A Rare Look at Two Extraordinary Destinations ![](/sites/default/files/2025-06/1%20Meals%20%28red%29_1.png) 54 Meals ![](/sites/default/files/2025-06/3%20CT%20Ratings%20%28red%29_1.png) CT Rating 4/5 - Very Challenging ![](/sites/default/files/2025-06/4%20Leader%20%28red%29.png) Led by Jon Gurr **Sacred Rivers and Mountain Kingdoms** Cruise the mighty Brahmaputra, one of the few navigable rivers sourced from the Himalayas, as you journey through Assam’s lush tea estates, vibrant villages, and UNESCO-listed Kaziranga, home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinos. Witness centuries-old dance rituals on Majuli, the world’s largest river island. Then, ascend to Bhutan, where a deep commitment to cultural heritage and community well-being shapes everyday life. Hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest, join locals at a lively Himalayan festival and find quiet beauty in forested valleys laced with prayer flags and riverside dzongs. **This journey is now available on request.** .button { display: inline-block; padding: 10px 20px; margin: 5px; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; border-radius: 6px; background-color: gray; /* default color */ color: white; } .button:hover { opacity: 0.9; } [Submit Booking Request](mailto:sharper@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Assam%20and%20Bhutan%20%202026%E2%80%93ON%20REQUEST&body=Dear%20Craig%20Travel%20team%2C%0A%0AI%20would%20like%20to%20submit%20an%20online%20booking%20request%20for%20the%20**Assam%20and%20Bhutan%20journey**%20departing%20in%20**November%202026.**%0A%0AI%20understand%20that%20this%20departure%20is%20not%20currently%20available%20for%20immediate%20confirmation%20and%20that%20availability%20must%20be%20requested%20with%20your%20local%20suppliers%2Fground%20partners.%20I%20realize%20it%20can%20take%20approximately%20**5%E2%80%937%20business%20days**%20%28sometimes%20longer%29%20to%20receive%20confirmation%20or%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.%0A%0AI%20give%20permission%20for%20a%20sales%20agent%20to%20contact%20me%20by%20phone%20or%20email%20to%20discuss%20availability%2C%20pricing%2C%20accommodation%2C%20any%20waitlist%20possibilities%2C%20or%20alternative%20departures%2Foptions%20if%20this%20journey%20cannot%20be%20confirmed.%0A%0A**My%20contact%20details%3A**%0A%0AFirst%20name%3A%0ALast%20name%3A%0APhone%20number%3A%0AEmail%20address%3A%0A%0APlease%20indicate%20whether%20you%20would%20like%20a%20double%2Ftwin%20accommodation%20or%20a%20single%20room%20%28single%20supplement%20applies%29.%0A%0A) [Download Brochure](https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/HHUsZ28/AssamBhutanNov2026) [![Map_Assam_Bhutan](/sites/default/files/2025-06/Assam%2C%20Bhutan%202026.jpg)](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-06/Assam%2C%20Bhutan%202026.jpg) ### Tour Highlights - Immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and vibrant life of Kolkata with in-depth sightseeing - Witness local life on a scenic cruise along the Brahmaputra River in Assam - Explore UNESCO-listed Kaziranga National Park, home to one-horned rhinos, Asiatic elephants, wild water buffalo, Bengal tigers, swamp deer and more - Experience vibrant Bhutanese culture at the unique Druk Wangyal Festival - Visit historic dzongs and sacred monasteries in Paro, Punakha, Gangtey and Thimphu - Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s iconic cliffside sanctuary - Tour a tea estate with tasting, then visit a jute mill and meet village weavers preserving local craft ### Inclusive Features - Return economy group airfare from Canada to Kolkata, plus domestic flights in India and Bhutan - Accommodations in selected hotels as indicated - 7-night Brahmaputra cruise on the mv Mahabaahu - All excursions from the riverboat as noted - 54 meals included as shown in the itinerary (19 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 18 dinners) - Services of your Canadian journey leaders, plus professional local guides in India and Bhutan - All gratuities, surcharges, taxes and fees for inclusions - India/Bhutan visa fees for Canadian passport holders - Airport transfers in Canada or equivalent value with purchase of group airfare ### Itinerary Overview Full View DEPART CANADA November 26, 2026 Tour members gather for the overnight flights to India. KOLKATA November 27, 2026 On arrival in Kolkata, we transfer directly to our hotel. **Peerless Kolkata Hotel** (2 nights) KOLKATA November 28, 2026 Our tour of Kolkata, the City of Joy, showcases its history and architecture, a blend of neo-Gothic, Baroque, neo-Classical, Oriental, and Islamic influences. Next, visit Kumartuli, the Potters Colony, where 400 artisans create vivid works from river clay, straw, and beads. After lunch, we explore the Victoria Memorial and Hall. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner KOLKATA / JORHAT November 29, 2026 Fly to Jorhat and embark on our riverboat. Enjoy the afternoon cruising and an evening talk on Sivasagar and the Ahom civilization. **mv Mahabaahu** (7 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner SIVASAGAR / TEA ESTATE November 30, 2026 Drive through the scenic Assamese countryside to Sivasagar, the 13th-century capital of the Ahom dynasty. Later, we tour Haroocharai tea estate to learn about Assam tea, a variety grown only here and in parts of China. Savour a buffet lunch of traditional Assamese cuisine, a tea tasting, and an insightful talk with tea experts. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner MAJULI / MISHING VILLAGE December 1, 2026 Rise early for optional yoga before heading to Majuli, the world’s largest river island, for a performance by Satriya singers and dancers. At Kamalabari Satra, Vaishnavite priests bring ancient devotion to life through rhythmic chants and dances. Later, visit a Mishing village. This evening, following dinner and a talk on Assam’s geography, we relax under the stars on a deserted island. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner KAZIRANGA EASTERN RANGE December 2, 2026 Walk through a traditional village built on bamboo stilts, reflecting the unique lifestyle of the Mishing people. Watch women weaving colourful textiles beneath their raised homes. Then, sail to Kaziranga for a two-hour boat safari, exploring the river’s edge in small tenders. This evening features a cooking demonstration by the chef. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner BISHWANATH GHAT / SILGHAT December 3, 2026 Explore Bishwanath Ghat, a village where weavers, fishermen, and boatmakers shape daily life. Continue to Silghat to tour a cooperative jute mill and see how this golden fibre is processed. At the Kaliabore Tea Estate, visit the factory to learn how Assam’s famous tea is cultivated and processed. Return to the ship for a lively cultural dance performance by local artists. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK December 4, 2026 Begin the day early with a sunrise elephant safari through the misty grasslands of Kaziranga, looking for swamp and hog deer, wild water buffalo, and the park’s iconic one-horned rhinoceros. After breakfast at the resort, set out on a jeep safari for another opportunity to encounter Kaziranga’s diverse wildlife. Spend a relaxing afternoon onboard before an Assamese-themed evening featuring regional music and a specially curated dinner. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner BANGLA VILLAGE / PEACOCK ISLAND December 5, 2026 Morning yoga is offered this morning as the ship sails toward a river island inhabited by a Bangla-speaking Muslim farming community. After lunch, we dock at Peacock Island, home to the sacred Umananda Temple. Later, we gather for a farewell dinner, “Alvida Bhoj.” Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner GUWAHATI / PARO, BHUTAN December 6, 2026 After disembarking, we visit Kamakhya Temple, one of India’s oldest Shakti shrines, before flying to Paro, the gateway of Bhutan. Time permitting, we explore Ta Dzong, now the National Museum, with its rich collection of art, textiles, and artifacts. A short walk takes us to Rinpung Dzong to see vivid murals of Buddhist legends. **Kaachi Grand Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner PARO December 7, 2026 Today, we hike to the legendary Taktshang Monastery, better known as Tiger’s Nest, perched on a cliffside above the Paro Valley. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress, making it one of Bhutan’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. Then, we discover Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, dating back to the 7th-century. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner PARO / PUNAKHA December 8, 2026 Drive eastward over the scenic Dochula Pass, offering sweeping views of the eastern Himalayas. In Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital and the winter residence of the Chief Abbot, we visit the majestic Punakha Dzong, a 17th-century fortress known as the ‘Palace of Great Happiness,’ and once the seat of Bhutan’s government. Later, enjoy a short walk through traditional farmhouses and rice paddies to Chimi Lhakhang, a 15th-century fertility temple dedicated to the colourful Drukpa Kuenley, the “Divine Madman.” **Lobesa Boutique Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner PUNAKHA December 9, 2026 A 2-hour hike through the lush countryside takes us to the striking Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten. Built to promote peace and harmony, this elaborately decorated monument stands as a beacon overlooking the Punakha Valley. Later, we visit a meditation center and nunnery. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner PUNAKHA / GANGTEY December 10, 2026 En route to Gangtey, we explore Rinchengang, one of Bhutan’s oldest villages, with traditional mud-brick homes nestled among terraced fields. Visit Wangduephodrang Dzong, noted for its wonderful location and exceptional stonework. **Dewachen Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner GANGTEY December 11, 2026 This morning, tour Gangtey Goenpa, a majestic hilltop monastery and the largest Nyingmapa institution in Bhutan. Then, take a 2-hour walk through flower-filled meadows and forests along the Gangtey Nature Trail, offering views of the glacial Phobjikha Valley. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner GANGTEY / THIMPHU December 12, 2026 Transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital and the only city in the world without traffic lights. A unique blend of tradition and modernity, it offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s evolving identity. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, followed by a walk along the main street and the market area of Ka Ja Throm. **The Seva Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner DRUK WANGYAL FESTIVAL December 13, 2026 At Dochula Pass, we experience the vibrant Druk Wangyal Festival, a unique and colourful celebration featuring sacred mask dances performed by members of the Royal Bhutan Army, dedicated to the previous King as an expression of loyalty. Back in Thimphu, we will stop by Trashichhoedzong, the home to Bhutan’s throne room, central monastic body, and seat of the Chief Abbot. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner THIMPHU / KOLKATA December 14, 2026 After breakfast, we drive to Paro airport for your flight back to Kolkata. The rest of the day is at leisure. **Peerless Kolkata Hotel** (2 nights) Breakfast, Dinner KOLKATA December 15, 2026 Start the day amid the vibrant chaos of Asia’s largest flower market, Mullick Ghat. Pay respect to Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity, then uncover centuries of history at the Indian Museum. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before our farewell buffet dinner. Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner KOLKATA / CANADA December 16, 2026 Spend the morning exploring before we head to the airport in the late afternoon. Breakfast ARRIVE CANADA December 17, 2026 Arriving in Toronto this morning, we make connections to our homes across Canada. Breakfast [Download Brochure](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/brx_CAS261126_Assam%20and%20Bhutan_REV24JUL26.pdf) [![One-horned rhinoceros: Kaziranga’s most iconic resident](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-06/AdobeStock_294458838_Kaziranga_One%20horn%20rhino.png?h=b701e799&itok=SyoOq2bT "One-horned rhinoceros: Kaziranga’s most iconic resident")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-06/AdobeStock_294458838_Kaziranga_One%20horn%20rhino.png) [![Weave with local artisans in Bishwanath Ghat](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-06/Bishwanath%20Ghat%20%283%29_ADJ.png?h=d74d8106&itok=7PlmSLS6 "Weave with local artisans in Bishwanath Ghat")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-06/Bishwanath%20Ghat%20%283%29_ADJ.png) [![Take in the wild grasslands of Kaziranga](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-06/Jeep%20Safari%20%287%29_ADJ.png?h=18486182&itok=l03Ada5l "Take in the wild grasslands of Kaziranga")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-06/Jeep%20Safari%20%287%29_ADJ.png) [![Tasting Assam tea at a local estate](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-06/Haroocharai%20%2817%29.jpg?h=94b28deb&itok=B2Ta-tBe "Tasting Assam tea at a local estate")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-06/Haroocharai%20%2817%29.jpg) [![Marvel at Punakha Dzong, a majestic riverside fortress](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-06/AdobeStock_258119071_Punakha%20Dzong_ADJ.png?h=0d27ee61&itok=TcJzEwTz "Marvel at Punakha Dzong, a majestic riverside fortress")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-06/AdobeStock_258119071_Punakha%20Dzong_ADJ.png) [![Experience local traditions in Majuli](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-06/Majuli%20%2811%29_ADJ.png?h=2f736eda&itok=F1O5Mkx_ "Experience local traditions in Majuli")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-06/Majuli%20%2811%29_ADJ.png) [![Hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest](/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2025-06/AdobeStock_Tiger%27s%20nest.png?h=2bcea684&itok=rut0J97I "Hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest")](https://www.craigtravel.com/sites/default/files/2025-06/AdobeStock_Tiger%27s%20nest.png) ### Have any questions? Contact Stacey at sharper \[at\] craigtravel.com or call [1-800-387-8890](tel:1-800-387-8890) mv MAHABAAHU The mv Mahabaahu offers a comfortable base for exploring the Brahmaputra. Large-windowed cabins, half with balconies, provide excellent views of the river and passing villages. Amenities include a dining room with diverse continental and Indian menus, the cozy Soma bar/lounge with daily happy hour, and a sun deck featuring a small pool. The spa offers Ayurvedic therapies, massages, a gym, jacuzzi, and steam room. A small elevator connects most decks. With a maximum capacity of 46 passengers, the attentive crew and serene itinerary ensure a peaceful introduction to India. The riverboat offers cabins in four categories: - **Superior** with double picture windows (195 sq ft) - **Deluxe** with private balcony (250 sq ft) - **Luxury** with private balcony (280 sq ft) - **Suite** with private balcony (330 sq ft) [Deck Plan](/sites/default/files/2025-06/MV-Mahabaahu-Deck-Plan-Full.pdf "MV-Mahabaahu-Deck-Plan-Full.pdf") (500.02 KB) ### Cruise Cost in Canadian Dollars Per Person #### Category Superior Land / Cruise Only $10,545 Toronto $12,595 Ottawa / Montreal $12,685 Halifax / Winnipeg $12,835 Regina / Saskatoon $13,035 St. John’s / Fredericton $12,885 Calgary / Edmonton / Vancouver $12,885 Victoria $12,935 Single Supplement $3,395 [Submit Booking Request](mailto:sharper@craigtravel.com?cc=sales@craigtravel.com&subject=Assam%20and%20Bhutan%20%202026%E2%80%93ON%20REQUEST&body=Dear%20Craig%20Travel%20team%2C%0A%0AI%20would%20like%20to%20submit%20an%20online%20booking%20request%20for%20the%20**Assam%20and%20Bhutan%20journey**%20departing%20in%20**November%202026.**%0A%0AI%20understand%20that%20this%20departure%20is%20not%20currently%20available%20for%20immediate%20confirmation%20and%20that%20availability%20must%20be%20requested%20with%20your%20local%20suppliers%2Fground%20partners.%20I%20realize%20it%20can%20take%20approximately%20**5%E2%80%937%20business%20days**%20%28sometimes%20longer%29%20to%20receive%20confirmation%20or%20an%20update%20from%20the%20suppliers.%0A%0AI%20give%20permission%20for%20a%20sales%20agent%20to%20contact%20me%20by%20phone%20or%20email%20to%20discuss%20availability%2C%20pricing%2C%20accommodation%2C%20any%20waitlist%20possibilities%2C%20or%20alternative%20departures%2Foptions%20if%20this%20journey%20cannot%20be%20confirmed.%0A%0A**My%20contact%20details%3A**%0A%0AFirst%20name%3A%0ALast%20name%3A%0APhone%20number%3A%0AEmail%20address%3A%0A%0APlease%20indicate%20whether%20you%20would%20like%20a%20double%2Ftwin%20accommodation%20or%20a%20single%20room%20%28single%20supplement%20applies%29.%0A%0A) ### Supplement to Upgrade to Higher Category ### Stateroom Description (Deck) Deluxe with Balcony ### Single $4,595 ### Double/Twin $895 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) Luxury with Balcony ### Single $5,095 ### Double/Twin $1,285 ### Stateroom Description (Deck) Suite with Balcony ### Single $6,995 ### Double/Twin $2,145 ### Payment and Booking Terms Deposit is **$2,250 per person** Final payment is due **July 15, 2026** Land only price includes domestic flights in India and Bhutan, but excludes international airfare and related airport transfers. Land only members join and leave at the Kolkata hotel. Rates are based on sharing a twin-bedded room and Category Superior cabin. See deck plan on our website for more details on the various categories available. Prices are based on a minimum 20 members and on rates, taxes and fees effective June 2025 and are subject to change due to factors beyond our control. Group to be escorted with a minimum 20 group members. Airfares from other gateways are available on request. Airfares are subject to change and will be confirmed prior to final payment. Refer to our Inclusive Features for more details. Insurance is NOT INCLUDED but is highly recommended. Premiums are calculated based on the individual’s age, destination (country), trip length, and trip booking window – please contact our staff to receive a quote. Your coverage starts on the effective date of your confirmation of coverage. Please discuss your insurance coverage prior to booking. Refer to the enrollment form for [terms and conditions](https://www.craigtravel.com/terms-conditions). #### CT Rating **4/5 - VERY CHALLENGING** Members must be in excellent physical health with no mobility issues to fully enjoy this trip. Excursions include jeep safaris over rough terrain, river safaris (in rubber boats), an elephant ride, and some extensive hikes, walks and climbs (including stairs). Expect infrastructure typical of developing regions, such as uneven roads and basic facilities. In Bhutan, members will travel and walk at altitudes between 5,000–10,000ft and may experience altitude sickness. Temperatures will range from cool evenings to hot days. Members should be prepared for the realities of remote India and Bhutan. Do you have any questions about this journey? [Email Us](mailto:sales@craigtravel.com?subject=Assam%20and%20Bhutan%202026) #### Journey Leader ![Profile picture for user Jon Gurr](/sites/default/files/styles/user/public/pictures/2026-07/Jon%20Gurr.jpg?h=e4f948b2&itok=1DVdj5CM) Jon Gurr - With over 40 years of travel experience, Jon has explored more than 90 countries across all seven continents, capturing stunning photographs along the way. His images have appeared in newspapers, magazines and calendars in both the US and Canada. A certified, award-winning photographer, he looks forward to sharing photography tips and his passion for travel throughout this remarkable journey. ![](/sites/default/files/2025-06/1%20CT%20Loyalty%20Points_1.png) [Craig Travel Loyalty Points ](/loyalty-club) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-06/2%20Pay%20By%20Cheque_1.png) [Pay by Cheque Discount](/pay-cheque-discount) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-06/3%20Refer%20a%20Friend_1.png) [Refer a Friend](/refer-friend) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-06/4%20About%20CT%20Ratings_1.png) [About CT Ratings](/craig-travel-ratings) ![](/sites/default/files/2025-06/5%20Travel%20Insurance_1.png) [Travel Insurance](/travel-insurance)