A Week in Northeast India: Nature Lover's Paradise

Friday, December 1: Guwahati Arrival

Morning: Arrive in Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India. Start your journey by visiting the Kamakhya Temple, a sacred site dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. Take a boat ride on the Brahmaputra River in the afternoon to enjoy the scenic beauty. In the evening, explore the local markets for traditional handicrafts and Assamese cuisine.

• Kamakhya Temple: Free entry, 2-3 hours
• Brahmaputra River Cruise: INR 500-800 per person, 2-3 hours
• Local Markets: Variable costs, 2-4 hours

Saturday, December 2: Kaziranga National Park

Morning: Travel to Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its population of endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Embark on an elephant safari to explore the park's rich biodiversity. In the afternoon, take a jeep safari to spot tigers and other wildlife. Enjoy an evening wildlife movie screening.

• Kaziranga National Park Safari: INR 600-1,000 per person, 5-6 hours
• Jeep Safari: INR 3,000-5,000 per vehicle, 3-4 hours
• Wildlife Movie Screening: Free, 1-2 hours

Sunday, December 3: Shillong

Morning: Travel to Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. Visit the stunning Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani, for a boat ride and breathtaking views. Afternoon at Mawphlang Sacred Forest, an ancient grove believed to have healing powers. In the evening, explore Police Bazaar for local shopping and street food.

• Umiam Lake: INR 100-200 per person, 3-4 hours
• Mawphlang Sacred Forest: INR 50-100 per person, 2-3 hours
• Police Bazaar: Variable costs, 2-4 hours

Monday, December 4: Cherrapunjee

Morning: Visit Cherrapunjee, known as one of the wettest places on Earth. Explore the mesmerizing Nohkalikai Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in India. In the afternoon, enjoy the natural wonder of the Double Decker Living Root Bridges. Spend the evening at Mawsmai Cave, a fascinating limestone cave.

• Nohkalikai Waterfall: INR 20-50 per person, 2-3 hours
• Double Decker Living Root Bridges: INR 300-500 per person, 3-4 hours
• Mawsmai Cave: INR 50-100 per person, 2-3 hours

Tuesday, December 5: Dirang

Morning: Travel to Dirang, a picturesque town in Arunachal Pradesh. Visit the famous Dirang Dzong, an ancient fort monastery. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Sangti Valley, known for its beautiful landscapes and birdwatching. Enjoy the serene beauty of Dirang Hot Springs in the evening.

• Dirang Dzong: Free entry, 1-2 hours
• Sangti Valley: Free entry, 3-4 hours
• Dirang Hot Springs: INR 50-100 per person, 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 6: Tawang

Morning: Embark on a scenic road trip to Tawang, nestled amidst the Himalayas. Visit the Tawang Monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in India. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Pankang Teng Tso Lake, also known as PT Tso. Catch the evening light and sound show at Tawang War Memorial.

• Tawang Monastery: Free entry, 2-3 hours
• Pankang Teng Tso Lake: Free entry, 2-3 hours
• Tawang War Memorial Light & Sound Show: INR 50-100 per person, 1-2 hours

Thursday, December 7: Guwahati Departure

Morning: Travel back to Guwahati for your departure. If time permits, explore the Assam State Museum to learn about the region's rich cultural heritage. Bid farewell to Northeast India with wonderful memories and experiences.

• Assam State Museum: INR 20-50 per person, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature enthusiasts looking for off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Dzükou Valley in Nagaland. This hidden gem offers breathtaking landscapes, picturesque treks, and beautiful seasonal flowers. Additionally, locals love the Nameri National Park in Assam, which offers river rafting, birdwatching, and the opportunity to spot rare wildlife species like the Bengal tiger and white-winged wood duck.

For hotel and flight bookings, check prices here.