WORD OF MOUTH TOURS

Cultures in transition

Unveiling the Treasures of North East India

We’re a boutique travel company specializing in immersive tours across North East India. True to our name, our primary clientele comes through word-of-mouth referrals. What sets us apart is our dedication to crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to our guests’ unique interests.

We cater to both independent travelers (FITs) and small groups, offering just a handful of tours annually. This deliberate choice allows us to provide an exceptionally personalized and attentive service to each of our valued guests.

“The journey with Word Of Mouth Tours begins with a promise – the promise of an experience that transcends the ordinary! This is not a typical travel agency; it’s a gateway to a world where culture thrives, wildlife roams, and memories are etched in the heart forever!”

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North East India: A Treasure Trove of Diversity

The seven states of North East India are a paradise for the wanderer’s soul. It’s a place where lush green landscapes, majestic mountains, pristine rivers, and vibrant cultures converge. From the living root bridges of Meghalaya to the ancient monasteries of Arunachal Pradesh, and the colourful festivals of Nagaland, this region is a tapestry of cultures, traditions, and natural beauty.

Word Of Mouth Tours takes pride in unraveling the hidden treasures of North East India, ensuring that travellers experience more than just the surface. Whether you’re an adventurer or a soul yearning for tranquility, we’ve  got it all covered. It’s about immersing yourself in the culture, engaging with the communities, and forming lasting connections with the land and its people.

Personalization: Crafting Your Dream Journey

One of our standout features is our commitment to personalization. At Word Of Mouth Tours, we understand that every traveler is unique, with their own desires, interests, and pace. This is why every journey is a meticulously crafted masterpiece, tailored to suit the preferences of each guest.

Before embarking on your adventure, the team engages in insightful conversations, ensuring that the itinerary aligns seamlessly with your dreams and expectations. This bespoke approach transforms a mere vacation into a transformative odyssey, where every moment feels tailor-made, every experience feels personal.

Culture Tours with a Touch of Wildlife

Word Of Mouth Tours specializes in culture tours, woven with the vibrant threads of North East India’s diverse tribes and communities. We create opportunities for guests to interact with the locals, experiencing their way of life, traditions, and rituals. It’s a chance to share stories, learn about ancient customs, and immerse oneself in the rich tapestry of indigenous cultures.

While culture tours form our forte, we also offer a taste of the wild. North East India is home to a rich variety of wildlife, from the elusive tiger  to the majestic elephant and the rhino . We design wildlife tours that blend seamlessly with our cultural counterparts, providing a holistic understanding of the region’s ecology and heritage.

Respectful Travel: A Shared Responsibility

Word Of Mouth Tours takes pride in its niche clientele – travellers who share a genuine interest in connecting with the local tribes and communities. However, we place immense importance on respectful travel. We  expect our guests to approach interactions with the utmost respect, understanding that cultural exchanges are delicate and should be treated as such.

Guests are encouraged to engage with the local people but to also respect their personal space and boundaries. It’s about fostering mutual understanding and respect, leaving a positive impact on the communities visited. By adhering to these principles, Word Of Mouth Tours ensures that their guests  not only experience the culture but also contribute to its preservation.

Beyond the Journey: Building Relationships

In an industry dominated by impersonal conglomerates, Word Of Mouth Tours stands as a testament to the power of the human touch. Here guests aren’t just customers – they become part of an extended family. The warmth, care, and personalization offered extend beyond the duration of the journey. It’s about building lasting relationships and memories that defy the constraints of time and distance.

Repeat clients and word-of-mouth referrals are common testimonials to the agency’s commitment to excellence. Travellers return, not just for another vacation, but to continue their journey with friends they’ve made along the way. Word Of Mouth Tours doesn’t just create travel itineraries, they craft lifelong connections.

Conclusion: Whispered Tales of North East India

As Word Of Mouth Tours continues to write its unique story, it redefines the essence of travel. It’s an invitation to explore, connect, and embrace the beauty of the world in an authentic, meaningful way. With North East India as our canvas and personalization as the brushstroke, we paint a picture of travel that goes beyond the ordinary. Each whispered tale from our journey is a testament to the agency’s unwavering dedication to creating unforgettable memories and connections that last a lifetime.

Sample Itineraries

They serve as suggestions or outlines to help you plan your activities and make the most of your available time.

Bridging Cultures and Nature
A 14 day Assam, Meghalaya, and Nagaland Adventure
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Tribal Treasure
An Unforgettable 9-Day Adventure in Northeast India
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Two Tribes, Two Festivals
An Enriching 16-Day Expedition
Read More
Wildlife Wonders of Assam
A 9 day Trip Through the Mysterious Wilderness of Assam
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Phone: +91 70028 70189

A Few Testimonials

My wife, Louella, and I had the pleasure of travelling in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh with Rajan Dowerah in 1995. In those days we were often the first tourists to be visiting some of the remoter areas of NE India and Rajan was a superb guide, who overcame all difficulties and made sure everything ran smoothly.

Now he has his own company, Word-Of-Mouth Tours which undertakes bespoke tours and will, I know, maintain the highest standards. We wish him every success.
Robin Hanbury-Tenison OBE, DL, Dsc, Dhc, MA, FLS, FRGS
It is a great pleasure for me to recommend Rajan Dowerah and his tour company, Word of Mouth Tours. I first met Rajan in the early 2000s when I was part of a research project in Arunachal Pradesh. He became my guide, and very soon a good friend.

Our research visits all over Arunachal and then later in Assam mean that I have had plenty of opportunity to witness him in action and to appreciate his many skills.

His knowledge of the terrain, of its wonderfully varied human life, makes him an ideal guide and companion. His English (and his interest in its literature) is excellent, and his knowledge of his mother-tongue Assamese and Hindi make him an invaluable asset when far off the beaten track.

He is used to dealing authoritatively with drivers, local guides and interpreters and diplomatically with government officials – and all the other unexpected human characters that one encounters while travelling in remote areas.

He has taken me to within a short distance of the India-Tibet frontier, he has organised camping equipment at 10,000 feet – and he has shown me a rare gibbon swinging above me in the tree canopy, none of which I could have done on my own.

Finally, he is an engaged and interesting travelling companion.
T. Richard Blurton British Museum (1989-2018; 2013-2018 Head, South and Southeast Asia Section, Department of Asia)
Rajan Dowerah has all the qualities of a superb guide. He posses great integrity and honesty. He has profound knowledge, gained over many years, of the places and people he guides people through.He is deeply steeped in their culture and customs. Rajan has a refined sense of what his clients want to experience and works hard to maximize that experience.Adventure is always an important theme with him, as long as it can be accomplished safely. He is known and admired as a guide throughout the areas he serves. Word of Mouth Tours , Rajan's business title, is so appropriately named because deeply satisfied clients refer his company to others. He needs no other advertising As a photographer Rajan was my guide on solo journeys in very remote, colorful, even exotic parts of India.Through him I was able to interrelate with the people on a very close level. I have had a number of guides in my years of photography in other remote areas of the world but none come close to the extraordinary qualities of Rajan Dowerah.
Frank FrancisFine Art Photography Nevada City, California, USA.
I would never think of travelling to India without Rajan. He is always calm, always kind and is a bottomless well of knowledge. You won’t find a smarter or more resourceful travelling companion - which is perfect when you arriving driving in a 70 year old car…
Alex BescobyGrammar Productions, UK
I first met Rajan Dowerah over 20 years ago in Guwahati. My wife and I were planning to visit Kaziranga National Park and he helped us find transport and lodging. Rajan suggested and arranged excursions in the park, which made the experience truly special. We asked him to be our guide for the rest of our travels in Assam. Our interest was in the handicrafts of Assam’s diverse ethnic groups. We visited a number of villages and under Rajan’s guidance learned a great deal about their customs and ways of life. It was a remarkable experience. So much so that we visited Assam and Arunachal Pradesh again several years later. And asked Rajan to arrange our tour and be our guide. Rajan is a competent and congenial guide and companion. I highly recommend his agency, “Word of Mouth Tours” if one is planing a trip to Assam and the surrounding states.
Ken DillonTokyo
初めてアッサムを訪れたのは20年以上前になります。Rajan Dowerahさんにカジランガ国立公園や山岳民族の村々を案内していただき、この地域の自然と文化を知ることができました。また、アルナチャール・プラデシュ州への旅も指南くださいました。Rajanさんは地域の文化への豊富な知識をお持ちで、優しく気さくなお人柄で、今でも交流をしております。インドアッサムとその周辺への旅は、Rajanさんが主宰するWord of Mouth Toursさんをお勧めします。 松島さくら子 東京
Sakurako MatsushimaLacquer Artist, Tokyo
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Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit North East India is during the months of October to April. During this period temperatures are cooler and there isn’t much rain, making it ideal for exploring the region’s natural beauty and cultural attractions. However high-altitude places like Bomdila and Tawang can get very cold in December and January.

Yes, certain states in North East India like Arunachal Pradesh , Manipur , Mizoram and  Nagaland, require special permits for Indian Nationals . Foreign nationals wishing to visit the state of Arunachal Pradesh require  a Protected Area Permit which is valid for the specific tourist circuits  indicated on the permit .

You can reach North East India by air, train, or road. The major cities in the region, like Guwahati, Shillong, Aizawl, Dimapur, Agartala, Itanagar  and Imphal, have airports with domestic flights. Train services are also available from other parts of India. Road travel is also an option.

Pack light, breathable clothing for the warmer months and warmer clothes for the cooler months. Also, bring comfortable walking shoes, rain gear, and insect repellent.

The monsoon season in North East India is from June to September. During this time, heavy rainfall is common, so be prepared for wet conditions if you plan to visit during these months.

Road conditions can vary, but in general, major highways are well-maintained. However, the condition of roads in some remote areas may be bad, so it’s essential to plan your route and take advice from your travel agent before coming.

Yes, you can find vegetarian food in North East India, but the availability of vegetarian options may vary depending on the region. In larger cities and tourist destinations, you’ll have more choices, but in more remote areas, the options may be limited.

Malaria and dengue are concerns in some parts of North East India. It’s advisable to consult a travel clinic or your healthcare provider before your trip. Also, take precautions such as using mosquito nets, insect repellent.

Major Indian mobile service providers like Airtel, Jio, and Vi have coverage in North East India. However, signal strength can vary in remote areas, so it’s a good idea to check with your provider about network availability. In larger cities and more touristy areas many hotels and guest houses offer wi-fi access to their guests.

North East India is generally safe for tourists, but like any other destination, it’s essential to take common-sense precautions. Be mindful of your belongings, follow local customs and regulations, and stay informed about any local issues or conflicts. Always check for travel advisories before your trip and consider hiring local guides for a more secure experience, especially in remote areas.

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Two-Week Itinerary for Assam, Meghalaya, and Nagaland

Day 1: Fly to Guwahati Upon arrival at Guwahati Airport, drive to the city and check in at your hotel. Visit the Nabagraha Temple, dedicated to the nine planets. In the evening, embark on a Brahmaputra River sunset cruise. Afterward, explore Pan Bazaar and Fancy Bazaar. Spend the night in Guwahati.

Day 2: Guwahati to Cherapunjee (4-5 hours of driving) In the morning, visit the Kamakhya Temple and then proceed to Cherapunjee in Meghalaya. Along the way, stop at Umiam Lake, Mawkdok Gorge, and Nohkalikai Falls.

Day 3: Cherapunjee to Shillong (2 hours) Start your day with a trek from Tyrna village to Nongriat village to see the Umshiang Double Decker Living Root Bridge*. This trek involves descending 2500 steps (approximately 1.5 hours), spending time at the bridge, and then ascending the steps (about 2 hours). Alternatively, you can choose to walk to Ummunoi Living Root Bridge from Laitkynsew village (total trekking time: 2.5 hours) or visit the Umkar Living Root Bridge (20-minute walk). Explore Nohsngithiang Waterfalls and the Mawsmai or Arwah Cave before driving to Shillong. 

* Living Root Bridges are suspension bridges made by Khasi War tribe of Meghalaya  by inter-twining the aerial roots of the Ficus Elastica tree  and then allowing them to grow and strengthen over time.

Day 4: Shillong Visit Smit, the home of the Khasi queen, located around 15 km from Shillong. Later, drive to Nartiang in the Jaintia Hills to see the tallest  Megaliths in Meghalaya erected by the Jaintia kings . Return to Shillong to witness archery at Polo Grounds. In the evening, explore Police Bazaar.

Day 5: Drive from Shillong to Kaziranga (6 hours of driving) Check out of your hotel after breakfast and drive to Kaziranga**. Upon arrival, enjoy a jeep safari in the Western Range of the national park .

**  Kaziranga National park hosts  two thirds of the world population of the Greater one horned rhinoceros  the largest  mammal in India after the elephant . It also has the highest density of tigers in India .

Day 6: Kaziranga Start your day with an elephant ride in the national park, followed by an afternoon jeep safari in the Central Range.

Day 7: Kaziranga to Kohima (Nagaland) (5-6 hours of  driving) Drive to Kohima***, Nagaland.  

***Kohima gained international prominence when it became the battleground for a significant event during World War II in 1944. The Japanese invasion of Kohima and their subsequent defeat by the Allied forces marked a pivotal moment in the history of World War II, often regarded as a turning point in the conflict.

Day 8: Kohima In the morning, explore Kohima Bazaar and the WW2 Cemetery. Then, drive to Khonoma village (Angami tribe), which is an hour away from Kohima. Visit the village, have a Naga lunch at a homestay, and return to spend the night in Kohima.

Day 9: Kohima to Golaghat or Jorhat (5-6 hours of driving) Drive to Golaghat or Jorhat.

Day 10: Golaghat/Jorhat to Majuli Island Check out of your hotel before noon and proceed to Nimati Ghat to catch the last ferry to Majuli Island **** (one hour ferry ride).

****Majuli Island, situated in the Brahmaputra River, is the largest river island in Asia. It is a predominantly rural area and serves as the cultural heart of Assam. Majuli boasts a number of Neo-Vaishnavite monasteries, established in the 17th century, where devotees worship Lord Vishnu. Interestingly, approximately 60% of the island’s population belongs to the Mishing tribe, who migrated from the hills of Arunachal Pradesh approximately 500 years ago. 

Day 11: Majuli Visit Uttar Kamalabari Satra ( Vaishnavite Monastery) in the morning, followed by a visit to Natun Samoguri Satra, known for making masks used in Hindu mythological plays. Explore Salmora, an Assamese potter’s village with a unique pottery-making method ( not practiced in other parts of India anymore )  Finish your day with a visit to Auniati Satra, the largest monastery in Assam, which also houses a museum.

Day 12: Majuli to Mon (1-hour ferry ride and 5-6 hours of driving) Take an early morning ferry back to the mainland and then drive to Mon in Nagaland, home of the Konyak nagas*****.

*****The Konyak Nagas are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship in creating brass objects and wood carvings. They have a rich tradition of producing intricate and artistic works in these mediums. Additionally, the Konyak Nagas have a historical reputation for their bravery and warrior-like qualities. While the practice of headhunting is a thing of the past, remnants of this cultural history can still be observed among them. Many of the older generation men have distinctive tattoos that tell stories of their past and the warrior feats they achieved in the bygone era. These tattoos serve as enduring symbols of their cultural heritage and experiences.

Day 13: Mon Drive to Longwa village, located on the Indo-Myanmar border, where the Chief’s house straddles both countries. Visit artisans known for making  brass objects and wood carvings. Afterward, drive to Hongphoi village to meet the elderly  Angh (Chief) and his friends (who were former warriors)  at the Chief’s house. Return to Mon for the night.

Day 14: Mon to Dibrugarh Airport (fly) (4 hours and 30 minutes of driving) Your tour ends with a drive to Dibrugarh Airport for your departure flight.

Itinerary (9 days)

Day 1: Arrive at Dibrugarh Airport in Assam, and embark on a scenic 4-hour drive to Khonsa town in Tirap district, Arunachal Pradesh. Spend the night at a cozy guest house in Khonsa.

Day 2: Khonsa Exploration Start your day by visiting Kheitei, a charming village of the Nocte tribe. Then, continue your journey to Laju village, home to the Olo tribe, formerly known as Laju Nocte. The Olo people reside in traditional bamboo houses on stilts. Interact with the people of the village with the help of your guide and marvel  at the exquisite facial tattoos of middle-aged women and the closely cropped hair of the older women, a tradition from their headhunting past. Return to Khonsa for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Khonsa to Longding Early morning departure from Khonsa takes you to the enchanting traditional village of Wakka, inhabited by the Wancho tribe. Explore the Chief’s house, adorned with beautiful wooden carvings, and interact with the friendly villagers. Next, visit Ninnu Wancho village  and proceed to Longding, where you’ll spend the night in a guest house.

Day 4: Longding to Mon (Nagaland) Embark on a 4-hour drive from Longding to Mon in Nagaland. Nagaland is home to over fifteen  tribes, collectively known as the Nagas. The Mon area is particularly known for the Konyak tribe, once known  for their headhunting practices. You’ll meet  elderly Konyak men with intricate facial and chest tattoos.

Day 5: Explore Longwa village, situated on the Indo-Myanmar border, with the Chief’s house straddling both countries. The Konyaks are excellent woodcarvers, and they also create brass objects using the lost wax process, which you will have the opportunity to see in Longwa. Next, visit Hongphoi village, where you’ll meet former Konyak Naga warriors  in the Chief’s house (known as Angh in Konyak). Return to Mon town for an overnight stay.

Day 6 : Mon to Dibrugarh : After breakfast, check out of the hotel and begin a 4-hour drive to Dibrugarh town in Assam, located alongside the Brahmaputra River. In the evening, explore the local bazaar and visit the riverbank. Overnight in a hotel in Dibruagarh

Day 7: Dibrugarh to Ziro Today, you’ll cross the impressive 6.7 km-long Bogibeel Bridge over the Brahmaputra River, which is India’s longest rail-cum-road bridge. Then, you’ll drive to Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh. The total driving time will be approximately 7 hours.

Day 8: Ziro Exploration:. The Ziro plateau is the homeland of the Apatani tribe, known for their non-nomadic lifestyle and permanent wetland cultivation, where rice and fish are grown together in the same fields.. The Apatanis inhabit seven villages scattered across the Ziro Valley, with paddy fields running through the middle. Older  men and women have tattoos on their faces, and  older Apatani women wear nose plugs, a tradition that dates back to pre-modern times.”

 Explore Apatani villages, visit the district ethnographic museum, and explore the fascinating local bazaar. After lunch, drive to a Nishi tribe village located 20 km away from Ziro, and then return to Ziro for the night

Day 9: Ziro to Hollongi Airport  drive from Ziro to Hollongi Airport, near Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, to catch your flight. Your memorable tour comes to an end. ( driving hours : 3 hours and 30 minutes )

“Two Tribes, Two Festivals: An Enriching 16-Day Expedition”

Day 1 (20th March): Dibrugarh Arrival Fly into Dibrugarh, Assam, nestled on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. Upon arrival, you will be met by our representative  and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, explore the local market and take a leisurely stroll along the riverside.

Day 2 (21st March): Dibrugarh to Ziro via Bogibeel Bridge After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Dibrugarh. Cross the remarkable 6.7 km-long Bogibeel Bridge, India’s longest rail-cum-road bridge, and continue your journey to Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh, an approximately 8-hour drive.

Day 3 (22nd March): Ziro – Myoko Festival Today, you’ll immerse yourself in the Myoko Festival, celebrated by the Apatani tribe on the Ziro plateau.  You will see  the older Apatani women adorned with facial tattoos and nose plugs, a tradition dating back to pre-modern times.

Myoko is the grandest festival of the Apatani people, symbolizing friendship and harmony among villages. It involves animal sacrifices to appease spirits and ensure a prosperous harvest. Before the festival, decorative 15-meter-tall Babos (representing fertility) are raised, and Nago huts near community platforms (Lapang) are refurbished. The festival lasts a month, with Tabar Liidu ,the cane leaf procession on 22nd March, and Yuging Todu ,pig sacrifice by the Nyibu ( Shamans)  on 23rd March  being the most significant days.

Day 4 (23rd March): Ziro – Myoko Festival Explore the village or group of villages hosting the Myoko Festival today.

Day 5 (24th March): Ziro to Nameri National Park Embark on a 7 to 8-hour drive to Nameri National Park, spanning 200 square kilometers along the Bhoreli River. This park boasts over 350 bird species, including the endangered White-winged Wood Duck, as well as tigers, elephants, and Indian bison. Its lush landscapes range from moist deciduous forests to semi-evergreen forests with open riverine grasslands.

Day 6 (25th March): Nameri to Dirang In the morning, accompanied by a naturalist, take a boat ride to cross the Bhoreli River for a nature walk in Nameri National Park, where you’ll attempt to spot the highly endangered White-winged Wood Duck and various bird species. Afterward, return to camp for breakfast and proceed to Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh.

Day 7 (26th March): Dirang to Tawang via Sela Pass Embark on a 6 -hour journey to Tawang, crossing the majestic Sela Pass at 13,700 feet. En route, marvel at the beautiful Nuranang Falls, also known as Jang Falls.

Day 8 (27th March): Tawang – Monastery and Heritage Discover Tawang’s cultural treasures, including the 17th-century Gaden Namyal Lhatse Monastery, one of India’s largest Buddhist monasteries, founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso during the rule of the Fifth Dalai Lama in Tibet. Explore the serene Dukhang, the central prayer hall, housing the impressive Buddha statue and other sculptures , intricate wall hangings, and captivating murals. You may offer incense and a traditional Khata scarf as a sign of reverence.

Visit the Bramadung Chung Nunnery, believed to be the oldest in Tawang, and Urgyiling Gompa, the birthplace of the Sixth Dalai Lama.

Day 9 (28th March): Tawang – Local Attractions Visit Shernup, a traditional village of the Tawang Monpas, and venture to the Tawang Chu River to witness Chaksam, the 15th-century iron chain bridge constructed by Tibetan bridge builder Thangtong Gyalpo. Return to Tawang and explore the Khinmey Monastery of the Nyingmapa sect.

Day 10 (29th March): Tawang to Bomdilla After breakfast, embark on an 8 hour drive to Bomdilla. En route, visit Dirang Monastery and Dirang Dzong. Upon reaching Bomdilla, if time permits, explore the local bazaar.

Day 11 (30th March): Bomdilla to Kaziranga Drive to Kaziranga, a 6 to 7-hour journey. If time permits , visit the entrance of the central range of the park in the evening to witness domestic forest department elephants bathing in the river.

Day 12 (31st March): Kaziranga – Wildlife Wonderland Kaziranga National Park, situated along the mighty Brahmaputra River, covers an expanse of 430 square kilometers and is home to over two-thirds of the world’s Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros population (more than 2500) and has India’s highest density of tigers. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985, it is a premier wildlife destination.

 Enjoy an early morning elephant ride in the central range, followed by an afternoon jeep safari in the Western range.

Day 13 (1st April): Kaziranga to Mon, Nagaland After breakfast, embark on a 7 to 8-hour drive to Mon, home of the Konyak Nagas. These once-feared warriors still bear ancient customs, including tattooed faces and chests, and elaborate head dresses. Their wooden and bamboo houses, thatched roofs, and displayed animal skulls reflect their traditions.

Day 14 (2nd April): Mon – Aoleang Festival Witness the Aoleang Festival, the spring celebration of the Konyak tribe from Mon District in Northern Nagaland. Spanning from the 1st to the 6th of April each year, it marks the Konyak New Year and celebrates harmony, well-being, and bountiful harvests. The festival showcases the Konyaks’ rich cultural heritage through indigenous dances, beating of logdrums by the men folk, songs, and games. Today, explore Konyak villages and partake in the Aoleang festivities.

Day 15 (3rd April): Mon – Aoleang Festival Visit another village to continue immersing yourself in the vibrant Aoleang celebrations.

Day 16 (4th April): Mon to Dibrugarh Departure Conclude your memorable journey with a 5-hour drive from Mon to Dibrugarh Airport for your onward flight. Your extraordinary adventure ends here.

 

 

Day 1: Arrive in Guwahati. You will be met at the airport by the guide and the driver and then transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Day 2: After breakfast, drive to Manas National Park, which is a 5-hour drive from Guwahati. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Manas National Park: Located in the northeastern state of Assam, India, Manas National Park lies in the Himalayan foothill Bhabar region. Originally covering a core area of 500 square kilometers, in 2016, an additional 350 square kilometers from the eastern part of the Manas Reserve Forest was incorporated, expanding the core area to 850 square kilometers. The park was first declared a game reserve in 1928, a tiger reserve in 1973, encompassing a vast tiger reserve area of 2,837 square kilometers. Subsequently, in 1985, Manas National Park received the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site designation. Finally, in 1990, it was officially declared a national park. The park derives its name from the beautiful meandering Manas River, which flows through it. Another distinctive feature is its international boundary with the Royal Manas National Park in Bhutan. This shared border creates a transboundary conservation area, reinforcing efforts to protect and preserve the unique ecosystems on both sides. Manas is home to many rare species of animals such as the tiger, clouded leopard, elephant, pygmy hog, and the hispid hare. It boasts over 450 species of birds, with the Bengal Florican, the Great Hornbill, the Black-breasted parrotbill, and the greater adjutant stork being among the rare ones.

Day 3: Enjoy a full-day jeep safari in the Bansbari range from 7 am to 4 pm, with a one-hour lunch break.

Day 4: Drive to Nameri National Park (8 hours).

Day 5: Start the day with an early morning nature walk and a bird-watching trip into the dense jungle of Nameri National Park with the forest guards. Later in the day, enjoy river rafting on the Jia Bhoreli River. In the evening, drive to Kaziranga National Park.

Nameri National Park: Located in the Sonitpur district of Assam, India, covers an area of 200 square kilometers. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1985, it was declared a national park in 1998. The northern boundary of Nameri National Park is contiguous with the Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh (AP). This unique geographical connection fosters transboundary conservation efforts, benefiting the wildlife and ecosystems of both regions. Adding to the park’s natural beauty is the meandering Jia Bhoroli River, which sustains the diverse flora and fauna that call this sanctuary home. Within the park, a sanctuary is provided for a variety of mammals, including the elephant, tiger, gaur, and the sambar. Moreover, Nameri is renowned as a premier birding destination in India, boasting an impressive array of avian species, with over 350 documented. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the sole park in Assam where birdwatchers can catch a glimpse of the elusive white-winged wood duck, a cherished resident species of Assam.

Day 6: In Kaziranga, enjoy an elephant ride in the morning followed by a jeep safari in the central range of the park. In the afternoon, embark on a jeep safari in the Western range of the park.

Kaziranga National Park: Considered to be the jewel among wildlife parks in India, is a biodiversity hotspot and boasts the greatest success story in the history of conservation in India. The park has the world’s largest population of the Indian rhinoceros, the Eastern Swamp deer, and water buffalo and has the highest concentration of the Royal Bengal tiger in India. Located in the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, the landscape of Kaziranga consists mainly of lush alluvial grasslands punctuated with oxbow lakes and interspersed with patches of deciduous to semi-evergreen woodlands. First established as a reserve forest in 1908, Kaziranga became a wildlife sanctuary in 1950, and was declared a National Park in 1974. It earned recognition as a UNESCO Natural World Heritage site in 1985.

Day 7: Travel from Kaziranga to Jorhat. Begin the day with a jeep safari in the Eastern range of Kaziranga National Park. Return to the hotel and, after lunch, drive to Jorhat for an overnight stay (a 2-hour drive).

Day 8: Visit Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary early in the morning (a 40-minute drive). Spend around 2 hours in the forest, then return to the hotel. After an early lunch, depart for Jorhat Airport to catch your flight.

Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary: Located in the district of Jorhat in Assam and covering an area of 20.9 square km, this sanctuary was established in 1997. This small sanctuary is home to seven species of primates, including the Hoolock Gibbon (the only ape found in India), the stump-tailed macaque, the pig-tailed macaque, the Assamese macaque, the rhesus macaque, the capped langur, and the Bengal slow loris. The vegetation consists mainly of evergreen forests, and it gets its name from the dominant Hollong tree (Dipterocarpus Macrocarpus). In addition to primates, the sanctuary is also inhabited by elephants, leopards, jungle cats, wild boars, three types of civets, and four types of squirrels.