Guwahati – Rhinos & More
Duration: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Route: Guwahati – Khirakata – Tullugaon – Silghat – Tezpur – Nameri National Park – Kaziranga National Park
Embark on a scenic 7-night river cruise starting from Guwahati and ending at Silghat, near Tezpur and the iconic Kaziranga National Park. This unforgettable journey through the heart of Assam offers a rich blend of cultural exploration, spiritual insight, and wildlife encounters.
Cruise past remote riverine villages and vibrant towns, experiencing the religious, cultural, and economic life of Assam’s people. A highlight of the journey is your visit to Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for the One-Horned Rhinoceros and Royal Bengal Tiger. Enjoy opportunities for jeep safaris and wildlife spotting, along with the serene beauty of the Brahmaputra River.
Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati – Cruise Begins
Arrive at Guwahati Airport and transfer to your river cruise at Pandu Port. Enjoy a welcome lunch while sailing downstream to Sualkuchi, the silk capital of Assam. Take a guided walk through the town to witness Assamese silk weaving—from spinning and dyeing to hand-weaving of traditional mekhela chadars. Dock near the iconic Saraighat Bridge for the night.
Day 2: Kamakhya Temple & Guwahati Sights
Visit the sacred Kamakhya Temple on Nilachal Hill, an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to the Mother Goddess. Stroll around its exterior and learn about its cultural significance. Visit the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery before returning to the vessel. Sail past Kurua village on the scenic north bank of the Brahmaputra.
Day 3: Cruise & Village Visit
Spend the morning cruising upstream. Stop at a charming riverside village surrounded by lush vegetable fields. Enjoy peaceful views of the Brahmaputra River, jungle-covered hills, and vibrant riverbank life. In the evening, attend an Indian cooking demonstration on board.
Day 4: Temple Ruins & Local Culture in Tezpur
Cruise to Tezpur, where you’ll visit the 6th-century Da Parbatia temple ruins, known for its intricately carved portal. Ride a cycle rickshaw to Cole Park, home to ancient stone relics. Explore the local market before rejoining the ship at the waterfront.
Day 5: Nameri National Park Adventure
After an early breakfast, drive to Nameri National Park at the foothills of Arunachal Pradesh. Take a peaceful rafting expedition down the Jia-Bhoreli River, ideal for birdwatching (look for Great Hornbills and possibly wild elephants). After lunch and a village walk, return to the ship and cruise toward Silghat, crossing under Assam’s longest river bridge.
Day 6: Jeep Safaris in Kaziranga National Park
Embark on a morning jeep safari in the Central Range of Kaziranga National Park, followed by lunch at the renowned Diphlu River Lodge. In the afternoon, explore the lesser-visited Burapahar Range. Kaziranga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the One-Horned Rhinoceros, Royal Bengal Tiger, wild elephants, swamp deer, and over 500 bird species.
Day 7: Tea Gardens & Safari in Bagori Range
Visit a traditional Assamese tea estate and the vibrant Uloni weekly market. Later in the day, take a thrilling jeep safari in the Bagori (Western) Range of Kaziranga, renowned for its lush terrain and high wildlife visibility.
Day 8: Departure from Assam
After breakfast, bid farewell to your cruise team. Depart by road to Guwahati Airport (4 hrs), or opt for alternate transfers to Tezpur Airport (40 mins) or Jorhat Airport (2.5 hrs), concluding your immersive Assam and Kaziranga experience.
Please note that Kaziranga National Park, known for its low-lying grasslands, may become inaccessible during periods of high river levels or flooding, particularly during the monsoon season. Wildlife safaris and park access are subject to weather and water conditions.
Additionally, the cruise itinerary and all driving durations mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on seasonal river levels, weather patterns, and road conditions. We recommend planning travel between November and April for the most reliable experience.