THEBRAHMAPUTRA
Guwahati - Silghat - Guwahati
Overview
The mighty Brahmaputra River in Northern India originates high in the Himalayas before flowing through the scenic Assam Valley where UNESCO protected national parks and remote rural communities provide travellers with the most wonderful and authentic expedition. Sailing 7 nights along this vast and changeable river, those coming from elsewhere in India will feel they have been transported to another world as the riverbanks extend beyond view and occasional sandstorms make it seem like we are sailing through a desert. Visiting two national Park we sail lazily through Nameri National Park to spot a vast array of birdlife, whilst during a full day jeep safari at Kaziranga National Park, we encounter vast numbers of protected mammals including the Indian One-Horned rhino and, famously spotted on one expedition but extremely rare, the Bengal Tiger. Assam is also home to a deep and colourful culture which we encounter both on land and onboard with dances and performances from local performers, explained by our experienced Assamese guides. This is truly an adventure unlike any other. From September 2024, Pandaw is happy to announce that our India expeditions will be all-inclusive, with complimentary local beers, spirits, mixers and soft drinks for all guests. Also included free of charge is select house wines during lunch and dinner only. Subject to availability.
Expedition Route
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or call TOLL FREE 1-877-872-6329
represented by Sayang Holidays
7 NIGHTS from USD 3,598 per person
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Your Journey
GUWAHATI
Arrive in Guwahati and transfer to the RV Kindat Pandaw or from the your hotel in the morning. At 12:00pm, we cast off from Pandu Port and begin our journey upstream. Learn about the Brahmaputra River with a talk from our knowledgeable guide. Enjoy a cocktail hour with canapes. We anchor near Mayong for the night.
SAILING
Spend the day sailing against the strong currents of the Brahmaputra River, making your way through the lush Assam countryside. Take advantage of the onboard activities and lectures to learn more about the region's fascinating culture and history.
SILGHAT & VILLAGE WALK
Arrive in Silghat and disembark for a leisurely walk through a typical Assamese village, experiencing the daily life and traditions of the friendly locals. In the evening, enjoy a captivating performance of traditional Assamese folk dances like the Jhumur and Bihu.
KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK
Embark on a thrilling jeep safari through the renowned Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This wildlife haven boasts the world's largest population of the Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros and a high density of Royal Bengal Tigers, though sightings of these elusive creatures are rare. Keep an eye out for other fascinating wildlife like Indian elephants, bison, swamp deer, and a variety of bird species as you traverse the park's diverse landscape.
NAMERI NATIONAL PARK & BAMUNI HILLS
After an early breakfast, embark on an exciting adventure to Nameri National Park, nestled at the foot of the blue hills of Arunachal Pradesh. Take a relaxing float trip down the Jia-Bhoreli River, spotting diverse birdlife and soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Later, journey to Bamuni Hills to marvel at the ancient rock carvings dating back to the 8th century, offering a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the region.
MAYONG VILLAGE
Step ashore in Mayong Village, shrouded in mystique and known for its long-standing association with magic and sorcery. Delve into the intriguing history of this unique village, learning about ancient mantras and their uses in everything from healing to identifying thieves. You might even witness a captivating magic demonstration by a local resident. Later, continue sailing downstream, enjoying the ever-changing scenery and onboard activities.
SUALKUCHI
Rise early for a visit to Sualkuchi, a major center for silk production in Assam. Discover the intricate art of silk-making, from the delicate silkworms spinning their cocoons to the skilled weavers creating exquisite sarees worn by local women.
GUWAHATI
Disembark in Guwahati and bid farewell to the majestic Brahmaputra River as you transfer to the airport or hotel for your onward journey.
Available
Extensions
What's Included
Included in Your Journey
Cruise Price Includes: Transfer to/from Ship, entrance fees, guide services (English language), gratuities to crew, main meals, local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes plus our India complimentary drinks package
Not Included
Price Excludes: International flights, laundry, all visa costs, fuel surcharges (see terms and conditions), all beverages except local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes, tipping for guide and drivers.What to NoteWe suggest to change money at a bank or withdraw cash from an ATM at the international airport before exiting.The weather in Assam can be unpredictable and can be cool of an evening. Between December and February it can be particularly cold and we advise bringing warm weather attire for sailings during these months.The Brahmaputra River is a fast flowing and changeable river. Navigable channels can change overnight meaning amendments to excursions, sailing times and mooring locations can occur with little warning. We will endeavour to fulfil all stated excursions or suitable replacements where possible, but a flexible approach is required for sailing on the Brahmaputra.Comprehensive health insurance, including cancellation insurance is strongly recommended for all Pandaw expeditions.
Joining & Transfers
Embarkation & Disembarkation
Day 1 — Embarkation
Transfer from your hotel or airport in Guwahati to your Pandaw vessel.
Please note flight arrival should be before 10.00am for 12:00pm cast off.
Day 8 — Disembarkation
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to your hotel or Guwahati airport (15km / 30 min). Transfers can be arranged as per your flight details with the latest departure from the ship at 10am.
More Information
Visa Information
Click here for full visa information.
Share Your Experience
"If I had to describe our experience on the recent Brahmaputra cruise in one word, the world would be "brilliant"!"
If I had to describe our experience on the recent Brahmaputra cruise in one word, the world would be "brilliant"!
This being our 5th cruise with Pandaw, we thought we knew what to expect. But our expectations were topped in several ways: The culinary experience, for example, was the best we’ve ever had on a Pandaw cruise. The mastermind behind this is, no doubt, Executive Chef Kunai Shukla. Of course, there was a great team behind him, but his beaming presence throughout the day, be it in a presentation on spices or by being on hand almost around the clock, really was more than one would expect from a chef.
In early posts of yours you mention that a few things in India might be, well, Indian, and that the standards might vary from those in other Pandaw areas. This, in our opinion, was absolutely not the case. In fact, we thought that the whole crew, starting from the ships hands, were interacting with the guests in a very warm and genuine way and the standards of housekeeping were high, without any glitch.
If we just might make one suggestion, specifically for a country like India: That the bedding would be in pure cotton, rather than a blend.
This being your first Brahmaputra cruise, we expected a few "surprises" as to the sightseeing-program, thinking of Borneo… But everything went smoothly. Of course, there were a few minor details and suggestions from our side, which we shared with Arnab, the able purser on the ship. Almost not noticeable to outsiders was the discreet advice administered by Win, who stayed in the background and certainly made sure that Pandaw standards were always met.
Where do we go next with Pandaw? Is there a chance that the Kalimantan project could still take-off?
Best regards
Willem van Niekerk & Hans-Peter Kaufmann
Willem van Niekerk & Hans-Peter Kaufmann have created a picture book of their Brahmaputra expedition which you can click here to view online.
Check Availability & Book Online
or call TOLL FREE 1-877-872-6329
represented by Sayang Holidays
7 NIGHTS from USD 3,598 per person
CHECK AVAILABILITY & BOOK ONLINE