Start your adventure in Assam by exploring the bustling city of Guwahati. In the morning, visit the Kamakhya Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site known for its beautiful architecture and scenic views. Afterward, head to the Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden to spot diverse wildlife and enjoy nature trails. As the evening approaches, take a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River and witness the mesmerizing views.
Kamakhya Temple: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Assam State Zoo and Botanical Garden: Cost: INR 30 (approximately $0.40), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Brahmaputra River Cruise: Cost: INR 500 (approximately $7), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Guwahati is Khorikaa, known for its delicious Assamese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For a flavorful lunch, head to Paradise Restaurant which offers a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Grill Republic, a rooftop restaurant known for its barbecue and stunning city views. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Saturday, September 2: Kaziranga National Park
Embark on an exciting safari adventure at Kaziranga National Park. Spend the morning exploring the park's diverse ecosystems and spotting rare wildlife, including the iconic one-horned rhinoceros. In the afternoon, visit the Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park to admire a wide variety of colorful orchids. End the day with a cultural experience by attending a traditional Bihu dance performance in a nearby village.
Kaziranga National Park: Cost: INR 1,000 (approximately $14), Time Spent: Half-day
Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park: Cost: INR 100 (approximately $1.40), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Explore the largest river island in the world, Majuli Island. Start your day by visiting the ancient Satras (monasteries) to learn about the unique Neo-Vaishnavite culture. In the afternoon, take a bicycle tour around the island, enjoying the scenic landscapes and interacting with the friendly locals. End the day with a sunset boat ride on the Brahmaputra River, soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Majuli Satras: Cost: Free (donations appreciated), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
For breakfast, head to Majuli Heritage Dhaba where you can relish traditional Assamese breakfast dishes like pitha and jolpan. The average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
If you're looking for a delicious lunch option, try Kamalabari Restaurant known for its authentic Assamese thali. Indulge in a variety of local delicacies at an average cost of ₹300 per person.
To experience a memorable dinner, visit Northeast Bites which offers a combination of Assamese, Naga, and Manipuri cuisines. The average cost for a meal here is around ₹500 per person.
Monday, September 4: Nameri National Park
Embark on an adventurous day at Nameri National Park. Begin with a thrilling river rafting experience on the Jia Bhoroli River, surrounded by lush green forests. Afterward, go for a nature walk in the park, where you can spot various bird species and possibly encounter elephants and tigers. Spend the evening relaxing by the riverside and enjoying the serene beauty of nature.
River Rafting: Cost: INR 1,500 (approximately $21), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Riverside Relaxation: Cost: Free, Time Spent: Flexible
Tuesday, September 5: Jorhat Tea Gardens
Immerse yourself in the tea culture of Assam by visiting the picturesque tea gardens of Jorhat. Start your day with a guided tour of a tea estate, where you can learn about the tea-making process and sample different varieties. In the afternoon, visit the Tocklai Tea Research Institute, which provides insights into the scientific aspects of tea production. End the day with a sunset visit to the historic Raja Maidam, an ancient burial ground.
Tocklai Tea Research Institute: Cost: INR 50 (approximately $0.70), Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Raja Maidam: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Heritage, offering a wide range of delicious Assamese and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, head to Heritage Khorikaa, a traditional Assamese restaurant known for its authentic flavors and cultural ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a lavish dinner at Paradise Restaurant, offering a diverse menu with Indian, Chinese, and continental cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, September 6: Tinsukia
Head to the town of Tinsukia, known for its natural beauty and wildlife. Start your day by visiting the Dibru-Saikhowa National Park, where you can explore the dense forests, spot rare bird species, and take a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River. In the afternoon, visit the Digboi Oil Refinery, the oldest operational oil refinery in Asia, and learn about the region's rich oil industry. End the day with a visit to the enchanting Shiv Dham, a popular religious site.
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park: Cost: INR 250 (approximately $3.50), Time Spent: Half-day
Digboi Oil Refinery: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Shiv Dham: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday, September 7: Shillong
Wrap up your Assam adventure with a visit to the beautiful city of Shillong in Meghalaya. Explore the stunning Elephant Falls and take a boat ride in Ward's Lake in the morning. In the afternoon, visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, which showcases the unique heritage and traditions of Northeast India. End the day with a walk along the lively Police Bazaar, known for its bustling markets and local delicacies.
Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Cost: INR 50 (approximately $0.70), Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Police Bazaar: Cost: Free, Time Spent: Flexible
Restaurants
Mournful Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Mournful Morning, a cozy café known for its freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Taste of Meghalaya: Indulge in the flavors of Meghalaya at Taste of Meghalaya, a local restaurant that offers a wide range of traditional dishes including Jadoh (rice and meat), Tungtap (smoked pork salad), and Nakham Bitchi (fermented fish chutney). Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Sunset BBQ: Enjoy a delicious dinner at Sunset BBQ, a charming restaurant overlooking the sunset point in Shillong. Feast on grilled seafood, juicy steaks, and mouthwatering desserts. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For adventure seekers, a visit to the Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary in Dibang Valley is highly recommended. This remote sanctuary offers pristine wilderness, trekking opportunities, and a chance to spot rare wildlife species. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the beautiful Jatinga Village, known for its mysterious bird suicides during certain months. Nature lovers will also enjoy a visit to the Nokrek National Park, home to the endangered Red Panda and various species of flora and fauna.