North East India is a dream for adventure travelers and culture seekers. The emerald mountains, crystal-clear rivers, iconic living root bridges, and charming tribal villages combine to create an experience that feels like stepping into a hidden paradise. Planning a trip here requires careful consideration of road conditions and permits. The 10-day Northeast Itinerary Guide is designed to balance famous landmarks with travel time, ensuring you don’t just visit, but truly experience the ‘Seven Sister States’.
Whether it’s seeing the one-horned rhino in Kaziranga, cruising on the Brahmaputra, or marveling at the ancient Tawang Monastery, this route gives you the best of culture, adventure, and Himalayan serenity. With countless North East tour packages available, having a ready-made plan helps you know what to expect and how to make the most of each stop.
Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati & Journey to Shillong: The Scotland of the East
Arrive at Guwahati Airport (Gauhati) and begin your drive towards Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya. En route, stop at the beautiful Umiam Lake (Barapani) for some scenic views. Check in to your pre-booked hotel/homestay in Shillong. Focus on rest and light activity to begin the north east itinerary 10 days. Dinner can be enjoyed at the accommodation, allowing you to settle in and prepare for the adventures ahead in your 10-day North East trip.
Day 2: Shillong Exploration: Culture and Views
Begin the day with breakfast included at your accommodation, energizing you for local sightseeing. Visit the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures (Museum) to understand the diverse tribal life of the region. Later, explore the picturesque Ward’s Lake and enjoy panoramic views of the city from Shillong Peak. Dinner and overnight stay in Shillong, prioritizing a good night’s rest.
Day 3: Cherrapunjee: Waterfalls and Living Root Bridges
After breakfast, check out and travel to Cherrapunjee (Sohra), one of the wettest places on earth. On the way, visit the breathtaking Elephant Falls. Upon arrival in Cherrapunjee, check in to your hotel/homestay. In the afternoon, visit the dramatic Nohkalikai Falls and Seven Sisters Falls viewpoint. Then your north east itinerary 10 days, comes to the stay in Cherrapunjee, which will serve as your base for exploring its unique landscapes.
Day 4: Cherrapunjee: Nature’s Marvels
Breakfast at your hotel sets the pace for a day full of exploration. Drive or trek to the start point of a Living Root Bridge trek (e.g., Single Decker or Double Decker, depending on fitness and time) – a true marvel of bio-engineering. Next, explore the mysterious Mawsmai Cave, known for its limestone formations. Conclude the day with a visit to the Eco Park. Return to your Cherrapunjee accommodation for a casual dinner and overnight stay, soaking in the misty surroundings.
Day 5: Cleanest Village & Dawki: Mawlynnong and the Transparent River
The North East itinerary 10 days comes on the 5th day, the day with breakfast before heading towards Mawlynnong, famously known as ‘Asia’s Cleanest Village’. Explore the village and its local root bridge. From there, drive to Dawki, famous for the Umngot River, where the water is so clear that boats appear to float in the air. Enjoy a boat ride (seasonal) and visit the Indo-Bangladesh border viewpoint. Drive back to Shillong or a suitable transitional stop for your overnight stay.
Day 6: Drive to Kaziranga National Park: Wildlife Awaits
Following breakfast, check out and begin the long but scenic drive towards Kaziranga National Park in Assam. The north east itinerary 10 days, will take you from the hills of Meghalaya down to the plains of Assam, crossing the mighty Brahmaputra River. Check in to your accommodation near Kaziranga. Dinner and overnight stay in Kaziranga, preparing for the next morning’s safari.
Day 7: Kaziranga Safari: The One-Horned Rhino
Enjoy an early morning Elephant Safari (seasonal and subject to availability) in the park’s western or central range to get up close with the famous One-Horned Rhino. After lunch, take a Jeep Safari in a different range (e.g., Eastern Range) for a diverse wildlife viewing experience, including wild buffalo, swamp deer, and various bird species. Return to the resort for dinner and your second overnight stay in Kaziranga.
Day 8: Journey towards Arunachal/Tezpur: Transition Day
Enjoy breakfast at your resort before checking out. This is the 8th day of the North East itinerary 10 days. It starts with the drive towards Tezpur/Bhalukpong (or a suitable transitional point for the Arunachal circuit, if including). This day is primarily a travel day, covering the distance to position you for the final leg of the trip. Check in to your hotel/homestay for a relaxing evening.
Day 9: Cultural Exploration/Departure Prep: Tezpur or Guwahati
Depending on your flight plans, spend the day exploring the historical and cultural sites of Tezpur (e.g., Agnigarh Hill, Chitralekha Udyan) or drive to Guwahati and visit the revered Kamakhya Temple and take a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River. Check in to your final accommodation in Guwahati.
Day 10: Departure from North East: Return Journey with Memories
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out. North East itinerary 10 days concludes with a journey to the Guwahati Airport/Railway Station for your departure, filled with memories of lush landscapes, unique cultures, and seamless travel experiences facilitated by proper planning and your chosen package.
A. Yes, the 10-day itinerary for North East India (9 nights) is ideal for completing the core circuit of 2-3 states (e.g., Assam and Meghalaya, or Assam and Arunachal). It provides a balanced experience between travel, sightseeing, and wildlife exploration.
2. How much does a 10-day North East India trip cost?
Ans. On average, a package trip (including transport, accommodation, and some meals) can range between ₹25,000 to ₹45,000 per person, depending on the states covered (Arunachal trips are often higher due to travel time/permits), the type of transport (shared/private), and accommodation (budget/luxury).
3. What is the best time to visit North East India for this itinerary?
Ans. The best time to complete the North East itinerary 10 days is generally from October to May, when the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and major attractions like Kaziranga National Park are fully operational. Monsoon season (June to September) is beautiful but can disrupt travel plans due to heavy rain.
4. What are the best activities on a North East India trip?
Ans. Highlights include visiting the Living Root Bridges and the clean village of Mawlynnong in Meghalaya, taking a safari at Kaziranga National Park to spot the One-Horned Rhino, boating on the clear Umngot River (Dawki), and exploring the cultural heart of Shillong.
5. Are special permits required for North East India?
Ans. Yes. While Assam and Meghalaya do not require permits for Indian tourists, visiting states like Arunachal Pradesh requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian citizens, and a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreigners. It is essential to check and arrange these permits in advance if your North East itinerary 10 days includes these states.
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