Arrive at Guwahati (GAU), transfer to hotel and settle in; use the morning to recover from travel. It's useful to pick a centrally located hotel in Pan Bazaar/Paltan Bazaar for quick access to sites and onward transport.
One of the most important Shakti shrines in India on Nilachal Hill; visit for panoramic city views and cultural insight. Temple visiting hours are typically early morning and late afternoon—confirm festival/puja timings before visiting.
Short ferry to the tiny Umananda temple island on the Brahmaputra; pleasant river views and sunset photo opportunities. Ferry services run during daylight hours—confirm first/last ferry at your hotel.
Short guided walk around the resort compound or a naturalist talk to learn about Kaziranga’s ecosystem and rhino conservation. These usually run in the afternoon/evening at resorts.
Early-morning elephant-back safari to get very close to one-horned rhinos; elephant rides are usually offered at sunrise and have limited seats—book in advance. Typical elephant safari window is roughly 5:30am–8:00am (seasonal).
Morning jeep safari into one of the park ranges—best for spotting rhino, elephants, deer, and birds. Jeep safaris are typically in two windows: early morning (6–10am) and afternoon (2–5pm); park fees and guide charges apply.
Optional second jeep safari in a different range to see different habitats and wildlife at lower light; confirm the park schedule and block booking in advance.
Take the ferry from Nimati Ghat/Jorhat to Majuli (ferry times vary; daytime ferries run frequently but check local schedules). Enjoy river views and island arrival.
Afternoon visit to Kamalabari or Auniati Satra (Vaishnavite monasteries) and local mask-makers/pottery villages; Satras are typically open during the day—respect dress/photography rules.
Hire a bicycle or local guide to explore remote hamlets, traditional weaving, pottery and mask-making workshops; most artisans work during daytime hours.
Afternoon options: short local boat trip for birdwatching (seasonal) or relax and stroll village lanes; boat services usually operate in daylight hours.
Early ferry back to Jorhat then drive (or fly from Jorhat airport to Guwahati if available) to Guwahati and onward to Shillong; driving time Jorhat→Guwahati→Shillong will take most of the day (plan 6–8 hours total including transfers).
Comprehensive museum covering Northeastern cultures and history—great orientation to the region. Typically open around 9:00am–4:45pm; arrive early to allow 1–2 hours.
Elephant Falls is a short waterfall visit (usually open in daylight) and Shillong Peak offers sweeping valley views when weather is clear—both are short visits but excellent for photos.
Visit the Nohkalikai Falls viewpoint (open during daylight; best in morning) and explore Mawsmai Cave (typically open 9am–4pm); both are highlights and close to each other.
If time allows, drive to Mawlynnong (about 1.5–2h from Cherrapunji) for an overnight stay in the village or return to Shillong (1.5–2h). Mawlynnong is best experienced staying overnight; the village has simple guesthouses.
Morning visit to Mawlynnong village (open all day): the living village initiative, bamboo pathways, and famous viewpoint tower; best early to avoid crowds.
Short drive to Dawki from Mawlynnong (approx 45–60 min). Umngot River is famous for crystal-clear water and scenic border views; boat services typically operate 9am–4pm—plan to arrive mid-morning.
Return drive to Guwahati (approx 5–6 hours depending on traffic) to catch evening/night flights out; if you have a late flight, plan stops en route. Alternatively extend stay in Guwahati if needed.