Exploring Kaziranga, Maujli, Cherrapunji, Tea Tourism, and Sela Pass
Thursday, October 5: Arrival in Kaziranga
Welcome to Kaziranga! Start your day by checking into a comfortable hotel and rest for a while after your journey. In the morning, set out for a thrilling jeep safari in Kaziranga National Park. Explore the vast grasslands where you can spot the famous one-horned rhinos, tigers, and various other wildlife species. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park, where you can witness an impressive collection of orchids and learn about the diverse flora of the region. In the evening, take a relaxing walk along the banks of the Brahmaputra River, enjoying the serene surroundings.
Kaziranga National Park Jeep Safari: Cost - INR 2,500 per person, Time - 3-4 hours
Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park: Cost - INR 100 per person, Time - 1-2 hours
Evening walk along the Brahmaputra River: Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Heritage, known for its wide range of breakfast options including local Assamese delicacies and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Bon Appetit, a popular restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine. Enjoy their flavorful dishes in a cozy ambience. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Burp-licious, a restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and a menu featuring a fusion of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, October 6: Exploring Maujli
On day two, head towards Maujli, a charming town known for its tea gardens. Start your morning with a visit to a tea estate, where you can learn about the tea-making process and indulge in some authentic tea tasting. Afterward, explore the picturesque landscape of Maujli by taking a relaxing nature walk through the lush tea gardens. In the afternoon, visit the Maujli Cultural Centre, which offers a glimpse into the vibrant local culture and traditions. In the evening, stroll around Maujli Bazaar, where you can shop for tea leaves and souvenirs.
Tea Estate Visit: Cost - INR 500 per person, Time - 2-3 hours
Nature Walk through Tea Gardens: Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Maujli Cultural Centre: Cost - INR 200 per person, Time - 1-2 hours
Maujli Bazaar: Cost - Varies, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Head to The Tea Room for breakfast, a quaint cafe located in the heart of Maujli. Enjoy a delicious spread of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and aromatic teas. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Spice Garden Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Indian cuisine. Indulge in flavorful curries, biryanis, and tandoori dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at The Terrace Grill, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of Maujli. Feast on succulent grilled specialties, seafood delicacies, and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, October 7: Chasing Waterfalls in Cherrapunji
Today, travel to Cherrapunji, famously known as the "wettest place on Earth." Begin your day by exploring the breathtaking Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in India, plunging from a dizzying height. Capture the mesmerizing beauty of the falls and enjoy a picnic lunch nearby. In the afternoon, visit the Mawsmai Cave, an underground wonder with fascinating limestone formations. As the evening approaches, take a peaceful stroll along the living root bridges of Cherrapunji, marveling at the unique engineering of nature's wonders.
Nohkalikai Falls: Cost - INR 20 per person, Time - 2-3 hours
Mawsmai Cave: Cost - INR 50 per person, Time - 1-2 hours
Living Root Bridges: Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Pinecone Cafe: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Pinecone Cafe, located near Cherrapunji. Enjoy delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee in a cozy and rustic setting. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Seven Sisters Restaurant: For lunch, head to Seven Sisters Restaurant, known for its authentic local cuisine. Indulge in traditional Khasi dishes like Jadoh (rice and meat) and Dohneiiong (pork curry). Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Cloud 9 Restaurant: End your day with a memorable dinner experience at Cloud 9 Restaurant. This rooftop establishment offers breathtaking views of Cherrapunji while serving a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, October 8: Tea Tourism Exploration
Indulge in the world of tea on the fourth day of your itinerary. Start your morning by visiting the Heritage Tea Garden, where you can observe the tea plucking process and interact with local tea workers. Enjoy a traditional Assamese breakfast amidst the lush green tea gardens. In the afternoon, take a tour of a tea factory, learning about the tea production techniques. Engage in tea tasting sessions and savor the flavors of different types of tea. In the evening, relax with a cup of tea while enjoying the serene tea estate surroundings.
Heritage Tea Garden: Cost - INR 300 per person, Time - 3-4 hours
Tea Factory Tour: Cost - INR 200 per person, Time - 2-3 hours
Relaxing in Tea Estate: Free, Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Café Heritage, located near the Heritage Tea Garden. Enjoy a variety of Assamese breakfast dishes like pitha and jolpan. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to Tea Bistro, a charming restaurant known for its innovative tea-infused dishes. Try their aromatic tea-smoked chicken or refreshing green tea salad. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
In the evening, dine at Tea Estate Restaurant, offering a delightful selection of local cuisine with a modern twist. Savor dishes like masor tenga and khaar while enjoying the beautiful view of the tea estates. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Monday, October 9: Journey through Sela Pass
On your last day, embark on a scenic drive to Sela Pass, situated at an altitude of 13,700 feet. Start early in the morning to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the snow-clad peaks of the Eastern Himalayas. Take a walk along the pass, soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the crystal-clear waters of Sela Lake. Enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee at the local tea stall. Spend some time exploring the nearby monasteries and capture beautiful photographs to cherish the memories of your incredible journey.
Sela Pass Adventure: Cost - INR 500 per person, Time - 4-5 hours
Exploring Monasteries: Free (donations are appreciated), Time - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Nirvana, located near Sela Pass. Enjoy their famous pancakes and a hot cup of coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
For lunch, head to Hillside Restaurant, a cozy eatery with stunning views of the mountains. Indulge in their mouthwatering momos and a variety of local dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 400 rupees per person.
End your day by dining at The Orchid Garden, a charming restaurant known for its delectable Chinese cuisine and tranquil ambiance. Try their special fried rice and savor a refreshing beer. The average cost for a meal is about 800 rupees per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring the region, make sure to visit the Kaziranga Orchid and Biodiversity Park, which is not as popular as the national park but offers a unique experience. Interact with the locals to discover lesser-known tea gardens that are not often visited by tourists. You can also try traditional Assamese cuisine at local eateries, such as Pitha, Khaar, and Masor Tenga, to truly experience the local flavors. Don't forget to witness the traditional Bodo dance performances, a cultural spectacle unique to this region.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability here.