Nagaland's Hornbill Festival and Brahmaputra Expedition - Explore Northern India
Nagaland is known as the land of festivals and each December, the Hornbill Festival takes place in Kohima uniting the various Naga tribes for a yearly celebration of the culture and traditions of the region. Famed for its fierce and distinct Naga Warriors, Nagaland is a must-see for travellers in India’s North East and for the first time Pandaw is offering a guided tour of this unique annual celebration, combined with a 7 night expedition along the mighty Brahmaputra River.
This is a group tour exploring the Hornbill Festival across multiple days after a 10-night Brahmaputra expedition. Transportation to and from the festival site and excursions each day are provided as a group by coach or car but our local guides and vehicles will be on hand to support those who wish to return early. This is a flexible tour which may change depending on specific festival activities at time of visit or group consensus.
Highlights
• Hornbill Festival in Kohima: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Nagaland through traditional dances, music, and cuisine at this renowned festival.
• Kaziranga National Park Safari: Experience a thrilling jeep safari to spot the Indian One-Horned Rhinos, elephants, and diverse birdlife in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Upon arrival in Kolkata, guests are transferred to their hotel for a day at leisure to relax or explore the city before the journey to the hills of Nagaland.Overnight: Kolkata
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
An early morning flight leads to Guwahati, followed by a train journey on the Jansatabdi Express to Dimapur and a coach transfer to Kohima. After settling in, the evening features an engaging talk on the historic WWII Battles of Kohima and Imphal, setting the scene for the days ahead.
Overnight in Kohima
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
We explore the historic Kohima Ridge, visiting key sites of the 'Stalingrad of the East' battle and the poignant War Cemetery dedicated to the soldiers who fought there. The afternoon includes a visit to the stunning Kohima Cathedral, a prominent landmark and enduring symbol of peace.
Overnight in Kohima
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
The day begins at the Nagaland State Museum, showcasing intricate Naga tribal artefacts and costumes. We then proceed to Khonoma, India’s first 'Green Village' and home to the Angami tribe, for a guided walk through ceremonial gates, ancient forts, and traditional morungs (age-group houses).
Overnight in Kohima
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
We immerse ourselves in the vibrant Hornbill Festival, known as the 'Festival of Festivals', at Kisama Heritage Village. The day is filled with mesmerising tribal performances, traditional games, indigenous brews, and the exploration of traditional Naga houses displaying rich heritage.
Overnight in Kohima
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Continuing the festival experience, we delve deeper into the kaleidoscope of tribal life, witnessing rhythmic traditional dances, vibrant attire, and discovering hidden gems within the lively market stalls.
Overnight in Kohima
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
A hike to the summit of Mount Puliebadze (2,300 m) offers breathtaking views of Kohima, with an alternative option available to visit the festival venue. After a local lunch at the mountain base, the rest of the day is free to soak in the atmosphere of Kohima.
Overnight in Kohima
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast, we transfer to Dimapur to board the train to Guwahati to join your river expedition.
Meals: Breakfast
Arrive in Guwahati and transfer to the RV Kindat Pandaw. At 2pm, we cast off from Pandu Port and begin our journey upstream. Learn about the Brahmaputra River with a talk from our knowledgeable guide. Enjoy a cocktail hour with canapes. We anchor near Mayong for the night.
Spend the day sailing against the strong currents of the Brahmaputra River, making your way through the lush Assam countryside. Take advantage of the onboard activities and lectures to learn more about the region's fascinating culture and history.
Arrive in Silghat and disembark for a leisurely walk through a typical Assamese village, experiencing the daily life and traditions of the friendly locals. In the evening, enjoy a captivating performance of traditional Assamese folk dances like the Jhumur and Bihu.
Embark on a thrilling jeep safari through the renowned Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This wildlife haven boasts the world's largest population of the Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros and a high density of Royal Bengal Tigers, though sightings of these elusive creatures are rare. Keep an eye out for other fascinating wildlife like Indian elephants, bison, swamp deer, and a variety of bird species as you traverse the park's diverse landscape.
After an early breakfast, embark on an exciting adventure to Nameri National Park, nestled at the foot of the blue hills of Arunachal Pradesh. Take a relaxing float trip down the Jia-Bhoreli River, spotting diverse birdlife and soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Later, journey to Bamuni Hills to marvel at the ancient rock carvings dating back to the 8th century, offering a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the region.
Step ashore in Mayong Village, shrouded in mystique and known for its long-standing association with magic and sorcery. Delve into the intriguing history of this unique village, learning about ancient mantras and their uses in everything from healing to identifying thieves. You might even witness a captivating magic demonstration by a local resident. Later, continue sailing downstream, enjoying the ever-changing scenery and onboard activities.
Rise early for a visit to Sualkuchi, a major center for silk production in Assam. Discover the intricate art of silk-making, from the delicate silkworms spinning their cocoons to the skilled weavers creating exquisite sarees worn by local women.
Disembark in Guwahati and bid farewell to the majestic Brahmaputra River as you transfer to the airport or hotel for your onward journey.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Main Deck Twin Sharing
Upper Deck Twin Sharing
Upper deck single
Vessel Type: River Boat
Length: 57 metres
Passenger Capacity: 36
Built / refurbished: 2014
The RV Kindat Pandaw, launched in Myanmar in 2014, is a shallow-draft river expedition vessel measuring 56.63 m in length with a 10 m beam and 1.1 m draft, designed to navigate virtually anywhere along the river. Accommodating 36 guests in 18 teak-and-brass staterooms, the vessel offers panoramic French windows, air-conditioning, Nespresso machines, minibars with complimentary drinks, spa-branded amenities, premium mattresses, yoga mats, and nightly turndown service. Cabins are split between eight upper deck and ten main deck staterooms, providing a blend of intimacy and space, while multi-configuration plugs, hair dryers, and electric safes ensure convenience. Complimentary evening canapés, 24-hour laundry, and expedition flasks enhance onboard comfort.
Dining is flexible with a bistro-style space offering both indoor and outdoor seating, supplemented by semi-buffet breakfasts and lunches, theme dinners, and lean menu options. Guests enjoy local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas, and an extensive wine list, with welcome and farewell cocktails enhancing the social experience. Public spaces include a library, onboard bakery, and 24-hour hospitality bar. Excursions are supported with bottled water, cold towels, shoe cleaning, first aid-trained guides, and quality mountain bikes for independent exploration. Safety is maintained with certified crew, fire systems, 24-hour watch, and a full complement of officers, chefs, guides, and housekeeping staff.
Inclusions
• Welcome cocktail party
• Signature hors d’oeuvres at cocktails each evening
• Afternoon tea with cakes or cookies when cruising
• Celebration cake and gift on birthdays and anniversaries
• Cookery demonstrations and classes using local produce
• All scheduled excursions
• At least two cultural performances per cruise
• Tour of the engine rooms, galley and working parts of the ship
• Film presentations on local culture and history
• Local mineral water
• Cold towels on deck all day
• Jugged coffee, tea and tisanes on deck from sunrise till sunset
• Crew gratuities are included in your cruise program price
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• Land - Hotels and meals off ship as noted. Entrance to the Hornbill Festival, transfers and expert guides. 1-way 2nd class train ticket from Guwahati to Dimapur, all taxes and fees.
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs
• Port taxes where applicable
• Gratuities for land guides/drivers
• Spa service including foot, head and body massages (Mekong only)
• Personal laundry service
• Local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanes are all complimentary. All other drinks will be charged.
River Boat
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