Day 1: GUWAHATI – TEZPUR (170 kms)

Pick up from Guwahati airport and drive to Tezpur. En-route we will see places like Kolia Bhomora Setu, Padum Pukhuri, Bamuni Hills. Arrive and check into hotel. We can visit Agnigarh, Ganesh Ghat and Ganesh temple, also visit – Debisingh Ghat at Brahmaputra river shore and rural Assamese village.

Day 2: TEZPUR – ITANAGAR ZIRO (260 kms)

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.After breakfast proceeds a short trip covering places like, Haleswar Temple, Ketakeshwar Dewalay, Da Parbatia, Agnigarh, Mahabhairab Temple, and Bhairabi Mandir. Drive to Ziro via Itanangar. En-route visit – Naag Shankar Temple, a specific interest of this Shiva temple is preservation of rare species of turtles in its adjacent pond and Monabari Tea Garden (Asia’s largest and globally second largest tea estate). Arrive Ziro by late afternoon and check into hotel. Rest of the time at leisure. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: ZIRO

After breakfast, explore Ziro Valley including Apatani tribal villages, Hong, Hari, Hija, Duta, Bula, Tajang, Bamin Michi and Mudang Tage are eight distinctive Apatani villages situated at Ziro valley. There are more than 5,000 people living in 700 houses at Hong village, the largest village among all. In every village, there are some male community halls called ‘Lapang’. Apatani people are famous for tattoo on their forehead and nose plug. Basically, Apatani people are animist who worship all natural gods. Donyi-Polo, i.e. the Sun and the Moon is their supreme God. Apatani people are known for paddy cum pisci culture. They celebrate Myoko festival in the month of March for the welfare of their community and Dree festival in July for bountiful harvest, community well being and to keep away the pest.).

Also visit – Natural Shiva Lingam (one of the largest Shiva linga with a height measuring 25 feet and 22 feet in circumference), District Museum, Craft Center and Regional High Altitude Fish Seed Farm. Overnight at Ziro.

Day 4: ZIRO – NAMERI NATIONAL PARK (265 kms 6-7hrs)

After breakfast drive 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 5: 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 6: 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 7: 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 8: 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 9: TAWANG – BOMDILA

After breakfast leave for Bomdila, via LHOU VILLAGE, this is an ancient Monpa village. The origin of village dates back to 16th century or earlier, Buddhist legend speaks of the Monpa tribe as migrant of plains to Tawang while Monpa tradition narrates them to be the migrants from Sikkim to Phari. Based on agricultural economy and some on Bredding of Yak.

ROCK PAINTINGS       Rock paintings near Jung includes  rock carvings of Lord Buddha Shakyamuni Avalokesteshura and Guru PadamSambhava.
Arrive Bomdila and check into hotel.
Situated at height of 8500 ft  Bomdila is a picturesque town in the foothills of Himalayas and the headquarter of West Kameng District the land of the Monpa, Sherdukpen, Aka (Hrusso), Miji and Bogun (Khawas) tribes. One can see the brilliant landscape and snow-clad Gorichen ranges of the Himalaya on a clear day. With its apple orchards, Buddhist gomphas and a magnificent view of the Kameng Valley Bomdila can be named as a mini paradise. Bomdila is also an ideal place for nature lovers with several trekking and hiking trails are now opened for the adventure seeker.
Later Visit Bomdila Monastery: The monastery has been built under the guidance of Dalai Lama. It is a residence of more than 200 Buddhist monks. From the monastery one can have the breathtaking view of the entire Bomdila. The time of pray is in dawn and dusk, attending which, one can have the absolute peace of mind. Also visit craft center, where very fine wooden carpets of colorful designs and Masks are produced. Bomdila also offers a Bird’s eye view of Kangto and Gorichen peaks (highest peaks in the state) amidst the Himalayan landscape and snow clad ranges. Overnight at hotel.

Day 10: BOMDILA – GUWAHATI (265 kms 6-7hrs)

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 11: 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 12: GUWAHATI DEPARTURE

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

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