Day 1: JORHAT – MAJULI (47 kms + ½ by boat)

Arrive Jorhat airport, transfer to Majuli. Arrive and check into hotel/Bamboo hut.
Majuli Island: Majuli, the largest river island in the world, is being short listed for future status of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. The formation of this river island dates back to 1691 AD, when a great flood swept Assam and created a new island in the midst of river Brahmaputra. Majuli is acclaimed mainly as the main centre of vaishnavite culture and satras of Assam. Srimanta Sankardeva, the Vaishnava saint and religious reformer of vaishnavism and his disciple Madhavdeva took forward the vaishnavite culture at Majuli. The first satra (monastery) was established at Belguri, the western part of
Majuli.

The satras represent the preservation and propagation of socio-cultural ethics and ideals of Assam. There were about 66 satras at Majuli. At present, only 31 of them are survived. These satras are great places of visit during the Raas festivals. Majuli also appeals tourists for its various attractions like rare seasonal migratory birds, display of various collection of traditional handicrafts, pottery, various ethnic dance forms, religious and mythological-based dramas etc.

At Majuli, a rare sight of Gangetic River Dolphin in the mighty Brahmaputra River may be an experience for lifetime. Arrive at Majuli and check-in at hotel / traditionally built bamboo cottage. Later visit –

Auniati Satra: Founded by Niranjan Pathakdeva, the main attraction of this vaishnavite satra are its Paal Naam Ceremony, Dashavatar dance and Puppet shows. The satra also offers a magnificent display of ancient collection of utensils, jewelry and handicrafts representing Assamese culture.

Uttar Kamalabari Satra: Uttar Kamalabari satra, a part of the actual Kamalabari Satra was founded by Padma Aata or Badula Aata, a disciple of Shri Shri Madhavdeva. It is a centre of Assamese art, culture and cultural studies. The satra is famous for Ankia Naat drama and Saali dance forms. It also has a branch in Guwahati. This branch has displayed Sattriya dance in many states of India and abroad.

Natun Samaguri Satra: Globally famous for traditional art of mask making culture, Natun Samaguri Satra is a newly instituted branch of Samaguri Satra, originally established by Chakrapani Ata, an illustrious disciple of vaishnavite saints Srimanta Shankardeva and Shri Shri Madhavdeva. Experts of this monastery make masks for the performers of religious plays and also for decorative purpose. Masks crafted in this monastery are exported on demand made by the tourists from time to time.

Mishing Tribal Village: The Mishings are the largest ethnic tribal group in India. Earlier called Miris in the historical days, this group belongs to greater Tani people community, which comprises other Tani tribes such as Adi, Apatani, Nyishi, Padam, Minyong etc. in India and in Tibet Autonomous Region in China. The cultural, linguistic and ritual aspects of all Tani tribes are quite similar. The Mishings specifically belong to a Southeast Asian sub-race of the Mongoloid race. There are no written records about the migration of Mishings from hills to the plains of Assam. Historical and folklore sources regard that the Mishings were the Adis who migrated to Assam. Legend narrates of the Mishings coming in contact with the more civilized communities residing in the plains of Assam during early 16th century.

The Mishings originally believed the Donyi-Polo religion, but later on a majority of them converted to Hinduism and a minimal group took to Christianity. Ali-Aye-Ligang is the major festival of this tribe celebrated during the month of February. They also observe other festivals such as Pohrag and Dobur. Mishing culture exhibits traditional craft of weaving colourful cotton cloths. Mishing women weave cotton jackets, light cotton towels, endi shawls, thick loin cloths and shirting. Mishing women weave ‘ege’, ‘rihbi’, ‘gaseng’, ‘gero’, ‘seleng gasor’, ‘riya’, ‘segreg’ and ‘potub’. All these are beautiful cloth sheets with broad & narrow stripes of bright contrastive colours worn by Mishing women. They also weave ‘niseg’ so that mothers can carry their babies in their back.

If time permits, visit – Pottery culture: Pottery is an ancient culture of Majuli. It is one of the traditional forms of cottage industry in Assam. At present, more than 4000 people at Majuli live on pottery culture for their livelihood. The potters at Majuli practice a peculiar technique in which they beat the clay by hand to make the utensils. Visit Kumhar Gaon to have a glimpse in the rural lives of the potters at Majuli working without the wheels which indicate a historic origin of this culture.

Later, enjoy a magnificent Sunset view in the Brahmaputra River from Ferry Point. Overnight: Stay in hotel / bamboo cottage.

Day 2: MAJULI – NAMERI NATIONAL PARK (216 kms 5hrs)

After breakfast check out and proceed to Nameri National Park.
Nameri National Park: The Nameri National Park (200 sq kms area) is located in the Sonitpur district, bordering Arunachal Pradesh and it is also the core area of Nameri Tiger Reserve (344sq kms).
It is the home of mammals like Elephant, Tiger, leopard, Sambar, Barking deer, Hog Deer, Wild Boar, Gaur, slow loris, Burmese ferret badger, and over 350 species of birds including White-winged Wood Duck, Ibis bill (uncommon), Ruddy Kingfisher, Palla’s fishing eagle, Lesser Adjutant stork, Greater spotted eagle, Rufous necked hornbill, Great pied Indian hornbill, Wreathed hornbill, Long-billed Ringed Plover, Sultan Tit, and Yellow-bellied and White-throated Fantails. Another important wild life sanctuary of Arunachal Pradesh the Pakhui (Pakke) adjoins the park on its North-Eastern point. The river Jia- Bhoroli and its tributaries namely the Diji, Dinai, Doigurung, Nameri, Dikorai, and Kharietc crisscross the park. During rainy season A few lakes (during the rainy seasons) also dot the area. Arrive and check in at hotel/guest house/Eco Camp. Rest of the time to explore the nature on your own.

Day 3: NAMERI

After breakfast enjoy a nature walk around the forest accompanied with the experienced naturalist. The park is the most scenic national park of Assam and the river Jia Bhoroli bifurcating throughout. During the forest trekking there will be opportunity to sight view some of the most endangered wildlife species like white winged wood duck, Sloth Bear, Tiger Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Sambar, Gaur, Indian Wild Dog, four varieties of Hornbill and many other species of avifauna. We can also see herds of elephants, due to high density of Elephant population in this region.

Later in the day return to the resort/camp for Lunch. After lunch it’s time for leisure activity around the resort or one can opt for Angling in River Jia Bhoroli. The river is home to the Golden Mahseer or the tiger of the Jia Bhoroli. Angling is very popular in Jia Bhoroli though and an annual competition is regularly held at Jia Bhoroli in the month of November every year in collaboration with the forest department of Assam.

Day 4: NAMERI – BHALUKPONG – DIRANG (170 kms – 6-7hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Dirang. A sub-divisional head quarter of West Kameng district, Dirang is situated at an altitude of 4910 feet above sea level and the habitat of the Tribal Mahayana Monpas. The soothing weather of Dirang with a pleasant wind blowing across the valley makes it a perfect hill station. It also serves as a site for adventure sports like trekking, nature walk, bird watching, sightseeing etc. Later spend some time at the Yak breeding farm at Dirang Valley and Apple Orchard. Overnight at hotel.

Day 5: DIRANG – TAWANG (140kms, 6hrs drive)

After breakfast at 8.00 am, check out from hotel and proceed for a trip around Dirang. We will visit Thupsung Dhargye Ling monastery: This is the newest monastery in the area and a learning center where even foreigners can come and learn. They want the local people to learn and pray, so that it’s not always the monks doing the praying. Sangti Valley: Surrounded by the ranges of Eastern Himalayas, the valley is blessed with pleasant weather round the year with some light snowfall in the winter months. The valley is covered with fruit orchards (kiwi fruit, apple, apricot, orange), dotted with pristine forests and meandering fast hill rivers and home to a very interesting culture and tradition. Black-necked cranes migrate to this valley from China during the months of November and December and after the winter months are over, they fly back to their homes during April and May. These birds are referred to as tung tung ka uk by the people of Sangti Valley. Hot Water Spring: designated to possess some special healing properties, which makes it special even to the locals. They mainly visit these springs for holy baths, as it is locally believed that a dip in these springs cleanses all sins and skin diseases.
Later, drive to Tawang, via Nyukmadung War Memorial: overlooking the famous battle ground of 18 Nov 1962. It nestles in a three tired terraced landscape with beautiful coniferous trees planted around. The main memorial is in the form of a 25 feet high ‘Chorten’ conforming to the local ethos and traditions. The memorial is staffed by JCO’s, who are more than willing to narrate detailed account of the battle. A visit to this memorial invariably turns in such a solemn occasion that every visitor leaves the place with a sad and heavy heart. Sela Pass and Sela Lake: the narrow pass stands at an altitude of 13,714 feet featuring a landscape of frozen lake, enchanting tiny flowers of different shades, is the entrances of Tawang valley. Jaswant Garh: The memorial place built in honor of Mahaveer Chakra awardee (posthumously), Jaswant Singh Rawat. It speaks of the indisputable spirit of this patriot who fought continuously for 72 hours (along with 2 other soldiers) killing 300 Chinese soldiers during 1962 Indo-China War. Nuranang Waterfall: Take a glimpse at the spectacular natural beauty of Nuranang waterfall, locally known as Phong Phongma waterfall. Arrive at Tawang and check-in hotel.

Tawang: The majestic homeland of the Monpas, shares international borders with Tibet and Bhutan Standing at an altitude of about 10,000 feet, it showcases a scenic view of snow- capped mountain ranges, silent and typical tribal villages, uneven hills, enchanting streams and waterfalls and quiet lakes. Tawang is the abode of the Mahayana Buddhist sect replete with magnificent Buddhist monasteries. Moreover, it is also an adventure’s delight as it offers ample scope for exciting trekking and mountaineering experiences.  Evening at leisure. Overnight stay in hotel.

Day 6: TAWANG LOCAL SIGHTSEEING + BUMLA PASS EXCURSION

After breakfast at 7.30 am, proceed in a local car for an excursion to Bumla Pass. Situated at an altitude of 16,500 feet, the pass displays the monuments of the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the sake of the nation during 1962 Indo-China War. At present, the pass is a military border post for both Indian and Chinese army. Visit Sangetsar Lake: one of the many shinning silver lakes of Tawang. It is surrounded by trees and is also known as Madhuri Lake. The lake was formed during the disastrous earthquake that occurred in 1950 A.D and featured in Shahrukh Khan and Madhuri Dixit starrer Bollywood Hindi thriller movie ‘Koyla’.

Nagula Lake: At an altitude of 13500 ft, it is one of the highest altitude small and captivating lakes in Tawang. Rhododendron flowers bloom in abundance during spring season, and the scenic landscape of the lake leaves everyone spellbound. Brahminy ducks are often spotted around the lake and the changing colors of the lake water with reflection of nearby mountains in it, is a great sight to observe.

P T Tso Lake: Pangkang Teng Tso Lake looks like a painter’s masterpiece. The shimmering silver lake appears like a blue lapis ‘Lzuli’ on a bright, clear day encompassed by flowers of different hue during October. The winter months cover the lake with snow changing its color to stark white. During the day’s sightseeing, expect witnessing the stunning beauty of the valley and mountains with blooming Rhododendrons in May-June.
Later, in the afternoon, return to Tawang town and visit Tawang Monastery: Tawang is home place of the second largest monastery in the world. The Tawang Monastery is set amidst snow-capped mountains and beautiful valleys. It houses about 450 monks, their residential buildings, library, meeting hall, community kitchen and a three storied prayer hall called Dukhang. Established during 1680-1681 by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso after fulfilling the wishes of the 5th Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso, Tawang monastery is renowned to be the prominent centre of the Gelugpa sect, the socio-religious hub of Tawang for the last 400 years and also a base for Buddhist cultural studies. This magnificent monastery is a visitor’s attraction for its beautifully carved 8 meter high, gold plated Bronze idol of Lord Buddha. It treasures a large number of images, Thangkas, mural paintings, and sacred Buddhist ancient scriptures lettered in Gold.

Urgelling Monastery: The birthplace of His Holiness, the 6th Dalai Lama Urgelling Monastery was established by the Lama Urgen Sangpo. This monastery houses many ancient Buddhist relics along with the footprints and fingerprints of the Dalai Lama, kept for visitors to seek blessings. Craft Centre: Tawang is rich in unique crafts and handloom products. Variety of craftsmanship is displayed in carpet weaving (woolen carpets), wood carving, handmade papermaking, Thangka painting showcasing a Buddhist influence and sandalwood making. Giant Buddha Statue: A tall Buddha statue located near the Circuit House in Tawang town facing towards the Tawang city. The majestic statue is visible from all parts of the town. It is a serene place to relax and pray. In the late afternoon, make a visit to the Local Market at Tawang for shopping.

In the evening, visit – Tawang War Memorial: A 40 feet multi-colored war memorial built in honor of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives during 1962 Indo-China War. Locally called ‘Namgyal Chorten’, the memorial is constructed in a stupa design. It bears the names of 2420 warriors written in Gold on 32 black granite plaques.  Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 7: TAWANG (ZEMITHANG EXCURSION)

After breakfast, we will proceed to towards Zemithang. It’s a beautiful terrain (100 kms 4hrs) away from from Tawang and the extreme end of Tawang district, in the border of China and Bhutan. If lucky you may see “black-necked crane” a rare species found in this region. You may also stop at Gorchem Chorten, a stupa which is around 100 feet high and the largest stupa in this area. Return to Tawang and en-route stop at Tara Devi temple in Lum La. Overnight at hotel.

Day 8: TAWANG BOMDILLA (180 kms, 7 hrs drive)

After breakfast at 8.00 am, proceed to Bomdila, en-route visiting Lhou Village: An ancient Monpa village, the origin of which dates back to 16th century or earlier. Buddhist legend speaks of the Monpa tribe as migrants of the plains to Tawang while the Monpa tradition narrates them to be the migrants from Sikkim and Phari. The base of their economy is agriculture, mainly terrace cultivation. Breeding of Yak and mountain sheep is also practiced by some people.

Rock Paintings: The rock paintings located near Jung includes rock carvings of Lord Buddha Shakyamuni, Avalokesteshuara and Guru Padmasambhava. This spot dedicated in the name of world peace and well being of all people by the former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Late Dorjee Khandu, reflects his selfless love for his subjects and ardent devotion to Buddhism. (View from the road near Jung. Not possible for all to climb to and fro 1020 concrete steps) Later, drive further to Bomdila. Again visit at Dirang – Dirang Village (Basti): locally known as Dirang Basti is a beautiful village inhabited by Monpa tribal people. The Monpas are the supporters of the lamaistic tradition of Mahayana Buddhism. The presence of beautifully decorated Buddhist Gompas in the village reflects their religious enthusiasm. Dirang Dzong: Dirang Dzong Fort is a representation of the culture of the Monpas. It was built in 1831 A.D. served as a centre of all the administrative activities of the Monpas during those times. The fort is set atop on a hill top consisting of a four storied stone building. A wooden gate designed in local architectural pattern adds to the splendid uniqueness of the fort.  Later, arrive at Bomdila town.
Bomdila: Located at an altitude of about 8,000 feet (asi), it is the land of the Monpa, the Sherdukpen, the Aka, the Miji and the Khawa tribes. It is a great place for trekking and hiking trails and a centre of local crafts and handloom products. Snow-covered mountains, marvelous countryside, lush green forests, Apple orchards and Buddhist Gompas endows Bomdila and offers a magnificent view of Kangto and Gorichen peaks (the highest peaks in Arunachal Pradesh) amidst the Himalayan landscape and snow-capped ranges.

Upper Gompa or Bomdila Monastery: Bomdila monastery is designated to be the proud possessor of the largest and newest monastery called ‘The Gelugpa Gompa’. A reflection of Buddhist and Tibetan heritage and culture, the monastery was established during 1965-66, by the 12th reincarnate of Tsona Gontse Rimpoche. The monastery stands as a comparison to Tsona Gontse Monastery at Tsona in South Tibet Started during 15th Century. Present renovation added to this Gompa is the main prayer hall, which was dedicated to the service of God by his Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama on 13th October, 1997 AD. Lower Gompa: Located at the end of the famous Bazaar Street, the main attraction here is the marvelous Tibetan architecture and the massive prayer hall inside. Also visit the Craft Centre located opposite to it. Craft Center: Make a visit to the craft center where very fine wooden carpets of colorful designs and masks are produced. Evening at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 9: BOMDILA – KAZIRANGA

Today after breakfast proceed to Kaziranga (255kms/ 06 hrs drive), reach Kaziranga and check into hotel. Overnight stay at Kaziranga.

Day 10: KAZIRANGA (ASSAM)

Day for jungle activities. We start the day with an elephant ride (timing 5:00 am/ 06:00 am/ 7:00 am – seat allotment as per forest dept.) then return back to hotel for breakfast. Post breakfast visit orchid park, tea garden and kohora local market. Later after lunch go for afternoon jeep safari at central range (timing 02:00 pm). Evening visit orchid park to enjoy assamese traditional bihu dance. Overnight stay at kaziranga.

Day 11: KAZIRANGA – GUWAHATI (4hrs)

After breakfast, drive to Guwahati. Arrive and check into hotel. Upon arrival in Guwahati, transfer to hotel. P.M. visit Kamakhya Temple:  one of the greatest ‘Shaktipeeth’, the Shakti shrine of Goddess Kamakhya is situated on the Nilachal Hills and is the oldest center of Tantric Shaktism. The legend regarding the birth of the Kamakhya temple narrates that Lord Shiva, rage with anger at his wife Sati’s death, wandered the entire earth carrying Sati’s corpse. An organ of Sati fell here, eventually the place became a temple of worship. The temple features stone inscriptions, terracotta works, sculptures and idols of Ganesha and Chamundeswari which are worth mentioning. Also, visit the Umananda temple located on a small island with the cleanest waters. Srimantra Sankardev Kalakshetre – a cultural institution in the Panjabari area of Guwahati, named after the medieval poet- and reformer Srimanta Sankardev. It includes a cultural museum, library and various facilities for preserving, demonstrating and performing cultural items, besides a children’s park. In addition to being Northeast India’s largest cultural congregation, the artistic excellence of Assam and rest of the north-eastern region is displayed here. Other places in Guwahati..  Tirupati Balaji Temple, Nabagraha Temple, Assam State Museum.   Overnight stay at Guwahati.

Day 12: GUWAHATI (HAJO & SUALKUCHI EXCURSION)

After breakfast drive towards Sualkuchi – the silk village of Assam. Here we shall visit a household to see the processing of Silk from cocoons to finish product. All the weaving is still done on handloom. Later visit Hajo – the place popularly known as where the three religions meet namely: Hindu , Muslim and Buddhism. Here we shall visit Hygrib Madhab Temple and Puwa Mecca followed by visit to Sualkuchi Silk
or choose any of the following options
Day visit to Pobitra wildlife sanctuary (02hrs drive one way) – This is a small but nice sanctuary.  Famous for large density of one horned rhinos, multiple sighting opportunities. Wild buffalo, boar, foxes, eagles and other migratory birds can also be seen.
Or
Visit Chandubi Lake – Chandubi Lake is an earthquake-born natural lake located at the foot of the Garo Hills and surrounded by Assam and Meghalaya. A calm and peaceful lake surrounded by tea gardens, deep forests and tiny villages. The lake is free from pollution, owing to the fact that it is out of the reach of modern civilization. Place also boast of rich flora and fauna.
Evening sun-set cruise in Brahamputra River or a dinner cruise in the river. Return to hotel for night stay. Overnight at hotel.

Day 13: GUWAHATI DEPARTURE

Breakfast at hotel. Later at pre-arranged time transfer to airport to board flight to onward destination.

*******BON VOYAGE*******