Visit the picturesque Umiam Lake to start your journey. This man-made lake offers stunning views of nature, surrounded by lush green hills. You can enjoy various water sports, including kayaking or boating, or relax by the tranquil lakeside.
Explore the gorgeous hill station of Shillong and witness the natural splendor of the Elephant Falls. Shillong is famous for its scenic beauty, British-era architecture, and delicious food. The Elephant Falls offer a mesmerizing sight of copious water cascading over the rocks.
Visit the incredible Double Decker Living Root Bridge in the village of Nongriat. This natural wonder is a man-made bridge, grown using the roots of rubber trees. Afterward, drive to Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on earth. Explore the stunning beauty of the waterfalls, mountains, and caves in the region.
Visit the emerald-green Dawki river and the nearby Indo-Bangladesh Border at Tamabil. Take a boat ride on the crystal clear waters to see the submerged rocks and corals. Then head to Mawsynram, the wettest village in the world, for a mesmerizing experience of the rain and greenery.
Explore the beauty of the Nokalikai Falls, which are the highest plunge waterfall in India. It's one of the most popular attractions in the region. Then, visit the mysterious Mawsmai Caves, full of fascinating limestone formations and natural architecture.
Revisit Sohra (Cherapunjee), which is a breathtaking location full of hills, waterfalls, and greenery. Explore the incredible landscapes and take in the natural beauty of the location. Then, head to the Mawdok Dympep Valley, which is renowned for lush forests and magnificent valleys.
It's best to rent a car for the entire trip, especially if you plan on traveling long distances. It will take care of all the transportation needs, providing you with a comfortable ride. The cost of renting a car will be around INR 5000 INR/day. There are also plenty of taxi services available to get around, which will cost INR 3500 INR/day. However, traveling by public transport is not recommended.
If you have more time, you can explore the hidden gems of North East India, like the isolated villages, tea plantations or the arduous trekking trails in the region which are less visited by tourists. If you have less time, you can cut down on some of the locations mentioned in the itinerary. Most destinations have homestays or resorts available for accommodation ensuring you experience a comfortable stay.
The major airport in North East India is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India, and some international cities, like Bangkok and Paro. The airport is located 20 km from the city center.