covered by Kolkata
Metropolitan Development Authority. The city lies on Hooghly River
and has been able to maintain its unique identity which is different
from all other cities. Chandannagar is linked to Kolkata by roadways,
railway and Hooghly river. It takes about an hour to be reached by car.
Places of tourist interest in Chandannagar include:

 Chandannagore Strand is a tree-shaded promenade along Hooghly

River about 1 km (0,62 ml) in length and 7 m (23 ft) in width. Along the
way there are many buildings of historical importance. It is a popular
spot for locals and tourists alike.
 Chandanangar Gate was built in 1937, to mark the Fall of Bastille. It has
the French Revolution slogan "Liberte, egalite, fraternite (Liberty,
equality and fraternity)" on it.
 Patal-Bari (The Underground House) is another beautiful example of
advancement in architecture and aesthetic sense of the men of those
earlier days. The lowest floor is submerged in River Ganges.
 Chandernagore Heritage Museum has archival materials on
Chandernagor's history.

73. Bandel (India)

 Bandel is a Hooghly River (Ganges River) cruise port and town in India's
West Bengal state, with a population of around 10,000. The town was
founded during Portuguese India (colonial period 1505-1961). Today it
is part of the Kolkata metro region and a large railway junction (train
station) located approx 40 km (25 mi) from Howrah.
  Current-day town's economy is based on Thermal Power Station
(opened in 1965, with capacity around 530 MW), bakery industries,
trade (Bandel Bazar - one of the district's biggest markets serving
agricultural import and export / especially mango, watermelon, rice),
banking, railway engineering and manufacturing, paper manufacturing,
education (schools and colleges). The nearest airport is in Kolkata
(Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose).
As a cruise port, Bandel was included in the 2019 schedule of the
riverboat Ganges Voyager 2 (2014-built). The next table shows the
ship's 7-day itinerary (themed "India's Golden Triangle and the Sacred
Ganges") with prices from ~USD 6900 pp.

74. Agra (India)

 Agra (aka "City of Taj") is a port city located on the banks of Yamuna
River in northern Uttar Pradesh, India. The city has population of
around 1,7 million, ranking it one of the state's largest and the
country's 19th most populous. Agra is located approx 378 km (235 ml)
west of Lucknow (the state capital), 206 km (128 ml) south of the
national capital New Delhi and 125 km (78 ml) north of Gwalior.
The city was first mentioned in Mahabharata, where it's called
Agrevaṇa (translated "border of the forest"). The first to move the
capital from Delhi to Agra was Sultan Sikandar Lodi (1488–1517) in
1506. From here he governed the country and Agra assumed
importance of the 2nd capital.
Agra Fort (aka "The Red Fort") was commissioned in 1565 by the
conquering Mughal Emperor Akbar the Great, and is a World Heritage
Site. The stone tablet at fort's gate states that it had been built prior to
1000 but later renovated by Akbar.
 The city is a major tourist travel destination due to its many Mughal-era
buildings, and most notably Tāj Mahal, Fatehpūr Sikri and Agra Fort. All
three are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city of Agra is on the
Golden Triangle tourist circuit, together with Jaipur and Delhi. Agra falls
within Braj cultural region. The Taj Mahal is one of the world's most
 famous buildings, mausoleum of Shah Jahan's favourite wife - Mumtaz
Mahal. It is among the New Seven Wonders of the world, as well as one
of Agra's three World Heritage Sites.

75. Jaipur (India)

 Jaipur is a Dravyavati River cruise port and largest city in Rajasthan
state (northern India). By population (around 3,1 million) it is ranked
India's 10th largest. Located 260 km (162 ml) from New Delhi, Jaipur is
part of the west Golden Triangle circuit (together with Agra). It is a
popular tourist travel destination and serves as gateway to other
destinations in Rajasthan - like Jaisalmer, Mt Abu, Udaipur, Jodhpur.
Jaipur (aka "The Pink City") was established in 1726 by Maharaja Jai
Singh II, after whom it is named.
In 2008, Conde Nast Traveller Readers Choice Survey ranked Jaipur
Asia's 7th best place to visit. The TripAdvisor's Traveller's Choice
Awards for Destination (2015) ranked it first among India's top travel
destinations.
 Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre is Rajasthan’s largest event
centre.
Best known tourist attractions include Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort,
Amer Fort, Jal Mahal, Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Govind
Dev Ji Temple, Galtaji, Garh Ganesh Temple, Birla Mandir, Sri Kali
Temple, Zoo, Sanganeri Gate. Amer Fort and Jantar Mantar observatory
are designated World Heritage Sites. Hawa Mahal (5-storey pyramidal
shaped monument) features 953 windows. Kanak Vrindavan and
Sisodiya Rani Bagh are city's largest nature parks.
Another major tourist attraction is Chokhi Dhani (ethnic village resort).
This is a small village with themed activities like typical Rajasthani
dinner, Camel riding, Palm reading, Magic Shows, Maze, Rajasthani
dances.

76. Kolkata (Calcutta, India)

 Kolkata experienced an economic decline in the decades after WW2
(1939-1945) and India's independence (1947), mainly due to steep
population increase and frequent labor strikes (supported by left-wing
parties). In 1960s-1990s, several large factories were shut down and
numerous smaller businesses were relocated. City's fortunes improved
after India's economy was liberalized during the 1990s.
City's current economy is traditionally based on flexible manufacturing,
which employs over 40% of the local labor force. Largest industries are
agriculture, forestry, mining, manufacturing, services., over 1/5 are
casual workers, over 1/3 of city's available labor force is unemployed,
nearly 1/4 of city's population live on less than USD 0,5 per day. Latest
large project investments are in real estate, infrastructure, retail
shopping, hotels.
 Kolkata (aka Calcutta) is the capital city of India's West Bengal state.
Located on the east bank of Hooghly River, the city is state's principal
commercial, educational and cultural center. Port Kolkata is the oldest
operating cargo port and a major river cruise port in India. City's
population is around 4,5 million (metro over 14,1 million / city-proper
plus the suburbs), ranking it India's 3rd-most populous metropolitan
area - after Delhi (25,7 million) and Mumbai (20,1 million). In 2010,
West Bengal generated USD 150 billion GDP, which was India's 3rd
highest - after the states Mumbai and Delhi.
 Kolkata is the largest East-North-East financial and commercial hub of
India. The city is home to Calcutta Stock Exchange (India's second
largest - after the Mumbai-based NSE). Kolkata is also a major military
homeport, large containership port, India's largest East-North-East
financial and commercial hub. The city is served by the international
Kolkata Airport (CCU, officially Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose). Regulalry
scheduled daily domestic flights connect to New Delhi, Mumbai,
Bangalore, Guwahati, Imphal, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar, Bagdogra,
Chennai (Madras City), Port Blair (South Andaman Island).
 Calcutta is famous for its revolutionary, literary and artistic heritage. As
India's former capital city, Calcutta has been often called "cultural
capital of India". It has many buildings decorated with Indo-Saracenic
 and Indo-Islamic architectural elements, well-preserved buildings from
the colonial period (1505-1961). The National Library of India is
country's largest public library, while Science City is country's biggest
research science center.

77. Kalna (India)

 The first reference to Ambika Kalna is found in a 6th-century text
known as the Kubjika Tantra.
According to General Alexander Cunningham, the founder of the
Archaeological Survey of India, Ambika Kalna was a frontier city of the
Tamralipta kingdom during the 7th century A.D. At that time, a naval
base was founded in the city during the reign of Shashanka. Kalna
houses the only Chaitanya temple built in Sri Chaitanya's lifetime. It is
the abode of pilgrimage for the Barnabites. It was a celebrated place
during Mohammedan rule in the 15th century.
The city reached its apex during the late 18th century under the
patronage of the Maharajas of Bardhaman, who built several temples
with intricate terracotta ornamentation.
 Ambika Kalna is a Bhagirathi-Hooghly River (Ganges River) cruise port
and town in Bardhaman (West Bengal state, India), with population
around 60,000. The town is named after Goddess Kali (Maa Ambika)
and has numerous historical monuments, including 108 Shiva temples.
 Sri Gauranga Mandir temple complex houses the manuscripts and
personal belongings of Sri Chaitanya. Siddheshwari Temple is dedicated
to Debi Ambika.
 Krishna Chandra Mandir has 25 steeples and features terracotta walls
(with epical scenes).
 Projapoti Bari features a large butterfly emblem on top.
 Gopalbari Mandir consists of 25 steeplesand many Terracotta
ornamented on the walls of its temples.

78. Motihari (India)

  Motihari (aka Matiari) is a Hooghly River (Ganges River) cruise port and
small town in Bihar state (India). The town is approx 882 km (548 ml)
from India's capital New Delhi and approx 120 km (75 ml) from Patna
(Bihar's capital).
Motihari is called by the locals "Brass working village", coming from the
well developed industry of making brass utensils.
 Among the best activities, attractions and experiences for cruise ship
tourists in Matiari include Someshwar Nath Temple, Kesariya Stupa
(world's largest Buddhist Stupa), Krishna Rai Jeu Temple, Gandhi
Sangrahalaya (museum), boat tours, specialty dining (local Indian
cuisines are offered in numerous cafes and restaurants around the
town). Best months to visit are October and November.
Motihari is famous worldwide as the place from where Mahatma
Gandhi (1869 -1948) started his Satyagraha (independence movement)
against British rule in India. This makes the town also popular as
pilgrimage destination.

79. Mayapur (India)

 Mayapur is a town on the island called Antardwip, one of the nine
islands that come together to form Nabadwip. Nabadwip, which
translates to a collection of nine islands, is a spiritual hub dedicated to
different deities. With the River Ganges flowing gracefully around these
nine islands, greenery and abundant rice fields are a blessing bestowed
upon all of them. And like each of them, Antardwip has a back-story to
its faith.
Mayapur, the land of the Golden Avatar, is commonly associated with
Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who is believed to be an incarnation of
Shri Krishna about 500 years ago. He was the one who started the
Krishna Movement. Mayapur came into being in 1970 when
Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada laid the foundation of his spiritual
base here. With the mental well-being of people in mind, he intended
 to create a space with an amazing cultural experience and education
for the people to grow Krishna Consciousness.
 Mayapur is a Ganges River cruise port and town located at the
confluence with Jalangi River (close to Nabadwip) in West Bengal state
(India), approx 130 km (81 ml) north of Kolkata (Calcutta) - state's
capital.
 The headquarters of ISKCON (Hare Krishna movement founded in 1966
in NYC) are in Mayapur City. Also here is based Gaudiya Math (monastic
organisation established in 1920). The city has great importance for the
religious movement Gaudiya Vaishnavism, being the birthplace of
Chaitanya Mahaprabhu (1486-1534, regarded as God Krishna's
incarnation.
 Visited by over 1 million tourists and pilgrims per year, Mayapur is
easily accessible by boat, but more commonly via bus and train.
 Srila Prabhupada is a major attraction. The main shrine is encircled by a
museum dedicated to Srila Prabhupada's life.
 Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir temple has 3 main altars dedicated to
the deities Narasimha Deva, Sri Sri Radha Madhava and Pancha Tattva.

80. Murshidabad (India)

 Murshidabad is a Hooghly River (Ganges River) cruise port and city in
India's West Bengal state, with population around 50,000. The town was
developed during British India (colonial period 1858-1947). During the
Mughal Empire (1526-1857) it was the capital city of Bengal Residency.
 Current-day city's economy is based on agriculture, silk farming and
manufacturing, handicrafts, education (schools, colleges) and tourism.
Best-known tourist attractions include Nizamat Kila (Nawabs Fortress / aka
Hazarduari Palace, built in 1829-37), Moti Jhil (Pearl Lake), Muradbagh
Palace, Khushbagh Cemetery, Nizamat Imambara (1847-built Shia Muslim
hall), Katra Masjid (1724-built mosque), Bacchawali Tope (14th-century
cannon gun located in the Nizamat Fort's garden / between Imambara and
Hazaarduari Palace, east of Madina Mosque).
As cruise port, Murshidabad was included in the 2019 schedules of the
riverboats Ganges Voyager 2 and Bengal Ganga. Next tables show ships'
itineraries (roundtrips from homeport Kolkata/Calcutta) as call port
sequences.