Bold & Wild – Natural History Cruise – 7 Nights – Upstream
- Standard
GuwahatiSilghat - M V Mahabaahu
Embark on the world’s richest natural history river cruise, a remarkable journey long the mighty Brahmaputra that seamlessly blends extraordinary wildlife
encounters with living culture and timeless traditions. Sailing through the heart of Assam, this immersive expedition explores three protected wilderness areas—
including two UNESCO World Heritage National Parks and one renowned wildlife sanctuary—offering the chance to encounter up to 10 species of large mammals,
an astonishing 482 species of birds, and the elusive freshwater river dolphins of the Brahmaputra.
Beyond the wild, the journey opens doors to Assam’s cultural soul: witness the legendary silk weaving traditions of Sualkuchi, stroll through lush tea gardens,
enjoy home-hosted meals with local families, and engage in authentic village visits. Evenings come alive with traditional dance and cultural performances, creating a
perfect balance of nature, heritage, and human connection. This is not just a cruise it is a deeply enriching passage through one of the most biodiverse and culturally
vibrant regions on Earth.
Itinerary
DAY 1 Guwahati - Embark MV Mahabaahu - First Sail on the Brahmaputra - Guwahati
Arrive this morning in Guwahati (by 9 am) and transfer to MV Mahabaahu, where you are welcomed on board and escorted to your cabins. Soon after embarkation, the ship gently sails away from Pandu Port, beginning its south-westward journey toward the southern edge of Assam, near Bharat's international boundary. Gather on the sun deck to enjoy your first sail on the mighty Brahmaputra, passing beneath the historic Saraighat Bridge, site of the legendary 1671 Ahom victory that ended Mughal rule in Guwahati. Lunch is served on board as you settle into life on the river. Later in the afternoon, enjoy tea or coffee followed by a safety briefing and an introduction to the ship's facilities. An engaging presentation on the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Manas National Park offers insights and orientation for the upcoming elephant and jeep safaris. As evening approaches, meet again on the sun deck for a tranquil sundowner, watching the sun set behind lush riverside villages and pain the Bramaputra in glowing shades of gold, crimson, and orange as the ship moors near a river island. The day concludes with a relaxed lounge hour and a semi-formal Chef's Welcome Dinner - 'Swagat Bjoj', marking a gracious beginning to your river journey. Meals: lunch, Dinner
DAY 2 Into the Wild Heart of Assam - Manas National Park & - Manas National Park
Awaken to an unforgettable day in the wild! After a light early breakfast, journey into Manas National Park, arriving at a forest resort for refreshments before heading to the Bansbari Range for a memorable elephant safari - a serene and immersive way to experience the park at first light. Following breakfast, set out on a jeep safari through dramatic landscapes where the park's northern boundary meets the imposing hills of Bhutan, with the Manas-Beki river system threading through the wilderness. A UNESCO World Heritage Site with multiple national and International designations, Manas is renowned for its rare and endangered wildlife, including the Golden Langur, Pygmy Hog, Hispid Hare and Assam Roofed Turtle, along with wile water buffalo, gaur and a rich diversity of bird life. After a relaxed lunch, head out once more in the afternoon for a second jeep safari along a different forest route, exploring dense foliage in search of mammals, arboreal species reptiles and birds. Return to the resort for tea and refreshments, complemented by a Bodo cultural performance and dress demonstration, before driving back to Dongra Ghat to rejoin MV Mahabaahu. Dinner on board concludes a deeply rewarding day immersed in one of India's most pristine wildlife landscapes. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Serenity on the Riverside Life & Onboard Experiences - Manas National Park
Begin the day with yoga on deck as the Brahmaputra glides past lush riverside villages. A leisurely breakfast is followed by engaging talks on Assam, the mighty river and the legendary silk heritage of Sualkuchi. The morning is yours to unwind - sunbathe, swim or indulge in wellness rituals from steam, sauna and Jacuzzi to soothing Ayurvedic massages and spa therapies. After lunch, enjoy a restful sail before stepping ashore to visit a local village, meeting residents and gaining insight into life shaped by the river's floods. As dusk settles, return onboard for a chef-led cooking demonstration showcasing local flavors. The day concludes with a magical evening - bonfire, barbecues delicacies on a deserted island - followed by dinner. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4 From Silk Looms to Sacred Hills - Pobitora
Depart early for Pobitora Wild Life Sanctuary, where a morning jeep safari reveals an abundance of birdlife, along with the famed one-horned rhinoceros and Asiatic water buffalo. After a safari, relax over a freshly prepared local breakfast before browsing nearby souvenir stalls and sampling seasonal fruits from local vendors. Continue to a tea estate to gain insights into Assam's iconic tea culture, followed by a visit to the Guwahati War Memorial. The highlight of the afternoon is a warm, home-hosted lunch with an urban Assamese family, offering an authentic taste of local life and cuisine. Later, delve into Assam's celebrated silk heritage with a visit to the silk processing and weaving area, tracing the journey from cocoon to cloth. Discover the region's four distinctive silks - Muga, Paat.Eri and Mulberry - and enjoy time to shop for fine fabrics and stoles. Return to the ship for a relaxed lounge hour and a gracious Chef's Farewell Dinner, completing disembarkation formalities as the voyage draws to a memorable close. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5 Kamakhya Temple & A day at leisure on the Brahmaputra and Assamese theme Evening - Kamakhya
Begin the day early with a refreshing cup of masala chai or freshly brewed coffee before setting out for a serene visit to the revered Kamakhya Temple, one of India's most important Shakti Peeths. After this soulful start, return to MV Mahabaahu as it sails onward, enjoying a relaxed breakfast and a gently morning cruise on the mighty Brahmaputra - an ideal time to absorb the scale and rhythm and timeless presence of this great river. The day unfolds at an unhurried pace. Indulge in personal time by making use of the ship's wellness facilities - opt for a-body massage, spa treatment, beauty therapy or hair spa, or simply unwind with a book on the sun deck or from your private balcony. A village visit offers a meaningful glimpse into riverside life along the Brahmaputra. As evening falls, gather for an engaging Assamese theme evening. Dressed in traditional Mekhla Chaadar and Dhoti-Kurta with Gamusa, enjoy an evening of local cuisine, music and dance - an immersive cultural celebration and end a beautifully balanced day. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6 River Leisure, Wildlife Insights & Bihu Evening - Kaziranga
Enjoy a slow and rejuvenating morning on the Brahmaputra, beginning with a calming yoga session, followed by a relaxed breakfast. Later gather for an engaging talk on Wildlife in India, with special focus on the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kaziranga National Park and the rich biodiversity of Nameri, along with orientation for the upcoming jeep safaris and rafting adventure. The morning is yours to unwind - reserve your preferred spa or Ayurvedic massage, settle down with a good book, or simply watch life unfold along the pristine banks of the Brahmaputra, a river older than the Himalayas and central to the cultures and commerce of its shores. After lunch, enjoy hi-tea on the sundeck as the river glows in the soft colours of the evening sky. On arrival at Silghat, step ashore to visit a local jute mill, followed by a joyful Bihu dance performance, offering a lively glimpse into Assam's cultural soul. Return on board for a relaxed lounge hour and dinner, rounding off a day of gentle sailing, learning and cultural celebration. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7 Into the Wild - Safari in Kaziranga (UNESCO site) - Jia Bharali River Adventure - Kaziranga
Begin the day early with a hearty breakfast before setting out for an exhilarating jeep safari in the Burapahar Range of Kaziranga National Park. This beautifully scenic range reveals a captivating blend of dense forests, open grasslands, and shimmering water bodies, offering wonderful opportunities to experience the park's rich wildlife and landscapes. Late morning, journey onward to the banks of the Jia Bharali River, where a welcoming local lodge provides time to relax. enjoy a warm Garo tribal lunch and witness an engaging cultural performance that reflects the traditions of the region. Adventure follows as you take to the river for a memorable rafting experience, gliding over gentle rapids with the Great Eastern Himalayas and Nameri National Park forming a spectacular natural backdrop. After tea and refreshments, return to MV Mahabaahu in the evening to unwind in the lounge and enjoy dinner on board, rounding off a day rich in wildlife, culture and soft adventure Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8 Safari in Kaziranga (UNESCO site) & Departure - Kaziranga
An early start rewards us with unforgettable wildlife experiences today. Before dawn. enjoy a like breakfast and set out for Kaziranga National Park, reaching the Central Range as the forest awakens. After refreshments at a nearby resort, embark on a magical elephant safari, offering a unique , close-to=nature perspective of Kaziranga's famed landscapes and wildlife. Following a relaxed breakfast, continue to the Bagori (Western) forest trails, exploring one of the most wildlife-rich sections of the park. By late morning, depart Kazirange and drive back toward Silghat, passing scenic paddy fiels nourished by te Brahmaputra and the gentle curves of the Karbi Anglong hills. Return to the ship for a quick lunch before disembarking by late morning. Thereafter drive to Guwahati Airport in good time for your onward flight, scheduled for 19:00 hours or later, bringing your Bramaputra voyage to a smooth and memorable conclusion. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Dates & Prices
Payment will be made in AUD.
Prices displayed in other currencies are approximate and a guideline only
Cruise rates are per person based on double/twin occupancy.
| Cabin Type | Cruise Dates |
|---|---|
| 19 Dec 2719 Dec 27 | |
| Suite Cabin | AU$5566 |
| Superior Cabins | AU$3610 |
| Luxury Cabins | AU$4813 |
| Deluxe Cabins | AU$4517 |
Single occupancy 75% of the full twin rate. Exact rate will be displayed when booking is requested
On the Vaikumdam Deluxe cabins are 100% of the twin rate.
On the Mahabaahu Suite cabins are 100% of the twin rate.
Payment & Cancellation
Inclusions/Exclusions
Inclusions
- Professional skipper and crew
- Fuel for standard cruising
- Accommodation onboard MV Mahabaahu for 7 Nights / 8 Days
- All meals
- 1 glass of Indian wine/beer during the welcome & farewell dinnersAll entrances, park safaris, boat safaris, lectures, performances, excursions as per the itinerary.
- Services of English speaking naturalist cum destination manager
- Airport transfers to/from Jorhat & Guwahati airport
- Transport services by AC Vehicle (Non AC vehicle in National Parks and Majuli)
- SPECIAL NOTES: Hotel Check-In 1400 hours, Check-out time 1200 NOON. Prices are subject to change with any change in the cost. Rates include only those items specified in your itinerary. In case of any currency fluctuations or amendment in local Government taxes, or any fuel hike, we will advise you the supplement price.
Exclusions
- Tourist tax
- Personal expenses
- Expense of personal nature like laundry, telephone/fax calls, internet, alcoholic beverages (unless specified), camera/video camera fee at monuments/National Park, medical expenses, Salon/massages etc.
- Any Insurance. We highly recommend that you get your travel and health insurance done prior to your trip.
- Any Tipping Visa Fees Evacuation charges in case of medical emergencies.
- International & domestic Air fares.
- Expenses caused by factors beyond our control like rail and air plane delays, roadblocks, vehicle
- Expenses caused by factors beyond our control like rail and air plane delays, roadblocks, vehicle malfunctions, political disturbances, taxes, lost luggage, etc.
- Any other services not mentioned in the inclusions.
- 5% GST
- Departure
- Guwahati
- Departure Time
- 14:00
- Cruise Highlights
- 4 National Parks / Wildlife Sanctuaries
- 10 Big Game Species / 482 species of birds / 8 primates
- Temples, textiles, tea and culture
- Ship Features
-
- Air-conditioning
- Balcony Cabins
- Beauty Salon
- Gymnasium
- Jacuzzi
- Laundry Service
- Library
- Massage Room
- Reception
- Restaurant
- Spa and Sauna
- Sun Deck
- Swimming Pool
- Television
This cruise is available on request. Please contact us for availability and pricing.