The Brahmaputra River & Darjeeling

Depart for Mumbai from London Heathrow, Birmingham or Manchester with Emirates.

Our flights to Mumbai operate via Dubai. Upon arrival, our waiting coach will transfer us to the Trident Nariman Point, for our first two nights in India. Later in the day, we’ll join our Tour Manager and fellow travellers to learn more of our forthcoming adventure together.

This morning, get ready to embark on a five-senses tour of Mumbai to uncover the many things this captivating city has to offer. This immersive experience pays homage to Mumbai’s rich history and bustling streets, providing engaging experiences throughout the day that are a true treat for the senses. Later this afternoon, we return to the hotel for an evening at leisure.

This morning, after breakfast, we depart in time for our flight to Bagdogra, and transfer to Darjeeling. Situated in West Bengal, Darjeeling is a captivating hill station known for its scenic beauty, pleasant climate, and a rich cultural heritage. Sitting at an altitude of around 2,000 metres, in the Lesser Himalayas, it offers panoramic vistas of lush tea plantations, rolling hills and towering Eastern Himalayan peaks. Our hotel for the next three nights is the prestigious Elgin Hotel. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel as we prepare for a day of sightseeing tomorrow.

After breakfast, our day begins with a Toy Train ride to Ghoom Monastery, where we shall explore the Tibetan Buddhist creation that dates back to 1850. One of the monastery’s most striking features is the 15-foot-tall statue of the Maitreya Buddha, also known as the Buddha of the Future. Later, we head for Glenburn Tea Estate, a local tea plantation, founded in 1859, and enjoy lunch and an introduction to the art of tea tasting.

Tour Highlight
Embrace the magic of early morning as we journey to Tiger Hill, an enchanting vantage point, to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the Himalayan Range, including the majestic peaks of Kanchendzonga and even Mount Everest, if the weather permits. As the sun begins to rise, watch in awe as the colours transform, casting a golden hue upon the entire Himalayan panorama. We can’t think of a better way to start the day. After breakfast, the morning unfolds with a visit to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park. Discover the world of mountaineering and gain insights into the flora and fauna of the region. The afternoon is free to spend as you please, enjoying the relaxing surroundings of the hotel, or if you prefer, take an optional street-food walking tour. The Go for Gastronomy experience explores the multicuisine heritage of Darjeeling, allowing us to sample the very best local delicacies.

Returning to Bagdogra, we fly to the city of Kolkata. Formerly known as Calcutta, Kolkata is a vibrant and culturally rich city situated in the eastern part of India. It serves as the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal and holds a special place in the country’s history and heritage. Kolkata offers a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern dynamism. Upon arrival we shall transfer to the prestigious Oberoi Grand Hotel.

After breakfast, prepare for a day of exploration taking in Kolkata’s most iconic sights and monuments. Our journey takes us through Dalhousie Square, where we pass by significant colonial landmarks including Raj Bhavan, St. John’s Church, the High Court, General Post Office, Town Hall, and the Writer’s Building. Take in the vibrant atmosphere of the Flower Market and embark on a delightful tram ride, an authentic local experience that allows us to connect with the heart of the city. Our adventure continues with a visit to the illustrious Victoria Memorial Hall, a tribute to the British Empress Queen Victoria. We’ll also pay a visit to Mother Teresa House and enjoy a serene sunset cruise along the River Hooghly, offering an exceptional insight into Kolkata’s waterfront. This evening after dinner, enjoy a G&T at the hotel bar and reminisce about today’s adventures with your fellow travellers.

This morning, we head for the airport in plenty of time for our flight to Jorhat. Upon arrival, we transfer to Silghat, where we join a magnificent river cruise aboard the ABN Sukapha. This small yet impressive vessel was designed to expertly navigate the mighty waters of the Brahmaputra River. With just 12 cabins accommodating 24 guests, the ABN Sukapha has been exclusively chartered by Distant Journeys for the next seven nights. Retreat to your cabin and take in the views before dinner onboard.

Tour Highlight
Following breakfast, embark on a journey to Kaziranga’s Central Range for a captivating open jeep safari. Encompassing an expansive area of about 430 square km, the Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site sheltering the world’s largest population of the Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros as well as the Indian Wild Water Buffalo. Remarkably, it boasts the highest number of Bengal tigers, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Cameras at the ready! The park’s lush marshlands and thickets of elephant grass provide a haven for diverse species, including Indian elephants, Indian bison, swamp deer, and Capped langurs.

Renowned for its rich biodiversity, the park often draws parallels to Africa’s Serengeti due to its profusion of wildlife and avian species, making it a haven for birdwatchers too. Among its feathered inhabitants are the Oriental honey buzzard, Black shouldered kite, White-tailed eagle and Himalayan griffon. As the day concludes, we rejoin our cruise, navigating upstream along the right bank of Kaziranga National Park to anchor for the night in Vishwanath.

Today offers an opportunity to explore Vishnath, celebrated for its Shiva temple from the Ahom period. Later, reboard as we resume our journey down the river. Keep an eye out for wild elephants and buffalos along the river banks, and perhaps a tiger if we’re lucky! As the day unfolds, our cruise provides a prime opportunity to spot the endangered Gangetic dolphin and gain an insight into the daily life of the riverside communities we pass by. As evening approaches, we reach our destination, Dhansiri Mukh.

Embark on an open jeep safari this morning, to discover the lesser-explored Eastern Range of Kaziranga. This area boasts expansive grasslands which are highly favoured by rhinos, and we may even have the chance to spot the elusive Bengal florican (also known as the Bengal bustard). Afterwards, we make our way back to the boat to resume our river cruise aboard ABN Sukapha. This afternoon, perhaps spoil yourself with a treatment in the onboard spa – alternatively simply take in the ever-changing vistas as we travel upstream.

Today provides another opportunity to enjoy the vibrant and picturesque riverbank as we continue our cruise upstream. Observe the local scenery and wildlife with your fellow travellers, or sit back with a good book and relax. There will be an opportunity to stretch our legs as we take a leisurely stroll through a nearby bankside village, providing a glimpse into the daily life in rural India and allowing us to connect with the locals and understand the culture.

Tour Highlight
We arrive at Majuli Island in time for breakfast. This island, one of the largest in the world formed by rivers, offers a fascinating glimpse into Assamese culture. Despite its frequent appearances in photographs, it remains a lesser-explored gem. Majuli Island is known for its significance in the peaceful neo-Vaishnavism religion, and its elegant island satras, each catering to different communities. Simplicity thrives in Majuli and worship is offered through the harmony of gayan-bayan (songs and musical instruments), along with readings. Our day includes a visit to the Auniati Monastery, featuring an eclectic museum, followed by a dance performance at Kamalabari Monastery. Later, we’ll cruise across to Neamati Ghat on the opposite bank. This afternoon, an opportunity awaits to visit another nearby village, to meet the locals and learn about their daily routines.

Today’s itinerary includes a visit to a tea estate in Jorhat, allowing us to understand the fascinating journey from tea bush to cup. Later, we drive to Sibsagar, once the capital of the Ahom kings of Assam. Originally of Shan origin but embracing Hinduism, the Ahoms ruled Assam for nearly 700 years until the 1820s. Their cultural and architectural legacy forms a captivating fusion of Indian and Southeast Asian influences.

We’ll encounter temples featuring stupa-like profiles and palaces showcasing distinct forms. Notably, the temple water tank stands as an engineering marvel, being recognised as the world’s largest hand-excavated reservoir. Later, we return to our river cruise in Neamati Ghat, conveniently located close to Jorhat.

After breakfast this morning, we disembark ABN Sukapha for the final time with memories to cherish for a lifetime. Our transfer awaits to Jorhat Airport, where we will board our flight to Kolkata. Upon arrival in Kolkata, we will transfer to the fabulous Taj City Centre New Town Hotel for a farewell dinner and a relaxing overnight stay.

Our Indian adventure has come to an end, but the memories made in Darjeeling, Assam and on the banks of the Brahmaputra River will remain forever. Our Emirates flights depart for the UK via Dubai this morning, arriving in the UK in the evening.