Luxury on Rail & River
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Duration17 Days
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Region
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Best Time
- October - April
Introduction
Far Horizons take you on a special journey showcasing the traditional Indian culture imbibed in the vibrant streets and monuments throughout the Northern region of India with luxury on wheels. This itinerary combines the best of three worlds – the great cultural experience of Khajuraho, the soft adventure of a river cruise on the Brahmaputra River, aboard the M.V. Mahabaahu and experiencing luxury on wheels.
Tour Highlights
- Travel like a Maharaja on the leading luxury train of India “The Maharaja Express”
- Explore the North East India while cruising on the mighty Brahmaputra River
- Sunrise visit of Taj Mahal
- Explore the famous sites of North India
- Visit to Tea Gardens and Tribals of Assam
- Bird watchers’ paradise - Brahmaputra River
- Boat, Jeep and Elephant safari in Kaziranga National Park
- Visit to Majuli island – the Largest River island in the World
- Visit to Umananda island – the smallest inhabitant River island in the World
Destinations Covered
Delhi
The City of GloryDelhi is said to be one of the oldest existing cities in the world, along with Jerusalem and Varanasi. It is the Capital Territory of India and a modern-day citadel that's dotted with ancient monuments.
History and Culture
Legend estimates it to be over 5,000 years old. Over the millennia, Delhi is said to have been built and destroyed 11 times. The oldest alleged incarnation of the city shows up in the Indian mythological epic Mahabharata as Indraprastha.
Jaipur
The Pink CityJaipur is the largest city in Rajasthan and was built in the eighteenth century by Sawai Jai Singh as India's first planned city. Jaipur is a major tourist attraction amongst Indian as well as international travellers. Jaipur is often called the Pink City in reference to its distinctly colored buildings, which were originally painted this color to imitate the red sandstone architecture of Mughal cities. The present earthy red color originates from repainting of the buildings undertaken for a visit by the Prince of Wales in 1876.
Agra
The Majesty of the TajAgra is the city of the Taj Mahal, in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Agra has three UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort in the city and Fatehpur Sikri on the outskirts of Agra. There are also many other buildings and tombs from Agra's days of glory as the capital of the Mughal Empire.
Khajuraho
A living work of Art
Varanasi
Sacred, Soulful and SpectacularVaranasi, or Benaras, (also known as Kashi) is one of the oldest living cities in the world. Varanasi is the India of your imagination. This is one of the world's oldest continually inhabited cities, and one of the holiest in Hinduism.
Guwahati
The Gateway to the North-EastGuwahati is the largest city in Assam and Northeast India. The slow, meandering Brahmaputra River is a focal point of the downtown while the lush hills of the Shillong Plateau provide a verdant backdrop for the suburbs.
History and Culture
There is a magical aura that still lingers over the ever-expanding city. The demon king Narkasura is said to have built this ancient city. Another reason for Guwahati's charm is its being the ancient 'Kamrup', the birthplace of Kamdeva, the God of Love.
Kaziranga National Park
The haven of one-horned rhinosA UNESCO World Heritage site, Kaziranga is famous as the abode of the one-horned rhinoceros. Made unique with a vibrant, well preserved and sustained ecology this park has a very versatile bio diversity which makes Kaziranga National Park a very important and popular tourist destination.
Majuli
World's Largest Fresh Water IslandMājuli or Majoli is a river island in the Brahmaputra River, Assam and in 2016 it became the first island to be made a district in India. It had an area of 880 square kilometres (340 sq mi) at the beginning of the 20th century, but having lost significantly to erosion it covers 352 square kilometres (136 sq mi) as at 2014. Majuli has shrunk as the river surrounding it has grown. Majuli is currently listed as the world's largest river island in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Sivasagar
Imprints of Ahom DynastySivasagar, previously spelled Sibsagar, is a city in the Sivasagar District of Assam, about 360 kilometres northeast of Guwahati. It is the headquarters of the Sivasagar district. This city is surrounded by the Dehing rainforest, where the Dihing and Lohit rivers meet.
Detailed Itinerary
- Day 1 Day 1 (Friday): Arrive Delhi
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Day 2
Day 2 (Saturday): Delhi
Delhi
After breakfast, experience the combined charm of Old and New Delhi. We stop first at Raj Ghat, the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial consisting of a simple black marble slab honoring India’s beloved leader. The political and spiritual leader of India’s independence movement, Gandhi was renowned for his advocacy of civil disobedience as a form of nonviolent resistance.
Next we drive past with a photo stop of A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Red Fort is 17th century fort complex constructed in red sandstone by the Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan, in the walled city of Old Delhi that served as the residence of the Mughal Emperors. The Red Fort has been a symbol of power since the reign of Shah Jahan. It witnessed the change in Indian history from Mughal rule to British rule, and was the place where first free India independence was celebrated, and is still celebrated today.
You continue to Jama Masjid, largest mosque in India, with a courtyard capable of holding 25,000 devotees. Built between 1644 and 1658, it is one of the last architectural works of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. Jama Masjid has three gates, two minarets - 40 meters in height and four towers. The minarets are made up of red sand stone and white marbles bearing stripes of black color. All guests have to remove their shoes before entering also, guest has to wear full length clothes.
Your tour continues as you ride rickshaws through bustling and colorful Chandni Chowk market, one of Delhi’s oldest and busiest, and where Mughal emperors once shopped.
Thereafter, drive past the historical India Gate, the President’s estate and the Parliament House.
You continue drive to Qutub Minar, Delhi's most striking monument, The Qutub Minar, which looms majestically across the wide plains of Delhi, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was constructed in 1192 by Qutub-Ud-Din Aibak. Built in red sandstone and marble, it has a height of 72.5 meters (237.8 ft) and contains 379 stairs. A Soaring conical tower, it is an exquisite example of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture and is the tallest brick minaret in the world.
Return to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel (B)
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Day 3
Day 3 (Sunday): Delhi – Jaipur (Embark Maharaja Express Train)
Jaipur
After early breakfast, check-out from the hotel and welcome to aboard the Maharajas' Express.
This morning, assemble at Delhi Safdarjung station at approximately 0730 hours and complete your registration and check in formalities, as you enjoy sipping into your welcome drink enjoying the live instrumental music. The train shall proceed to Jaipur at 0830 hrs.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch onboard. Join us for a Tour Brief and meet your facilitators during this exciting journey.
Deboard at around 1500 hrs to visit the City Palace galleries including the Textile Museum, Arms Museum and Arts Museum. Admire the famous Sterling Silver Vessels entered in the Guinness Book of World Records. The vessels are said to be made from 14000 silver coins without any joint and were used by Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh II to carry the water of the Ganges to drink on his trip to England in 1901 to attend King Edward VII’s coronation.
After your visit to the City Palace, proceed for an exclusive dinner at the Rambagh Palace Hotel. The Palace built in 1835 AD was the residence of the Maharaja of Jaipur from 1925 to 1957, when it was converted into a luxury hotel. The palace retains its royal splendour, hand-carved marble latticework, and elaborate gardens.
Afterwards return to the station by 2030 hours for overnight onboard Maharaja Express.
Lunch on board. Dinner at Rambagh Palace Hotel.
Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express (B, L, D)
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Day 4
Day 4 (Monday): Jaipur (Maharaja Express)
Jaipur
After onboard breakfast deboard at around 08:30 hrs to visit the Amber Fort. The Amber Fort, set in picturesque and rugged hills is a fascinating blend of Hindu and Mughal architecture. Constructed by Raja Man Singh I in 1592 and completed by Mirja Raja Jai Singh, the fort was made in red sand stone and white marble. The rugged forbidding exterior belies an inner paradise with a beautiful fusion of art and architecture. Amber is the classic and romantic fort-palace with a magnificent aura.
A short jeep ride takes you up to the fort where you will enjoy a tour of the royal apartments, with striking views of the gorge. Step back into the Mughal era as you enter the Chamber of Mirrors (Sheesh Mahal), and the Hall of Victory.
Return to the train for lunch or you may choose from a range of optional activities (on direct payment) like Spa facilities at a hotel or explore the city with your private car and guide.
Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the optional activities.
Return to the comforts of Maharajas’ Express. Dinner will be served on board. Maharajas’ Express leaves for Sawai Madhopur (Ranthambore).
Breakfast, lunch and dinner on Board.
Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express (B, L, D)
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Day 5
Day 5 (Tuesday): Jaipur / Ranthambore / Fatehpur Sikri (Maharaja Express)
Agra
Upon arrival into Sawai Madhopur, early in the morning, get ready for a safari to the Ranthambore National Park. Originally the private hunting ground of the Maharajas, Ranthambore was declared a National Park in 1973. It is famous for its open sightings of tigers, sambar, chital, nilgai, chinkara, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, jackal and leopard. Wildlife cannot be compared to that of Africa and you are indeed fortunate if you spot the elusive tiger or the shy leopard.
Proceed for an early morning exciting game drive. The safari is carried out in open vehicles and the ride is quite bumpy and dusty. One must carry adequate warm clothes for winter months.
Return to the train. Enjoy breakfast as you continue your journey to the fabled deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri. Admire the changing landscape as you savour lunch.
On arrival at the quaint station of Fatehpur Sikri, disembark at 1530 hours and proceed on a tour of the fascinating sights comprising of imposing gateways, Halls of Private and Public audience, beautifully sculptured palaces with unique water bodies, reflecting a perfect blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. This deserted red sandstone city was built by the great Mughal Emperor Akbar as his capital in the late 16th century. It is now a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Return to the train.
Enjoy an “Indian Evening” onboard followed by dinner.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on board.
Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express (B, L, D)
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Day 6
Day 6 (Wednesday): Agra (Maharaja Express)
Agra
Early morning arrive into Agra - the jewel of India, home to one of the world’s great architectural wonders – the Taj Mahal. With its spectacular monumental masterpieces and picturesque natural setting, Agra is a legendary city glorified by time.
Early morning, disembark and proceed to the world famous Taj Mahal. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was built by Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his favourite queen Mumtaz. This incomparable marvel is constructed entirely out of white marble and is an architectural masterpiece with beautiful inlay work and marble screens. Approximately 20,000 of India’s most revered craftsmen were recruited to give shape to this poetry in marble.
Later enjoy a Champagne breakfast gazing at the Taj Mahal, from atop the Taj Khema.
Following breakfast, return to the train for lunch.
Afternoon is at leisure or you may choose optional activities – Spa at a hotel or visit to Agra Fort.
Return to the train for dinner as the train proceeds to Orchha.
Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the Optional activities.
Champagne Breakfast at Taj Khema, Lunch and Dinner on board.
Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express (B, L, D)
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Day 7
Day 7 (Thursday): Orchha / Khajuraho (Maharaja Express)
Khajuraho
After early breakfast, disembark at Jhansi Railway Station at 07:15 hrs to visit the quaint village of Orchha known for its rustic lifestyle.
Visit the Orchha Fort, built over several years in the 1500s by the Bundela rulers overlooking the Betwa river. A short Tuk Tuk ride will take you to experience village life in the hinterland.
Return to the train.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch onboard as the train continues its journey through some of the most dramatic and picturesque environs towards Khajuraho.
Khajuraho is renowned for its architecture and exquisite sculptures. Built between 950 and 1050 AD in a truly inspired burst of creativity, the temples are superb examples of Indo-Aryan architecture. The highly sensual engravings depict the whole range of human emotions and relationships.
On arrival proceed on a tour of the magnificent temples of Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the Western group which constitutes some of the finest examples of Chandela art at its peak including the Kandariya Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
In the evening you may enjoy Optional Activities - Dances of India Show at Kandariya Shilpgram or you may enjoy Spa facilities at a Hotel or Sound and Light Show at the temple complex.
Please contact the Guest Relations Executive for the Optional Activities.
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on Board.
Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express (B, L, D)
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Day 8
Day 8 (Friday): Varanasi (Maharaja Express)
Varanasi
Today as you enjoy breakfast onboard, your journey continues through rich agricultural fields, arriving into the holy city of Varanasi.
One of the oldest living cities in the world, Varanasi (also known as Kashi or Benaras) has a spiritual legacy of over 3000 years. A place of pilgrimage, this holy city is set on the banks of the sacred river Ganges. Varanasi epitomizes the chaos and colour of India. Lively bazaars, exquisite and bright silks, festivals, temples, mosques and palaces – all can be found here.
Following disembarkation, proceed for lunch at Hotel Taj Gateway.
After lunch, visit the ancient ruins of Sarnath, where Buddha delivered his first sermon expounding the principles of Buddhism. Proceed for a boat cruise on the Ganges, en-route visit a Silk Weaving Centre, where you may even shop for some world famous Banarasi silk saris and brocades.
Enjoy a scenic cruise on the river Ganges and witness a magical evening Aarti at the ghats of the holy Ganges.
Proceed for dinner at Brij Rama Palace situated on the banks of the holy river. The Brijrama Palace, built in the year 1812 is accessible only by boat.
Enjoy classical Indian Dance performance – Kathak followed by an exclusive vegetarian dinner.
Rejoin the train as it proceeds to Delhi.
Breakfast onboard, Lunch at Taj Gateway Hotel and Dinner at Brijrama Palace.
Overnight on the Maharajas’ Express (B, L, D)
- Day 9 Day 9 (Saturday): Delhi (Disembark Maharaja Express Train)
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Day 10
Day 10 (Sunday): Fly Delhi / Guwahati
Guwahati
(MV Mahabaahu sets Sail at 14:00 Hours)
Today morning after breakfast check out from your hotel and transfer to the airport to board your flight to Guwahati.
Depart Delhi 09:40 hrs. Vistara Airlines # UK-741 Arrive Guwahati 12:05 hrs. Arrive at the Guwahati Airport and you will be taken on a drive through the busy streets to the Kamakhya Temple. This Temple is devoted to Kamakhya, the eternal Feminine - the Goddess of desire.
After taking blessings from the Goddess of Desire, drive towards the MV Mahabaahu.
You are welcomed and ushered in to our cabins and soon after we enjoy lunch on board.
You peel away from the Sarai-ghat Bridge that supports a rail and a road and marks the narrowest stretch of Brahmaputra.
We sail past the Peacock Island and notice the hills around Guwahati that make it picturesque.
Use the afternoon to settle in and this evening we gather on the Sun Deck.
You raise a toast to the River Brahmaputra and enjoy this sundowner and look out for the Gangetic Dolphins that hunt in these deep waters.
Soon after you gather for a safety briefing and a presentation on the ship’s facilities as we sip on Assam tea.
This evening, gather in the lounge for drinks and move on for a sit-down Chef’s Welcome Dinner in the Ship’s
Restaurant ‘Mungri Mungram’.
Overnight on board MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
- Day 11 Day 11 (Monday): M. V. Mahabaahu / Village Visit/ Full Day Sail
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Day 12
Day 12 (Tuesday): M.V. Mahabaahu / Sail to Silghat / Visit Tea Estate And / Or Jute Mill
Kaziranga National Park
Come alive with a relaxed cup of coffee or Assam tea, some Yoga and a laid-back leisurely breakfast followed by a talk on 'Kaziranga and wildlife in India' and orientation on 'Kaziranga Park Visit' along with an orientation for visiting the Jute Mill and the Tea Estate.
We sail along Singri and Tezpur and under the Kaliabhamura bridge and reach Silghat where the ship docks.
After an early lunch you walk to the Jute Mill to witness the complete process in a co-operative mill for turning the golden fibre into a gunny bag. All the families in Silghat and the Jute Mill have formed a special ecosystem for themselves.
From here we drive to the Tea-Estate to see the women plucking tea-leaves and also to the tea-factory to see the leaves turn into grains for packing. (The tea-factory is operational till mid Nov and after mid-Feb).
You enjoy the State Dance of Assam, ‘Bihu’ by young village boys and girls and return to the ship.
Thereon, enjoy the evening in the lounge and then have a leisurely time in the dining enjoying the cuisine for the day.
The program for the following day is announced. You book your wake up calls at the reception for the following morning’s early start.
Overnight on board MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
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Day 13
Day 13 (Wednesday): M.V. Mahabaahu / Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park
This day you wake up much before dawn and sip away at a strong cup of Assam tea, some coffee and cookies.
Some fresh fruit, juice and some dry fruits are on display too. An hour’s drive takes you to a resort in Kaziranga for use of facilities before you get ready for an elephant ride.
You ride into the early morning mist and as the sun rays force the mist to thin, you witness wildlife up close and personal; swamp and hog deer, Asiatic water buffaloes and Rhinos; all happily grazing within yards of each other. An hour of elephant back saga through tall elephant grass leaves us nonplussed and wanting.
You drive to a resort where breakfast will be waiting.
Energize yourself on regular continental breakfast along with a lavish display of Indian cuisine like dosas, idlis, coconut chutney, poori aaloo, paranthas and much more.
Soon you drive towards the range for a jeep safari to explore more of the wildlife. You look for the Asiatic Wild Elephants, the striped cats, the Wild Water Buffalo with enormous horn span, the hog deer and the swamp deer and of course the one horned-rhinoceros that this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for.
The Jeep Safari ends by 1030 hours when you head back to the Cruise witnessing the paddy fields fed by the Brahmaputra as your wheels cautiously maneuver along the Karbi Anglong bends.
The bird life is an experience in this Park. This afternoon you board the ship at 1200 hrs, enjoy lunch and settle in for a restful afternoon. For those of you who like to watch the world go by, you make yourself comfortable on the sun-deck as the ship sails towards Diphlu. This perched up position on Deck 5 facilitates the best view and understanding of the river and the sand bars. It is interesting to observe the ever-changing landforms and the migratory birds finding their nesting spots.
This section of the sail is especially fascinating as the ship moves in the river’s meanders. You enjoy a cup of tea or coffee on the open deck and watch the sun lowering itself.
As the sun sinks into the horizon the navigation team locates an untouched deserted island and the ship is moored for the night. The beverages are set and the seating arranged. The aroma of the barbecued snacks fills the air and soon the guests step out on the island. Drinks in hand we indulge in talks, charades, camp fire songs and story-telling and enjoy the star laden skies with the ambience of water all around. We pay homage to the Brahmaputra River by floating oil lamps. You move to the ship’s restaurant to enjoy a sit-down dinner.
After dinner the spirit of the evening moves into the lounge and you watch a documentary/movie for an hour and retire to the comfort of your cabins.
Overnight on board MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
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Day 14
Day 14 (Thursday): M.V. Mahabaahu / The Weaving Community of Bishwanath Ghat / Boat Safari
Majuli
We sail very early towards Bishwanath Ghat.
After breakfast, you shall given an orientation on Bishwanath Ghat, the Boat Safari and Mishing Village.
Visit this tiny sub-urban village on the banks of Brahmaputra and sprinkled with temples and is a cosmos of weavers, fishermen, farmers and boat makers.
Bishwanath Ghat wakes up once a week to the presence of MV Mahabaahu and the travellers of the world and excitement shoots across.
The sound of the shuttle on tense warp and raised alternate weft moving back and forth is music to the weavers of this community.
A Shiva Dol (temple) from the times of Ahoms looms over and a promenade along the outcrop of rocks and swinging country boats adds beauty to the area. The weavers display their stories on their colourfully woven fabric and wait in anticipation.
Return to the ship for lunch and sail on towards the Eastern Range (Agoratoli) to explore the Eastern Range of Kaziranga and view the wildlife from the river side.
This afternoon, post lunch; take our tenders to wander and study the shores of Agoratoli Range of Kaziranga and observe how the river carves and shapes Kaziranga each year; you notice tree trunks in the river that had enjoyed some summers and others that are ready to give way and of course the forest that is holding strong.
This evening you return to the Ship at Sunset. The Chef is ready with his cooking demo when you step onto the ship.
Spend an hour in the lounge and then on to dinner.
The program for the following day is announced.
Overnight on board MV Mahabaahu (B, L, D)
- Day 15 Day 15 (Friday): M.V. Mahabaahu / Mishing Village Visit / Assamese Theme Evening
- Day 16 Day 16 (Saturday): M.V. Mahabaahu / Majuli Visit / Neamati Ghat / Sibsagar
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Day 17
Day 17 (Sunday): Nature Walk / Home-hosted lunch with a Tea Planter’s Family & Fly Jorhat-Kolkata-Delhi
Delhi
This day the nature enthusiasts wake up early to enjoy a walk on the Bund at Neamati Ghat. This is a walk through a narrow village where the huts/homes have sprouted along the two sides of a 12 ft. wide bund. The bund has the Brahmaputra River on one side and a monsoon or rainwater swamp on the other side making it an ideal space for bird life. Owls, owlets, orioles, quails, partridges, adjutant stalks and woodpeckers are an integral part of this space. Star fruit, wild figs, bananas, tamarind trees abound in the area.
At this early hour one can see the village waking up, milking cows, gardening, farming, children in uniform cycling to school and the fishermen fishing out their fresh catch from the net. This walk is an informal way of peeping into the simple unpretentious Assamese village life.
Rreturn to the ship for an early morning breakfast and deboard the ship at 0900hrs to drive to a tea estate for a home-hosted early lunch prior to boarding the flight.
At the tea estate we meet the Planter’s family that has been in the tea-business for over a century, enjoy a tea-talk with professionals, walk around the Planter’s residence, the tea-estate that supports several herbs.
After a delicious home hosted ethnic Assamese lunch and warm hospitality, you bid farewell to the hosts and drive to the Jorhat airport to board your flight to Delhi via connecting flight from Kolkata.
Depart Jorhat 14:20 hrs Indigo Airlines # 6E-757 Arrive Kolkata 6:00 hrs. Depart Kolkata 18:10 hrs. Indigo Airlines # 6E-2083 Arrive Delhi 20:30 hrs. On arrival at Delhi airport, our representative will meet you at the receiving area and escort you to your hotel.
Thereafter, arrive at the hotel and check-in at the hotel until your departure.
Later, check-out from the hotel, our representative will meet you at the lobby area and escort you to Delhi International Airport to board your onwards flight early morning on Day 18 (Monday).
Stay in the hotel until your departure (B, L)
