Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Five-Day Northeast Itinerary

Saturday, December 9: Exploring Historical Landmarks

Start your trip by visiting the Red Fort in Delhi. In the morning, explore the magnificent architecture and learn about the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, head over to India Gate, an iconic war memorial located in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely walk around the lush lawns and admire the Amar Jawan Jyoti. As the evening sets in, visit Humayun's Tomb, a stunning Mughal mausoleum known for its beautiful gardens and intricate design.

  • Red Fort: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • India Gate: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Humayun's Tomb: Estimated cost - INR 500, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 10: Spiritual Bliss in Varanasi

Embark on a spiritual journey in Varanasi, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Start your morning with a boat ride on the sacred Ganges River, witnessing the sunrise and observing the rituals taking place on the ghats. Afterward, explore the narrow alleyways of the old city, where you'll find numerous temples and shrines. In the evening, experience the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Dasaswamedh Ghat, where priests perform a ritual of fire and prayers.

  • Boat ride on Ganges River: Estimated cost - INR 200, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Exploring Temples: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Ganga Aarti at Dasaswamedh Ghat: Free event, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Monday, December 11: Majestic Landscapes in Darjeeling

In the morning, wake up early to witness the mesmerizing sunrise from Tiger Hill, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Kanchenjunga. Visit the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the Toy Train, and take a scenic ride through the lush tea plantations. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Batasia Loop and the Peace Pagoda. Enjoy a cup of tea at the Happy Valley Tea Estate, overlooking the stunning valley. Wrap up your day with a peaceful walk along the Mall Road, indulging in some local shopping.

  • Tiger Hill: Estimated cost - INR 100, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Darjeeling Himalayan Railway: Estimated cost - INR 600, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Happy Valley Tea Estate: Estimated cost - INR 100, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Mall Road: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 12: Serene Lakes and Monasteries of Shillong

Start your day by exploring Umiam Lake, a beautiful reservoir surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy a boat ride or simply relax by the lakeside. In the afternoon, visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures, a unique museum showcasing the heritage of Northeast India. Drive to the picturesque village of Mawsynram, known as the wettest place on Earth, and marvel at the stunning natural surroundings. End the day with a visit to the peaceful Shillong Peak, offering panoramic views of the city.

  • Umiam Lake: Estimated cost - INR 50, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: Estimated cost - INR 100, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Mawsynram Village: Estimated cost - INR 200, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Shillong Peak: Estimated cost - INR 50, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 13: Ancient Ruins of Hampi

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, known for its ancient ruins and architectural marvels. Begin your day by visiting the majestic Virupaksha Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Marvel at the intricate carvings and climb to the top for a panoramic view. In the afternoon, explore the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire, including the Royal Enclosure, Hazara Rama Temple, and the iconic Stone Chariot. End your day with a sunset walk along the Tungabhadra River, enjoying the scenic beauty of this historical site.

  • Virupaksha Temple: Estimated cost - INR 50, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Royal Enclosure: Estimated cost - INR 20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Hazara Rama Temple: Estimated cost - INR 30, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring the Northeast, don't miss out on the hidden gems and local favorites. In Delhi, visit the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk for a true taste of authentic street food. In Varanasi, take a boat ride to the less crowded Manikarnika Ghat and observe the cremation rituals from a distance. In Darjeeling, visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute to learn about the region's mountaineering history. In Shillong, explore the Living Root Bridges in the nearby villages, a unique example of bio-engineering. Lastly, in Hampi, visit the Elephant Stables to witness the grandeur of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Plan your trip to the Northeast and find affordable hotel and flight options on Kayak.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version