Ultimate North East India Expedition Tour - 29 Nights / 30 Days

Flights
Breakfast
Hotel
Sightseeing
Transfers
Wi-Fi

Overview

North East India is one of Asia’s last truly unspoiled frontiers, a land of misty mountains, ancient cultures, and extraordinary biodiversity. This Ultimate 30-Day Tour is a thoughtfully crafted journey that reveals the full beauty of all eight North-Eastern states, seamlessly blending adventure, heritage, wildlife and refined comfort.

The expedition begins in Sikkim, where serene Buddhist monasteries, glacial lakes and panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga create a powerful Himalayan introduction. From the Eastern Himalayas, the route flows into Assam, home to the world-famous Kaziranga National Park, where exclusive jeep and elephant safaris bring you face to face with the iconic one-horned rhinoceros.

Moving deeper into the highlands of Arunachal Pradesh, the journey crosses dramatic mountain passes such as Sela Pass before reaching Tawang, a spiritual sanctuary of snow-clad monasteries and crystal-clear alpine lakes. The landscapes then soften in Meghalaya, the legendary Abode of Clouds, where emerald rivers, roaring waterfalls, living root bridges and some of Asia’s cleanest villages create a striking contrast to the high Himalayas.

Cultural richness comes alive in Nagaland and Manipur, where ancient tribal traditions, World War II history, and unique ecosystems coexist. From the hill villages around Kohima to Loktak Lake, the world’s only floating lake, this phase offers rare insight into the region’s indigenous heritage and natural wonders.

The journey concludes in the tranquil, lesser-explored states of Mizoram and Tripura, featuring mist-covered hills, peaceful capitals and architectural treasures such as Neermahal Palace, Eastern India’s only lake palace.

Carefully planned internal flights minimise long road journeys, ensuring a smooth and comfortable travel experience without compromising the depth of exploration. With premium stays, curated experiences and expert logistics, Eight Sisters Odyssey is designed for travellers seeking the most comprehensive and immersive North East India journey, rich in discovery, culture and distinction.

Itinerary

Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek Monastery, Pelling, Rabdentse Ruins, Kaziranga National Park, Guwahati, Sela Pass, Tawang, Madhuri Lake, Shillong, Cherrapunji, Laitlum Canyons, Dawki, Mawlynnong, Kohima, Khonoma Village, Imphal, Loktak Lake, Keibul Lamjao National Park, Aizawl, Reiek Peak, Agartala, Neermahal Palace.

Day 1: Arrive Kolkata−

On your arrival at Kolkata airport you will be welcomed by our local representative and then transferred to the hotel. Rest of the day relax.

Overnight stay at Kolkata

Day 2: Kolkata – FLY Bagdogra – Darjeeling (3 to 4 hours)+

This morning you will be transferred to the airport to board the flight to Bagdogra. On arrival at Bagdogra Airport, board your vehicle to Darjeeling.

On arrival at Darjeeling check in at the hotel and relax.

Overnight stay at Darjeeling.

Day 3: Darjeeling+

Early morning at around 4AM, tour to Tiger Hills to view sunrise over Kanchenjunga Peak (subject to clear weather). Later enjoy the joy train ride (subject to the availability of the tickets and the operational condition of the train.)

Overnight stay at Darjeeling.

Day 4: Darjeeling+

Morning after breakfast visit to Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park (Closed on Thursday), Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Tibetan Refugee self-help (Closed on Sunday) Center & Tea Estate (Tea Factory remains closed from November to March every year.

During this time you will be able to visit tea garden & factory, but will not be able to see tea manufacturing).

Overnight stay at Darjeeling.

Day 5: Darjeeling – Kalimpong (3 to 4 hours)+

Morning drive to Kalimpong. Afternoon visit the Flower Nurseries, Jang-Dong-Palriffo Brang.

Overnight stay at Kalimpong.

Day 6: Kalimpong – Martam (1 to 2 hours)+

This day leisurely drive to Martom.

Overnight stay at Martam.

Day 7: Martam+

After breakfast Village walk/nature walk. You will have the opportunity to see the Buddhist monks who do a 3-year retreat in a monastery without coming out or interacting with outside world. Then visit the tribal villages along the way, interacting with the villagers and seeing how they live.

The guide will explain what different plants and crops are grown and the uses for each of them. One can also participate in any planting, harvesting etc. activities that may be taking place at that time.

During this hike you will be able to see birds and butterflies. Then visit Krishna Mandir and the Newar village to interact with the Newar community.

From there, the hike will be through terraced fields and if time permits you may wish to visit the school run by Missionary Catholic nuns and interact with the nuns and students of the school.

Overnight stay at Martam.

Day 8: Martam – Gangtok Via Rumtek Monastery (1 hour)+

This day drive to Gangtok. On the way visit the Rumtek Monastery. On arrival at Gangtok, check in at the hotel and relax for the rest of the day.

Overnight stay at Gangtok.

Day 9: Gangtok+

This day is scheduled for the sightseeing of Gangtok. Visit Droul Chorthen, Research Institute of Tibetology, Directorate of Handicraft & Handloom (Closed on Saturday, Sunday State & National Holidays), Flower Show & Enchey Monastery. Evening free to explore Gangtok.

Overnight stay at Gangtok.

Day 10: Gangtok – Bagdogra (4 to 5 hours) – Train to Guwahati+

(Train Option: 12424 DBRG RAJDHANI departing New Jalpaiguri at 12:55 hours and arriving Guwahati at 19:25 hours)

At 6 AM, start from the hotel. You will be transferred to the New Jalpaiguri station to board the train to Guwahati.

On arrival at Guwahati Railway station you will be met and assisted with the transfer to your accommodation. No further programme today.

Overnight in Guwahati.

Day 11: Guwahati – Kaziranga (5 hours)+

Depart after breakfast and drive around to Kaziranga, your base for the next 2 nights. Your first jeep safari into the grasslands and woods of this amazing National Park will be this afternoon.

Overnight in Kaziranga.

Day 12: Kaziranga+

Two safaris today, morning and late afternoon, into Kaziranga. This is one of the best wildlife viewing regions in India as the largely open grasslands provide excellent viewing, and the diversity of wildlife is huge.

Rhinos are a common sight, as are elephants, and while there are plenty of tigers here they are as elusive as anywhere else.

Overnight in Kaziranga.

Day 13: Kaziranga – Jorhat+

A final safari at dawn, followed by a visit to the Kaziranga Orchid Park, with a shorter drive in the afternoon of around 2 hours to Jorhat. This was the last capital of the Ahom Kingdom and is home to many historical monuments. Today is it a tea growing hub with many estates surround the town.

Overnight in Jorhat.

Day 14: Jorhat+

Another wildlife day, with an extended visit to the Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary around 40 minutes’ drive outside Jorhat. There are at least 5 species of macaques here as well as slow lorises and Hoolock gibbons. Return to Jorhat in the afternoon.

Overnight in Jorhat.

Day 15: Jorhat – Sivasagar – Mon (4 hours)+

Depart Jorhat after breakfast and drive first to Sivasagar then on to Mon. There are many significant monuments at Sivasagar related to the Ahom dynasty which will make for a fascinating detour.

Overnight in Mon.

Day 16: Mon+

In the morning, drive 90 minutes to Longwa, one of the largest villages around Mon which straddles the border between India and Myanmar.

This is the heartland of the Konyak Naga tribe whose lifestyle is proving resilient to the march of modernity. They are famed for their excellent wood carving, handicrafts and blacksmith skills.

Overnight in Mon.

Day 17: Dawki - Mawlynnong - Shillong+

After breakfast, visit Mawlynnong, Asia’s cleanest village, and walk across bamboo sky bridges. Visit the living root bridge area, a marvel of natural engineering. Return to Shillong by evening.

Overnight stay: Shillong

Day 18: Shillong - Dimapur - Kohima+

Early morning after breakfast, transfer to Guwahati and fly to Dimapur. Drive through forested hills to Kohima. Check in and enjoy an evening walk through town, experiencing Naga hospitality and traditional cuisine.

Overnight stay: Kohima

Day 19: Kohima & Khonoma Village+

After breakfast, visit Khonoma Green Village, known for its sustainable living practices. Explore the Kohima War Cemetery, a moving WWII memorial with panoramic views. Learn about Naga tribal history and traditions.

Overnight stay: Kohima

Day 20: Kohima - Imphal+

Early morning after breakfast, drive to Imphal through scenic hill routes. Observe changing landscapes and cultures. On arrival, explore local markets and relax in the evening with Manipuri cuisine.

Overnight stay: Imphal

Day 21: Imphal & Loktak Lake+

After breakfast, visit Loktak Lake and Keibul Lamjao National Park, home to the rare Sangai deer. See floating phumdis and fishermen’s huts. Afternoon city sightseeing and cultural exploration.

Overnight stay: Imphal

Day 22: Imphal - Aizawl+

Early morning after breakfast, fly to Aizawl. Check in and explore viewpoints across the city. Experience Mizo culture, music and warm hospitality during an evening stroll through local streets.

Overnight stay: Aizawl

Day 23: Aizawl Cultural Exploration+

After breakfast, visit the Mizoram State Museum, churches and traditional villages. Learn about Mizo history and crafts. Enjoy panoramic hilltop views before a relaxed evening in the city.

Overnight stay: Aizawl

Day 24: Reiek Peak Excursion+

Early morning after breakfast, hike to Reiek Peak through forest trails and meadows. Reach the summit for breathtaking sunset views over cloud-filled valleys. Return to Aizawl by evening.

Overnight stay: Aizawl

Day 25: Aizawl - Agartala+

After breakfast, fly to Agartala. Check in and relax. Evening visit to local markets and enjoy Tripuri cuisine influenced by Bengali and tribal flavours.

Overnight stay: Agartala

Day 26: Agartala Sightseeing+

After breakfast, visit Ujjayanta Palace and explore temples, craft centres and cultural landmarks. Afternoon free for shopping and exploration.

Overnight stay: Agartala

Day 27: Neermahal Lake Palace+

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic boat ride to Neermahal Palace in Rudrasagar Lake. Explore the royal interiors and surroundings before returning to Agartala by evening.

Overnight stay: Agartala

Day 28: Agartala Leisure Day+

After a relaxed breakfast, enjoy a free day for optional excursions, cultural interactions or rest. Ideal for slow travel, photography and reflection after an epic journey.

Overnight stay: Agartala

Day 29: Agartala - Free Exploration+

After breakfast, revisit favourite spots, shop for souvenirs or enjoy optional heritage walks and cultural performances. A gentle conclusion to your North-East exploration.

Overnight stay: Agartala

Day 30: Departure+

After breakfast, transfer to Agartala Airport for onward travel, carrying memories of one of India’s most diverse and untouched regions.

FAQs on Ultimate North East India Expedition Tour

Is this the most complete North East India tour package?

Yes, this is one of the most comprehensive North East India tour packages available, covering all 8 North Eastern states of India, Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura, in one carefully curated journey. The itinerary combines Himalayan landscapes, tribal cultures, wildlife safaris, monasteries, heritage sites and offbeat destinations, making it ideal for travellers seeking a truly immersive North East India experience rather than fragmented state-wise tours.

What is the best time to visit North East India?

The best time to visit North East India is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant and travel is comfortable across the mountains and valleys. October to December offers clear skies and festivals, January to February brings snowfall in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, and March to April is perfect for lush landscapes and wildlife safaris. This itinerary is designed to avoid extreme monsoon conditions while maximising scenic beauty.

Are Inner Line Permits (ILP) required for this tour?

Yes, Inner Line Permits (ILPs) are required for Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram and parts of Sikkim, and all necessary permits are arranged as part of the tour. The process is handled seamlessly in advance to ensure smooth entry and uninterrupted travel. Guests are guided on documentation requirements well before departure.

Does this tour include wildlife safaris in North East India?

Yes, the itinerary includes exclusive wildlife experiences in Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guests enjoy private elephant safaris and guided jeep safaris, offering opportunities to see the one-horned rhinoceros, wild buffalo, swamp deer, elephants and rich birdlife. This makes it one of the most complete North East India wildlife tour packages.

Is this North East India tour itinerary customizable?

Absolutely. This is a fully customisable North East India tour package. Duration, destinations, hotels, activities, and travel pace can be tailored to suit families, couples, senior travellers, or photography- and culture-focused journeys. Private departures, upgraded accommodations, and special-interest experiences can also be arranged on request.

How many days are ideal to explore North East India?

To truly experience North East India beyond surface-level sightseeing, 25 to 30 days is ideal. This allows time to explore remote Himalayan regions, tribal villages, national parks, monasteries and cultural hubs without rushing. Shorter trips often miss key states or experiences, while this itinerary is designed for deep exploration and meaningful travel.

Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to North East India?

Yes, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors to North East India who want a complete, well-planned and hassle-free journey. It balances iconic highlights with offbeat destinations, includes all logistics and permits, and offers expert guidance, making it perfect for travellers unfamiliar with the region’s terrain and travel requirements.