7-Day Itinerary: Exploring North East India

Monday, November 20: Guwahati

Start your trip in Guwahati, the gateway to North East India. Begin your morning with a visit to Kamakhya Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, explore the Assam State Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. End the day with a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River.

• Kamakhya Temple: Entrance fees: INR 50 | Time spent: 2 hours
• Assam State Museum: Entrance fees: INR 10 | Time spent: 2 hours
• Sunset Cruise on Brahmaputra River: Price: INR 500 | Time spent: 2 hours

Tuesday, November 21: Shillong

Embark on a scenic drive to Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. Start your morning with a visit to the picturesque Umiam Lake, where you can enjoy boating and water sports. In the afternoon, explore the Shillong Peak for panoramic views of the city. In the evening, stroll through Police Bazaar, the vibrant shopping hub of Shillong.

• Umiam Lake: Entrance fees: None | Time spent: 3 hours
• Shillong Peak: Entrance fees: INR 10 | Time spent: 2 hours
• Police Bazaar: Price: Varies | Time spent: 2 hours

Wednesday, November 22: Kaziranga National Park

Head to Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its population of endangered one-horned rhinos. Start your morning with an exhilarating jeep safari to spot wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park. End the day with a traditional Assamese dinner.

• Jeep Safari in Kaziranga National Park: Price: INR 1,500 | Time spent: 4 hours
• Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park: Entrance fees: INR 100 | Time spent: 2 hours
• Assamese Dinner: Price: INR 500 | Time spent: 2 hours

Thursday, November 23: Tawang

Take a scenic drive to Tawang, nestled in the Himalayas. Begin your morning by exploring the ancient Tawang Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India. In the afternoon, visit the stunning Pankang Teng Tso Lake, also known as Ptso Lake. Witness a mesmerizing sunset at Gorichen Peak.

• Tawang Monastery: Entrance fees: None | Time spent: 3 hours
• Ptso Lake: Entrance fees: None | Time spent: 2 hours
• Sunset at Gorichen Peak: Entrance fees: None | Time spent: 1 hour

Friday, November 24: Gangtok

Travel to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Start your day with a visit to the Enchey Monastery, known for its serene ambiance. In the afternoon, explore the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, which houses a vast collection of Tibetan artifacts. End the day by admiring the breathtaking views from the Tashi Viewpoint.

• Enchey Monastery: Entrance fees: None | Time spent: 2 hours
• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Entrance fees: INR 20 | Time spent: 2 hours
• Tashi Viewpoint: Entrance fees: None | Time spent: 1 hour

Saturday, November 25: Darjeeling

Proceed to Darjeeling, famous for its tea plantations and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Begin your morning with a visit to the Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga mountain range. In the afternoon, take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train. End the day with a visit to the Happy Valley Tea Estate.

• Tiger Hill: Entrance fees: INR 40 | Time spent: 3 hours
• Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Price: INR 1,300 (for Joy Ride) | Time spent: 2 hours
• Happy Valley Tea Estate: Entrance fees: INR 100 | Time spent: 2 hours

Sunday, November 26: Pelling

Conclude your trip in Pelling, a scenic town in Sikkim. Start your morning with a visit to the Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in the state. In the afternoon, marvel at the majestic views of the Kanchenjunga Falls. End your journey with a visit to the Rabdentse Ruins, an archaeological site showcasing the ancient capital of Sikkim.

• Pemayangtse Monastery: Entrance fees: INR 20 | Time spent: 2 hours
• Kanchenjunga Falls: Entrance fees: INR 30 | Time spent: 1 hour
• Rabdentse Ruins: Entrance fees: INR 50 | Time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring North East India, make sure to visit Mawlynnong, known as the cleanest village in Asia. Discover the living root bridges in Cherrapunji for a unique architectural marvel. Experience the Naga tribal culture in Kohima, Nagaland, by attending the Hornbill Festival, showcasing traditional dance, music, and food.