Exploring the 7 Days Kaziranga and Meghalaya Tour Package: An In-Depth Review
Traveling through northeast India’s breathtaking landscapes can be both exhilarating and humbling. This 7-day Meghalaya and Kaziranga tour, carefully curated by NorthEast Guide, offers a wonderful mix of natural wonders, cultural gems, and wildlife adventures. Designed with women travelers in mind, it promises safety, comfort, and authentic experiences—all at a reasonable price point of just under $600 per person.
What we love about this tour is its balanced approach: it covers iconic sights like the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Nohkalikai Falls, and Kaziranga National Park while also including lesser-known treasures like Mawkdok Dympep Valley and the Arwah Cave. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable local guide and all accommodation in hygienic homestays means you’re well looked after every step of the way.
On the flip side, one thing to consider is the long walking trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge—around 3,500 steps—which may be tiring for some. However, with proper planning and alertness, most travelers should find the experience manageable and well worth it. This tour suits those who enjoy scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersions, especially if you’re traveling solo or with a small group of friends seeking a safe, guided adventure.
<- All-Inclusive Experience: Includes breakfast, private air-conditioned transport, and a trekking guide.
- Authentic and Scenic Stops: From waterfalls to caves, the itinerary covers a variety of natural wonders.
- Women-Focused and Safe: Designed with safety and comfort as top priorities.
- Flexible and Well-Organized: Proper guidance and alternative plans ensure smooth travel.
- Good Value for Money: At $598, it packs in a lot of sightseeing and cultural exposure.
- Authentic Local Insights: Guides are praised for their knowledge and patience.
An Honest Look at the 7-Day Kaziranga Meghalya Tour
This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into northeast India’s most striking landscapes, striking a balance between adventure, nature, and culture. It’s ideal for those who want a guided experience that takes the hassle out of planning while still providing authentic moments.
Looking for more options in Shillong? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect
Stop 1: Umiam Lake
Your journey kicks off with a visit to this picturesque lake, just before reaching Shillong. It’s a calming spot, perfect for some initial photos and soaking in the serene views. The experience lasts about an hour, with free admission, giving you a gentle start to the trip.
Stop 2: Laitlum Canyons
Known as the “End of Hills,” these canyons are perched at the edge of a cliff, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding valleys. We loved the views here, and the chance to reflect quietly away from crowds. It’s a two-hour stop with no entry fee, making it a highlight for nature lovers.
Stop 3: Mawkdok Dympep Valley
A quick 30-minute stop to admire the lush hills that stretch as far as the eye can see. From here, the landscape’s beauty is undeniable, and it’s a great spot for photos or just to enjoy the cool mountain air.
Stop 4: Nohsngithiang (Seven Sisters) Falls
One of Meghalaya’s most famous waterfalls, the Seven Sisters Falls cascade down in multiple tiers, creating a mesmerizing display. It’s a one-hour pause in your day, free of charge, perfect for some Instagram-worthy shots.
Stop 5: Mawsmai Cave
Venturing into this limestone cave takes about two hours. It’s a fantastic experience, especially if you enjoy exploring underground formations. The cave is well-lit and safe, giving you a chance to admire stalactites and stalagmites up close.
Stop 6: Nohkalikai Falls
Standing as India’s tallest plunge waterfall, Nohkalikai is truly breathtaking. We could almost hear the roar from afar. The two-hour visit offers plenty of opportunities for both photography and quiet reflection, with free entry.
Stop 7: Arwah Cave
Meghalaya’s most famous caves, this spot offers an adventurous two-hour exploration of underground tunnels and stunning rock formations. It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy a bit of thrill amid natural beauty.
Stop 8: Double Decker Living Root Bridge
This is the tour’s centerpiece—a trek to one of Meghalaya’s most iconic sights. The walk involves around 3,500 steps, taking approximately five hours. It’s a physically demanding but unforgettable experience, showcasing nature’s ingenuity with living roots. The bridge itself is extraordinary, and we loved the challenge it presented.
Stop 9: Mawlynnong Village
Famous as the “Cleanest Village in Asia,” Mawlynnong is a peaceful, well-maintained community. We enjoyed wandering through the neat lanes, chatting with locals, and experiencing rural Meghalaya firsthand.
Stop 10: Dawki River
Here, you can indulge in activities like boating, kayaking, cliff jumping, or swimming at Shnongpdeng. The river’s crystal-clear waters are a sight to behold, and the five-hour window offers plenty of time to relax or seek some adventure.
Stop 11: Krang Suri Waterfall
A hidden gem, this waterfall enchants visitors with its magical surroundings. It’s a two-hour stop where the lush backdrop makes for a peaceful retreat.
Stop 12: Kaziranga National Park
Your adventure concludes with a jeep safari inside Kaziranga, famous for its one-horned rhinoceroses. Although this activity is not included, the four-hour safari is a fantastic way to spot wildlife and experience India’s rich biodiversity.
The Practicalities
Transportation:
Throughout the trip, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, which ensures comfort during long drives and scenic routes. The private transport is a major plus, as it minimizes hassles and keeps the group size manageable, according to reviews praising the guides’ attentiveness.
Guides and Support:
Guides are described as knowledgeable and patient, with one reviewer specifically mentioning “the coordinator’s superb planning” and the driver Jeet’s cordial attitude. Having experienced guides makes a real difference, especially when navigating caves or the challenging trek to the root bridge.
Accommodation:
All stays are in clean, hygienic homestays, providing a more authentic and cozy experience than hotels. Breakfast is included, but dinner and lunch are on travelers to arrange or purchase separately.
Cost and Value:
At approximately $600, this package offers substantial value considering the diverse stops, transportation, and guided support. While the jeep safari in Kaziranga isn’t included, the overall cost remains reasonable for this extensive itinerary.
What Travelers Say
Two reviews highlight the quality of guides and organization. One reviewer appreciated the “excellent itinerary” and “superb coordination,” while another called the trip “fun-filled” thanks to a “cordial driver” and careful planning. These insights emphasize the importance of a well-organized, guided experience when exploring this remote region.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This package is perfect for travelers seeking a guided, safe, and culturally rich adventure in northeast India. It suits those with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved, especially for the root bridge trek. Solo women travelers or small groups will appreciate the focus on safety, the small group size, and the comfort of hygienic homestays. It’s also ideal if you want to maximize sightseeing without the stress of logistics or planning.
Final Thoughts
This 7-day Kaziranga and Meghalaya tour offers an engaging blend of scenic beauty, wildlife, caves, and cultural visits—all with expert guidance. The inclusion of a variety of stops guarantees you’ll get a taste of everything northeast India has to offer, from waterfalls and villages to caves and the legendary root bridge.
The price point provides good value when considering the transport, guided tours, and diverse attractions. The enthusiastic reviews from past travelers highlight the professionalism of the guides and the memorable nature of the experience.
While some may find the trek to the root bridge physically demanding, most will agree that the stunning views and sense of achievement make it worthwhile. The tour’s focus on safety and hygiene makes it especially suitable for women travelers seeking a worry-free adventure in this less-explored corner of India.
If you’re craving scenic vistas, wildlife encounters, and authentic cultural sights with the convenience of guided support, this package is definitely worth considering.
FAQs
Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned private vehicle throughout the trip, which helps keep the journey comfortable and stress-free.
Are meals included in the package?
Breakfast is included, but lunch and dinner are not. You’ll need to arrange or purchase your own meals during the trip.
What is the physical fitness level required?
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level, especially for activities like the trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, which involves around 3,500 steps.
Can I participate in activities like boating or kayaking?
Yes, you can explore activities such as boating, kayaking, cliff jumping, and swimming in Dawki River at Shnongpdeng. The activities are free from additional charges.
Is the tour suitable for solo women travelers?
Absolutely. The tour is designed with safety and comfort in mind, making it an excellent choice for solo women travelers.
What are the main attractions covered?
Key highlights include Umiam Lake, Laitlum Canyons, Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Nohkalikai Falls, the Living Root Bridge, Mawlynnong Village, Dawki River, Krang Suri Waterfall, and Kaziranga National Park.
How long does each stop last?
Most stops range from 30 minutes to five hours, depending on the site. The trek to the root bridge is the longest at approximately five hours.
Is the itinerary flexible?
Guides are praised for their good planning and the provision of alternative plans if needed, making the experience adaptable to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Are accommodations comfortable and hygienic?
Yes, all accommodations are in clean, hygienic homestays, offering a more authentic experience than standard hotels.
To sum it up, this tour offers a practical, well-organized way to explore some of northeast India’s most stunning natural and cultural sites. It’s best suited for travelers seeking an immersive experience backed by good guidance and safety. With its mix of scenic beauty and wildlife, combined with authentic village visits, it promises plenty of memorable moments—all at an accessible price point.