6-Day Tour of Exotic Northeast India: Mawsmai Caves, Double Decker Living Root Bridge and Kaziranga National Park

Imagine a trip that takes you through lush rainforests, ancient caves, iconic bridges, and incredible wildlife—all packed into just under a week. That’s exactly what this 6-day tour of Northeast India promises. With a carefully curated itinerary, authentic experiences, and personalized attention, it’s an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore this often-overlooked corner of India in depth.

What excites us the most about this experience? First, the chance to cruise along the mighty Brahmaputra River, offering a serene yet powerful introduction to the region. Second, the visit to Cherrapunji, famous for receiving the highest rainfall in the world, promises stunning scenery and unique weather. Finally, the opportunity to see horned-rhinos and tigers in the wild at Kaziranga National Park, one of India’s most celebrated wildlife reserves. A potential snag? The travel distances between some sites can be long—up to 9 hours on the road—so be prepared for some scenic but tiring drives.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, adventure, and culture. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity, love wildlife safaris, and want a well-organized yet authentic experience, this might be perfect for you.

Key Points

• Personalized private tour ensures customized attention from an expert guide.
• Diverse highlights include caves, bridges, wildlife, and cultural sites, offering a comprehensive Northeast India experience.
• Comfortable accommodation and meals included, with options for vegetarians.
• Long travel days mean plenty of scenic drives, so expect some time on the road.
• Authentic experiences like talking with tea garden workers and exploring bustling local markets.
• Value for money at $537, considering transportation, guided tours, accommodations, and activities included.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Northeast India Tour

Day 1: Cruising the Brahmaputra River

The adventure kicks off with a two-hour cruise on the Brahmaputra River. This is a peaceful yet powerful way to start, offering sweeping views of the river’s vastness and the surrounding landscape. The admission ticket is included, and travelers often mention the cruise as a calming highlight, with some reviewers noting the river’s impressive scale and the chance to spot local boats and wildlife.

Day 2: Discovering Cherrapunji

Next, you’ll drive to Cherrapunji, renowned for its record-breaking rainfall. The drive takes roughly five hours, but the lush greenery and dramatic valleys make it feel worth the journey. Here, you’ll likely be struck by the misty waterfalls and verdant cliffs, perfect for photos. The area boasts some of the most breathtaking views in the region, with the added charm of a cool, misty climate. Guests often spend the night here, soaking in the tranquil mountain atmosphere.

Day 3: Meghalaya’s Living Roots Bridges and Caves

This is a big day for nature lovers and adventure seekers. You’ll visit the famous Living Roots Bridges, marvels of bio-engineering where giant tree roots form natural, living bridges. Reviewers often highlight how these structures are both breathtaking and functional, a testament to indigenous ingenuity.

Next, the Mawsmai Caves await—an ancient limestone wonder with intricate stalactites and stalagmites. One reviewer states, “The caves are really good, a must-visit,” emphasizing how these natural formations provide a cool, slightly mysterious break from the forests.

In the afternoon, strolling through Shillong Bazaars offers insight into local life, with vendors selling everything from handicrafts to fresh produce. Expect vibrant scenes and friendly shopkeepers. The day’s mix of culture and nature makes for a well-rounded experience.

Day 4: Wildlife Wonders at Kaziranga

The drive to Kaziranga National Park is about eight hours, but the allure of spotting the one-horned rhinoceros makes it worthwhile. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga is home not only to rhinos but also to wild tigers, elephants, and numerous bird species.

Your stay here includes a jeep safari, which reviewers praise as “an incredible opportunity to see wildlife up close.” Keep your eyes peeled, as Kaziranga’s open grasslands and marshes are perfect for viewing large herds of rhinos and, if lucky, a tiger stalking in the distance.

Day 5: Guwahati and Tea Gardens

After a morning drive back to Guwahati, you’ll visit a tea garden, where you can observe tea leaf plucking and processing. Walking through the gardens, you’ll meet local women who work there—an authentic glimpse into India’s tea industry. Many reviewers mention how engaging this experience is, especially with the opportunity to chat directly with the workers.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch in the countryside, soaking in the green vistas. This stop balances the adventure with a touch of local industry, highlighting Assam’s famous tea.

Day 6: Temples and Farewell

Your final day includes visits to the ISKCON Temple and the Kamakhya Devi Temple atop a hill, both offering stunning views and spiritual ambiance. Many travelers find the Kamakhya Temple fascinating for its architecture and vibrant religious ceremonies.

Afterward, you’ll be driven to the airport or your hotel, bringing this memorable journey to a close. The tour ends with the promise of authentic experiences and rich cultural insights.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Group Size

This tour is private, with a maximum of nine travelers, ensuring personalized attention. The transportation is air-conditioned, making long drives more comfortable, especially given the distances involved.

Accommodation and Meals

You’ll stay in five nights of air-conditioned accommodation with breakfast and dinner included. This is a good value considering the locations and quality, with reviews appreciating the comfortable lodgings after long days of sightseeing.

Cost and Value

At $537 per person, the price reflects not just the transportation and accommodations but also the guided tours, entrance fees, and activities like the river cruise and wildlife safaris. For a well-organized, culturally rich experience, this pricing offers solid value—especially given the diversity of sites covered.

Considerations

One thing to keep in mind: the travel days are fairly long, with up to 9 hours on the road. While the scenery is engaging, those prone to fatigue should be prepared. Also, the tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and outdoor activities are involved.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer notes, “The guides are very knowledgeable,” praising the expertise of the local guides who make the experience richer and more informative. Another mentions the “stunning views” at Cherrapunji and the “must-visit” Mawsmai Caves, emphasizing that these spots are highlights worth the journey.

A different reviewer suggests considering Pobitora instead of Kaziranga for a higher chance of rhino sightings, though they still praise Kaziranga’s safari experience. This points to the importance of realistic expectations—Kaziranga is a fantastic reserve but sightings depend on luck and timing.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This adventure is ideal for travelers craving a mix of wildlife, natural beauty, and culture in Northeast India. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided, small-group tours and want to visit iconic sites without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

Those with a moderate level of fitness will find the walking and travel manageable, but it’s not suited for anyone seeking a purely relaxed vacation. Wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and culturally curious travelers will find plenty to love here.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Northeast India, balancing adventure with cultural discovery. The inclusion of key highlights like the Living Root Bridges, Kaziranga Safari, and Cherrapunji’s waterfalls ensures you’ll come away with memorable experiences. The private nature of the tour means you’ll have tailored guidance, local insights, and a comfortable pace.

While the lengthy travel days require patience, they also showcase some of the most stunning scenery India has to offer. The reasonable price, combined with authentic activities and comfortable accommodation, makes this a compelling option for explorers eager to uncover the region’s hidden gems.

If you’re interested in a travel experience that’s both immersive and manageable within a week, this tour strikes a good balance and promises a truly enriching journey through one of India’s most captivating regions.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour’s moderate physical activity levels are generally manageable for kids with some stamina.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes five nights of AC accommodation, breakfast and dinner, a river cruise, jeep rides in Kaziranga, and guided visits to major sites.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, vegetarian options are available; travelers should advise at the time of booking if needed.

How physically demanding is the itinerary?
Expect some walking, especially at caves and markets, and long drives. It’s suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, rain gear (especially for Cherrapunji), sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Is there free time to explore on my own?
The itinerary is quite full, but some free time might be available during transfers or after certain visits—ask your guide for suggestions.

How safe is the wildlife safari?
Kaziranga safaris are conducted in open jeeps and are generally very safe under the guidance of experienced rangers.

What is the best time of year to go?
While not specified, the region is best visited during dry months—generally from November to April—to avoid heavy monsoon rains.

To sum it up, this tour offers a rich taste of Northeast India’s incredible landscapes, wildlife, and culture. It’s perfect for those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist paths, with enough comfort and guidance to make the journey smooth and memorable.