River
Brahmaputra
Brahmaputra River cruises offer a unique and immersive way to experience northeast India, where spiritual traditions, rich wildlife, and dramatic landscapes come together. Flowing through the heart of Assam, the Brahmaputra is one of Asia’s great rivers—broad, powerful, and steeped in history. Cruises navigate a region few travelers see, visiting tea plantations, tribal villages, ancient temples, and national parks where rhinos, elephants, and river dolphins thrive. With the snow-capped Himalayas in the distance and sacred rituals unfolding along the riverbanks, a Brahmaputra cruise blends cultural exploration with serene natural beauty, all from the comfort of a boutique expedition ship.
Guwahati
The largest city in Assam and the main gateway to the Brahmaputra, Guwahati is a vibrant mix of ancient traditions and modern life. It’s home to the revered Kamakhya Temple, one of the most sacred Shakti Peethas in India, perched high above the river. Many cruises begin here, offering guests time to explore colorful bazaars, riverfront ghats, and local tea shops. Guwahati is also the starting point for excursions into Assam’s wildlife and cultural heartlands.
Sualkuchi
Often called the “Manchester of Assam,” Sualkuchi is a traditional silk-weaving village located on the banks of the Brahmaputra. It’s known for producing Assam’s famous golden Muga silk, as well as Eri and Pat silks. Cruise guests can walk through narrow lanes where looms hum with activity, meet artisan families, and shop for exquisite handwoven textiles. The village is a fascinating stop for those interested in sustainable crafts and rural life.
Hajo
This serene town is a symbol of Assam’s spiritual harmony, with sacred sites representing Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam all coexisting peacefully. Key landmarks include the Hayagriva Madhava Temple, revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, and the Poa Mecca mosque. Visitors can experience centuries-old rituals, observe pilgrims in prayer, and learn about the town’s unique interfaith legacy.
Tezpur
Tezpur is a scenic and historically significant riverside town with roots in ancient mythology and literature. Known as the “City of Eternal Romance,” it features landscaped parks, old temples, colonial buildings, and scenic river views. The ruins of Da Parbatia and the Agnigarh hill fort offer glimpses into the area’s rich past. Tezpur is often a favorite for those seeking a quiet, cultured stop along the cruise.
Kaziranga National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of India’s top wildlife reserves, Kaziranga is best known for its population of the one-horned rhinoceros. It’s also home to elephants, tigers, wild buffalo, and over 500 bird species. Most cruise itineraries include a jeep or elephant safari into the park, offering a dramatic contrast to the river’s calm and a highlight for nature lovers. The park’s floodplains and grasslands are part of the larger Brahmaputra ecosystem.
Majuli Island
One of the world’s largest inhabited river islands, Majuli is a cultural jewel nestled in the middle of the Brahmaputra. It is the spiritual center of Assamese Vaishnavite culture, dotted with centuries-old monasteries called satras. Here, guests can meet monks, witness traditional dances and mask-making, and learn about a lifestyle deeply rooted in art, nature, and simplicity. Majuli offers an authentic connection to Assam’s indigenous and spiritual heritage.
Dhansiri Mukh
This peaceful riverside village represents the rural charm of Assam, far from the bustle of urban life. A stop here offers cruise guests a chance to interact with local families, walk through rice paddies and small farms, and observe traditional fishing practices. It’s a great opportunity to experience the quiet rhythm of life along the Brahmaputra.
Neamati Ghat (near Jorhat)
Often used as a disembarkation point, Neamati Ghat lies close to the tea capital of Assam—Jorhat. From here, guests can visit historic tea plantations, British colonial-era bungalows, and the Tocklai Tea Research Institute. The region is ideal for learning about the legacy of Assam tea and experiencing the refined hospitality of tea estate life.