Luxury river cruise in Brahmaputra river of Assam has become a talk of the town recently. Cruising on a river as big as the Brahmaputra seems appealing considering the topography of region, for the river travasses blue hills of upper Assam, cutting through Kaziranga national Park and meandering sand bars, finally falls into Bay of Bengal.
Overview of the Brahmaputra River
The Brahmaputra River, often referred to as the lifeline of Assam, meanders through the diverse landscapes of this northeastern Indian state, offering a picturesque journey like no other. Its beauty unfolds as it flows near Majuli Island, the world’s largest river island, where serene waters and lush greenery create a tranquil environment that feels like a slice of paradise. Further downstream, it brushes past the iconic Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As it continues its course, the Brahmaputra blesses the sandbars of lower Assam, where its broad channel and numerous tributaries originating from the Himalayan region create a breathtaking mosaic of landscapes. The river, with its sheer grandeur and diverse surroundings, is undeniably an essential part of Assam’s natural and cultural heritage, cherished by the people of this beautiful state.
Overview of River Cruise in Brahmaputra River
The Brahmaputra River, deeply intertwined with Assam’s history, has served as a vital transportation artery for centuries, dating back to the Ahom dynasty. Traveling along its meandering course is not just a means of getting from one place to another but an enchanting journey that unveils the unparalleled natural beauty of Assam. As the river cuts through the heart of the state, it provides access to numerous tourist destinations, each offering a unique and captivating experience.
Starting from the historic city of Guwahati, perched on the river’s banks, you can explore ancient temples like Kamakhya and Umananda, immersing yourself in Assam’s rich cultural heritage. Continuing your river journey, you’ll encounter the world-famous Kaziranga National Park. Moving upstream, the river guides you to the mystical Majuli Island, a serene haven where vibrant Vaishnavite culture and natural beauty harmoniously coexist.
Further up, the Brahmaputra opens up opportunities to explore tea gardens and learn about Assam’s tea culture in places like Jorhat and Dibrugarh. As you travel along, the river takes you to Sibsagar, where you can explore the remnants of the Ahom dynasty, including temples, palaces, and a rich history that dates back several centuries.
The journey continues as the Brahmaputra widens, revealing the charming river islands and sandbars of lower Assam. These serene and untouched natural landscapes are perfect for those seeking tranquility and a closer connection with nature.
Planning Your River Cruise in Brahmaputra
Travelers wanting to river cruise in Brahmaputra, now have the choice between two cruise services, MV Rudra Singha and Charaidew – II, both operated by Assam Bengal Navigation. Choice between them will depend on which route you want to explore. While Charaidew- II offers one route with fixed itinerary, MV Rudra Singha offers five different routes with flexible itinerary.
River Cruise in Brahmaputra in Charaidew II
The ABN Charaidew II boasts a length of 44.50 meters and a breadth of 11.00 meters, propelled by 2 engines. Its unique design features an extra-shallow draught and a lower profile compared to conventional vessels, enabling it to cruise at higher speeds. This vessel offers a total of 18 cabins, comprising 2 spacious deluxe cabins (350 sq. feet) and 12 generous twin/double cabins (240 sq. feet) on the upper deck. Additionally, 4 cabins with queen-size beds (170 sq. feet) can be found on the main deck, and no extra supplements are charged for these.
The decor of the ABN Charaidew II exudes a sense of Assamese heritage, infused with touches of colonial elegance, beautifully presented through traditional Assamese designs adorning hand-woven cotton fabrics. All standard cabins on this vessel feature French balconies, while the two deluxe cabins offer private balconies for added comfort and relaxation during the river cruise in Brahmaputra.
Onboard, passengers can enjoy a comfortable saloon and bar, a welcoming dining room, a spacious open sundeck, a gym, and a small spa offering a wide array of rejuvenating treatments.
The river cruise in Brahmaputra with Charaidew II is 8-day long trip and It starts from city of Guwahati. The total cost of this trip is approximately 2,oo,ooo INR. Here is the detailed itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati
- Arrive at Guwahati airport.
- Begin your adventure with a short sightseeing tour of the city.
- Drive up Nilachal Hill to visit the holy Kamakhya temple, known for its unique tantric rites and animal sacrifices (exterior exploration recommended for the squeamish).
- Pay respects at the poignant Commonwealth War Graves cemetery.
- Board the river ship Charaidew II.
- Settle into your accommodations and explore the ship.
- Captain sets sail for an hour and a half cruise upstream to Kurua on the north bank.
- Enjoy dinner onboard.
- Overnight on the river ship.
Day 2: River Cruise in Brahmaputra
- Spend the day cruising upstream, with jungle-covered hills on both sides.
- Navigate against strong currents as you take in the picturesque surroundings.
- Pause to visit the north bank village of Khirakata, known for its lush green fields of vegetables and corn.
- Dinner onboard.
- Overnight on the river ship.
Day 3: Into the Wilderness
- Leave the hills behind and experience the wilderness, with sandbanks resembling icebergs on either side.
- Visit Tullugaon, a bankside village with extensive sugarcane plantations.
- Observe weavers at work in their homes and the production of jaggery from sugarcane juice.
- Moor for the night in a lunar landscape of sand islands, with a possible view of the Himalayas in the distance.
- Dinner onboard.
- Overnight on the river ship.
Day 4: Tezpur Exploration
- Cruise to Tezpur.
- After lunch, visit the 6th-century Da Parbatia temple ruins with its beautifully carved portal.
- Explore the town by cycle rickshaw, stopping at Cole Park, showcasing medieval stone carvings saved from sites across the region.
- Pass the bungalow once inhabited by Alexander Bruce, a tea industry pioneer.
- Dinner onboard.
- Overnight on the river ship.
Day 5: Nameri National Park
- Early breakfast, followed by a two-hour drive to Nameri National Park at the foot of the blue hills of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Take a two-hour float trip down the Jia-Bhoreli River through the park, offering excellent bird-watching opportunities and the chance to spot wild elephants.
- Enjoy lunch.
- Take a village walk before returning to the ship.
- Dinner onboard.
- Overnight on the river ship.
Day 6: Kaziranga National Park – Western Range
- Continue upstream, passing beneath a vast new bridge.
- Moor at Steemer Ghat, a lovely beach backed by jungle-covered hills.
- Drive to Kaziranga’s Western Range for a jeep safari and an observation tower experience.
- Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its remarkable biodiversity and is home to the Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros, Indian Wild Water Buffalo, and Royal Bengal Tigers.
- Return to the ship.
- Dinner onboard.
- Overnight on the river ship.
Day 7: Kaziranga National Park – Central and Burapahar Range
- Drive to Kaziranga’s Central Range for a morning jeep safari.
- After lunch, embark on another jeep safari in the little-visited Burapahar Range.
- Return to the river ship.
- Dinner onboard.
- Overnight on the river ship.
Day 8: Return to Departure Point
- Rise early for a four-hour drive back to Guwahati airport.
- Alternatively, arrange a 40-minute transfer to Tezpur airport or a 2 ½ hour transfer to Jorhat airport. End of trip.
River Cruise in Brahmaputra in MV Rudra Singha
Aboard the M.V. Rudra Singha on the Brahmaputra River, relish a premium wooden houseboat experience with AC bedroom, living area, and top-deck for scenic views. Ideal for couples and young children, personalized services, regional cuisine, and Wi-Fi enhance your journey. Thoughtful decor features Northeast Indian handlooms and local craftsmanship. Complimentary bicycles offer onshore exploration, and customizable itineraries cater to your interests, with various activities available based on your chosen cruise.Cruise services on MV Rudra Singha is handled by ‘Lahe Life’- a company under ABN. While Charaidew II is an expensive affair, MV Rudra Singha offers flexibility along with cheaper prices. At present, MV Rudra Singha is being operated on four routes. For any kind of customized river cruise in Brahmaputra, you can contact them in advance.
Route 1: Kaziranga National Park – Silghat – Majuli
DAYS 1 & 2: Arrival and Exploring Kaziranga National Park
- Arrive at either Jorhat or Guwahati airport.
- Drive approximately 2.5 hours (from Jorhat) or 4.5 hours (from Guwahati) to Diphlu River Lodge, located in the stunning surroundings of Kaziranga National Park.
- Enjoy dinner and spend your first night at the lodge.
- The next day, embark on at least two safaris to explore the wildlife and natural beauty of Kaziranga National Park.
- Return to the lodge for dinner and another peaceful night’s stay.
DAYS 3 & 4: Wildlife Adventures in Kaziranga
- Begin your day with a walking safari or a jeep safari within the heart of Kaziranga National Park.
- After lunch, set off on an afternoon jeep safari to continue your wildlife explorations.
- Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight accommodations.
- On the following morning, check out of the lodge and depart for Silghat, where your exclusive river cruise experience begins.
- Start sailing upstream on your comfortable houseboat, and your journey takes you to Dhansiri Mukh. Enjoy a delectable dinner on board and relax on the sundeck, soaking in the scenic beauty.
- Spend the night aboard M.V. Rudra Singha.
DAYS 5 TO 7: River Cruise in Brahmaputra and Majuli Island Exploration
- Spend another day sailing upstream, taking in the serene river landscape.
- If time permits, stop at a local riverside village to gain insight into Assamese rural life.
- Enjoy dinner and spend the night on board M.V. Rudra Singha.
- Arrive at Majuli the following morning, the world’s largest river island.
- Explore the Hindu Vaishnavite Monastery of Auniati Satra and visit the local Mishing villages.
- Cruise across to Neamati Ghat on the opposite bank.
- Have dinner and spend the night on board M.V. Rudra Singha.
- On the next morning, disembark from the cruise and drive for 45-60 minutes to Jorhat airport for your onward journey.
Route 2: Guwahati – Vijaynagar – Sualkuchi – Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary – Guwahati
Day 1: Exploring Peacock Island and Aswaklanta Temple
- Arrive at Uzanbazar Ghat in Guwahati by 9 am and board the M.V. Rudra Singha.
- Set sail towards Peacock Island, one of the world’s tiniest inhabited river islands.
- Explore the Umananda Temple on the island, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Parvati. Encounter the rare Golden Langurs, exclusive to Assam’s forests bordering Bhutan.
- Continue sailing to Aswaklanta Temple, an 18th-century hilltop shrine, and explore its surroundings.
- Visit the nearby Hindu Vaishnavite Monastery of Auniati Satra.
- Return to the boat for a delicious lunch prepared by your private chef.
- Sail downstream, anchoring near the village of Vijaynagar. Explore the charming Assamese town on mountain bikes and return to the boat in the evening.
- Enjoy dinner and spend the night on the boat.
Day 2: Sualkuchi Silk Town and Riverside Exploration
- Sail upstream in the morning to Sualkuchi, known for silk weaving.
- Explore the town on mountain bikes and witness the entire silk production process, from cocoon to spinning, dyeing, and hand-weaving exquisite saris (mekhela chador).
- Re-board the boat and sail upstream to Guwahati up to Uzanbazar Ghat.
- Disembark and take a short walk along the serene riverfront or explore the local market and emporium.
- Savor lunch at a restaurant before continuing upstream to Ganesh Pahar.
- Enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation on the boat.
Day 3: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary and Farewell Evening
- After breakfast, arrive at Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Ride your mountain bike to the park’s entry point.
- Join a thrilling jeep safari in this small park, known for its substantial population of one-horned rhinoceros.
- Return to the boat for lunch and relax on the sundeck.
- As evening descends, stop near the park for a specially prepared farewell dinner on board, complemented by complimentary wine.
Day 4: Return to Guwahati
- In the morning, set sail downstream to Guwahati.
- Disembark near Uzanbazar Ghat after breakfast.
Route 4: Guwahati – Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary – Guwahati
Day 1: Riverside Adventure
- Arrive at Uzanbazar Ghat in Guwahati at 9 am to commence your private cruise aboard M.V. Rudra Singha.
- Start your journey of river cruise in Brahmaputra by sailing upstream towards Aswaklanta Ghat.
- Disembark and embark on a mountain bike adventure through a quaint rural town to visit the Doul Govinda Temple, a significant religious site for Assamese Hindus.
- After exploring the temple, continue to a riverside village and ride past lush paddy fields and the kitchen gardens of local families.
- Later, bike up to Kuruaghat, where your boat awaits with lunch prepared by your private chef.
- Begin cruising upstream towards Chandrapur, taking in the picturesque surroundings from the sundeck, and enjoy the sunset with tea, coffee, and snacks.
- In the evening, delight in a specially prepared welcome dinner on board, accompanied by complimentary wine.
- Overnight on the boat.
Day 2: Wildlife Expedition
- This morning, set sail upstream, passing through jungle-covered hills, and turn into the Mayong River.
- Embark on a mountain bike excursion to reach Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its substantial population of one-horned rhinoceros. Embark on a jeep safari within the sanctuary, and with some luck, spot these incredible armored creatures.
- Return to the boat for a well-deserved lunch.
- Sail downstream to Guwahati and disembark near Uzanbazar Ghat
Route 4: Single Day River Cruise in Brahmaputra (Guwahati City)
- Embark M.V. Rudra Singha at 9 am at Uzanbazar Ghat in Guwahati.
- Set sail towards Peacock Island, one of the world’s smallest inhabited river islands, and explore the Umananda Temple, a shrine dedicated to Shiva and Parvati. The island is also home to the rare Golden Langurs, found only in the forests of Assam bordering Bhutan.
- After Peacock Island, re-board the boat and continue towards Aswaklanta Temple. This early 18th-century temple stands atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city. Explore the temple on foot and take a short walk to visit the nearby Hindu Vaishnavite monastery of Auniati.
- Return to the boat for a delicious lunch prepared by your private chef.
- Spend the remainder of the day relaxing on the sundeck, savoring the sunset with a cup of tea or coffee and cookies.
- Return to Uzanbazar Ghat and disembark.
In conclusion, a river cruise in Brahmaputra in Assam is not merely a mode of transport; it’s a passage through the heart of this captivating state. It allows you to witness the natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance of Assam, all while floating on the lifeline of the region, the majestic Brahmaputra River.
If you are looking for single day river cruise in Guwahati, you can visit this blog.
