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Mighty Brahmaputra: Taj, Tribes and Temples

Program Number: 20121RJ
Start and End Dates:
1/26/2014 - 2/12/2014; 2/9/2014 - 2/26/2014;
Duration: 17 nights
Location: India
Price starting at: $4,994.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Adventure Afloat Study Cruise; River Boats
Meals: 43; 15 Breakfasts, 15 Lunches, 13 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Experience the sacred meaning and everyday beauty of India’s Brahmaputra River. Under the guidance of expert naturalists observe exotic birdlife, wild elephants and buffalos, one-horned rhinos, monkeys and even fresh water dolphins. Explore the ancient tantric temples, Hindu monasteries, tribal villages and more.




Activity Particulars

Walking between 1-2 miles at a time. Must be able to get in and out of small boats and walk on uneven surfaces. Also must be able to climb in and out of safari vehicles and elephant.



Itinerary At-a-Glance

Delhi (India), 2 nights; Agra, 2 nights; Jaipur, 2 nights; aboard MV Mahabaahu, 7 nights; Kolkata, 2 night.



Day 1:
Overnight flight from the U.S.A.




Days 2-3:
Arrival Delhi (India):

Begin in Old Delhi where you enjoy a bicycle rickshaw ride around the market. Visit Raj Ghat, the cremation ground of Mahatma Gandhi. In New Delhi, discover the president’s residence and India Gate.
Lodging: four-star hotel.



Days 4-5:
Coach to Agra:

Watch the rising sun bathe the pristine white marble of the Taj Mahal in warm hues of gold, ochre and orange. Continue to Agra Fort, a military fortress turned lavish imperial palace.
Lodging: Four-star hotel.



Days 6-7:
Coach to Jaipur:

Take a jeep up to the Amber Fort, rising majestically atop the slopes of a hill. Explore Jaipur, known as the “pink city” for the pink-colored sandstone of its old buildings.
Lodging: Four-star hotel.



Day 8:
Flight to Guwahati / Kiriakara/ embark MV Mahabaahu:

Discover Kamakhya Temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage destination.



Day 9:
Cruise on the River

Enjoy an expert presentation on the wildlife of Kaziranga and enjoy time to absorb the beautiful scenery.



Days 10-11:
Kaziranga Park-Bishwanath

Encounter elephants up close during a safari in the Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site also home to rhinos, Indian Tigers, leopards and more.



Day 12:
Cruise towards Majuli:

Scan the river for for fleeting sight of the Gangetic Dolphin or do some bird watching from the decks.



Day 13:
Majuli Island:

Venture to Majuli on small boats and spend the day visiting Satras, remote religious monasteries.



Day 14:
Majuli-Nimati-Sibsagar:

Explore the Ancient city of the Ahom Kings.



Days 15-18:
Dibrugarh / disembark / flight to Kolkata / departure:

In the charming city of Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), experience Mother Teresa's house and learn about her work there.
Lodging: Historic, centrally located hotel.



mv Mahabaahu

This new expedition-style vessel was created to be the most luxurious river cruiser on the Brahmaputra River. It can carry 58 passengers. Public areas include a spacious open-air observation deck, pool and spa.


India

As a consequence of its size, the history of India is an amalgamation of its individual territories. The natural wealth of India’s territories lured a succession of traders and foreign influences to it, each leaving their imprint on the nation, however faint or localized. Thus, Chinese fishing nets in Kerala are a throwback to that country's ancient maritime trade, while in the north, ancient terracotta figurines bear distinctly Grecian traces.
Meals and Lodgings
   Suryaa New Delhi
  Delhi, India 2 nights
   Trident Hotel Agra
  Agra, India 2 nights
   Trident Hotel Jaipur
  Jaipur, India 2 nights
   MV Mahabaahu
  Aboard the MV Mahabaahu, India 7 nights
   The Oberoi Grand
  Kolkata, India 2 nights
 Suryaa New Delhi
Type: Five-Star Hotel
  Description: The Suryaa New Delhi is a 5-Star Hotel located in the heart of New Delhi, a mere 40 minute drive from the airport & adjacent to Delhi's business districts, Nehru Place, Pragati Maidan-International Trade Fair venue, Okhla & Noida Export Promotion Zone. Shopping malls, recreation facilities and historical monuments are all in the close vicinity of the hotel. The world-renowned Apollo Hospital & the Escorts Heart Institute are also located close to the hotel.
  Ship Information: x
  Contact info: New Friends Colony
New Delhi,  110 025 India
phone: +911126835070
web: www.thesuryaanewdelhi.com/
  Room amenities: Satellite TV, CD Player, DVD Player, In-Room Movies, Coffee Maker, Mini-Refrigerator, Mini Bar, Wi-Fi Internet, Phone with Voicemail, Bathrobe, Hairdryer, Bathtub, In-Room Safe, Air Conditioning & Iron/Ironing Board
  Facility amenities: Laundry/Dry Cleaning, Multi-lingual Staff, Administrative Services, Concierge Services, Barber/Hair Stylist, Business Center, Currency Exchange, Fax, Gift Shop, Room Service, Health Club, Indoor Pool, Health Spa/Massage, Outdoor Pool, Hot Tub, ATM & Safe Deposit Box
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: n/a Please contact Road Scholar Travel Services for more information.

 Trident Hotel Agra
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: The hotel is within walking distance of the Taj Mahal, set in a quiet landscape of gardens.
  Contact info: Fatehabad Rd.
Agra,  282 001 India
phone: +91 562 223 5000
web: www.tridenthotels.com/agra/index.asp
  Room amenities: 138 rooms with central air-conditioning with individually controlled thermostat, mini-bar, electronic safes, tea- and coffee-making facility, direct-dial telephones with dataport connection, Internet access, satellite television, hair dryer. Nonsmoking rooms available.
  Facility amenities: Restaurants and Bars, outdoor swimming pool, barber shop, beauty salon, concierge desk, gift shop, safety deposit box, laundry service, foreign currency exchange, and business center.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Trident Hotel Jaipur
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Set in six acres of landscaped gardens, across from the Jal Mahal Palace, the Trident Jaipur overlooks Lake Mansagar and the surrounding Aravalli hills, in a peaceful setting approximately ten minutes outside of the center of Jaipur.
  Contact info: Amber Fort Rd.
Jaipur,  302 002 India
phone: +91 141 267 0101
web: www.tridenthotels.com/jaipur/index.asp
  Room amenities: Individually-controlled air conditioning, balcony, cable television, coffee maker, hairdryer, Internet access, mini-bar, telephone with voicemail and wake-up alarm, electronic smoke detector and safe. All rooms are non-smoking.
  Facility amenities: Restaurant with international and Indian cuisine, bar with terrace, room service, business center, wireless Internet access, currency exchange, laundry service, fitness center and outdoor heated swimming pool.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 MV Mahabaahu
Type: Riverboat
  Description: The M.V. MAHABAAHU is the most luxurious river cruise ship of India, cruising on the greatest river of Asia - the Brahmaputra, from September 2011 onwards.
  Ship Information: The ship is 55m / 180.4 Ft long and 10M / 32.8ft wide. It has a total of five decks inlcuding one inside the hull and the top deck has an open sun deck. It is powered by three marine engines and four generators.
  Contact info: India
New Delhi,   India
phone: +xxxxx
  Room amenities: All cabins incorporate satellite TV, personal safe, mini bar, telephone, Wi-Fi, wardrobe, writing table and hair drying. Telephone and Internet available at additional cost.
  Facility amenities: All decks have central air-condition, well stocked library, internet cafe, swimming pool, spa and hair salon facilities, guym, sun deck, restaurant, lounge, money changing facility, one elevator and 3 staircases.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Bathroom: Shower only.
  Elevators available: Yes

 The Oberoi Grand
Type: Hotel
  Description: The Oberoi Grand, fondly referred as the 'Grande Dame of Chowringhee' offers the ultimate classical residence in the City of Joy. This heritage hotel’s neo-classical facade and grand pillared entrance mark a successful fusion of classical Victorian and traditional Indian style and reflect the city’s colonial history. Standing stately for over 125 years, The Oberoi Grand combines classic architecture and charm with state of the art amenities and facilities, offering guests an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city. The hotel is located in the main business and shopping district of Kolkata (Park Street, BBD Bag, and Chowringhee) and is in walking distance from most corporate and government offices. It is also conveniently located close to major convention centers, legislative offices, banks, Consulates, Deputy High Commissions, Chambers of Commerce and clubs. This ideal location makes the hotel a perfect base for the business and the leisure traveler.
  Contact info: 15, Jawaharlal Nehru Road
Kolkata,  700013 India
phone: +91 .33.2249.2323
web: www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_kolkata/index.asp
  Room amenities: 32" LCD TV, DVD Player, Satellite television, Wired & wireless broadband internet access, Electronic safe, Dual line telephones with voice mail, Personal bar, A well appointed bathroom with a basket of Ayurvedic toiletries.
  Facility amenities: Wireless Internet access in all rooms and public areas, State of the art 24-hour Business Centre, Full service Oberoi Spa, Fitness Centre, 24 hours in room dining, 24 hours personal butler service, 24 hours Concierge, 24 hours doctor on call, Meetings and Conference facilities, Shopping options, Outdoor swimming pool, Beauty parlour, 24 Hours laundry service, Currency exchange, Electronic safe deposit box in all rooms
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: TBA Please contact Road Scholar Travel Services for additional price.


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Program begins on Day 2 at the program hotel in the late evening in Delhi. You will be staying at Suryaa New Delhi that night.
  End of Program:
Program ends on Day 17 after lunch at the program hotel in Kolkata. You will be staying at The Oberoi Grand the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required.
  Required innoculations:
Yes: There are no vaccinations required to enter India unless visitors are coming from a contaminated area. However, it is always a good idea to check with your personal physician before going abroad. Routine vaccines, as they are often called, such as for influenza, chickenpox (or varicella), polio, MMR, and DPT are given at all stages of life should be up to date. Malaria pills are a consideration.
  Parking availability:
N/A
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
To Start of Program
  Location:  Delhi
  Transportation to site: Taxi from New Delhi airport to hotel is available. Airports Authority of India in coordination with Delhi Traffic Police is now providing 'Prepaid Taxi Service' for arriving passengers at Domestic and International Terminals to ensure safe travel up to their destination. Approved rate of fare for various locations in the city are displayed inside the counter. Prepaid taxi counters are located outside customs hall in concessionaire area and outside Arrival Visitors Lounge (West Wing). Payment is made in advance at counters and coupons are issued. Pickup points are located just outside the terminals. No reliable public bus or subway transport available. Please note that the transfer from the airport takes about 40 to 50 minutes. Private arrival and departure transfers -at an additional cost- may be arranged in advance by the calling Road Scholar Travel Services.
  From End of Program
  Location:  Kolkata
  Transportation from site: Please ask Oberoi Grand Hotel Kolkata's concierge service to arrange alternative transfers to the airport. The Kolkata International Airport is situated about 11 miles from the Oberoi Grand Hotel Kolkata. Private arrival and departure transfers -at an additional cost- may be arranged in advance by the calling Road Scholar Travel Services.


Required innoculations:

Yes: There are no vaccinations required to enter India unless visitors are coming from a contaminated area. However, it is always a good idea to check with your personal physician before going abroad. Routine vaccines, as they are often called, such as for influenza, chickenpox (or varicella), polio, MMR, and DPT are given at all stages of life should be up to date. Malaria pills are a consideration.

The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Departure from the U.S.A.
(Sunday, January 26)
   
 Depart From: Depart from US for flight to India.

Day 2: Welcome to Delhi
(Monday, January 27)
   
 Afternoon: Late afternoon arrivals in Delhi.
 Dinner: A light meal at the hotel.
 Evening: At leisure.
   
Accommodations: Suryaa New Delhi
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 3: Old Delhi and New Delhi
(Tuesday, January 28)
   
 Breakfast: Buffet breakfast in the hotel.
 Morning: Convene with your fellow participants for a program orientation. Then discover Old Delhi on a bicycle rickshaw ride around the heart of Chandini Chowk, named for the silver merchants. Navigate its narrow dirt roads, its myriad of people and colorful bazaars, as you end up at the Jama Masjid, the largest Muslim mosque in India. Continue on to the Raj Ghat - the cremation ground of Mahatma Gandhi.
 Lunch: In a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: This afternoon, depart on a discovery of New Delhi's monuments: India Gate - the archway built in memory of Indian soldiers killed during the First World War; Rashtrapati Bhawan, the official residence of the President of India; Parliament House; and the government secretariat buildings at Connaught Place. Then visit Qutub Minar. Explor Qutub Minar. Qutab Minar is a great masterpiece of Mughal architecture. The tall minaret was constructed in 1192 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak, and later completed by his successor Iltutmish. The soaring conical tower is an exquisite example of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture. Qutub Minar is a World Heritage Site and has survived the ravages of time impressively.
 Dinner: Welcome dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Suryaa New Delhi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: The Monuments of the Moghul Empire
(Wednesday, January 29)

Note: Drive from New Delhi to Agra is a 4 hour bus drive with rest stops.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Depart to Agra. En route, your Study Leader presents an overview of Indian History.
 Lunch: Lunch en route to Agra.
 Afternoon: Discover Sikandra and the Moghuls land and explore the Mausoleum of Akbar. The mausoleum is built partially in red sandstone and in marble, with a mixture of Hindu and Moslem design elements. It can be seen as a transition between the older architectural style, based on red sandstone and the new, with marble as the main element and finer ornaments and carvings. Then in the late afternoon, after checking into the hotel, cross the Yamuna River to view the Taj Mahal at sunset and join a local expert on a discusson about Moghul history.
 Dinner: In the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Trident Hotel Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Sunrise at the Taj Mahal
(Thursday, January 30)

Note: Standing required for about 1 to 2 hours at a time.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel upon return from the Taj Mahal.
 Morning: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty as you watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal. The building is unique due to its perfect proportions, distinct femininity, and medium of construction and ornamentation. Its marble exterior reflects rose and golden tints at sunrise and sunset, while it is dazzling white during the day. Take some time to explore the exquisite grounds and view the highly decorated inside chamber. Return to the hotel for breakfast, then explore the Tomb of Itmad Ud Daulah, this beautiful mausoleum was the first one to be built on a riverbank, which was normally used only to build pleasure gardens till then. The marble mausoleum is designed like a silver jewel box with stunning and delicate inlay work.
 Lunch: Observe a cooking demonstration in a traditional Indian home and then feast on the meal specially prepared for you.
 Afternoon: This afternoon, visit Agra Fort-a UNESCO World Heritage site. Originally planned as an impregnable military structure by Akbar, the Agra Fort, over a period of time, acquired all the elegance, lavishness and majesty of an imperial palace. Rest of the afternoon is yours at leisure.
 Dinner: Your choice to explore local fare.
   
Accommodations: Trident Hotel Agra
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6: The Pink City of Jaipur and Dinner in a local Home
(Friday, January 31)

Note: The drive from Agra to Jaipur will take about 5 to 6 hours with enroute stops.
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Depart for the drive to Jaipur. En route, explore Fatehpur Sikri, the sandstone city built by the 14 Mughal Emperor Akbar. A variety of architectural styles are found here, due to the employment of craftsmen representing many different schools. Originally planned as the capital, a shortage of water compelled Akbar to abandon his plans. Your Study Leader will also discuss the role of Indian royal families in the modern age. Learn about the evolution of the caste system and it's deep roots in Indian society.
 Lunch: In the hotel in Jaipur.
 Afternoon: Take in the riot of colors on a walk with your Study Leader through the local market.
 Dinner: Share an exclusive evening in the company of a local family in their home.
   
Accommodations: Trident Hotel Jaipur
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: The Palaces and Forts of Jaipur
(Saturday, February 1)
   
 Breakfast: In the hotel.
 Morning: Enjoy the morning exploring the Amber Fort. Amber, the capital of Rajasthan for 6 centuries before Jaipur was built, lies 11 km north of Jaipur. Rising majestically on the slopes of a hill, this 11th century fort and palace complex is a blend of Hindu and Muslim styles. Ride elephants up to the Amber Fort as it rises majestically on the slopes of a hill (use jeeps for the descent). Also, make a photo stop at Hawa Mahal.
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Explore Jaipur, known as the “pink city” because of the pink-colored sandstone of the buildings in the old walled city. Visit the City Palace, still the the Maharaja's residence but largely given over to a museum containing rare manuscripts, fine specimens of Rajput and Mughal paintings, royal apparel and an armory. Continue to the Hawa Mahal - the Palace of Winds - whose elaborate, honeycombed sandstone is a famous icon of the city. At Jantar Mantar, built by the city founder Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh, learn how the huge stone instruments were devised to study the movements of the sun, moon and planets and remain incredibly accurate today.
 Dinner: Dinner on own.
   
Accommodations: Trident Hotel Jaipur
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Fly to Guwahati / Transfer to Tezpur / Embark the MV Mahabaahu
(Sunday, February 2)
   
 Breakfast: Early continental breakfast in the hotel.
 Morning: After early breakfast drive to the airport to board the flight to Guwahati. On arrival at the Guwahati airport you will be met by your representative and transfer to lunch.
 Lunch: In at a restaurant in Guwahati.
 Afternoon: After lunch, transfer to board the ship. Time permitting, drive to Kamakhya Temple. This Temple is devoted to the eternal feminine, the goddess of desire whose name is Kama Khya, granter of desires. The Kamakhya Temple in Assam symbolizes the "fusion of faiths and practices" of Aryan and non-Aryan elements in Assam. The different names associated with the goddess are names of local Aryan and non-Aryan goddesses. Animal sacrifices take place here almost every day. The M.V. Mahabaahu sets sail at 14:00 hrs on the Brahmaputra River to Kiriakara. Guests will be given safety briefing followed by a special welcome dinner.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.
   
Accommodations: MV Mahabaahu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Kiriakara -Tezpur
(Monday, February 3)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.
 Morning: The upstream cruise offers a perfect vantage point for life on the mighty Brahmaputra River while you spend the day sailing to Tezpur. Enjoy a massage in the spa, soak in the jacuzzi or swim laps in the pool. One may prefer to scan the river for a fleeting sight of the Gangetic Dolphin or do some bird watching from the decks.
 Lunch: Lunch on-board.
 Afternoon: Enjoy a presentation on ‘Wildlife of Kaziranga’ late afternoon. Then watch a DVD on the tribes of Assam.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.
   
Accommodations: MV Mahabaahu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Exploring Tezpur and Kaziranga National Park
(Tuesday, February 4)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.
 Morning: We start sailing this morning to Tezpur. After breakfast, we will visit a Tea Plantation in Tezpur. Wander through the manicured tea gardens of the Wild Mahseer Tea Plantation, watch tea pickers at work and taste the perfect cup of Assam tea. Wild Mahseer Tea Plantation is a top class resort in the Planter bungalow tradition; it provides a step back in time to colonial days.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.
 Afternoon: After lunch, depart for jeep safari of Kaziranga National park Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Kaziranga National Park is located in the flood plains on both sides of the Brahmaputra. The most prized inhabitant of Kaziranga is the Greater One-Horned Indian Rhinoceros but the Park is home to as many as 180 different mammals including wild elephants, deer, bison, and a rich variety of birds.
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.
   
Accommodations: MV Mahabaahu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Kaziranga and Biswanath
(Wednesday, February 5)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast a resort.
 Morning: Rise before the sun to set off for the Kaziranga National Park and an once-in-a-lifetime elephant-backed safari where we search for the elusive rhinoceros and tiger. After breakfast at the resort in Kaziranga, we return to the jungle to explore the wildlife on jeeps. The jeep safari ensures, we have had complete coverage of this UNESCO World Heritage Park.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.
 Afternoon: We return to the ship for lunch and continue sailing to Bishwanath. We take the smaller boats to visit this charming village. We watch the women weaving cotton and silk in almost all the households here. They are very happy to share their experiences while the Children look at us with dreamy eyes.
 Dinner: On board the ship.
 Evening: Enjoy a dance performance on board followed by a demonstration of the technique of wearing an Assamese sari.
   
Accommodations: MV Mahabaahu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Bishwanath Ghat -Towards Majuli
(Thursday, February 6)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.
 Morning: While the ship sails to Majuli, there is time to enjoy a massage in our spa, soak in the jacuzzi or swim laps in the pool. One may prefer to scan the river for a fleeting sight of the Gangetic Dolphin or do some bird watching from the decks.
 Lunch: Lunch on board the ship.
 Afternoon: Continue sailing.
 Dinner: Dinner will be on a remote island.
   
Accommodations: MV Mahabaahu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13: Majuli Island
(Friday, February 7)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.
 Morning: Cruise until lunch.
 Lunch: Lunch on shore or on board the ship.
 Afternoon: Arrive at Majuli this afternoon. Majuli is the treasure house of Assamese culture, ancient monasteries dedicated to preservation of the arts have existed here since the 15th century. Written records are found of the visit of Shankardeva, a social reformer, during the 16th century. He promulgated a form of Hinduism that was also called Vaishnavism. He established monasteries or hermitages that were called Satra. These Satras became the hub of culture, art, religion and lifestyle. Even today, Satra preserve antiques like weapons, utensils, jewelry and other articles of cultural importance. Enjoy a masked dance and meet the Mishing people. Then, return to the M.V Mahabaahu and enjoy a talk on "Vaishnavism in Assam".
 Dinner: Dinner on board the ship.
   
Accommodations: MV Mahabaahu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14: Majuli-Nimati-Sibsagar
(Saturday, February 8)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.
 Morning: Today morning, visit Auniati Satra. Here, we visit the prayer hall, Monks quarters walk and fan making. A drum dance is the perfect way to end this cultural experience.
 Lunch: Lunch on board or on shore.
 Afternoon: Sail to Nimati, where we disembark and travel overland to Sibsagar, the ancient city of the Ahom Kings. The town, which literally means 'the ocean of Lord Shiva', is strewn with the tell-tale ruins of a powerful empire, the Ahom. Sibsagar was the capital of the Thai-speaking Ahoms who came to the area from Yunnan, China, in the 13th century AD. Their unique architectural style is evident in the well-preserved monuments scattered around the town. The town is built round the Sibsagar Lake (or tank), dug over 200 years ago. On its banks are located some of the famous temples of Sibsagar. The Shiva Temple, constructed in the year 1734 is believed to be the highest Hindu temple in India.
 Dinner: Farewell dinner on-board.
   
Accommodations: MV Mahabaahu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15: Nimati/ Fly to Kolkata
(Sunday, February 9)

Note: Transfer time from the Nimati to Dibrugarh Airport is 4 hours through the rich agricultural fields and paddies of Assam.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.
 Morning: After breakfast, disembark the cruise in Nimati and drive to Dibrugarh Airport.
 Lunch: Lunch in town.
 Afternoon: Fly to Kolkata. On arrival, check-in to the Hotel.
 Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: The Oberoi Grand
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16: Kolkata / Hooghly Cruise / Mother Teresa's home
(Monday, February 10)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Depart for a Cruise on the Hooghly River with a visit to Belur Math, a temple notable for its architecture that fuses Hindu, Christian and Islamic motifs as a symbol of unity of all religions. Then continue to explore Kumhartoli, a Potters colony.
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: This afternoon, visit Mother Teresa's home and learn about about her life and her life's devotion.
 Dinner: Farewell dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: The Oberoi Grand
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17: Kolkata / Departure
(Tuesday, February 11)

Note: the group flgiht is a late afternoon flight via Delhi.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Explore the Victoria Memorial, a majestic white marble building surrounded by a sprawling garden which now serves as a museum and St. Paul's Cathedral.
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant.
 Afternoon: Late afternoon transfer to Kolkata's International Airport to connect to the outbound flight.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 18: Arrival home
(Wednesday, February 12)
   
 Arrive To: Arrive back home.
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

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Description: The most detailed shaded relief map (at a scale of 1:2,100,000) of India available.



India: Kingdom of the Tiger


Author: Bruce Neibaur (Director)


Description: This dazzling film of tigers in the wild and pioneering conservation efforts was filmed on location at Bhandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.



May You Be the Mother of a Hundred Sons, A Journey Among the Women of India


Author: Elisabeth Bumiller


Description: A wonderfully written and fascinating portrayal of Indian women from Bollywood stars to Indira Gandhi to prostitutes. It's an insightful portrait of the country as seen through the eyes of its women.



Midnight's Children


Author: Salman Rushdie


Description: Crowned Best of the Booker in 2008, Rushdie's greatest novel is a madcap, comic take on the birth of modern India in all its splendid and unexpected manifestations.



Taj Mahal


Author: M.C. Joshi, Jean-Louis Nou (Photographer), Amina Okada


Description: This lavish portrait features 158 full-color photographs (including four magnificent foldout panels) by the extraordinary Jean-Louis Nou. With grand exterior views, filigreed inscriptions and bejeweled floral mosaics.



Taj Mahal


Author: Giles Tillotson, Mary Beard (Editor)


Description: An enlightening pocket guide to the myth, meaning and legends of the celebrated tomb, "the queen of architecture."



The Jungle Book


Author: Rudyard Kipling


Description: Mowgli, an Indian boy adopted by wolves, learns the ways of the jungle as he grows up in the company of cobras, panthers, bears and tigers. Kipling set his adventures in what is now Kanha National Park.



The White Tiger, A Novel


Author: Aravind Adiga


Description: Mordant, funny, angry, horrifying, this Booker Prize-winning tale of a village pauper turned success (and murderer) skewers the ambition, inequity and corruption of 21st-century India.



Travelers' Tales India


Author: James O'Reilly, Larry Habegger


Description: A collection of 45 descriptive and thought-provoking short excerpts on Indian life and culture, including contributions from Rushdie, Naipaul and Dalrymple, plus some valuable excerpts from books long out of print.



Wild India, The Wildlife of India and Nepal


Author: Guy Mountefort, Gerald Cubitt (Photographer)


Description: An informative introduction to the natural history of the region in a handsome oversize volume. With hundreds of extraordinary photographs of the wildlife and landscapes of the Himalayas, the Indo-Ganges Plain and the Deccan.





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