Treasures of India with Brahmaputra Cruise - Downstream
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Duration17 Days
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Region
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Best Time
- October - April
Introduction
India is a country with a sumptuous mix of traditions, spiritual beliefs, festivals, architecture and landscapes. Far Horizon takes you on a special journey where you will explore the treasures of India, a phenomenal cultural mix along with the intricate architectural wonders and a deep sense of spirituality. From the historical city of Delhi to the royalty and cultural richness of Rajasthan along with the sacred and soulful Varanasi, not to miss the monumental city of Agra, the majesty of Taj, this special journey comes to a close at the cosmopolitan city of Kolkata from where MV Mahabaahu will take you cruising onto the waters of the mighty Brahmaputra river, a unique experience filled with an extensive wildlife coverage of the Kaziranga National Park along with exploring the living cultures of various towns, villages and islands of Assam.
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.
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.
Ranthambore
The Great Wildlife Adventure
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.
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.
Kolkata
The City of JoyKolkata (formerly Calcutta) is the capital of West Bengal and the second largest city in India (after Mumbai). This city is a daily festival of human existence, simultaneously noble and squalid, cultured decidedly futuristic.
History and Culture
The history of Kolkata is intimately related with its invention during the British rule dating back 300 years ago. Earlier known as Calcutta, it originated as a capital of British India in 1960 when East India Company dominated the country.
Jorhat
Tea Capital of IndiaJorhat is the cultural capital of Assam; home to the largest Tea research station, there are as many as 135 tea gardens in Jorhat.
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.
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.
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.
Detailed Itinerary
- Day 1 Arrive Delhi
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Day 2
Delhi
Delhi
Today morning after breakfast, proceed to explore the Old Delhi.
On the tour of “Old Delhi,” you will head out to explore this exotic locale with its narrow dirt roads, myriads of people and inexpensive and colourful bazaars that keep alive the traditional workmanship for which Delhi has always been famous. Drive past the Red Fort, and visit the Jama Masjid, one of the largest Muslim mosques in India.
A bicycle rickshaw would take you into the heart of Chandni Chowk (the silver square - so named because of the silver merchants).
Lunch on own.
We then drive to the outskirts of New Delhi to explore the Qutub Minar, on the way our guide will point out the Raj-era architecture in the city centre, including the renowned India Gate and Edwin Landseer Lutyens’ and Herbert Baker’s monumental governmental building on Raisina Hill.
Qutub Minar, a victory minaret built by the first invading Persian, Qutub-ud-din, a millennium ago in South Delhi. One of Delhi’s most visited and striking monuments, the 72-meter (230 feet) high tower which majestically over the wide plains of Delhi. It is a victory tower built by the slave king Qutubuddin Aibak and later completed by his successor Iltutmish.
Return to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel (B)
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Day 3
Board Maharaja Express - Agra
Agra
After breakfast, we will proceed to Safdarjung railway station to board the Maharajas Express Train, bestowed the "World's Leading Luxury Train" award at the World Travel Awards for five consecutive years from 2012 to 2016. The Maharajas' Express has redefined the luxury travel experience by offering guests the opportunity to explore fabled destinations providing a glimpse of rich cultural heritage of Incredible India which will leave you with fond memories of this train journey to be cherished.
You will get to enjoy a traditional welcome and welcome drink.
Enjoy your Brunch while the train leaves for its first destination, Agra.
Reach Agra and proceed to Taj Mahal. Later, proceed for a Hi Tea with Champagne at Taj Khema.
Return to the comfort of Maharajas Express, En-route you witness Pietra Dura Marble Inlay Work or You can choose optional activities such a spa at five star hotel or Mohabbat The Taj Show (On direct payment)
Overnight on-board Maharajas Express (B, L, D)
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Day 4
Maharaja Express - Ranthambore
Ranthambore
Wake-up to a delicious on-board breakfast. Later, proceed to visit the Agra Fort or you may choose for optional activity to visit Itmad Ud Duala.
Return on board Maharajas Express as it leaves for Ranthambore. On Arrival, you would then proceed for an exciting game drive at Ranthambore National Park.
Return to the comfort of Maharajas Express. Enjoy an Indian Evening followed by dinner as The Maharajas' Express leaves for Jaipur.
Overnight on-board Maharajas Express (B, L, D)
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Day 5
Maharaja Express – Jaipur
Jaipur
After an on board breakfast, proceed to visit the Amber Fort or you may also choose the optional activities such as spa facilities at a Palace hotel or private shopping tour or Golfing at Rambagh Golf Club or visit to City Palace & Jantar Mantar.
Return to the comfort of Maharajas' Express while returning from Amber Fort you have an opportunity to visit a local centre for polishing and cutting of precious and semi-precious stones.
Lunch will be served on board.
Later, procced for an exclusive venue where you can indulge with the Elephants –paint them, feed them or may take a joy ride followed by Cocktail Dinner at City Palace.
Return to the comfort of Maharajas' Express. The Maharajas' Express leaves for Delhi.
Overnight on-board Maharajas Express (B, L, D)
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Day 6
Delhi - Varanasi (Deboard Maharajas Express in Delhi)
Varanasi
After Breakfast, we will deboard the train at the Safdarjung Railway station at Delhi and will transfer straight to Delhi airport to connect with flight to Varanasi.
On Arrival in Varanasi, you will be met by our representative & will be transferred to the Hotel.
Later in the evening, take a boat ride in the holy River Ganges where you will witness the beautiful and captivating 'Aarti' ceremony’ at twilight. ‘Aarti’ is a Hindu religious ritual of worship, in which wicks soaked in ghee (purified butter) or camphor are offered to one or more deities. An absolute must see in Varanasi, the evening aarti is conducted every day at sunset by priests, worshiping the river goddess with incense, camphor, flowers and earthen lamps. Overnight at hotel (B)
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Day 7
Varanasi
Varanasi
Rise early this morning and take a boat ride on the Ganga past the Ghats. Here, pilgrims gather on the steps that lead down to the river to bathe in the waters of the sacred river, as the city begins to come alive, in the magical misty light of dawn. Walk through the streets and visit some of Varanasi’s many temples.
After breakfast visit Sarnath, this is one of four holy Buddhist sites and an exceedingly tranquil place. It is the place where the enlightened Buddha gave his first sermon. Visit the Dhamek Stupa- built in 500 CE to commemorate the Buddha's activities in this location.
Rest of the day is free at leisure.
Overnight at Hotel (B)
- Day 8 Varanasi –Kolkata
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Day 9
Kolkata
Kolkata
After breakfast, visit the Victoria Memorial. This marble-white monument is one of the most fascinating landmarks of Kolkata.
Here, come face to face with miniature paintings and images of Queen Mary, King George V and Queen Victoria. Of special importance are the Queen's dresses, the famous Rosewood piano, the Whispering Gallery in the dome and numerous artillery weapons used in the Battle of Plassey.
St. Paul’s Cathedral, built in the Indo-Gothic style of architecture, and was built in the year 1847 by Major W.N. Forbes of the East India Company. The height of the Cathedral is 201 ft. This Cathedral has the rare distinction of being the first Episcopal Church built in this part of the world. The peak of St. Paul's Cathedral has been designed as a replica of the famous Canterbury Cathedral's Henry Tower.
Thereafter visit Mother Teresa’s House, called ‘Nirmal Hriday,’ and also visit Shishu Bhawan, located near her house. Mother Teresa’s great work of caring for abandoned children on the streets of Kolkata is carried out at this centre. Watch the children’s face light up with just one smile of yours.
Overnight at the Hotel (B, L)
- Day 10 Kolkata - Jorhat
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Day 11
Sibsagar/ Home hosted lunch
Jorhat
After an early breakfast, we start our day-excursion to Sibsagar, the ancient city and capital of the Tai-speaking Ahoms who came in the 13th Century AD to the area from the north-east and were essentially of Tibeto-Burman origin.
Sibsagar town literally means 'the ocean of Lord Shiva’ as it is built around a huge man made water tank ordered by the Ahom Queen. The Shiva Dol, constructed in the year 1734 is believed to be the highest Shiva temple in India.
We visit The Talatal or Kareng Ghar, the palace of the Ahom Kings and the Rang Ghar, an amphitheatre, a place of entertainment or important meetings for the Royals and their guests.
Thereafter, we drive to a Tea Estate for a relaxed afternoon and a traditional Assamese lunch with the Tea-estate family who have been involved in the tea business for over a century.
We return to MV Mahabaahu by sunset and enjoy a relaxed evening before proceeding for dinner.
Overnight on-board MV Mahabaahu Cruise (B, L, D)
- Day 12 Majuli Island visit/ Mishing village visit
- Day 13 Boat safari
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Day 14
Bishwanath Ghat/ Sail to Silghat/ Tea Estate visit and/or Jute Mill
Kaziranga National Park
After Yoga/walk on the deserted island and breakfast on MV Mahabaahu, we enjoy an interesting talk on ‘Kaziranga and the wild life in India’. Then we step into our excursion boats to go to the shores of Bishwanath Ghat.
We walk through the village and are struck by the simplicity of life while the weaver women surround us with their silk and cotton weaves. We enjoy some happy interaction with them.
We sail on for the next couple of hours and enjoy a relaxed lunch and reach Silghat. Take a short drive to the Kaliabore tea estate, which is a vast undulating expanse of land with tea bushes. We proceed to the tea factory to see the processing of the Assam Tea and getting an insight into all that goes into preparing a cup-of-tea.
(The tea factory is not operational from mid-December to mid-February as it is time for pruning the tea bushes)
We return to where the ship is anchored. Close by a co-operative Jute Mill is an interesting place to understand how the Jute fibre takes the form of very eco-friendly gunny bags. At sunset, we enjoy a cultural evening on the ship followed by an early dinner.
Overnight on-board MV Mahabaahu Cruise (B, L, D)
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Day 15
Kaziranga National Park/ Sail towards a Deserted Island
Kaziranga National Park
Early morning wakeup call and after a hot cup of tea/coffee, drive out towards the Kaziranga National Park. The most prized inhabitant of Kaziranga is the Greater One-Horned Indian Rhinoceros, but the Park is home to as many as 180 different mammals including wild elephants, tiger, deer, Asiatic wild buffalo and a rich variety of birds. We reach the Kohora Mihimukh range of the National Park and are ready to start our morning adventure; once-in-a-lifetime elephant-backed safari where we search for the elusive rhinoceros, tigers, swamp deer and hog deer and more and a large number of very interesting birds. The park never ceases to surprise us.
After breakfast at a resort in Kaziranga, we drive on to Bagori, the Western Range of Kaziranga and get into the open jeeps for some more wild life adventure and an extensive coverage of this magnificent park.
We return to MV Mahabaahu for a leisurely lunch and a relaxed afternoon. In the evening, we proceed for a traditional Assamese theme dinner.
Overnight on-board MV Mahabaahu Cruise (B, L, D)
- Day 16 A village visit/ Full day sail/Peacock Island
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Day 17
Guwahati / Kolkata flight & departure
Guwahati
We have a relaxed breakfast. Luggage down, as per the flight schedule. With packed lunch, we drive to the Kamakhya Temple (flight time permitting). This Temple is devoted to the eternal feminine the Kama Khya, goddess of desire.
We bid farewell to the land of Kamakhya and drive to the airport to board flight to Kolkata.
Arrive Kolkata and connect your onward international flight.
(B, L)
