Overview
This 8-day journey through Assam and Meghalaya offers a perfect blend of wildlife, nature, culture, and adventure. Starting from Guwahati, the tour takes you to the renowned Kaziranga National Park, famous for its one-horned rhinoceros and exciting jeep and elephant safaris. The journey continues to the scenic hill station of Shillong, with a refreshing stop at the picturesque Umiam Lake. Explore breathtaking waterfalls, the crystal-clear waters of Umngot River, and the clean village of Mawlynnong. Discover the charm of Cherrapunji, known for caves and waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls. The tour also includes a trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge and ends with a visit to Kamakhya Temple, creating unforgettable memories.
Tour Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Guwahati Airport or Railway Station, you will be warmly greeted and assisted for your journey toward the wild heart of Assam. Your destination is the legendary Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its conservation success and breathtaking biodiversity.
The Drive | Through the Plains of the Brahmaputra
The drive from Guwahati to Kaziranga takes you through the lush, fertile plains of the Brahmaputra Valley. As you leave the city bustle behind, the landscape opens up into sprawling tea gardens and rural Assamese hamlets, setting the stage for your wildlife
Arrival & Nature’s Welcome : You will reach Kaziranga by late afternoon or early evening. The air here carries the scent of the wild, and the horizon is dominated by the tall elephant grass that provides sanctuary to the Great One-Horned Rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and wild water buffalo.
Cultural Immersion at Orchid Park : Before settling in for the night, visit the Kaziranga National Orchid and Cultural Park. This is a wonderful opportunity to witness the vibrant heritage of the region. Enjoy a soul-stirring performance of Bihu, the traditional folk dance of Assam, and other indigenous tribal dances under the evening sky.
Check-in & Relaxation : After the cultural show, head to your hotel or eco-resort to check in and take some time to unwind. The sounds of the forest at night provide a serene soundtrack to your first evening in the wild.
Evening at Leisure :The remainder of the evening is yours to spend as you wish. Enjoy a quiet dinner at your resort, perhaps swapping stories with fellow travelers about the wildlife encounters you hope to have during the next day’s safari.
Overnight Stay in Kaziranga
Tucked away in the greenery, enjoy a peaceful night's rest in the comfort of your stay, perfectly positioned for an early morning entry into the misty forests of the park.
Wilderness Exploration | Grasslands & Forest Trails The vast expanse of the park is divided into distinct ranges, each offering a unique ecosystem ranging from dense semi-evergreen forests to sprawling wetlands and tall elephant grass.
Morning Elephant Safari: Embark on a soul-stirring elephant safari into the Central Range of the park. Riding atop these gentle giants allows you to traverse through the thick vegetation silently, providing a rare opportunity to witness wildlife from a close distance.
Traditional Assamese Breakfast: After your morning adventure, return to your hotel for a hearty breakfast featuring local flavors. Enjoy a spread of traditional Assamese snacks like Chira (flattened rice) or Pitha (rice cakes) served with yogurt and jaggery, along with fresh seasonal fruits and freshly brewed tea from the local gardens.
Tea Gardens & Orchid Park: After the delicious breakfast, venture out to explore the emerald green tea gardens that define the landscape. Wander through the neatly manicured rows of tea bushes before visiting the Kaziranga National Orchid and Cultural Park. This sanctuary is home to hundreds of rare orchid species and a gallery of local crafts, showcasing the rich botanical and cultural heritage of the Northeast.
Afternoon Jeep Safari: Following a wholesome lunch at your resort, head to the Western Range for a thrilling two-hour Jeep Safari. This rugged journey through the jungle trails is perfect for spotting herds of wild water buffalo, swamp deer, and various migratory birds. The open-top jeep provides an excellent vantage point for photography as you navigate the deeper parts of the forest.
Evening & Overnight Stay
As the sun begins to set over the horizon, return to your hotel or resort to unwind. Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps sharing your wildlife sightings over a warm meal. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Kaziranga, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the wilderness.
Bid farewell to the wild plains of Assam as you begin your ascent into the clouds. Today's journey takes you from the lowlands of Kaziranga to the cool, pine-scented highlands of Meghalaya. Known as the 'Scotland of the East,' Shillong welcomes you with its rolling hills, misty landscapes, and vibrant tribal culture.
Highland Transition | Lakesides & Mountain Vistas
The drive to Shillong offers a stunning transition in geography. As you climb higher, the humid air of the Brahmaputra Valley gives way to a refreshing mountain breeze, with the winding roads revealing layers of emerald-green hills.
Umiam Lake: Along the way, stop at the mesmerizing Umiam Lake, a vast and calm reservoir cradled by sylvan hills. The crystal-clear waters often reflect the sky with a brilliant blue hue, providing a perfect introduction to the natural splendor of the Khasi Hills. It is an ideal spot to stretch your legs and capture some breathtaking photographs of the landscape.
Arrival & Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians: Upon reaching Shillong, visit the beautiful Cathedral Church. This prominent landmark features striking blue arches and stained-glass windows, standing as one of the oldest and most peaceful structures in the city. After soaking in the spiritual ambiance, check into your hotel or homestay to freshen up and settle in.
Shillong Market Exploration: After a short rest, head out to explore the bustling local markets. Wander through the vibrant lanes of Police Bazar, where the energetic atmosphere is contagious. Here, you can shop for traditional Khasi handicrafts, bamboo artifacts, and stylish local apparel, or sample some popular street food that the city is famous for.
Evening & Overnight Stay
Following your exploration of the city's charming streets, head back to your hotel for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a warm, delicious dinner and settle in for a perfect night’s sleep in the heart of Shillong, recharging for the adventures that lie ahead in the Abode of the Clouds.
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast in the cool highland air of Shillong before setting out on a journey toward the southern borders of the Khasi and Jaintia Hills. Today’s route is dedicated to discovering some of the most spectacular hidden water bodies of Meghalaya, leading you toward the legendary transparent waters of Dawki.
Canyon Trails | Hidden Cascades & Azure Pools
The drive takes you through the sweeping landscapes of the Jaintia Hills, where the terrain is marked by deep canyons and plateaus that hide magnificent natural wonders.
Phe Phe Falls: Your first destination is the ethereal Phe Phe Falls. To reach this two-tier waterfall, you will embark on a scenic 45-minute trek across open meadows and a small river crossing. The sight of the falls plunging against the backdrop of a blue sky and rugged cliffs is truly majestic, offering a sense of untouched serenity.
Krang Suri Waterfall: After trekking back, continue your journey to the breathtaking Krang Suri Waterfall. Often described as one of the most beautiful spots in India, it features a stunning turquoise pool fed by a cascading curtain of water. The natural stone paths and the shimmering blue of the water create a fairy-tale atmosphere that will definitely take your breath away.
Arrival & Relaxation in Dawki: Following your exploration of these majestic falls, travel further south to the border town of Dawki. As you arrive, the landscape shifts toward the Umngot River valley. Check into your hotel or riverside camp and take some time to unwind.
Evening & Overnight Stay
Spend a relaxing evening by the riverside, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of the border highlands. Enjoy a warm dinner and settle in for a comfortable overnight stay in Dawki, preparing for your adventure on the crystal-clear waters the following morning.
After a delicious breakfast by the river, immerse yourself in the aquatic wonders of Shnongpdeng on the Umngot River. Famous for its surreal transparency, the river looks like a sheet of glass, making it a paradise for water activities. Enjoy a serene session of boating, where the boats appear to float in mid-air, or seek an adrenaline rush with kayaking and cliff jumping into the cool, emerald depths.
Border Vistas & Pristine Living
The journey then takes you toward the southern slopes of the East Khasi Hills, where nature and tradition live in perfect harmony.
Mawlynnong Village: Visit the legendary Mawlynnong, honored as the cleanest village in Asia. Stroll through its flower-lined pathways and witness the community’s inspiring dedication to eco-friendly living. While here, explore the incredible Single Living Root Bridge, a testament to ancient Khasi bio-engineering where the roots of rubber trees have been guided over centuries to form a sturdy natural walkway.
Indo-Bangla Border: Take a brief and fascinating detour to the Indo-Bangla Border. This unique vantage point allows you to look out across the vast plains of Bangladesh, offering a profound sense of the geographical connection between the two nations.
Mawkdok Dympep Valley: As you drive toward the "Abode of the Clouds," stop at the Mawkdok Dympep Valley Viewpoint. This deep, V-shaped gorge offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the verdant Khasi hills, often draped in dramatic swirls of mist.
Arrival & Overnight Stay in Cherrapunji
Continue your scenic ascent into Cherrapunji (Sohra), one of the wettest places on Earth. Check into your hotel or resort and spend the evening relaxing in the cool mountain air. Enjoy a warm dinner and a restful overnight stay, surrounded by the echoes of distant waterfalls.
Wake up to the refreshing mist of Cherrapunji, a high-altitude town that famously holds the honor of being the "wettest place on Earth." After a hearty breakfast, get ready to explore a landscape defined by dramatic cliffs, ancient limestone formations, and some of the most spectacular cascades in the world.
The Plateau of Cascades | Terrace Falls & Deep Gorges
The day is dedicated to uncovering the natural wonders of the "Sohra" plateau, where the abundant rainfall has carved out breathtaking canyons and subterranean wonders.
Dainthlen and Wei Sawdong Falls: Begin your exploration with a visit to Dainthlen Falls, a powerful cascade where the water cuts through a natural rocky floor. Just a short hike away lies the eye-soothing Wei Sawdong Waterfall. Also known as the three-level or terrace waterfall, its unique tiered structure and emerald-green pools offer one of the most picturesque sights in the Khasi Hills.
Nohkalikai Waterfall: Witness the breathtaking grandeur of the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India. Dropping from a staggering height of 1,115 feet, the falls create a spectacular sight as they crash into a turquoise pool below, framed by lush, forest-covered cliffs.
Arwah and Mawsmai Caves: Delve into the subterranean beauty of the region by visiting the Arwah and Mawsmai Caves. These fascinating limestone formations feature illuminated passages and ancient fossils embedded in the rock walls. Navigating through the natural galleries and constricted rock openings provides a thrilling glimpse into the geological history of Meghalaya.
Seven Sisters Waterfall: Conclude your sightseeing at the Seven Sisters Waterfall, also known as Nohsngithiang Falls. This majestic site features seven segments of water plunging over the limestone cliffs of the Khasi Hills, symbolizing the seven sister states of the Northeast.
Evening & Overnight Stay
After a day of exploring the wonders of the Sohra plateau, return to your hotel to unwind. Spend a relaxed evening reflecting on the day’s adventures over a warm dinner before your overnight stay in the misty embrace of Cherrapunji.
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you lace up your trekking shoes for a journey into the heart of the jungle. Today, you will travel to Tyrna village, the starting point of a legendary descent toward the hidden valley of Nongriat. Known as the "Stairway to Heaven," this path consists of approximately 3,500 stone steps that wind down the steep, lush hillsides.
The Descent | Ancient Engineering & Tropical Valleys
The trail leads you through dense tropical foliage and across swaying suspension bridges over turquoise river streams, offering a true immersion into the wild beauty of the East Khasi Hills.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: Your destination is the magnificent Double Decker Living Root Bridge at Nongriat village. This marvel of bio-engineering, created by the local Khasi tribes over centuries, features two levels of sturdy, functional walkways made entirely from the living roots of rubber trees. Standing amidst the mist and the sound of the nearby waterfalls, this site is a testament to the incredible harmony between humans and nature.
The Return Journey: After spending time exploring the surroundings and perhaps dipping your feet in the cool, crystal-clear natural pools nearby, you will begin the invigorating climb back up to Tyrna village. Though challenging, the sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking vistas make every step worth the effort.
Evening & Overnight Stay
Following this exhilarating long day of trekking, enjoy a well-deserved rest as you travel back to Shillong. After reaching the city, settle into your hotel for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a warm, hearty dinner and a comfortable overnight stay, reflecting on the incredible physical and spiritual journey of the day.
Enjoy your final morning in the highlands of Meghalaya with a relaxed breakfast, surrounded by the cool mountain air and the lingering scent of pine. Take in the last glimpses of the rolling hills and the distant valleys, cherishing the unique blend of tribal culture and natural splendor that made this journey so special.
Spiritual Discovery | The Sacred Shakti Pitha
After breakfast, begin your scenic descent towards the plains of the Brahmaputra Valley. Upon reaching the city, visit the revered Kamakhya Temple, perched atop Nilachal Hill. This ancient Sakta temple is dedicated to the mother goddess Kamakhya and holds immense significance as one of the oldest and most powerful of the 51 Shakti Pithas. The temple’s unique architecture and the profound spiritual atmosphere offer a serene conclusion to your Himalayan sojourn.
Departure | Drop at Guwahati Airport / Railway Station
Following your visit to the temple, complete your journey as we transfer you to the Guwahati Airport or the Railway Station. Our representative will assist you for a comfortable drive, providing a final look at the bustling markets and the mighty Brahmaputra River as you head towards your onward destination.
As your memorable 8-day journey through Assam and Meghalaya comes to an end, carry back unforgettable memories of wild rhinoceroses, misty highlands, crystal-clear rivers, and sacred heritage sites. The essence of the Northeast will stay with you forever, and we look forward to welcoming you again for another wonderful journey to a new destination.
Includes & Excludes
Inclusions
- Pick up & Drop Ex - NJP Railway Station/ Bagdogra Airport.
- Reserved non A/C vehicle like Sumo/ Similar for transfers & sightseeing.
- All sightseeing as per the Tour Itinerary.
- 2 nights accommodation in Darjeeling.
- 1 night accommodation in Kalimpong.
- Complementary Breakfast.
Exclusions
- Flights/Train.
- Lunch.
- Extra Major sight-seeing.
- Entry Fees at any sight-seeing spot.
- Any extra cost for natural calamities/climatic conditions.
- Anything not included in inclusions.
- Meals not mentioned in inclusions.
- Personal Expenses / Purchase of things.
- Any kind of insurance.
- Any increase in the govt. taxes and state taxes