Tour of Seven North Eastern States











Duration
22 Nights & 23 Days
Highlights
- Meet & Assist
- Guided Sightseeing Tours
- Stay in City & Rural Luxury Hotels
- Village Safari & Day-to-Day Rural Life
- World’s Highest Sela Pass & Snowcapped Mountains
- Tea Garden, Temples, Church & Buddhist Monasteries
- 3 Nights & 4 days (Full Board) Cruise, Kamakhya Temple, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary – Guwahati
- Da-Parbatia Temple – Tezpur
- Craft Centre & Ethnographic Museum – Bomdila
- Tawang Monastery, Urgelling Monastery – Tawang
- Bhalukpong Fort & Tipi Orchidarium – Bhalukpong
- Elephant & Jeep Safari in Kaziranga National Park – Kaziranga
- The State Museum & Kohima War Cemetery – Kohima
- Manipur Zoological Gardens & Ima Keithel, Govindji Temple – Imphal
- Museum & Mini Zoological Garden & Paikhai – Aizwal
- Ujjayanta Palace & Jagannath Temple, Neermahal – Agartala
- Ward’s Lake, Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, Shillong Golf Course & Shillong Peak – Shillong
- Nohsngithiang Falls, Dainthlen Falls, Nohkailikai Falls (World’s Fourth Highest) & Krem Mawmluh Cave – Cherrapunjee
- 7 States-Assam, Arunachal Pardesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Meghalaya
Guwahati, Tezpur, Bomdila, Tawang, Bhalukpong, Kaziranga, Kohima, Imphal, Aizwal, Agartala, Silchar, Shillong, Cherrapunjee, Guwahati
You will be met and assisted on arrival at Guwahati Airport and transferred to the jetty to embark on a ship by mid-afternoon close to the great Saraighat Bridge for 3 nights and 4 days (full board) cruise on the mighty Brahmaputra River.
Lying on the Southern fringes of the mighty Brahmaputra river, Guwahati, the largest city of Assam, holds spirituality and adventure at its heart. Home to the much-revered Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to goddess Kamakhya, an incarnation of Goddess Sati, the 8th-century temple attracts devotees throughout the year. Apart from temples, river cruising in the feisty Brahmaputra is a magical experience. Guwahati, the city, enjoys a rich bounty of flora and fauna. While its wild side languishes in serenity, the city’s cosmopolitan centre bustles with the vibrancy of festivals, fairs, music, dance, arts and crafts. From the renowned Bihu dance and folk music to the energetic bhortal nritya, the city holds its culture close to its heart and displays it in an array of colours and merriment that leave tourists in awe.
Enjoy lunch while cruising downstream to the little town of Sualkuchi, where the clatter of looms gives a clue to the town’s industry.
Post-lunch, walk through the village to visit, its silk-weaving workshops and observe the whole process of silk manufacture, from cocoon and spinning to dyeing and hand-weaving into exquisite mekhela chadars (a two-piece sari, the traditional attire of Assamese women).
Dinner & overnight on board.
This morning cruise upstream and disembark at Pandu docks for a short sightseeing tour of Guwahati.
A drive up Nilachal Hill brings you to the holy Kamakhya temple, though with its tantric rites and animal sacrifice, the more squeamish among may prefer to content themselves with its exteriors.
Visit, the poignant Commonwealth War Graves cemetery as well as a shop selling local crafts. Afterwards, cross by country boat to the mid-stream Peacock Island with its population of Golden Langurs before re-boarding and cruising past Kurua on the North bank.
Dinner & overnight on board.
Today, cruise upstream past jungle-covered hills and turn into the Mayong River. Here take a country boat for a kilometre or two to the road head and from there drive to Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary. This small park has a dense population of the Indian, One-Horned Rhinoceros, and it would be unlucky to not spot some of these armoured beasts on a jeep safari around the park. Return to the ship in the afternoon and cruise to a riverside village, which you can explore on foot.
Later, sail downstream to spend the last night close to Kurua.
Dinner & overnight on board.
Post early breakfast, disembark and drive to Tezpur.
Lush green tea gardens, picturesque landscapes and endless paddy fields framed by the snow-clad Himalayas, all come together to make the beautiful city of Tezpur. Fringed by the feisty Brahmaputra river, Tezpur, is considered to be Assam’s oldest city. Straddling the state of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, Tezpur is surrounded by some of the most exquisite scenic sites in India.
There are many legends associated with this slow-paced quaint city, and it is said that it was the battleground of a war between Hari (Lord Krishna) and king Banasura (a devotee of Lord Shiva). Local lore recounts that the nephew of Lord Krishna, Aniruddha, fell in love with Usha, the daughter of the king, who disapproved of their match. The king put the young prince into jail and when Lord Krishna found out about this, he attacked him with full force. Banasura lost the war and requested Krishna not to kill him, after which he presented the couple, seated in a regal chariot, to the lord.
Originally, Tezpur is said to have been known as Haruppesvera, during the reign of the Mlechchha dynasty (650 – 900 AD). The rock inscriptions of Harjar Varma point to the fact that the city was in existence from 829-30 AD. Modern-day Tezpur was founded in 1835 by the British colonial administration. In fact, the city was an important centre of trade that was used as a river port. After independence, the city continued to maintain its significant streak and was the site of the establishment of the first electric power station in this part of the country.
On arrival, check-into the hotel.
Later in the afternoon, proceed to visit Da-Parbatia Temple, one of the oldest temples in Assam.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, checkout and drive to Bomdila, en-route visiting Bhalukpong.
Visit Bhalukpong Fort and Tipi Orchidarium -home to over 2,600 cultivated orchids from 80 different species.
Afterwards, resume journey to Bomdila.
The remote town of Bomdila is one of the best tourist sites in Arunachal Pardesh, India. The snow-clad Himalayas, lush green landscapes and a rich culture make Bomdila a popular stopover for those exploring the natural beauty of the Northeast.
The Bomdila View Point is a prominent site to view the spectacular West Kameng valley and the cloud-covered Nechipu Pass.
Bomdila is also known for its beautiful apple orchards that attract visitors in large numbers. The highest peaks in the state, Kangte and Gorichen, are clearly visible from Bomdila.
On arrival, check-into the hotel.
Later in the afternoon, visit Craft Centre and Ethnographic Museum, a wonderful place to get an insight into the fantastic arts and crafts of the craftsmen of the region. At the centre, one can find beautiful varieties of carpet, wall hangings known as Buddhist Thangkas, masks and exquisite handicrafts items. Afterwards, visit a Buddhist Monastery.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, checkout and drive to Tawang.
En-route visit Sela Pass, one of the world’s highest passes at 13714 ft. which runs through a small ridge and along the paradise lake.
On arrival, check-into the hotel.
A stunning contrast of nature’s colour palette, where dense emerald jungles give way to stark icy peaks and snow-blanketed passes, the quaint town of Tawang, in Arunachal Pradesh, is a pristine and unspoilt destination.
Flanked by majestic snow-capped mountain ranges on the East and dotted with picturesque Buddhist monasteries, Tawang takes you on an adventure, which starts with reaching the town through zigzagging and winding mountain passes, including Sela, one of the highest motorable roads in the world.
The colourful gompas and Buddhist prayer flags dot the landscape and invite visitors to experience a unique culture while being welcomed by the warm people of the town. While spectacular lakes and serene waterfalls provide a beautiful natural retreat, the bustling markets and an active adventure scene offer thrilling and delightful opportunities. One can also indulge in shopping to your heart’s content as the tribal community’s craft unique handicrafts that incorporate centuries-old skill.
The misty mountainous landscape, gorgeous walking trails and mesmerizing views that this valley offers make Tawang a perfect destination for travellers.
It is located in close proximity to the international borders of China to the North and Bhutan to the South-West.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, proceed to visit 350 years old Tawang Monastery, the second-largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery worldwide. With a total space of 13,500 square meters, this sacred monastery is home to more than 70 buildings in which thousands of Tibetan lamas live. The peaceful, as well as the spiritual atmosphere here, makes the perfect way to begin your morning.
Afterwards, visit Urgelling Monastery where the 6th Dalia Lama was born and then to Ani Gompa, a peaceful monastery. Finish the sightseeing at Tawang War Memorial.
Later in the afternoon return to hotel.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, checkout and drive back to Bhalukpong.
On arrival, check-into the hotel.
Afternoon at leisure to relax.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, checkout and drive to Kaziranga.
One of the greatest wildlife emblems of India, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kaziranga National Park, is famed as a home to two-thirds of the world’s population of the rare one-horned rhinoceros. With the mighty Brahmaputra river lapping at the fringes, the park encompasses wetlands, forests and grasslands, which shelter a sizeable population of tigers as well. Moreover, the park is an abode of world-famous snakes – the rock python, the reticulated python and the king cobra, the longest venomous snake. While eastern swamp deer and wild water buffalo are common sights, if you’re lucky, you can also spot a herd of elephants making their way grandly through the park. The park is surrounded by ancient temples, pristine waterfalls and lush tea estates.
On arrival, check-into Wildlife resort.
Overnight stay at Wildlife resort.
Early morning, enjoy the elephant safari in the central (Kohora) range of Kaziranga.
Later return to the resort for breakfast.
Afternoon, enjoy the exclusive Jeep safari in the western (Bagori) range of Kaziranga.
Overnight stay at Wildlife resort.
Post breakfast, checkout and drive to Kohima.
A carpet of lush emerald green, dotted with colourful blooms, Kohima, the capital of Nagaland looks like an artist’s canvas. Kohima is called the land of the Angami Naga tribe and derives its name from ‘Kewhira’ or ‘Kewhima’, meaning the land where the Kewhi flower grows. The city serpentines along the mountain range to the top and offers a pristine and seamless blend of nature and tribal traditions and culture. Set against the backdrop of the Japfu mountain range, the city boasts a rocky terrain and many scenic trails that are ideal for adventure-lovers and thrill-seekers. Kohima retains its traditional charm, which can be experienced in its various heritage villages.
On arrival, check-into the hotel.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, proceed to visit Kohima village. As you enter this village, notice a number of traditional wooden gates with the scimitar or horns of Mithun. In this village, one comes across wooden carvings looking like horns atop some houses. Also see relics of stone erections here and there in front of the houses, which are memorial symbols of the grand feasts offered by their ancestors.
Visit, Kohima War cemetery, constructed in memory of the officers and men who made supreme sacrifices during World War II. On each grave there are beautiful epitaphs engraved In bronze.
Afterwards proceed to The State Museum and witness a rare collection of artifacts of the different tribes, which inhabit the state. It depicts the different aspects of life of the people in all its varied forms.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, checkout and drive to Imphal.
Ensconced in the northeastern fringes of the country, Imphal, the capital of Manipur, is sprawled along the valley of the pristine Manipur river. Ringed by snow-capped peaks and parallel ranges of verdant hills, Imphal is endowed with many natural wonders. From gorgeous lakes, natural caves and emerald tea estates to lush parks and teeming flora and fauna, Imphal has a lot to offer. At the heart of the city lies the Kangla Fort, a grand structure standing on the bank of the Imphal river. In its ruined ramparts, the fort hides vestiges of the glory of its past rulers. Steeped in history, Imphal’s rich heritage can be traced in the various museums here, the most important of which is the Manipur State Museum. The city preserves its past glories and honours the martyrs with a smattering of memorials that make for an interesting visit.
A unique attraction of Imphal is Ima Keithel or the Ima market, which is probably the largest all-women market in the world. It is an amazing sight to see local women dressed in traditional phaneks (long skirts tightly draped around the waist) and innaphis (shoulder drapes very similar to shawls) setting up their shops and stalls every morning as they get ready to welcome scores of customers. As you explore the bustling bazaars of the city, don’t miss out on the vibrant handicrafts on sale here. From exquisite bamboo and cane products to beautiful pottery articles, there’s a fine selection of crafts on offer.
On arrival, check-into the hotel.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, proceed to visit Manipur Zoological Gardens, often described as the jewel box of Manipur, the beautiful Manipur Zoological Gardens sprawl over an area of around 8 hectares and are one of the most popular attractions of the state. Home to as many as 400 species of animals and birds, the gardens are famed for inhabiting the graceful antlered deer called sangai, which is one of the world’s rarest species. Surrounded by verdant forests and majestic hillocks, the park is blessed with a rich biodiversity and attracts nature and wildlife lovers with its diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can come across around 55 bird species at the park, while the animal section of the park houses 420 species, the sangai being its highlight.
Afterwards, visit Probably the largest market of its kind in the world, Ima Keithel is famous as an all-women’s market and attracts tourists and locals alike. It is an amazing sight to see local women dressed in traditional phaneks (long skirts tightly draped around the waist) and innaphis (shoulder drapes very similar to shawls) setting up their shops and stalls every morning as they get ready to welcome scores of customers. The word ‘Ima’ means mother and there are around 5,000 imas running stalls at the Ima Keithel. According to historians and researchers, the market’s all-women workforce originated after the Lallup-Kaba, an ancient forced labour system, was enforced in Manipur.
As a result, all the men were sent to cultivate agricultural lands in faraway areas and fight wars, and it were the women who had to set up the market to meet the daily requirements of the locals.
Proceed to Govindji temple, dedicated to Govindajee or Lord Krishna, Shree-Shree Govindajee Temple houses the idols of Lord Govinda and Goddess Radha, along with statues of Lord Balaram, Lord Jaganath, Goddess Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. The temple provides the perfect setting for meditation, and Mantop is the best spot to soak in peace and quiet. The temple was originally built in 1846 AD during the reign of Maharaj Nara Singh, the king of Manipur (1844-1850). It lies adjacent to the royal palace of the former maharajas of Manipur and has a raised congregation hall and a paved courtyard.
Afterwards, return to the hotel.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, checkout and transfer to Airport for flight to Aizawl.
Meet & assist on arrival at Aizawl Airport and transfer to hotel.
Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram, a city perfect for a relaxing holiday. Perched on almost vertical ridges, Aizawl is dotted with quaint churches, neat neighbourhoods and patches of green and emerald blue lakes. The Durtlang peaks, surrounding the city, make a picturesque backdrop for the gushing Tlawng and Tuirial rivers. While the overall aura of the city is tranquil, its bustling bazaars and action-packed adventure scene are quite boisterous. From rafting in River Tlawng, angling and cave tourism to paragliding in Durtlang cliffs and mountaineering, Aizawl appeals to thrill seekers.
The name “Aizawl” literally translates into a field of wild cardamom, and it is said that it originated when Thanruma and Lalsavunga, Mizo chiefs in the 19th century, set up the villages in and around the present site of Raj Bhavan.
Day at leisure to relax or explore the city on your own.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, proceed for sightseeing tour of Aizawl, visiting The Museum and Mini Zoological garden and Paikhai.
Afternoon at leisure to relax.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, checkout and transfer to Agartala.
Nestled on the banks of River Haorah (Howrah), the laid-back city of Agartala, the capital of Tripura, offers a fine blend of royal heritage, rich cultural traditions and natural splendour. Once the power centre of mighty rulers, Agartala is known for spectacular palaces like the Ujjayanta Palace, stunning lakes and several beautiful temples. The city, which is the second-largest in Northeast India after Guwahati, is surrounded by pristine forests, beautiful valleys and roaring waterfalls. The rich flora and fauna, the vibrant hand loom bazaar and the hospitality of its residents, all come together to make Agartala a perfect holiday destination. The city also holds a key to recreation and adventure for those who want to explore its trove of natural bounty.
The name Agartala is made up of two words, ‘Agar’ and ‘tala’. ‘Agar’ refers to a kind of oily valuable perfume of agaru tree and the suffix ‘tala’ means a storehouse.
On arrival, check-into the hotel.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, proceed for sightseeing tour of Agartala, visiting Ujjayanta Palace standing at the heart of the city and named by Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, a regular visitor to Tripura. It boasts beautiful architects of that time. Ujjayanta Palace is now a state museum, popularly known for its display of lifestyle, arts and cultural artefacts, and utility crafts of communities residing in Northeast India.
Afterwards, proceed to Jagannath temple, located next to the Ujjayanta Palace the architecture of the temple that is an amalgamation of Hindu and Arabic styles. The structure is decorated with bright orange structured shikharas (spires) and the pillars are crowned by square and pyramidal cones. Another attraction is the lovely decorations from the life of Lord Krishna and many statues of Hindu gods and goddesses scattered across the temple. Afternoon at leisure to relax.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post early breakfast, checkout and proceed for sightseeing of Neermahal, literally translates into water palace. It is a royal mansion located in the middle of the Rudrasagar Lake, 55 km from Agartala. It has one of the finest incorporations of Hindu architecture and design. The palace has been made in marble and sandstone and is one of the largest palaces of its kind in the country.
Afterwards, drive to Silchar.
On arrival, check-into the hotel.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, checkout and drive to Shillong.
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya is famous for colonial-era charm, a landscape of rolling green and pristine mountains. Shillong is frequently referred to as the ‘Scotland of the East’ for its similarity to the Scottish Highlands in terms of topography and greenery.
On arrival, check-into the hotel.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, proceed for sightseeing tour of Shillong, visiting Ward’s Lake -named after British official, Sir William Ward, the then chief commissioner of Assam. The lake provides shelter to grass carps and gaggles of geese, and one can feed them standing on the bridge that passes over the lake.
Afterwards visit, old churched including Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians, Shillong Golf Course and Shillong peak.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, proceed for sightseeing tour of Cherrapunjee, one of the wettest places on earth, at an elevation of 4,500 ft. This stunning location is set amidst misty valleys, foaming rivers and swirling clouds. This place has only one season – monsoon. The rainfall varies from light to medium to heavy, but it rains all year round. Interestingly, it rains mostly at night and day activities are not disrupted by the weather.
The heaviest rainfall is mostly from May to September, and during this time Cherrapunjee becomes a sea of tiny rivulets. One can savour the staccato of raindrops hitting the rooftops and get lost in the melodious music of rain unique to the northeastern states of India.
After the heavy downpour relents, the flora of the place acquires soft pastel hues and the grey skies get beautiful rainbow colours.
Visit Cherrapunjee’s famous waterfalls Nohsngithiang Falls, Dainthlen Falls, Nohkalikai Falls (world’s fourth highest) and also visit Krem Mawmluh cave.
Later in the afternoon, return to Shillong.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Post breakfast, checkout and transfer to Guwahati Airport for flight to onwards destination.