East India Explorer: Assam & Meghalaya (Oct 16‑21)

Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Guwahati

Morning: Depart Durgapur early by train to New Jalpaiguri (≈5 hrs). Enjoy scenic views of the Teesta River and the foothills of the Himalayas.

Afternoon: Transfer by private cab to Guwahati (≈2 hrs). Check‑in at a centrally located hotel and unwind.

Evening: Stroll along the Guwahati Riverfront and savor Assamese delicacies such as fish tenga at a riverside eatery.

Day 2: Guwahati Sightseeing

Morning: Visit the sacred Kamakhya Temple, perched on Nilachal Hill, and explore its intricate architecture and vibrant rituals.

Afternoon: Take a short ferry ride to Umananda Island for the ancient Shiva temple and panoramic views of the Brahmaputra.

Evening: Wander through the Assam State Museum to discover the region’s rich cultural heritage before dinner at a local dhaba.

Day 3: Kaziranga National Park

Morning: Depart early for Kaziranga (≈4 hrs). Embark on a jeep safari to spot the one‑horned rhinoceros, elephants, and wild water buffalo.

Afternoon: After lunch, visit a nearby tea garden to learn about Assam’s world‑renowned tea production and enjoy a tasting session.

Evening: Return to Guwahati, relax at the hotel, and enjoy a cultural program featuring traditional Bihu dance.

Day 4: Journey to Shillong

Morning: Drive to Shillong (≈3 hrs) via the picturesque Shillong‑Guwahati highway, crossing the stunning Shillong Peak viewpoint.

Afternoon: Explore Umiam Lake, indulge in a boat ride, and capture the lake’s turquoise waters framed by rolling hills.

Evening: Visit the bustling Police Bazar market for local handicrafts, followed by dinner at a rooftop restaurant offering city views.

Day 5: Cherrapunjee Day Trip

Morning: Ascend to Cherrapunjee (≈2 hrs). Marvel at the towering Nohkalikai Falls, one of India’s highest waterfalls.

Afternoon: Explore the mystical Mawsmai Caves and trek to the Seven Sisters Falls, enjoying the lush rainforest surroundings.

Evening: Return to Shillong, unwind at a local café, and sample the famous Khasi delicacy “jadoh”.

Day 6: Mawlynnong & Return to Durgapur

Morning: Drive to Mawlynnong Village, the cleanest village in Asia, and wander through its bamboo‑crafted pathways.

Afternoon: Stop at the crystal‑clear waters of Dawki River for a quick boat ride before heading back to Guwahati.

Evening: Catch an overnight train from Guwahati to Durgapur, concluding the adventure.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Kamakhya Temple – 2 hrs – $5 entry
• Umananda Island – 2 hrs – $8 ferry + $3 entry
• Assam State Museum – 1.5 hrs – $2 entry
• Kaziranga National Park Safari – 4 hrs – $30 entry + $40 jeep
• Tea Garden Tour – 1.5 hrs – $5 tasting
• Umiam Lake Boat Ride – 2 hrs – $10
• Nohkalikai Falls – 2 hrs – $4 entry
• Mawsmai Caves – 2 hrs – $6 entry
• Mawlynnong Village – 2 hrs – $3 donation
• Dawki River Boat – 1 hr – $7
• Accommodation (5 nights) – – $300 (mid‑range)
• Meals (5 days) – – $150
• Transport (cabs, train, ferry) – – $180
• Miscellaneous – – $50
• Total Estimated Cost: $795

Tips

To extend the trip, add a day in Kaziranga for an elephant‑back safari or visit the nearby Manas National Park. If you need to shorten it, skip the Mawlynnong–Dawki segment and fly back from Guwahati on Day 5, which still gives you a full experience of Assam’s wildlife and Meghalaya’s highlands.