India Beyond - A Wanderer’s dream adventure across North East India with Anecdotes DMC
Tucked in the verdant lap of the Himalayas, a journey to the North Eastern corner of India is one that truly heads off the well-trodden path - revealing a magical, mystical land of awe-inspiring landscapes, incredible wildlife, glorious heritage and vibrant festivities. There’s no one better to guide your adventurers on a transformative Indian exploration than our friends at Anecdotes, India DMC.
Separated from the rest of India by towering mountains and dense forest (and with no less than four international borders!), the seven states of the North East - Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura - each have their own utterly fascinating and very distinct cultural, social and geographic characteristics to explore.
Thanks to its remote location, this is a region still untouched by the tourist throng - leaving its phenomenal scenery and rich culture ripe for discovery by guests with off-beat wanderlust in their hearts. In this article, Anecdotes, India DMC weave their magic and tailor for you an inspirational itinerary that blends the best of everything North East - from topography, tribes and temples to safaris, festivals and river adventures. As ever, they are able to play with and add-on to these experiences for the perfect fit to your guests’ individual needs.
But here, let’s head into this example trip and taste the verdant beauty of Assam and the emerald landscapes of Meghalaya in a week’s initial tour - with add-on potential that takes in the tribal traditions of Nagaland, the untouched scenery of Arunachal Pradesh and more…
Assam - The Gateway to the North East
Your guests’ adventure starts in Assam, where tea plantations stretch as far as the eye can see and the mighty Brahmaputra River meanders through verdant valleys. In the heart of this lush haven, lies the rich cultural heritage of Assam's capital, Guwahati, a city of ancient temples, bustling markets and irrepressible local rhythms. This vibrant and historic metropolis sits on the picturesque banks of the mighty Brahmaputra River, and here the perfect tone for your guests’ adventure is set on their first evening with a magnificent sunset cruise on the river that returns with plenty of time to explore further.
With a rich tapestry of history, the city boasts ancient temples, archaeological sites and a fantastic blend of modern and traditional elements. The Kamakhya Temple, a revered Hindu pilgrimage site atop Nilachal Hill, is a must-see, offering panoramic views over the city and its surroundings - plus, the climb is a great appetiser for an exploration of the city’s lively street food scene.
If clients stay in Guwahati, we can recommend the Taj Vivanta Hotel.
Safari Days at Kaziranga National Park
It’s time for a half-day drive to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kaziranga National Park in the Eastern Himalayas. Renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity and conservation efforts, the Park spreads over 1,000 square kilometres across the scenic floodplains of the Brahmaputra River. Home to abundant flora and fauna, here you’ll find the largest orchid park in the North East, boasting more than 600 regional species. Thanks to stringent anti-poaching and habitat preservation measures, Kaziranga is a haven for the endangered one-horned Indian rhinoceros, as well as elephants, Bengal tigers, wild water buffaloes and a myriad of bird species, including migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia.
Here, the best way to discover the park’s infinite charms is on the back of an elephant, on wonderfully meandering, slow rides that take in the enchanting wildlife all around, from animals and birds to wildflowers, trees, and rich vegetation. Afternoon Jeep safaris ramp the adrenalin up a notch, as guests head out deep into the narrow paths and elephant grass of the park to seek a close-up peek at the resident one-horned Rhinos - while evenings are spent at leisure, with the choice to rest and relax in the comfortable surroundings of their boutique accommodation. Alternatively, the adventurous can visit the nearby local villages of Kohora, Bagori, Agoratoli or Burapahar, each with its own unique charm and role to play in promoting ecotourism that sustains the local economy.
Stay at lodges like Diphlu River Lodge. A truly authentic and sustainably run lodge which has been mentioned in Architectural Digest, Vogue, Conde Nast Traveler, etc. Other properties in the region include Iora Retreat,Infinity Resorts, Borgos Resort and Spa, and Wild Grass Lodge.
NB. Kaziranga Park remains closed from 1st May till 31st Oct. November to April is the best time to visit.
The Emerald beauty of Meghalaya
The word “Meghalaya” translates to “Abode of Clouds”, a wonderfully apt description of this stunning state with its mist-covered hills and deeply lush greenery. Even en route, the region’s beauty is evident as guests grab the chance to stop at the majestic Umiam Lake (or “Barapani”), a scenic, man-made reservoir offering watersports, tranquil picnic spots and truly fabulous views that evoke images of the Scottish countryside.
The capital, Shillong, known as the Scotland of the East, is a charming hill station whose pleasant high-altitude climate and breathtaking views mix with its colonial architecture and vibrant local culture. Surrounded by pine-covered landscapes and cascading waterfalls, hikers can head to Shillong Peak, the highest point in the state of Meghalaya, for panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys - on clear days stretching to the Himalayan ranges and the Bangladesh plains beyond.
If clients are staying in Shillong area we can recommend Vivanta Shillong or the lakeside Riknjai Hotel.
Back in the city, the bustling Police Bazaar and vibrant markets showcase the local culture - and Autumn visitors might be lucky enough to catch the annual Shillong Autumn Music Festival, which has earned the city the nickname of the "Rock Capital of India."
What follows is a day of lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls and cave exploration. It begins with a drive to Cherrapunjee, officially known as Sohra, a mesmerising town in the East Khasi Hills known as one of the wettest places on earth. On the way, a stop allows your guests to discover the Elephant Falls, a cascade of three tiers, each offering a different perspective of its natural beauty. A perfect location for nature lovers and budding photographers alike, the falls are surrounded by verdant foliage and, although the elephant-shaped rock that gave the site its name was destroyed in an earthquake, this is a captivating and serene spot that’s well worth the visit.
In Cherrapunjee itself, the Seven Sisters waterfall is a must-see, its seven separate waterfalls set across a high, rugged cliff for a mesmerising view. And of course, guests will visit the iconic Nohkalikai Falls, the fourth largest plunge waterfall in the world, which tumbles from a height of 340 metres through evergreen rainforest for an unforgettable experience.
Mawsmai Cave is a natural underground wonder known for its intricate limestone formations, stalactites and stalagmites, all carved over millennia. Well-lit passages allow visitors to marvel at the fascinating geological structures, with innumerable forms, shapes and sizes on show - a unique and immersive experience within the region's unique karst landscape. Outside, the distinctive shape and grandeur of Kho Ramhah Rock (or Motrop) makes it a notable landmark, a captivating monolith that stands as a testimony to the natural forces shaping the terrain, and a perfect example of the region’s mix of geological marvels and natural beauty.
If staying in Cherrapunjee area we can recommend the Polo Orchid Resort.
The Cleanest Village in Asia
Yes, you read that right! Nestled near the Bangladesh border, Mawlynnong is a model of community-driven eco-tourism, where locals actively engage in maintaining cleanliness and preserving the natural environment. With its charming bamboo houses, flower-lined paths and vibrant gardens, the village is also home to one of Meghalaya’s most famous icons, the Nohwet Living Root bridge, a 500-year-old bridge created by weaving the roots of the Ficus Elastica tree around a framework.
Gaining strength over generations, these living root bridges are both a wonderful example of traditional Khasi architecture and absolutely crucial for the people of these remote, high-altitude villages, allowing them to communicate, travel and trade with greater ease across their steep valleys and the plains beyond.
A drive to Dawki, a small town on the Indo-Bangladesh border, takes in the stunning beauty of Bophill Falls as guests experience a wonderful change of topography between the hills and the plains of Northern Bangladesh.
And at nearby Shnongpdeng, the lush, lap-of-nature surroundings and crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River are a perfectly tranquil off-beat spot for an afternoon of watersports, including kayaking, boating and river rafting - or, for those who prefer to stay dry, a gentle hike is a wonderful way to explore!
A Cultural Add-On in Nagaland - the Hornbill Festival and more
For those with more than a week to spare, how about adding a truly immersive cultural experience? The scenic state of Nagaland is shrouded in mystery, its vibrant indigenous tribes long guarding their ancient traditions - and continuing to celebrate them with very enjoyable zeal! This region is home to numerous tribes, each with distinct traditions, festivals and colourful attire…
… And all are brought together during early December’s Hornbill Festival, a week-long celebration of Naga culture - think painted dancers and decorated warriors, delicious local cuisines, traditional arts and a riot of colour, music and pageantry! Guests travelling in early December can be driven to Kisama to experience this incredible cultural extravaganza which unites all the peoples of Nagaland, as well as visit the Morung tribe to see their display of culture, attire, music and dances at close hand.
Outside December? This is still an unmissable destination at any time of year. The capital of Nagaland, Kohima, is steeped in World War II history, being the site of the infamous Battle of Kohima where Japanese troops invaded this small village in a critical confrontation with British and Indian forces. Intense and brutal, the battle became one of the turning points of the Burma Campaign and was a decisive engagement in the larger Southeast Asian theatre of World War II. Often described as the “Stalingrad of the East”, the Allied forces successfully defended Kohima, preventing the Japanese from achieving their objectives and turning the tide in the Allies' favour. The battle is also notable as the Japanese are remembered in the region for not exploiting or mistreating the villagers. Here, the Kohima War Cemetery stands as a memorial to those who lost their lives during this historic battle. Designed by Colin St. Claire Oakes, the cemetery houses 1,420 Commonwealth burials including a memorial for 917 Hindu and Sikh soldiers cremated in accordance with their faith.
Near the entrance, guests should seek out the heart-rending inscription which reads,
“When you go home - Tell them of us and say - For your tomorrow - We gave our today”
For guests staying in the Kohima area when the Hornbill Festival is taking place, Anecdotes recommend the luxurious "The Ultimate Travelling Camp - Nagaland." At other times of the year there is the Niraamaya Resort.
Immersion with the Angami
Your guests’ time in Nagaland ends with a brilliantly immersive cultural experience. Driven to Khonoma, known as the “first green village in the country”, they meet the Angami tribe who call this gorgeous village their home. Travellers take time to explore the village, visiting traditional Naga “morungs” (local community houses used for communal living and sharing cultural knowledge, customs and skills), viewing traditional gates and local forts and meeting local people. Throughout the visit, guests are accompanied by Anecdotes’ expert storyteller, who will narrate exclusive insights about the traditions and culture of this enthralling people.
Snow-capped peaks & ancient temples - Arunachal Pradesh Add-On
Those in search of the region’s spiritual heart can of course extend their adventure further - and how better than with a week’s exploration of the untouched landscapes of beautiful Arunachal Pradesh? Here, snow-capped peaks are home to ancient temples, revered monasteries and pristine lakes, all awaiting discovery by the intrepid traveller.
We won’t go into huge detail here - just get in touch if you’d like to explore the options in greater depth - but the week would see your guests:
Begin at the stunning Kamakhya Temple which, dedicated to the Goddess Kamakhya, is a powerful representation of ancient feminine energy in Hinduism. Here, guests take in panoramic views towards the Brahmaputra River from high on the scenic Nilachal Hill, or Blue Mountain.
Head to Tezpur, whose ancient battles between the Mughals and the Ahom Kingdom earned it the name the “City of Blood”. Now more commonly known as the cultural capital of Assam, the city boasts a rich historical legacy that includes ancient ruins and mythical stories.
Visit the ancient Mahabhairab Temple, a serene shrine to Lord Shiva, which adds a spiritual touch to Tezpur's historical landscape (architecture lovers will enjoy the temple’s unique blend of Assamese and Mughal styles).
Travel deeper into picturesque Arunachal Pradesh to the town of Bomdila. With its panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, this haven for nature enthusiasts is home to a number of indigenous tribes, and its craft centres, monasteries and museums are must-see destinations. Stay at the Hotel Grand.
Visit Bomdila Monastery, a stunningly tranquil Buddhist sanctuary perched at an altitude of over 8,000 feet with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The monastery is adorned with vibrant murals and prayer wheels and makes a stunning stop for visitors seeking spiritual solace.
Depending on the weather, travel the awe-inspiring Sela Pass, a challenging but thrilling high-altitude trip that heads from a dense, emerald jungle to this breathtaking mountain pass (at 13,700 feet!) enveloped by the pristine snow-clad peaks and beautiful, frozen lakes of the Eastern Himalayas. Here, guests can also see the ethereal Sela Lake, whose frozen waters reflect the azure sky for an unforgettable experience.
Meandering further through the stunning high-altitude terrain, guests arrive at the quaint town of Tawang, an unspoilt and undiscovered sanctuary steeped in history and spirituality whose towering, intricate Monastery (the largest in India) holds significant religious importance in Tibetan Buddhism and is a truly memorable sight against the backdrop of the Himalayas.
Subject to Army permission and the state of the roads, a trip to Bum La Pass, a high mountain pass at the Indo-China border, gives guests a peek into this symbol of the region's strategic importance, which was a crucial site during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. Back in Tawang, guests can also visit the War Memorial, a beautiful Stupa built to honour those who lost their lives. Nature lovers will revel in trips to scenic sights, from Madhuri Lake, which gained fame after being featured in the Bollywood movie "Koyla" starring Madhuri Dixit, to the spectacular Nuranang Waterfall near Jang, which cascades down from lush green hills.
Whether your guests are heading home or continuing their exploration, this is a perfect time to complete the circle back to Guwahati. But there’s just enough time to stop twice en route - first at Jang Nag Temple (Nag being a snake god) and then at the fortress of Agnigarh, which, according to Hindu myth, was built by Banasura, a demon prince, to imprison his daughter Usha and prevent her from marrying the grandson of his mortal enemy, Lord Krishna.
In the Tawang area, guests can stay at the Vivanta Tawang Hotel.
And more? Boats and Bikes - Traverse the Brahmaputra River
Guests looking for more? Or something more adventurous? How about a 12-day off-beaten track adventure down the Brahmaputra River using bikes and boats for an unforgettable experience? This incredible journey takes guests from the tea estates of Maijan to bird sanctuaries, monasteries, temple complexes and stunning gardens, with the chance to spot the Gangenese dolphin.
If you prefer a luxury river cruise, there are also options, such as the Assam Bengal Navigation Company, which offers a series of 4-- to 10-night luxury cruises on the Brahmaputra River.
Whatever experience your guests are seeking in India, Anecdotes DMC can craft an incredible bespoke tour that’s perfectly suited to them - one where every destination is an immersion into the soul-stirring beauty and cultural tapestry of a region that has remained hidden for far too long.
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