Visiting Kaziranga National Park famous for the one-horned rhino, stay in a tea garden, Naga villages, cruise on the Brahmaputra in a country boat, interacting with the tribals of Arunachal Pradesh, the famous Tawang monastery and the traditional markets of Shillong..all combine to make this an epic!

25 Days from USD 3500 onwards

Guwahati | Kaziranga | Majuli Island | Jorhat | Mokokchung | Mon | Dibrugarh | Pasighat | Along | Kabo village | Daporijo | Ziro | Tezpur | Dirang | Shillong | Cherrapunjee | Shillong | Guwahati

ITINERARY

Day 1: Guwahati

Arrive at Guwahati where you will be met and received. Proceed directly to Kaziranga National Park (230 kms/5 hrs). The oldest park in Assam, it covers an area of 430 Sq kms along the river Brahmaputra on the North and the Karbi Anglong hills on the South. A world heritage site, Kaziranga is one of the last areas in eastern India undisturbed by a human presence. Inhabited by the world's largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses as well as many mammals, including tigers, elephants, panthers and bears, and thousands of birds, the landscape of Kaziranga is of sheer forest, tall elephant grass, rugged reeds, marshes & shallow pools. Overnight at Kaziranga.


Day 2: Kaziranga National Park – Elephant and Jeep safaris

Depart on an early morning elephant ride in search of the rhino. Elephant safari is the most enjoyed safari to explore the wide varieties of wildlife in the Kaziranga National Park .The vast area covered by the Elephant Grass can be best viewed when you are on an elephant's back. Here you get an opportunity to see herds of Indian Elephants, One-horned Rhinoceros and many other wild animals from a very close distance. Return to your lodge after the 2 hr (approx) safari to embark on a 3 – 4 hrs jeep safari of the Central Range of the Park. While the elephant safari enables you to get real close to the animals specially a rhino, a jeep safari takes you deeper into the forest range where you can spot many more animals and birds. If you are especially lucky, you may even spot a tiger while on your jeep safari. Return to your lodge. In the afternoon, depart for a Jeep Safari in the Western Range of the park. Return to your lodge. Overnight at Kaziranga.


Day 3: Kaziranga - Majuli Island - Jorhat

After an early breakfast, drive to Nimatighat and cruise to Majuli Island. The largest river island on earth, it is pollution free, a land of varied culture of different tribes, a haven for natural beauty and is abundant with flora and fauna not to mention the birds. In the afternoon visit the Satras. Satras in Assam are basically monasteries which were established to propagate neo Vaishnavism. Majuli is one of the major seats of several Satras established by Vaishnava revivalist, Sankardeva. There are about 22 Satras in Majuli. You can also explore the little villages around the Satras. Later, take an afternoon ferry to mainland and proceed to Jorhat (3 hrs). Overnight at Jorhat.


Day 4: Jorhat - Mokokchung

After breakfast, drive to Mokokchung - the Ao country of Nagaland (130 kms/4 hrs). Arrive and check into your hotel. Enjoy this afternoon at leisure. Go exploring the town on your own. It is the cultural hub of the Ao people. You can visit the many churches all around the town. Or if you want to understand the art, history and culture of the place, you should head out to the Mokokchung District museum in the Arts and Cultural Complex. The museum display exhibits various artifacts of Ao Naga tribe such as swords, shield, shawl, clothing, traditional jewelry, accessories and more. Or you can just stroll at the Town main park, which is located just above the Town Center. Return to your hotel. Overnight at Mokokchung.


Day 5: Mokokchung

Explore the Ao Naga Villages in & around Mokokchung. Take in the pristine scenery. Learn more about the tribes and their lives. Go for walks exploring the villages and nearby areas. Take lots of photos and memories back. Return to your hotel. Over night at Mokokchung.


Day 6: Mokokchung - Mon

After an very early breakfast proceed to Mon ( 220 kms/8 hrs). Home of the Konyaks, the town was established at the land of Chen and Mon villages. Situated at an altitude of 2,945 ft (898 m) above sea level, it is centrally located for the coronation of Anghs (chiefs). The place has always evoked a sense of awe and wonder in the minds of people. Colourful life and culture are an integral part of the 16 officially recognized Naga tribes of Nagaland. These 16 tribes are different and unique in their customs and traditions. These customs and traditions are further translated into festivals which revolve around their agricultural cycle. Songs and dances form the soul of these festivals through which their oral history has been passed down the generations. Nature has been kind to the Nagas and their land. Overnight at Mon.


Day 7: Mon

After an early breakfast, visit Sui & Langnue village of Mon. Overnight at Mon.


Day 8: Dibrugarh, Assam

After breakfast, drive to Dibrugarh (200 kms/7 hrs). Situated in the northernmost tip of Assam, Dibrugarh is the gateway to Aurnachal Pradesh. Famous for tea, it has world's largest area covered by tea gardens. Arrive and check into your hotel. Overnight at Dibrugarh.


Day 9: Dibrugarh - Pasighat

After an early breakfast, cruise on Brahmaputra to Pasighat (7hrs). The oldest city of Arunachal Pradesh, this city is the entrance point for Arunachal Pradesh. Arrive and check into your hotel. Overnight at Pasighat.


Day 10: Pasighat - Along

After breakfast, drive down to Along (147 kms/5 hrs), the land of Adi Gallong tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 300 m above sea level, Along is the headquarters of the West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh. The idyllic town lies nestled in a picturesque valley, surrounded by lofty mountains and the beautiful rivers of Sipu and Siyom. This afternoon, after lunch, visit one of the largest Gallong tribal village called Dwarka village which has more the 1500 houses made of bamboo and palm. Enroute enjoy the great view of Siang River and Syiom River confluence. Overnight at Along.


Day 11: Along - Kabo village and trek - Along

Today go explore Along. Visit Kabo Village, situated on the banks of Yomgo/Siyum River. While there check out the hanging bridge made of cane and bamboo on the River Yomgo. Later trek to farmer's country towards Tuting. Return to your hotel. Overnight at Along.


Day 12: Along - Daporijo

After breakfast, drive to Daporijo (176 kms / 07 hrs) - land of Tagin and Hillmiris tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. The small town is endowed with scenic beauty. One can see suspension bridges over Subansiri River made from bamboo and cane- a testimony of rich tribal craftsmanship. Subansiri River is ideal for river rafting, angling and picnic. Arrive and check into your hotel. Overnight at Daporijo.


Day 13: Daporijo - Ziro

Drive to Ziro - the land of Apatani Tribes of Arunachal. Afternoon visit Hong Village. Overnight at Hotel.


Day 14: Ziro – Apatani and Nishi Tribal Villages - Ziro

Today enjoy the full day exploring the Apatani villages and Nishi tribal Village. The Apatanis belong to the Tibeto-Mongoloid stock and are well-built, fair in complexion and medium to tall in structure. The Apatani society is patriarchal. They are agriculturists and practice permanent cultivation. The uniqueness of the Apatani tribe is tattooing on the women's face and their nose plug. Apatani, like other tribes also believe in sun and the moon as god and have traditional altar in their home made up of Bamboo and Cane. Return to your hotel. Overnight at Ziro.


Day 15: Ziro - Tezpur

After breakfast, drive to tea estate in Tezpur (310 kms/7 hrs). Situated on the north bank of the Brahmaputra, Tezpur is a beautiful and multifaceted city steeped in mythology and history. The city abounds in archaeological sites, hills, lakes and gardens. Overnight at Tezpur.


Day 16: Tezpur - Dirang

After breakfast, drive down from Tezpur to Dirang - the land of Monpas of Arunachal Pradesh (160 kms/6 hrs). Enroute visit Tipi Orchid Park. Situated on the banks of the Bharali River, Tipi is known for the widest assortment of orchids found in India. It is astonishing to know that more than 500 species of orchids are found here. Later drive on towards Sherdukpen tribal village at Rupa before moving onto Dirang. Arrive Dirang. Located in a spectacular valley, Dirang is famous for its apple orchards, sheep breeding farms and natural hot springs. The hot water springs in Dirang is considered holy by many who travel to them for a dip. Dirang is ideal place for adventures like trekking and hiking. Overnight at Dirang.


Day 17: Dirang - Tawang

The drive to Tawang from Dirang is spectacular and one of the highlights of the entire journey. Stop briefly at the Sela pass at 14000 ft. From Sela, the road goes downhill. Enroute pass Jaswantgarh. It's a memorial to Jaswant Singh PVC of the Indian Army who single-handedly repulsed a Chinese attack but fell bravely defending his position. Also visit Sange village before entering Tawang. Overnight at Tawang.


Day 18: Tawang

After breakfast, enjoy a full day excursion including a visit to the famous Tawang Monastery. The 300 year old Monastery, locally called "Gompa" is considered to be the oldest in India and second largest Monastery in Asia after Lhasa in Tibet. The Monastery stands on the spur of a hill over 12000 ft. above the sea level. It accommodates over 500 monks and houses priceless Buddhist texts and scriptures. The Tibetan influence here is unmistakable, with the elaborately painted wooden windows and other motifs. Prayer flags flutter in the breeze and inside, the monks light lamps and drone in joint prayer. An 8mt high gilded statue of the Buddha is seated here, as are numerous ancient Thankas or traditional paintings and manuscripts. Later visit Ani Gompa, one of the many nunneries that dot the landscape of Tawang Town. Then visit the high altitude lakes including Pangong Tang Tso Lake (commonly referred to as PT Tso Lake). You can also visit the Craft Center and traditional Monpa Village. Return to your hotel. Overnight at Tawang.


Day 19: Tawang - Dirang Village

Your return journey begins with your drive to Dirang. Catch up on the sights you might have missed out before. Arrive Dirang and enjoy the day at leisure. Experience the locale flavour - head out on walks and interact with the locals to enhance your experience. Return to your hotel. Overnight at Dirang.


Day 20: Dirang

Set out to explore Dirang. Go on a trek to Sangti Valley. Situated along the shores of Sangti River, 25 km from Bomdila near Dirang, the Sangti Valley is one of the seasonal homes of the majestic creature called the black-necked crane that flies across from China and perhaps Leh, right into its laps. Later visit the Sheep Breeding Centre, Dirang Dzong. Return to your hotel. Overnight at Dirang.


Day 21: Dirang – Tezpur

This morning drive down to Tezpur (6 hrs). The return journey to the plains continues as at Bhalukpong you bid farewell to Arunachal Pradesh, entering the fertile Assam plains once again. Situated on the north bank of the Brahmaputra, Tezpur is a beautiful and multifaceted city steeped in mythology and history. The city abounds in archaeological sites, hills, lakes and gardens. Tonight, relive the glory days of the Raj Era while you stay in a tea garden bungalow. Recently renovated, the stay here amidst the sprawling gardens, is hugely relaxing. Enjoy rest of the day at leisure. This afternoon why not visit the historic town of Tezpur and do some exploration on your own! Overnight at Tezpur.


Day 22: Tezpur - Shillong

After an early breakfast drive to Shillong (300 kms/7 hrs). Termed as "Scotland of the East", Shillong is situated at a height of 5,000 feet on the plateau of gentle hills. Cool colonnades of tall pine trees clad with whispering green leaves glistening in the sun surround the city. On its bosom lie several lovely waterfalls – Spread Eagle falls, Elephant Falls, Beadon Falls etc. sprightly dancing down from their hilly heights. Shillong with its veritable beauty spots like Ward's Lake, the Lady Hydari Park with its mini zoo, and its 18-hole Golf Course, one of the oldest and best in the country, is a great tourist center, attracting people from far and near. In the mini-zoo, various species of birds, such as, hornbills, pheasants, pelicans, and storks can be seen besides the animals like antelope, slow loris, clouded leopard, leopard cat, golden cat and golden Langur. Overnight stay in Shillong.


Day 23: Shillong - Cherrapunjee - Shillong

After breakfast, drive to Cherrapunjee (56 kms /2.5 hrs), the 2nd rainiest place in the world. This lovely town is also famous for its limestone caves and orange honey. En route visit Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, which at 1965 m is the highest point in Meghalaya. On reaching Cherrapunjee visit Mawsmai Cave, Mawsmai Falls, Nohkalikai Falls, the fourth highest fall in the world, Thankarang Park from where you get a panoramic view of Bangladesh and Khrem falls. Return to your hotel in Shillong after this exciting excursion. Overnight in Shillong.


Day 24: Shillong

After a leisurely breakfast, explore the colonial part of Shillong. Drive and explore Mawpflang Sacred Forest and scenic Khasi villages. Visit the largest traditional Market - Bara Bazar or as the locals call it, the Lewduh Market. A quick bargain purchase of some of the handwoven goods and natural resources can be one of the best clinched deals of your life. In the afternoon, enjoy the traditional Archery near Polo Ground of Shillong. Return to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at Shillong.


Day 25: Guwahati - Airport (3 hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Guwahati Airport for onward destination.


Special Notes

Note about the tour: This is a hard driving adventure and stay in many places in the interiors of Arunachal and Nagaland will be in simple lodges and Govt Guest Houses. The roads in Arunachal Pradesh which is a Himalayan state are mountainous and the highest point at Sela Pass is 14000ft. Meghalaya and Nagaland, though hilly are 'modest' in height. Driving every day can be for long 6-7 hr periods and clean toilets will be hard to find on the drives. This tour is not recommended for those seeking a more comfortable holiday in the North East. Best time: Kaziranga NP opens around 15 Nov. Hence best time for the tour is from 15 Nov to end April.


Inclusions:

Accommodation + Room with Breakfast + Transportation