Foreign seniors immerse in Assam’s culture on Brahmaputra cruise

A group of 27 senior travellers from England, New Zealand, and the USA reached Dhubri on September 22 as part of their 17-day “Assam Tour on Cruise” aboard the MV Mahabaahu. They were welcomed at the historic Guru Teg Bahadur Sahib Gurudwara, where they participated in traditional Sikh rituals.

For many on the trip, the visit offered a rare cultural immersion. Christopher Caldicott, 68, from London, described tying a turban and wearing a kada—a steel bracelet symbolising the Sikh faith—as a moving experience. He shared that praying in front of the Guru Darbar allowed him to 'feel the essence of Sikhism,' highlighting the warmth and openness shown by the gurudwara.

All 27 visitors had the opportunity to take part in the customs, including sharing a meal from the langar, the community kitchen. Liz Woodwalker, 83, from Devon, England, called the experience “wonderful” and praised the hospitality of the Sikh community.

The cruise, departing from Guwahati, is designed to showcase Assam’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The itinerary includes visits to five national parks and multiple heritage sites. The trip is organised by Nick Van Guisen, 70, from Oxford, alongside Sanjoy Basu of Far Horizon Tours Pvt Ltd and Adventure Resorts and Cruises Pvt Ltd.

The MV Mahabaahu will continue to Manas National Park before returning via Tezpur to Nimati Ghat in Jorhat, marking the conclusion of the journey.