Exploring North East India - 7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Wednesday, July 10: Arrival in Guwahati

Arrive in Guwahati, the gateway to North East India. In the morning, visit the Kamakhya Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Assam State Museum, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage. In the evening, take a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

• Kamakhya Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Assam State Museum: Estimated cost - INR 20, Time spent - 2 hours
• Brahmaputra River Cruise: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 2 hours

Thursday, July 11: Shillong - The Scotland of the East

Head towards Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. In the morning, visit the Elephant Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Afternoon can be spent exploring Ward's Lake, a picturesque man-made lake. In the evening, stroll around Police Bazaar, a bustling market area.

• Elephant Falls: Estimated cost - INR 20, Time spent - 1 hour
• Ward's Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Police Bazaar: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours

Friday, July 12: Kaziranga National Park - Home of the One-horned Rhino

Travel to Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. In the morning, enjoy an exciting jeep safari to spot various wildlife species. Afternoon can be spent visiting the nearby Orchid and Biodiversity Park. In the evening, relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.

• Kaziranga National Park: Estimated cost - INR 1,000, Time spent - 6 hours
• Orchid and Biodiversity Park: Estimated cost - INR 50, Time spent - 2 hours

Saturday, July 13: Majuli Island - A Cultural Haven

Embark on a journey to Majuli Island, the largest river island in the world. In the morning, visit the Satras, traditional Vaishnavite monasteries, known for their dance and music performances. Afternoon can be spent exploring the island's natural beauty. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing sunset over the Brahmaputra River.

• Satras of Majuli Island: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Exploring Majuli Island: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 4 hours

Sunday, July 14: Tawang - Land of the Monpas

Travel to Tawang, nestled amidst the mighty Himalayas. In the morning, visit the Tawang Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in India. Afternoon can be spent exploring the scenic beauty of the area, including the beautiful Pankang Teng Tso Lake. In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture and try traditional Monpa cuisine.

• Tawang Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Pankang Teng Tso Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Local Monpa Cuisine: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 1 hour

Monday, July 15: Guwahati - Cultural Delights

Return to Guwahati and explore its cultural delights. In the morning, visit the Umananda Temple, located on Peacock Island in the Brahmaputra River. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Kalakshetra Museum, showcasing the cultural diversity of Assam. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Assamese dance performance.

• Umananda Temple: Estimated cost - INR 50, Time spent - 2 hours
• Kalakshetra Museum: Estimated cost - INR 50, Time spent - 2 hours
• Assamese Dance Performance: Estimated cost - INR 200, Time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, July 16: Kamakhya Wildlife Sanctuary - Nature's Abode

Visit the Kamakhya Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Nilachal Hill Range. In the morning, take a nature walk to spot various bird species and wildlife. Afternoon can be spent picnicking amidst the lush greenery. In the evening, enjoy the tranquil surroundings and watch the sunset.

• Kamakhya Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 100, Time spent - 4 hours
• Picnic in the Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in North East India, don't miss out on visiting the living root bridges in Cherrapunjee, a unique natural marvel. Explore the Mawsmai Caves for an adventurous experience and visit the Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India. These hidden gems offer a perfect blend of nature's beauty and thrill, making them ideal for a family-friendly adventure.