India · Wildlife

10-Day Northeast India Tour from Guwahati with Kaziranga and Tawang

10 Days Round trip from Guwahati Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Shillong, the "Scotland of the East," and stop at scenic Umiam Lake
  • 02 Visit Mawlynnong and Dawki, home to village charm and the transparent Umngot River
  • 03 See Cherrapunjee's prehistoric caves and spectacular waterfalls, including Nohkalikai Falls
  • 04 Encounter Kaziranga's famous one-horned rhinos and visit the Kaziranga Orchid Park
  • 05 Cross high mountain routes to Tawang via Sela Pass at 13,494 ft
  • 06 Discover Tawang Monastery, Madhuri Lake, and Bum La Pass at 16,500 ft

Embark on a 10-day journey through Northeast India, from the lush hills of Shillong and the marvels of Mawlynnong, Dawki, and Cherrapunjee to the wildlife-rich landscapes of Kaziranga and the high-altitude beauty of Dirang, Tawang, and Bomdila. Along the way, discover prehistoric caves, dramatic waterfalls, orchid parks, tea estates, monasteries, mountain passes, and Himalayan viewpoints. The experience blends nature, wildlife, culture, and spirituality, ending in Guwahati with a visit to the revered Ma Kamakhya Temple.

The experience blends nature, wildlife, culture, and spirituality, ending in Guwahati with a visit to the revered Ma Kamakhya Temple.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 10 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Premium
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Guwahati, Shillong, Kaziranga National Park, Cherrapunji, Tawang, Mawlynnong, Dawki
Languages English, Hindi

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Guwahati and Drive to Shillong

  • On Day 1, after landing in Guwahati, we will head to Shillong.
  • The drive will enchant you, with the green vastness of the Assamese landscape and unspoiled nature at its best.
  • On our way, I will take you to Umiam Lake for some en-route adventures. The sprawling lake is a treat for the eyes and caters to adventure seekers who want to experience water cycling and kayaking, to name a few.
  • We then head to the 'Scotland of the East,' known for its extensively lavish golf courses.
  • Shillong is situated at an altitude of 4,910 ft, and the word 'perfect' is apt to describe the hill station.

After a long journey, it's time to bunk in for the night.

2
Day 02

Mawlynnong Village and Dawki Excursion

  • Morning! Today after breakfast, we will be heading to Mawlynnong.
  • Mawlynnong, a village nearly 80 km from Shillong, has marvels that will astonish you.
  • We then head to Dawki, a border town near the Indo-Bangladesh border, which is nearly a 34 km drive away.
  • The British built this bridge in 1932. Ah! Wasn't it a wonderful day? In the evening, we will head back to Shillong, rest for the night, and rejuvenate ourselves.
3
Day 03

Cherrapunjee Waterfalls and Caves

  • It is Day 3, and there is a lot more to see. Buckle up - you are going to step foot in the "wettest place on Earth".
  • On our way, we will visit Elephant Falls or, as the local Khasi people call it, Ka Kshaid Lai Pateng Khohsiew, or the three-step waterfall.
  • Now we will go check out the Mawsmai Caves. The road that leads to the cave passes through a forest. Fascinating, right? The forbidden tunnels inside the cave will make you curious, while the prehistoric fossils will take you back to ancient times.
  • It's now time to visit one of the highest waterfalls in India, the Nohsngithiang Falls. At a height of 1,035 ft, the waterfall will surely make you feel very small.
  • Then we head to Dainthlen Falls, another spectacle that has a legend attached to it.
  • Now it's time to visit Nohkalikai Falls, the 4th highest in the world, falling from a height of 1,100 ft into an ultramarine pool below.
  • The sheer abundance of nature's best can be seen in Meghalaya, and it's truly wonderful.
  • After a tiring day, we will now head back to Shillong for a night stay.
4
Day 04

Drive to Kaziranga and Orchid Park Visit

  • Today, early morning after breakfast, we will drive to Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary to meet the famous one-horned rhinos.
  • We will take a quick stop at Thekeraguri and taste the local cuisines - I love this part.
  • Then we go to Hathikuli, India's largest organic tea estate. Hathikuli means 'frequented by elephants.' It is spread across 687 acres of lush green land.
  • We will then head to Kaziranga Orchid Park. Orchids are the pride of Northeast India. It is spread out over 6 acres of land. The variety of plantations truly tells us of the richness of the land.

Let the magic sink in and retire for the night.

5
Day 05

Kaziranga Wildlife and Journey to Dirang

  • Early today, we will go to Kohora to enjoy and come face to face with nature's prized creatures.
  • There, we will go for an elephant ride, after which we will come back, have breakfast, and leave for Dirang.
  • This is going to be a long ride, folks, but the scenic beauty will compensate for it.
  • But first, let some adventure kick in. River rafting in the Jia Bharali River is so much fun with friends. We will also see a variety of bird species there.
  • After that, we again set off for Dirang. The recurrent waterfalls en route will enchant you and make you want to come back.
  • We then stop to visit Asia's second-largest Orchidarium at Tipi. It expands over 10 hectares of land, including glasshouses, museums, and fountains.

Yet another wonderful day we had. We retire for the night at Dirang.

6
Day 06

High-Altitude Drive to Tawang via Sela Pass

  • Today we head to Tawang, also known as the "Switzerland of the East".
  • Today we will drive up to an altitude of over 13,000 ft.
  • We first visit the war cemetery located at Nuranang, just below the Sela Pass - a tribute to the war heroes of the 1962 Indo-China War.
  • We then visit the kiwi orchards.
  • After that, we continue until we reach the Sela Pass. Now, this is what I'm talking about. We are at 13,494 ft. During winters, the temperature here can go down to -10 degrees. This is truly a marvel; shutterbugs will have a great time freezing the moments through their lens.
  • We then enjoy the war memorial show in Tawang.

Rest for the night in Tawang.

7
Day 07

Tawang Monastery, Lakes, and Bum La Pass

  • Morning - today we will take a dive into the culture and history of the mountain town of Tawang.
  • First up is the Tawang Monastery. It is the second-largest active monastery in the world. It looks like a fort and was founded by Lama Lodre Gyamtso in 1860. Religious ceremonies and dances take place in the court of the monastery.
  • We then visit the PT Tso Lake at an altitude of 12,000 ft. It is usually surrounded by snow-capped mountains in winter. Imagine the clear blue sky reflecting on the lake - what a sight!
  • Then we visit the Gontse Garden, followed by Singar Ani Gompa, a nunnery. Divinity is all around Tawang.
  • We continue to Madhuri Lake, located at an altitude of 15,200 ft. It was formed by a flash flood caused by an earthquake in 1950. A truly picturesque sight for nature lovers.
  • We then continue to Bum La Pass. This will be the highest point of our trip at an altitude of 16,500 ft and takes a lot of nerve to reach because of the dangerous roads. Make sure you are prepared for this, as it will test your endurance. The sight and height will numb you, and you would wish that time would stop.
  • With this, we end our day and head back to Tawang for the night.
8
Day 08

Bomdila Monastery and Himalayan Views

  • I know we are nearing the end of our trip, but don't be sad, as this trip will sweep you off your feet before you head home.
  • Early morning, we will drive to Bomdila. This town provides a 360-degree view of the Himalayan landscape.
  • We begin by visiting the Gontse Rabgyaling Monastery, a major center for the Mahayana sect of Buddhism. It was built in 1965.
  • It is divided into 3 levels - upper, middle, and lower - with the upper being the main monastery. It also has a school inside. The lower monastery is called Thub-Chog Gatsel. You will experience peace at its core while standing inside.
  • We will then visit the Bomdila viewpoint. Here you will behold the entire West Kameng Valley and the Nechipu Pass. This view will be fixed in your hearts, and trust me, you will not need a camera to capture this sight.
  • In the evening, we will visit the local market to get a local feel of the culture and, at night, dream about the stunning view of the mountains in Bomdila.
9
Day 09

Return to Guwahati

  • It's time to say goodbye to the mountains, friends.
  • After breakfast, we will head back to Guwahati.
  • Make sure you have stocked your tummies, as it is going to be a long 7 to 8-hour drive.
  • On reaching Guwahati, gift yourself a leisurely evening.
  • Get in touch with the local culture of Guwahati, buy souvenirs for your friends and family, and, of course, savor the local cuisine.

We will then retire for the night at Guwahati.

10
Day 10

Kamakhya Temple Visit and Departure

  • Good morning, today is the last day of our crazy trip.
  • After breakfast, we will visit the Ma Kamakhya Temple.
  • It is the most unique temple in our country. It breaks misconceptions about menstruation and celebrates it as a woman's power to conceive. She is called the 'bleeding goddess'.
  • Let us seek the blessings of the embodiment of Shakti and head to the airport for departure.
Kaziranga National Park, Umiam Lake, Tawang Monastery, Bum La Pass

Where this trip takes you

Kaziranga National Park, Umiam Lake, Tawang Monastery, Bum La Pass

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Guwahati 7 cities · 10 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Airport pickup and drop-off
  • All accommodations in deluxe-category properties on a double-sharing basis
  • Breakfast at all accommodation properties
  • Dinner and breakfast at Dawki/Shnongpdeng (if staying at Dawki)
  • All sightseeing and transfers in a private vehicle: Tempo Traveller (for groups of 10-12), Innova or similar (for groups of 5-6), or Swift Dzire/similar (for groups of 4 or fewer)
  • Personal driver with all expenses covered, including salary, food, and stay
  • Fuel for the vehicle (as per the fixed itinerary)
  • All road taxes
  • Vehicle parking fees and toll taxes

What's Not Included

  • Airfare/train fare
  • Arunachal Pradesh Inner Line Permit fees
  • Extra entry and vehicle charges for Bum La Pass and Madhuri Lake, and Umananda ferry charges
  • Charges for any kind of adventure sports or activities like rafting, boating, or cruise, etc., or any extra activity not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, and gratuity
  • Mineral/soft/hard drinks, etc.
  • Any incidental or medical expenses
  • Camera fees, guide/tour escort charges, and entrance fees to any monuments, wildlife safari, sightseeing places, and Brahmaputra cruise
  • Kaziranga National Park safari charges
  • Any cost arising out of various unforeseen situations like natural calamities, landslides, political disturbances, strikes, changes in government regulations, any mishaps, etc., or anything beyond our control (costs are not refundable or transferable by any means)
  • Any increase in taxes or fuel price, leading to an increase in cost on surface transportation and land arrangements, which may come into effect before departure
  • Any additional sightseeing or activity or extra usage of the vehicle, other than mentioned in the itinerary
  • Anything which is not included in the inclusions

What to bring

  • Lightweight and breathable clothes for warmer climates.
  • Layered clothing for cooler temperatures in higher altitudes like Tawang and Bomdila.
  • Rain gear, including a waterproof jacket and umbrella, especially for Cherrapunjee, known for heavy rainfall.
  • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for exploring nature trails and hilly terrain.
  • Flip-flops or sandals for casual outings.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
  • Insect repellent for areas with mosquitoes and other insects.
  • A daypack or backpack for carrying essentials during day trips and hikes.
  • A camera or smartphone for capturing memorable moments.
  • A basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, etc.
  • Prescription medications and any personal health supplies.
  • Motion sickness medication for winding roads, especially in mountainous areas.
  • Travel documents like passports, IDs, travel insurance, and copies of important documents.
  • A portable charger or power bank for keeping devices charged during long journeys.
  • Travel guidebooks or maps for reference and navigation.
  • A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the journey.
  • Snacks and energy bars for long drives or hikes.
  • Modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites and monasteries.
  • Keep an open mind and be prepared for unexpected weather changes and cultural experiences.

Know before you go

  • Cultural Diversity: Northeast India is culturally diverse, with a mix of tribal communities, each having its own traditions, languages, and customs. Respect for local cultures is essential.
  • Permits: Certain areas, especially near international borders, may require special permits for entry.
  • Weather Conditions: The region experiences diverse climates, ranging from humid in the plains to cold in the mountains.
  • Health Precautions: Carry necessary medications and a basic first aid kit.
  • Local Cuisine: Northeastern cuisine is diverse and may include unique dishes. Be open to trying local foods and be aware of any dietary restrictions.
  • Respect for Wildlife: If visiting wildlife reserves like Kaziranga, follow guidelines for responsible wildlife viewing. Maintain a safe distance and adhere to park regulations.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Be aware of local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and tribal areas.
  • Language: English may not be widely spoken in remote areas. Learn a few basic phrases in the local languages for better communication.
  • Currency and Banking: Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs may not be readily available in some areas. Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
  • Internet Connectivity: Internet connectivity may vary in remote areas. Plan accordingly and download maps or important information offline.
  • Emergency Contacts: Save local emergency contact numbers and have the contact details of your country's embassy or consulate.
  • Environmental Awareness: Practice responsible tourism by minimizing your environmental impact. Respect nature and local communities.
  • The best part about Mawlynnong is the spirit of the villagers who, without using any technology, have earned the prestige of being the cleanest village in Asia. Now that's a feat!
  • I am talking about a living root bridge. These bridges aren't built; they are grown with the help of the roots of the Ficus elastica tree.
  • Another wonder that is mind-bending is the balancing of a big boulder on a small rock. This structure has remained the same against the test of time and nature.
  • The most sought-after attraction of this place is the Umngot River. The river is literally transparent, and you can click aesthetic shots of the river with a suspension bridge over it.
  • The Sela Lake is usually frozen in winter.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Guwahati, Assam, India
Tour start
Guwahati, Assam, India
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 10 days finish where they began, in Guwahati.

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

Create your own adventure

Can't find the perfect tour? Tailor your dream trip.

  • Tell us your destination, dates and group size.
  • Our travel experts and local guides design a tailored itinerary, just for you.
  • Enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.
Plan my holiday

Say goodbye to travel stress.

Starting from

USD 900 /person
Book This Tour

Estimated room rates

Single Room $900.00 — $1,000.00
Double Sharing $900.00 — $979.00

When

Travellers

Total