North East India itinerary: your quick‑start travel plan

Thinking about exploring India’s hidden corner? The North East offers misty hills, vibrant cultures, and wildlife you won’t find anywhere else. You don’t need weeks of research – just follow this simple guide and hit the road with confidence.

How to build a solid itinerary

First, decide how many days you have. Most travelers manage a 10‑12 day loop that covers the main states without feeling rushed. Fly into Guwahati – it’s the hub with the best flight connections. From there, rent a car or hire a driver; the roads are improving and a driver knows the local shortcuts.

Next, map out your route clockwise: Guwahati → Shillong → Kaziranga → Imphal → Kohima → Tawang → Ziro → back to Guwahati. This order minimizes back‑tracking and lets you experience different landscapes each day. Keep travel time under four hours between stops; longer drives can be tiring on narrow mountain roads.

Budget matters, so set a daily cap. A mid‑range traveler can manage with INR 4,000–5,000 per day covering meals, guesthouse stays, and local transport. Stick to local dhabas for food – the momos in Shillong and the bamboo shoot dishes in Tawang are worth every bite.

Top spots you can’t miss

Guwahati – Start with a sunrise at Kamakhya Temple and a stroll along the Brahmaputra. The city’s markets give you a taste of Assamese silk and tea.

Shillong – Known as the “Scotland of the East,” its waterfalls (Elephant, Ward’s) and the lively Police Bazar make for a relaxed day. Don’t skip the local strawberry cake.

Kaziranga National Park – Spend a night in a jungle resort and join an early‑morning jeep safari. Spot a one‑horned rhinoceros and enjoy the chirping of over 300 bird species.

Imphal – The Kangla Fort and the bustling Makho Bazaar showcase Manipur’s history and craft scene. Try the fiery Eromba dish for a true flavor punch.

Kohima – Visit the WWII cemetery and hike to the Dzüko Valley for wild roses and panoramic views. The night market offers cool handmade jewelry.

Tawang – A bit of a drive but worth it. The massive Tawang Monastery sits at 10,000 ft, offering serene prayer halls and stunning mountain scenery.

Ziro – End your loop with this peaceful valley. The Ziro Festival (if you’re there in September) adds music to the misty hills, and the rice fields look like a green carpet.

When you return to Guwahati, take a river cruise on the Brahmaputra for a relaxed goodbye. It’s a perfect way to reflect on the journey and snap a few last photos.

Quick tips before you go: pack waterproof jackets, power banks, and a good pair of trekking shoes. Mobile data works in most towns, but carry a local SIM just in case. Respect local customs – many villages have dress codes and require permission for photography.

Follow this outline, adjust days to match your pace, and you’ll experience the North East’s magic without the stress of endless planning. Happy travels!