Living Bridges & Wildlife | Meghalaya & Kaziranga
- North-East India
Durations
10 Days
Difficulty
Beginner, Moderate
Enjoy the Adventure
This enchanting Northeast itinerary begins in Guwahati and winds through the Khasi Hills to Cherrapunjee, famously one of the wettest places on Earth. Travelers explore cascading waterfalls, deep caves, and the unique double-decker living root bridge at Nongriat village, experiencing the region’s rich natural beauty and traditional engineering marvels.
The journey continues through Dawki and Mawlynnong, including a boat ride on the crystal-clear Umngot River and a visit to “Asia’s Cleanest Village,” before reaching Shillong, the “Scotland of the East,” with its vibrant culture and panoramic views. The final leg takes you to Kaziranga National Park for thrilling safaris to spot the one-horned rhinoceros and other wildlife, ending with a relaxed return to Guwahati.
Day-to-Day Itinerary
We have carefully planned out each day to give you the best possible experience. From exploring historic landmarks to tasting delicious local cuisine, each day is packed with adventure and excitement. Join us as we take you on a journey through some of the most fascinating destinations in the world.
Arrival Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Int’l (GAU)
Focus: Vehicle checks and tour briefing
Arrive in Guwahati, the entry point for your journey. Use the day for final preparations, including a thorough bike or car check. An optional evening visit to a local market or a Brahmaputra river cruise can be arranged.
Night Stay: Guwahati
Distance Covered: ~150 km
Time Taken: 4-5 hours
Terrain: Plains of Assam followed by a scenic ascent into the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya
Drive south from Guwahati, climbing into the hills of Meghalaya. Stop at the scenic Umiam Lake (Barapani) viewpoint for panoramic photos. Continue the drive to Cherrapunjee (Sohra), historically one of the wettest places on Earth, and settle in amidst its unique landscape of canyons and waterfalls.
Night Stay: Cherrapunjee
Focus: Local sightseeing of the region’s main natural attractions
Explore the dramatic landscapes around Cherrapunjee. Visit the Nohkalikai Falls (India’s tallest plunge waterfall), Seven Sisters Falls, and explore the Mawsmai Cave system with its ancient stalactites and stalagmites.
Night Stay: Cherrapunjee
Activity: A demanding trek of ~3,500 steps each way
Duration: 4-6 hours round trip
The day is dedicated to the trek to Nongriat Village to witness the Jingkieng Nongriat, a UNESCO-recognized Double-Decker Living Root Bridge. The trail features other single root bridges and crystal-clear natural pools along the way.
Night Stay: Cherrapunjee
Distance Covered: ~170 km (circuit)
Time Taken: Full day with sightseeing (7-9 hours)
Enjoy a full day of exploration en route to Shillong. Visit Dawki on the India-Bangladesh border for a boat ride on the Umngot River, known for its glass-like clarity. Then, explore Mawlynnong, celebrated as “Asia’s Cleanest Village,” before heading to Shillong.
Night Stay: Shillong
Focus: Exploring the culture, music, and sights of the capital city
Discover the charm of Shillong — visit the Don Bosco Museum of Indigenous Cultures, Shillong Peak for panoramic views, Ward’s Lake, and the bustling Police Bazar. Experience the city’s café culture and vibrant music scene.
Night Stay: Shillong
Distance Covered: ~280 km
Time Taken: 7-8 hours
Terrain: Descending from the Meghalayan Hills back to the plains of Assam
Drive out of the hills and into the plains towards Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for conserving the Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros.
Night Stay: Kaziranga
Activity: Morning and/or afternoon jeep safaris
Focus: Wildlife viewing in the park’s core zones
Spend the day exploring Kaziranga National Park on safari. Spot one-horned rhinos, elephants, wild water buffalo, swamp deer, and tigers, along with a rich diversity of birdlife. An optional early morning elephant safari is available.
Night Stay: Kaziranga
Distance Covered: ~200 km
Time Taken: 4-5 hours
After an optional final morning safari, enjoy a relaxed drive back to Guwahati. Spend the afternoon and evening at leisure — shop for Assam tea and silk, or enjoy a farewell dinner.
Night Stay: Guwahati
Departure Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Int’l (GAU)
After breakfast, transfer to Guwahati Airport for your flight home, concluding the memorable journey through Meghalaya and Kaziranga.
Inclusions
We plan for all stays and meals. We arrange, if required, for accomodation on a twin-sharing or single basis, Inner Line Permits and associated fees, a basic First Aid Kit for fixed departures, certified guides and instructors including NOLS-certified guides, mechanic support throughout the trip.
Exclusions
5% GST, personal expenses, insurance, fines or servicing costs, activities additional to what has been planned for, extra costs arising from delays or breakdowns, and anything not specifically included as per customized final plan.
