11 Days - Quintessential North East India Tour

Arrive in Guwahati, where you will be met and driven three hours to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya - the ‘abode of the clouds’. Perched at an altitude of 1,496 metres, Shillong is surrounded by pine-clad hills, sparkling lakes, and misty valleys, creating a landscape that has earned it the nickname “Scotland of the East” for its resemblance to the Scottish Highlands. With its cool climate, colonial-era charm, and vibrant cultural scene, Shillong offers a refreshing retreat in the stunning natural beauty of North East India.

Set off on a day trip to Cherrapunjee, a place renowned for being one of the wettest places on Earth, where mist-covered valleys, roaring waterfalls, and deep limestone caves create a truly mesmerising landscape.

On the way, stop at Elephant Falls, a multi-tiered cascade nestled amidst lush greenery, where water tumbles over moss-covered rocks, creating a picturesque setting. Continue to Shillong Peak, the highest point in Meghalaya, offering sweeping views of Shillong and the surrounding hills. On a clear day, you can see as far as the plains of Bangladesh, making it a perfect spot to take in the region’s breathtaking natural beauty.

Arriving in Cherrapunjee (Sohra), explore some of its most spectacular natural wonders. Visit the illuminated Mawsmai Cave, a fascinating limestone cavern filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and narrow passageways, making for an exciting underground adventure. Then, take in the power of Mawsmai Falls, a dramatic plunge waterfall surrounded by lush cliffs, before heading to Nohkalikai Falls, India’s tallest plunge waterfall, dropping from an incredible 340 metres into a deep blue pool below. The sight of water cascading down sheer cliffs, surrounded by mist and dense forests, is one of Meghalaya’s most iconic views.

Continue to Khrem Falls, a hidden gem tucked within the hills, and finally visit Thangkharang Park, where well-manicured gardens open up to panoramic views of Bangladesh's lowlands stretching far into the distance.

After a day immersed in Meghalaya’s stunning landscapes, return to Shillong, reflecting on the raw beauty and dramatic scenery of Cherrapunjee’s waterfalls, caves, and viewpoints.

Today, embark on a seven-hour drive to Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its incredible biodiversity and conservation efforts. Spanning 430 square kilometres, the park’s landscape is a striking mix of elephant grass, dense rattan cane, semi-evergreen forests, and shallow swamps, creating a diverse habitat that supports a wide range of wildlife.

Kaziranga was declared a sanctuary in 1916, with the primary aim of protecting the Indian greater one-horned rhinoceros, a species once on the brink of extinction. Thanks to over a century of dedicated conservation efforts, the park now holds 80% of the world’s population of this rare and remarkably docile animal. Beyond rhinos, Kaziranga is also home to wild elephants, tigers, swamp deer, and an extraordinary variety of birdlife, making it one of India’s most significant wildlife reserves.

On arrival, check into your accommodation and prepare for an unforgettable safari experience in the heart of Assam’s wilderness.

Spend the day exploring Kaziranga National Park, immersing yourself in its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Set out on an early morning or afternoon jeep safari, venturing deep into the park in search of its most iconic resident - the Indian greater one-horned rhinoceros. With Kaziranga home to the world’s largest population of these rare creatures, sightings are highly likely as they graze in the tall elephant grass or cool off in the park’s many wetlands.

Beyond rhinos, Kaziranga is a thriving ecosystem, sheltering a remarkable variety of wildlife. Look out for wild elephants moving in herds, deer and wild pigs foraging in the undergrowth, and, if lucky, a glimpse of the elusive Bengal tiger, which thrives in this dense wilderness. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with an abundance of storks, eagles, pelicans, and hornbills filling the skies and wetlands.

Whether scanning the horizon for wildlife, soaking in the vast floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, or simply enjoying the tranquillity of nature, Kaziranga offers an unforgettable safari experience in one of India’s most treasured national parks.

Today, set off on a three-hour drive to Nameri National Park, a pristine wilderness renowned for its rich birdlife and unspoiled natural beauty. Covering approximately 200 square kilometres, Nameri is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting over 300 recorded species, including the rare white-winged wood duck, a highly endangered species that thrives in the park’s dense forests and wetlands. The park’s diverse landscape of tropical evergreen forests, riverine grasslands, and the Jia Bhoroli River provides an ideal habitat for an array of wildlife, making it a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

En route, stop at Tezpur, a picturesque town steeped in history and mythology, often referred to as the "Cultural Capital of Assam". Explore the town’s colonial-era architecture, vibrant local markets, and scenic riverbanks before continuing to the ruins of Da Parbatia Temple, an ancient site dating back to the 5th–6th centuries. This archaeological treasure features intricate carved stone doorways and sculptures, offering a glimpse into Assam’s early Hindu artistic traditions.

Upon arrival at Nameri National Park, settle into your accommodation at a sustainable eco-camp, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of the jungle. The evening is free to relax, enjoy the natural setting, or take a stroll along the riverside, preparing for the adventures that await in the park.

Begin the day with a peaceful early morning rafting trip on the Jia Bhoroli River, gliding through the pristine waters that flow along the edge of Nameri National Park. This gentle rafting experience offers stunning views of the Himalayan foothills, while also providing a unique opportunity to spot the park’s rich birdlife, including kingfishers, hornbills, and fishing eagles. The calm waters and untouched wilderness make for a truly serene start to the day.

After lunch, embark on a five-hour drive to Dirang, a charming mountain town in Arunachal Pradesh, home to the Monpa tribes, who have preserved their unique Tibetan-influenced culture for centuries. Along the way, visit the Tippi Orchid Centre, which houses a spectacular collection of over 500 orchid varieties, showcasing the floral richness of the region. A short distance ahead, stop at Sessa Orchid Sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot where vibrant orchids bloom amidst dense forests, adding splashes of colour to the Himalayan landscape.

On arrival in Dirang, settle into your accommodation, with the evening free to enjoy the cool mountain air and picturesque surroundings, preparing for the adventures ahead in this remote and culturally rich region.

Set off on a six-hour drive to Tawang, a journey that winds through some of Arunachal Pradesh’s most spectacular landscapes. Travelling through lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and terraced paddy fields, the road gradually ascends through dense alpine forests and mountain streams before reaching the stark, windswept terrain of the Sella Pass at 4,249 metres. This high-altitude pass, often blanketed in snow, marks the gateway to Tawang and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas. Stop at Sela Lake, a serene, turquoise glacial lake near the summit, reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The descent from the pass takes you into Tawang’s dramatic valley, where Buddhist prayer flags flutter in the crisp mountain air.

Along the way, visit Jaswantgarh War Memorial, a moving tribute to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, who, along with his fiancée and her friend, sacrificed his life in 1962 defending the Indian border against the advancing Chinese army during the Sino-Indian War. The memorial honours his incredible bravery, as he held off enemy forces single-handedly for three days, using strategically placed rifles to create the illusion of multiple soldiers. Today, the site is preserved as a place of respect and remembrance, where soldiers still keep a watch over his belongings as a mark of honour.

Continue the journey towards Tawang, taking in the ever-changing landscapes, from barren high-altitude ridges to deep valleys dotted with traditional Monpa villages and Buddhist monasteries. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and enjoy the cool mountain air and peaceful surroundings.

Tawang, nestled at an altitude of 3,000 metres in the rugged landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, is a place of spiritual significance and breathtaking natural beauty. Best known for its ancient monastery, Tawang holds deep historical and religious importance, as it is also the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and pristine alpine lakes, the town offers a unique blend of Buddhist heritage and Himalayan grandeur.

Dating back to 1642, the Tawang Monastery is a majestic fortress-like structure, standing as the second oldest Buddhist monastery in the world after Lhasa’s Potala Palace. It houses over 500 lamas (Buddhist monks) and serves as a vital centre for Tibetan Buddhism in India. Within its sprawling whitewashed walls and intricately decorated prayer halls, the monastery safeguards priceless Buddhist manuscripts, ancient scriptures, and exquisite thangkas (Tibetan religious paintings on silk or cotton).

One of its most striking features is the 8-metre-high golden statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, a serene and commanding presence that draws pilgrims and visitors alike. The monastery’s interiors are adorned with vivid murals, intricately carved wooden pillars, and fluttering prayer flags, creating a deeply meditative and spiritual atmosphere. From its hilltop perch, the monastery offers panoramic views of the Tawang Valley, with its winding rivers and traditional Monpa villages spread out below.

Beyond its religious significance, Tawang remains a place of living tradition, where the daily chants of monks, the scent of butter lamps, and the rhythmic turning of prayer wheels continue to shape the rhythm of life in this remote Himalayan outpost.

After an early breakfast, set off on the seven-hour drive to Bomdila, a journey that takes you through some of Arunachal Pradesh’s most breathtaking landscapes. Winding through high mountain passes, deep valleys, and misty pine forests, this scenic route offers a spectacular mix of rugged terrain and lush greenery, with dramatic views unfolding at every turn.

Along the way, stop at Jang Falls, a stunning multi-tiered waterfall cascading down rocky cliffs surrounded by dense forest. Fed by the Nuranang River, the falls create a mesmerising display of white torrents crashing into the emerald pools below. The mist rising from the falls adds to the enchanting atmosphere, making it a perfect place to stretch your legs and soak in the beauty of the Eastern Himalayas.

Continue the journey towards Bomdila, a charming hill town perched at an altitude of 2,530 metres. Known for its panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayas, Bomdila is a picturesque retreat, surrounded by apple and cherry orchards, which burst into bloom during spring. The town is deeply influenced by Tibetan culture, with serene Buddhist gompas (monasteries) adding to its spiritual charm.

Upon arrival, take in the crisp mountain air and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, with the rest of the day free to explore the town’s vibrant local markets, scenic viewpoints, and ancient monasteries, offering a glimpse into the rich traditions of the Monpa people.

Set off on a six-hour drive to Tezpur, a charming town nestled on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, where history, culture, and natural beauty blend seamlessly. Known as the "Cultural Capital of Assam", Tezpur is steeped in mythology, legends, and colonial heritage, making it a fascinating stop on your journey through the northeast. The town also holds a significant place in India’s tea history, as it was home to Assam’s first tea plantations, which laid the foundation for the region’s world-renowned tea industry.

On arrival, take some time to settle in before heading out to explore Chitralekha Udyan, a beautifully landscaped park that houses a remarkable collection of 9th-century sculptural remains. Set amidst lush gardens and tranquil water features, the park is dotted with ancient stone carvings, inscriptions, and relics, offering a glimpse into Assam’s rich archaeological heritage. The site is named after Chitralekha, a character from Hindu mythology, and is surrounded by serene walkways and lotus-filled ponds, making it a perfect place to unwind.

As the day draws to a close, make your way to the riverbank to witness the magnificent sunset over the Brahmaputra, one of India’s greatest rivers. As the sky turns shades of gold, pink, and crimson, watch fishing boats gently glide across the water, with the distant silhouettes of the eastern Himalayan foothills providing a breathtaking backdrop. The peaceful setting, combined with the rhythmic sounds of the river, offers a perfect end to the day in Tezpur.

After breakfast, set off on the drive to Guwahati Airport, enjoying the final stretch of your journey through Assam’s scenic landscapes before boarding your flight to your next destination.