Cruise India / Tour with Viking – Save $5,000 per couple + $300 OBC*

DAY 1 – DELHI, INDIA

Arrive and check in to your hotel. Delhi, a vibrant and historic city, has been a nucleus of power for nearly a millennium. Before India’s independence in 1947, dynasties and empires alike have occupied the city and their impressive remnants can be found dotted throughout its modern streets. The towering Qutb Minar minaret, a 12th-century marvel constructed by the Delhi Sultanate, and the Mughal Empire’s impressive Red Fort, a vast complex, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that invite visitors to step back in time. New Delhi, built by the British Raj in 1931, now holds all three branches of the Indian government.

DAY 2 – DELHI, INDIA

New Delhi is a municipality of the National Capital Territory of Delhi and the capital of India. It’s wide streets and government buildings stand in stark contrast to Old Delhi’s historic gems and narrow roads. Established in 1936 by the British Raj, it was their new capital before India attained its independence through political organization and nation-wide actions, including the Quit India and Non-Cooperation Movements. On August 15, 1947, the Indian flag was raised above the ramparts of the Red Fort as a symbol of independence and New Delhi became the current capital. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

DAY 3 – AGRA, INDIA

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and embark your motor coach to begin your transfer. Founded as the capital for a Delhi sultan and converted into the Mughal Empire’s seat of power for 150 years, Agra is no stranger to ceremonial splendor and is studded with some of the most impressive architecture in India. The Taj Mahal, perhaps the most renowned Mughal structure in the world, is a marble pearl that gleams alongside the Yamuna River. Commissioned in 1631 by Shah Jahan to memorialize his empress consort, Mumtaz Mahal, as a depiction of her home in the afterlife, the Taj Mahal features colorful inlays of semi-precious stones and intricate Arabic calligraphy.

DAY 4 – AGRA, INDIA

The splendor of the Taj Mahal is best appreciated at sunrise, when the early morning rays cast the ornate mausoleum in gold hues. Visitors at this time can glimpse the Taj’s impressive silhouette and explore the grounds before the crowds. Another of Agra’s Mughal treasures, the Agra Fort, is crafted from vibrant red sandstone and has been shaped by each of its successive rulers. Its regal grounds recall the elegant tastes of the sultans and emperors of its past. Shah Jahan, the commissioner of the Taj Mahal, was deposed and kept prisoner here.

DAY 5 – JAIPUR, INDIA

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and embark your motor coach to begin your transfer. In 1727, Sawai Jai Singh II of the Kachwaha Rajputs built a new capital, Jaipur, to accommodate the growing population of his people. The new city was designed according to the principles of Vastu Shastra, a Hindu architectural science where buildings are crafted in harmony with the natural environment. At its heart is the City Palace, an impressive complex comprised of colorful gates, the ornate Chandra Mahal and the intricate Hawa Maha. Just outside the City Palace’s gates lies the Pink City, where every building is mandated by law to be painted its namesake color. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

DAY 6 – JAIPUR, INDIA

The artistic nature of Jaipur is hard to deny; the complex windows of the Hawa Mahal, the scientific precision of the Jantar Mantar and the marvelous Jal Mahal all attest to this. Set mere miles from these stunning constructions is their predecessor, the Amber Fort. Perched atop a hill, the 16th-century fort is a striking example of Rajput architecture and a veritable palace constructed of sandstone. It contains the Sheesh Mahal, which gleams in the sunlight due to its coating of concave mirrors, and the impressive marble lattices and floral inlays of Jas Mandir.

DAY 7 – GUWAHATI, INDIA

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and head to the airport for your flight. Along the banks of the Brahmaputra River lies Guwahati, widely considered to be the gateway to the northeast. A city of cultures, it owes its diversity to its past. Since its origin as the capital of Kamarupa, a Hindu kingdom, Guwahati has seen the rule of the Ahom people, and the Mughal and British Empires. As a result, a collection of temples, mosques and gurdwara are peppered throughout the streets and a multitude of festivals bring celebration to the city. Exhibits at the Assam State Museum display artifacts and historic art that emphasize the region’s storied past. Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom.

DAY 8 – GUWAHATI, INDIA

Guwahati owes its existence to its lush riverfront. Ancient cities stood on these banks, drawing their livelihood from the Brahmaputra’s waters. Today, this legacy can be seen in the boats that navigate Guwahati’s harbor and the temples, including the renowned Hindu Kamakhya Temple, that cluster near its shores and on its island. Markets pop up along the water, with stalls featuring woven bowls, fruit and chop, a dish of mashed and fried potatoes served with chutney. From the decks of boats sailing the Brahmaputra, the daily life of villages lining the river can be glimpsed.

Originating in the Himalayas at the lofty altitude of 17,366 feet, the Brahmaputra is fed by the Chemayungdung Glacier and traverses one of the world’s largest canyons before entering India. Here, the river expands and flows in braided channels that continuously shape the landscape. It is the lifeblood of the region; locals utilize it for irrigation and transport, myriad fruit trees and plants crop up on its banks, and wildlife, including the one-horned rhino, call its shores home. Even the elusive river dolphin can sometimes be spotted playfully navigating its waters.

DAY 9 – KAZIRANGE NATIONAL PARK, INDIA

Kaziranga National Park abuts the Brahmaputra River and encompasses over 165 square miles of lush forest, open jungle and grasslands. This diverse landscape was originally set aside in 1908 in an effort to conserve the dwindling population of one-horned rhinos. Now, the park has expanded to include a tiger reserve and serves as a breeding ground for elephants and wild water buffalo. Jeep excursions into Kaziranga National Park offer a chance to glimpse these incredible creatures and learn about the importance of the park’s continued conservation efforts.

DAY 10 – KAZIRANGE NATIONAL PARK, INDIA

Like many national parks, Kaziranga has its roots in conservation. When Mary Curzon, Vicereine of India, visited the area in 1904 to see the one-horned rhino, all she found were footprints. Her guide, Balaram Hazarika, told her of the species’s endangerment and pressed upon her the need for conservation. Now, the park is home to two-thirds of the one-horned rhino’s global population and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is noted for its biodiversity. From the river, visitors can truly appreciate the park’s verdant landscape and keep an eye out for its magnificent residents.

DAY 11 – BISWANATH GHAT, INDIA

A quaint village along the Brahmaputra River, Biswanath Ghat gets its name from the ancient Biswanath temple that was situated here and its Ghat—a set of stairs that lead down to the river’s edge. Selected as India’s Best Tourism Village in 2023, Biswanath Ghat features a collection of temples that dot its streets, including an ancient temple dedicated to Shiva, now mostly ruins that lie along the banks of the Brahmaputra. Intriguing animals, including elephants and the Ganges river dolphin, can be spotted from the shores of this colorful village.

The Brahmaputra rises and falls with the rainfall of monsoon season and is a river of constant change that shapes both the landscape and lives of those who rely upon it. Its deposits of rich silt allow for fertile farmlands and flourishing communities, but its ever-fluctuating shoreline brings seasonal flooding. Local architecture features houses built on stilts, and ghats, or steps, that lead down into water, allow access regardless of water level. Bridges are rarely found, but a flow of ferries and fishing boats ease life along this dynamic river.

DAY 12 – MAJULI, INDIA

The Brahmaputra rises and falls with the rainfall of monsoon season and is a river of constant change that shapes both the landscape and lives of those who rely upon it. Its deposits of rich silt allow for fertile farmlands and flourishing communities, but its ever-fluctuating shoreline brings seasonal flooding. Local architecture features houses built on stilts, and ghats, or steps, that lead down into water, allow access regardless of water level. Bridges are rarely found, but a flow of ferries and fishing boats ease life along this dynamic river.

DAY 13 – NIMATI GHAT, INDIA

Nimati Ghat, like the rest of the state of Assam, sits within the Brahmaputra Valley, land which was once home to the mighty Ahom Kingdom. Ruling for an impressive, uncontested 600 years, the Ahoms created a multi-cultural society which still persists, with more than 14 languages and 5 religions co-existing in the state of Assam today. The Ahom Kingdom also left behind a rich architectural legacy; their former capital city of Sivasagar is home to the stately royal palace and Temple to Lord Shiva, a Hindu pilgrimage site situated on a vast man-made lake.

DAY 14 – NIMATI GHAT, INDIA

A quaint river port called on by colorful fishing boats and popular ferries, Nimati Ghat serves as an embarkation point for travelers and locals alike looking to sail to Majuli Island, one of the largest river islands in the world, or set out on a journey along the Brahmaputra River. From its shores, the sheer expanse of the river can truly be appreciated as it stretches toward the horizon, with just a thin strip of green on the opposing bank separating it from the sky. After breakfast, disembark your ship and head to the airport for your flight.

DAY 15 – DELHI, INDIA

Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.

The name of the Viking Brahmaputra combines two ancient Sanskrit words—Brahma, the Hindu god of creation, and putra, meaning son. Specifically built to navigate the Brahmaputra River, this ship blends understated elegance with signature Scandinavian design for which Viking is known. Explore the natural beauty of the northeastern region of India in comfort, with outdoor verandas, hotel-style beds and light-filled public areas offering panoramic views.

• Only 80 guests
• Crew: 54
• Length: 246 feet
• Year built: 2027

Viking Brahmaputra Features

• 40 comfortable outside staterooms (38 Veranda Staterooms, 6 Veranda Suites, 2 Explorer Suites)
• Explorer suites feature two full-size rooms with a veranda off the bedroom & a spacious bathroom with separate bathtub and glass enclosed shower
• Open air Sky Bar with shaded seating area
• Lounge & Bar with floor-to-ceiling glass doors
• Restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic views
• Spa & Fitness centre
• Library & onboard shop
• Elevator
• Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
• Laundry service
• Flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring a selection of live TV channels, complimentary Movies On Demand and in-house programming

Stateroom Features

Our purpose-built ships offer a wide variety of staterooms for your selection. From Veranda Staterooms to the abundance of extra perks and amenities in our spacious Explorer Suites, there is no finer way to travel. And whichever stateroom you choose, you will find it beautifully designed in the understated elegance for which Viking is known.

Explorer Suite (ES)

• Stateroom size: 700 sq ft (includes private veranda)
• River-view suite with spacious, separate sitting room & floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to a large veranda off the living room
• Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
• Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
• Flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring a selection of live TV channels, complimentary Movies On Demand and in-house programming
• Additional flat-screen TV in sitting area
• 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
• Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, bathtub, double-sink vanity, heated floor, anti-fog mirror
• Plush robes & slippers
• Telephone, safe, refrigerator
• Individual climate control
• Bottled water replenished daily
• Welcome champagne; mini-bar with wine, beer & soft drinks (replenished daily); daily fruit plate
• Binoculars
• Personal coffee machine with premium coffee
• Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
• Complimentary in-room breakfast service
• Complimentary laundry & shoe shine services
• Silver Spirits beverage package included
• Private arrival/departure transfer in destination
• Under-bed suitcase storage space
• Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Veranda Suite (A, B, C)

• Stateroom size: 264 sq ft (includes private veranda)
• River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door) & private veranda
• Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows
• Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
• Flat-screen TV with infotainment system featuring a selection of live TV channels, complimentary Movies On Demand and in-house programming
• 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
• Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, double-sink vanity, heated floor, anti-fog mirror & hair dryer
• Premium Freyja® toiletries
• Plush robes & slippers
• Telephone, safe, refrigerator
• Individual climate control
• Bottled water replenished daily
• Binoculars
• Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping
• Under-bed suitcase storage space
• Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers