Cruising The Brahmaputra And Rhinos

• Day 1: Arrive Kolkata

  On your arrival at the Kolkata airport, meet your tour representative and get assisted transfer to the hotel with check-in formalities. Kolkata: The “City of Joy” Kolkata is perhaps East India’s one of the most popular cities. Cultural, historic and charming, it is a city of contrasts and myriad charms. Formerly the capital of British India before Delhi, the city developed from a fishing village to become one of the largest cities in the world. Symbolizing creativity and vibrancy, the city has lovingly adapted to the modern trends and techniques of the world but has not shed the leisurely lifestyle and the calm of its heydays. While Calcutta is a city of enduring charm, it is also a city that evokes extreme emotions. So be ready to experience something totally different. The city is where Mother Teresa worked tirelessly for the poor and homeless and the city where Rabindra Nath Tagore wrote his famous books and to date has the olden charm intact. Enjoy the comforts of your hotel. Rest of the day is at your own leisure. Overnight stay in Kolkata.

• Day 2: In Kolkata

  After breakfast at the hotel, be met by your tour guide who will accompany you on a full day sightseeing tour of Kolkata. The places to visit include visit include: The Jain Temple: Also known as the "Jewel Box Temple of Calcutta", this temple complex dedicated to four Jain Teerthankaras. The beautiful architecture consists of intricately carved marbles and glass work and has a charismatic vibe. Kumartuli: A traditional potter’s village, Kumartuli is known for its fine craftsmen making idols and other sculptures. The life-like creations make for an interesting sight, especially the various deities of Indian mythology. College Street: One of Asia's largest book market, College Street is known for the city’s oldest premier educational institutions. Walk and explore the book hub and discover the many gems of literature hidden here. A cup of coffee at the famous "Coffee Shop" is also a must try. Kali Temple: A great pilgrimage center, situated at Kalighat the Hindu temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali. The beautiful architecture, the spiritual setting and the rich Indian culture marks the temple as one of the best sights of Kolkata. Victoria Memorial: One of the famous landmarks of Kolkata, the white-marble monument is an excellent architectural gem in Indo-Saracenic revivalist style. Raj Bhawan: The Residence of the Governor, Raj Bahwan is an outstanding heritage monument. The neoclassical style with distinct Baroque overtones dates back to the colonial rule and is now a recognized tourist attraction. Howrah Bridge: The icon of Kolkata, Howrah Bridge is a cantilever bridge, the third Largest Bridge in the World. The brindge over the soothing flowing River Ganges is a sight to awe it. Eden Gardens: Don’t’ go by its name, Eden Gardens is one of the most popular cricket grounds in the world. A mecca of cricket lovers, it has made its name with amazing Cricket matches. Overnight in Kolkata.

• Day 3: Fly Kolkata – Guwahati & Board ABN Cruise – Brahmaputra Taster

  After breakfast at the hotel, check out of the hotel. Get assisted transfer to airport to board the flight to Guwahati. On arrival in Guwahati, get assisted with transfer to your cruise. ABN Cruise- Brahmaputra Taster: River cruises in India present an exciting experience of the river ecology. The ABN Cruise-Brahampautra Taster is a lavish journey that starts and concludes in Guwahati. Painiting a wonderful picture of the rustic rural India, the cruise has various stops on its journey that allows a glimpse of the colorful heritage and culture. Embark on your cruise close to the great Saraighat Bridge. Sailing down the Brahmaputra River, visit the village of Vijaynagar. Overnight stay onboard cruise.

• Day 4: Onboard ABN Cruise – Brahmaputra Taster

  Sail upstream to the scenic town of Sualkuchi that vibrates with the loud clatter of looms. Visit silk-weaving workshops on foot and see the whole process of silk manufacture, from cocoon and spinning to dyeing and hand-weaving. The town is known for its exquisite mekhela chadars (a two-piece sari, the traditional attire of Assamese women). Next, proceed with a drive to Hajo. It is a sacred shrine to Hindus, Muslims and Buddhists. Also visit a hill-top Muslim shrine with breathtaking panoramic views of the rural landscape. Also, visit a beautiful Hindu temple with its frieze of elephants; and a sacred tank full of great carp, catfish and turtles. Reboard the ship and cruise stay down Saraighat bridge. Overnight stay onboard cruise.

• Day 5: Onboard ABN Cruise - Brahmaputra Taster

  Today, cruise upstream and disembark at Pandu docks for a short sightseeing tour of the city of Guwahati. Drive up Nilachal Hill to pray at the holy Kamakhya temple. Pay a visit the poignant Commonwealth War Graves cemetery. The exciting highlight of the day is the crossing by the country boat to the mid-stream Peacock Island known for its population of Golden Langurs. Reboard and cruise pass Kurua in the north bank. Overnight stay onboard cruise.

• Day 6: Onboard ABN Cruise - Brahmaputra Taster

  The day on the cruise includes an upstream visit to Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. Sail past jungle-covered hills, into the Mayong River to arrive to the wildlife sanctuary. The park has a dense population of the Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros. Jeep safari around the park allows the chance to take a look at the fascinating beasts. Return to the ship in the afternoon. Cruise to a riverside village, which you can also explore on foot. Later, sail down the Brahmaputra River and enjoy the view of the picturesque Aswaklanta Temple. Overnight stay onboard cruise.

• Day 7: ABN Cruise – Kaziranga (250 kms/ 05 hrs)

  Cruise down to Saraighat Bridge. Disembark after breakfast and drive to Kaziranga. Kaziranga National Park: Nestled in the lush wilderness of the foothills of the North East Himalayas, Kaziranga National Park is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India. Spread over floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, forests, wetlands and grasslands, it is a popular wildlife sanctuary in India. It is home to tigers, elephants, river dolphins, rare migratory birds, the world’s largest population of Indian one-horned rhinoceroses and many more species of the animal kingdom. Note: Kaziranga National Park remains open from 01st Nov to 30th April every year. Dinner and overnight at the lodge/resort.

• Day 8: In Kaziranga

  Morning & Afternoon game rides into Kaziranga National Park. Dinner and overnight at the lodge/resort in Kaziranga.

• Day 9: In Kaziranga

  Morning & Afternoon game rides into Kaziranga National Park. Dinner and overnight at the lodge/resort in Kaziranga.

• Day 10: Drive Kaziranga – Guwahati (250 kms/ 05 hrs) & Fly to Kolkata

  Morning game ride into Kaziranga National Park. Later, transfer to Guwahati airport in time to board your flight for Kolkata. Get assisted transfer on arrival at Kolkata airport to the hotel. Overnight stay in Kolkata.

• Day 11: Depart Kolkata

  Start the day with breakfast. Rest of the day is at your own leisure. Complete check-in formalities and get assisted timely transfer to Kolkata airport to board flight for onward destination.

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