Brahmaputra Cruise 11 Nights – 12 Days – Upstream
- One Way
GuwahatiJorhat - M V Mahabaahu
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day voyage along the majestic Brahmaputra aboard the luxurious MV Mahabaahu, exploring one of the world’s most majestic and untamed rivers—the mighty
Brahmaputra. This exceptional voyage is truly the Richest Natural History River Cruise, unfolding the wonders of three National Parks and one Wildlife
Sanctuary—Kaziranga, Manas, Nameri, and Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary—each teeming with rare and endangered species.
Encounter the Hoolock Gibbons, India’s only apes, swinging through ancient canopies; witness the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, Bengal tigers, Asiatic
elephants, and vibrant birdlife across the UNESCO World Heritage landscapes. Beyond the wilderness, discover Assam’s cultural heart—tea estates, silk
villages, tribal homes, and spiritual river islands— while savoring moments of serenity through yoga, Ayurvedic wellness, and sunset sails.
From misty jungles to star-lit evenings on silver sands, this voyage reveals Assam’s untamed beauty, rich heritage, and timeless rhythm along the
Brahmaputra—a journey that’s as soulful as it is spectacular
Itinerary
DAY 1 Arrive Guwhati – Welcome Aboard - Guwahati
Begin your Brahmaputra adventure with a warm welcome at Guwahati airport before boarding the elegant MV Mahabaahu (Recommended arrival by 10am). As we sail under the iconic Saraighat Bridge, soak in the beauty of the mighty river and Assam’s vibrant landscapes. Enjoy a relaxed lunch, insightful orientation and a fascinating talk on the region’s incredible wildlife and UNESCO World Heritage sanctuaries. As evening descends, unwind on the sundeck with a refreshing sundowner, watching the sunset paint the Brahmaputra in shades of gold and crimson. End the day with a delightful welcome dinner and camaraderie onboard – your unforgettable river journey has just begun Meals: Lunch, Dinner
DAY 2 Into the Wild Heart of Assam - Manas National Park & Tiger Reserve (UNESCO site) - Manas National Park
Awaken to an unforgettable day in the wild! Begin with an early elephant Safari and jeep adventure through the lush expanse of Manas National Park a j UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rare wildlife and breathtaking landscapes along the Bhutanese foothills. We pause at a serene forest resort for a refreshing cup of tea before mounting elephants for a misty morning safari through the grasslands and sal forests of Bansbari Range. As the sun rises, keep watch for wild elephants, rhinos, buffalo and perhaps a flash of stripes among the underbrush. After the ride, enjoy a hearty breakfast amidst nature, then quickly prepare for your next adventure – a jeep safari through the wild corridors of Manas, flanked by the Bhutan Hills and crisscrossed by the Manas and Beki Rivers. Manas is no ordinary forest. It proudly holds seven major conservation designations – including Tiger Reserve, Biosphere Reserve, Elephant Reserve and Bird Sanctuary – making it one of the most ecologically diverse landscapes in all of India. After a thrilling morning exploring this biodiversity haven, return to MV Mahabaahu for a leisurely lunch as we sail upstream. Spend the afternoon rejuvenating with soothing Ayurvedic therapies or simply unwind in the spa and pool. As the sun sets, gather in the lounge for a relaxed evening and a delightful dinner on board. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3 Silk, Soul & Sails - Sualkuchi
Begin your day with a rejuvenating yoga session from 08:00 to 09:00 hrs, embracing the calm of the Brahmaputra as MV Mahabaahu sails past the lush villages of Lower Assam. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board from 08:00 to 10:00 hrs while the ever changing river scenery unfolds around you. By Late morning, arrive at Sualkuchi, the famed ‘Manchester of the East’ renowned for its exquisite silk. Be greeted by tribal folk dancers before taking an e-rickshaw tour through silk weaving workshops to witness the artistry behind Assam’s prized Muga and Eri silks. Relish an authentic Assamese lunch, explore local shops and perhaps pick up a few elegant souvenirs. In the evening, sail towards the mystic Peacock Island for a tranquil stroll and conclude the day with a spiritual visit to the revered Kamakhya Temple, before gathering onboard for a relaxed lounge hour and dinner Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4 Serenity on the River - Yoga, Riverside Life & Onboard Experiences - Peacock Island
Sail away from Peacock Island as the Brahmaputra awakens. Begin your day with revitalizing yoga on the sundeck, followed by a leisurely breakfast. Browse the MV Mahabaahu Bazaar for handcrafted souvenirs or enjoy a saree-tying demonstration showcasing Assam’s graceful traditions. After lunch, step ashore to experience the warmth and simplicity of village life along the Brahmaputra’s banks. As dusk falls, return to the ship for a tranquil sunset sail, relaxed lounge hour and a delightful dinner Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5 Sailing into Stillness: Life Along the River - Nameri
Embrace a serene morning as MV Mahabaahu sails through the ever-changing landscapes of the Brahmaputra. Begin your day with peaceful yoga on the sundeck, followed by a relaxed breakfast and an orientation on Nameri and Kaziranga National Parks, setting the stage for upcoming adventures. Later, enjoy a behind-the-scenes ship exploration tour – from the engine room to the wheelhouse - offering a glimpse into life on the river. Guests can also indulge in tailoring services, spa therapies, or simply unwind as the river drifts by. As evening descends, delight in a live cooking demonstration of local street flavours, before gathering for a sunset sail, lounge hour and dinner in the tranquil glow of the Brahmaputra Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6 Wildlife Wonders at Nameri & Cultural Encounters at Silghat - Silghat
Rise before dawn for a light breakfast and set out on an early morning trek through Nameri National Park, a pristine sanctuary teeming with rare birds and elusive wildlife, including the majestic Bengal Tiger and other iconic species. Cross the river by local ferry and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the forest as guides reveal its secrets. Return to MV Mahabaahu for a hot lunch as we sail upstream to Silghat. Explore Assam’s rich cultural tapestry with a visit to a tea plantation featuring traditional performances followed by a tour of a jute mill, witnessing the journey from fibre to finished product. Conclude the day with an evening onboard and an early dinner, reflecting on the day’s wildlife and cultural discoveries. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7 Into the Wild - Safaris in Kaziranga - Kaziranga
Wake up before dawn with a cup of strong Assam tea or coffee accompanied by fresh fruits, dry fruits and cookies. A short drive brings you to the Kaziranga resort to prepare for a morning elephant ride through the misty grasslands. Watch in awe as swamp deer, hog deer, Asiatic water buffaloes and one-horned rhinos graze metres away – a magical introduction to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After breakfast featuring both continental and traditional Indian fare, embark on a jeep safari to explore more of Kaziranga’s remarkable wildlife. Spot elephants, wild water buffalo, stiped cats, swamp deer and the park’s iconic rhinos. After lunch, another jeep safari in the Western Range completes the day’s adventure. As the afternoon unfolds, travel back to MV Mahabaahu, taking in the scenic Brahmaputra-fed paddy fields and Karbi Anglong bends. Conclude the day with a relaxing lounge hour and evening dinner onboard. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8 Wildlife, Weaving and Starry Nights on the Brahmaputra - Kaziranga
Start your morning with yoga on the Sun Deck as MV Mahabaahu sails through Kaziranga towards Biswanath Ghat, a charming riverside village of temples, fishermen and master weavers. Witness the rhythm of looms and vibrant stories woven into fabrics, framed by the historic Shiva Dol and the serene riverfront. After exploring the village, continue sailing to the Eastern Range of Kaziranga. Post lunch, venture by tender along the riverbanks of Agoratoli, spotting elephants, water buffalo and rare birds, while observing how the mighty Brahmaputra shapes the landscape each year. As evening falls, retreat to a deserted island of silver sands for a bonfire, barbequed snacks and a magical starlit night. Return to the ship for a relaxing dinner, ending a day of cultural immersion and wildlife wonder. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9 Mishing Village: Bamboo Homes, Weaving and River Rhythms - Majuli
Begin your day with yoga on the sun deck and a leisurely breakfast as MV Mahabaahu sails toward Majuli, the world’s largest inhabited river island. Attend an insightful talk on Majuli and Sivasagar, setting the stage for an immersive cultural journey. Step ashore at a Mishing Village on the river’s floating islands. Explore the bamboo scaffolding Chang Ghars, observe daily life and discover the intricate weaving traditions using home-spun and dyed cotton threads. Witness the Mishings proudly demonstrate their ethnic attire, with guests invited to try dhoti-kurta for men and mekhla chadar for women. Return to the ship for a tranquil lunch as you sail toward Majuli. In the evening, embrace traditional Assamese attire and savor an authentic Assamese culinary experience, celebrating the island’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10 Majuli Island: Neo-Vaishnav Culture * River Life - Majuli
Start your day with yoga and a buffet breakfast as MV Mahabaahu sails towards Majuli, the world’s largest inhabited river island. Step ashore to immerse in the island’s neo-Vaishnav culture witnessing Gayan Bayan by priests, Dashavatar performances by young Vaishnav girls and Mukha Bhavana rituals. Explore mask making and pottery demonstrations and enjoy the vibrant avi-fauna, including open billed storks, adjutant storks, whistling ducks and bar-headed geese. Stroll through the local bazaar before returning to the ship for lunch and a restful afternoon. At 15:30 hrs take a guided walk at Neamati Ghat, observing village life, home gardens, dairy farming and perhaps a fisherman casting his net into the Brahmaputra. Conclude the day with lounge time and a relaxed sit-down dinner onboard Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11 Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary & Ahom Heritage - Hollangapar Sanctuary
Begin your day with an early breakfast, followed by a scenic drive to the Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary (arrival 05:30 hrs) home to India’s only ape – the Hoolock Gibbon and Northeast India’s only nocturnal primate – The Bengal slow Loris. The lush evergreen forest alsso shelters 7 of india’s 9 primate species, offering a rare wildlife experience Accompanied by our naturalist, guides and armed guard, take a morning walk through the forest’s layered canopy - hoollong trees in the upper layer, nahar in the middle and a rich undergrowth of shrubs and herbs. Return by 07:00 hrs and enjoy light snacks and fruit juice before splitting into two groups for the morning. Cultural Group: Explore the historic Ahom Kingdom stronghold of Sivasagar, including Talatal Ghar palace, the royal Rang Ghar arena and the majestic Shiva Dol (104 feet tall). A stroll through the local market lets you explore silk shops and Assamese goldsmiths. Wildlife Group: Embark on a 22 km Jeep Safari through the Eastern Range of Kaziranga, covering Soholabeel, Maklung, Turturani and Dhuba, guided by an expert naturalist. Spot elephants, swamp deer and other wildlife as you traverse well marked trails. Afterward, regroup for lunch at a nearby resort before returning to MV Mahabaahu at 14:00 hrs. Spend the late afternoon in relaxation and conclude the journey with Lounge Hour followed by the Chef’s Special Farewell Bhoj – an exquisite dinner to celebrate your unforgettable Assam journey Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12 Tea Estate & Farewell Assam - Jorhat
Start your morning with breakfast on board from 07:00 to 08:00 hrs, followed by disembarking MV Mahabaahu at 09:00 hrs. Take a short drive to a heritage tea estate and immerse yourself in the world of Assam tea: Stroll through lush gardens, enjoy a tea talk and tasting session, explore herbal plants and interact with a family steeped in the tea business for over a century. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting the many species that call the gardens home. Relish a traditional Assamese lunch before departing for the airport by 11:30 hrs arriving in time for your 14:00 hrs flight from Jorhat Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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 | |
|---|---|---|
| 11 Apr 27 | 31 Oct 27 | |
| Deluxe Cabins | AU$5868 | AU$6453 |
| Luxury Cabins | AU$6252 | AU$6876 |
| Superior Cabins | AU$4688 | AU$5157 |
| Suite Cabin | AU$7228 | AU$7951 |
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 11 Nights / 12Days
- All meals
- All entrances, park safaris, boat safaris, lectures, performances, excursions as per the itinerary.
- 1 glass of Indian wine/beer during the welcome & farewell dinners
- Services of English speaking naturalist cum destination manager
- Transport services by AC Vehicle (Non AC vehicle in National Parks and Majuli)
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 malfunctions, political disturbances, taxes, lost luggage, etc.
- Any other services not mentioned in the inclusions.
- 5% GST
- 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.
- Departure
- Guwahati
- Departure Time
- 09:00
- Cruise Highlights
- Kaziranga National Park (UNESCO site) – Jeep and/or elephant safaris to see Greater One-horned Rhinos, wild water buffalo, elephants, and (with luck) tigers; excellent birding including hornbills
- It’s one of the least-explored river cruise regions in India, blending high-value wildlife (rhinos, dolphins) with living culture (monasteries, tribes, tea).
- The pace is expedition-style but comfortable: frequent shore excursions, then back on board for meals and scenic sailing.
- Comfortable riverboat life – All meals, cabin accommodation, and most excursions included; relaxed sailing days with wildlife spotting from the boat
- 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.