Tour Highlights
Itinerary
- Arrive in Guwahati by air, where your guide will greet you at the airport. From there, embark on a scenic journey to Tezpur (Approx. 220 kms / 4 hrs), a city known for its lush green tea gardens, picturesque landscapes, and expansive paddy fields, all framed by the majestic, snow-clad Himalayas in the distance. As you travel, the serene
environment and natural beauty of Tezpur will captivate your senses. - Tezpur has a rich and fascinating history. Originally known as Haruppesvera during the reign of the Mlechchha dynasty from 650 to 900 AD, its ancient existence is evidenced by the rock inscriptions of Harjar Varma, dating back
to 829-30 AD. These inscriptions provide a glimpse into the city's early history and significance during that era. - The modern city of Tezpur was established in 1835 by the British colonial administration, becoming an important trade center and river port. The British recognized its strategic location and developed it to facilitate trade and transportation. After India's independence, Tezpur continued to flourish, maintaining its regional importance. Notably, it became the site of the first electric power station in this part of the country, marking a significant milestone in its development.
- Upon reaching Tezpur, if time permits, visit Cole Park, a beautiful and tranquil park offering lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. The park provides a perfect setting for relaxation and enjoyment of the area's natural
beauty. Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Brahmaputra River, which flows gracefully through the city. The river's serene waters and scenic views create a peaceful ambiance, allowing you to unwind and soak in the beauty
of Tezpur. - After a day filled with exploration and immersion in Tezpur's rich history and natural beauty, return to your hotel for an overnight stay. This restful night will prepare you for the next leg of your journey, with memories of Tezpur's charm and significance fresh in your mind.
Experiences:
- Visit Cole Park (subject to time permitting)
- Walk along the Brahmaputra riverfront (subject to time permitting)
Travel Information:
- Visit Cole Park (subject to time permitting)
- Walk along the Brahmaputra riverfront (subject to time permitting)
Overnight: Wild Mahseer or Similar Hotel
- Today we visit Mahabhairab Temple – an ancient temple located on a hillock. The original temple was destroyed in 1897 earthquake and the present temple was constructed in the early period of 20th century.
- Afternoon may be planned for Tea tour (subjected to operation) Assam is world-renowned for its tea, and this experience offers an opportunity to understand the legacy, cultivation, and atmosphere surrounding one of India’s most celebrated tea-growing regions.
- The rest of the day is at leisure to relax and enjoy the slower pace of Tezpur.
Experiences:
- Visit to Mahabhairab Temple
- Tea estate visit (subject to operation)
Overnight: Wild Mahseer or Similar Hotel
- After a hearty breakfast, continue your journey to Dirang (Approx. 140 kms / 4 hrs). The drive takes you through scenic landscapes and winding mountain roads, providing breathtaking views at every turn. Dirang is a picture-perfect Tibetan-Monpa stone village, with traditional stone houses and a picturesque setting. Above the charming stone houses rises a steep rocky hill topped with the Old Dirang Gompa and several stone walls.
- Upon arrival in Dirang, if time permits, visit the incredible Dirang Dzong, also known as the Dirang Fort. This 17th century citadel was built to protect Bomdila from invasions and was later used as a prison during the Vietnam War
and as a refuge during World War II. Situated atop a hill, the fort includes four-tiered armored stone slabs upheld by wooden logs, with a wooden gate adorned with beautiful and intricate designs. The architecture of the fort and the
distinct style of the houses in the tribal belt are designed to protect residents from harsh weather conditions. - Next, visit the Thupsung Dhargey Ling Monastery, a learning institute for the study of Tibetan Buddhism. The name “Thupsung Dhargey Ling” was given by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, meaning the place of flourishing of Buddha’s speech. The monastery is an important cultural and religious center for the local Monpa community. After a day of exploration, enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Dirang, reflecting on the architectural marvels and
cultural heritage you’ve experienced
Experiences:
- Visit to Dirang Dzong / Dirang Fort (subject to time permitting)
- Visit to Thupsung Dhargey Ling Monastery
Travel Information:
- Drive from Tezpur to Dirang (approx. 140 km / 4 hours)
Overnigh: Hotel Rigsel Hotel or Similar
- After breakfast, continue deeper into the mountains as you drive to Tawang (approx. 160 km / 5 hours), one of the most spiritually and scenically significant destinations in Arunachal Pradesh.
- Today’s route is among the most dramatic of the journey, winding through high-altitude Himalayan terrain, with sweeping mountain views, rugged slopes, and ever-changing landscapes that make the drive both memorable and rewarding.
- En route, cross the spectacular Sela Pass, situated at an altitude of approximately 13,400 feet above sea level. One of the highest motorable mountain passes in India, Sela Pass is known for its snow-lined surroundings, alpine lakes, and panoramic Himalayan vistas. A brief stop here offers time to take in the stark beauty and crisp mountain air before continuing onward.
- By afternoon, arrive in Tawang, a remarkable hill town nestled amidst mountain ridges, open valleys, and scattered Monpa settlements. Revered for its Buddhist heritage, monastery culture, and remote Himalayan setting, Tawang offers a deeply atmospheric introduction to the spiritual heart of the region.
- Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the evening at leisure, soaking in the tranquil mountain surroundings.
Experiences
- Cross the high-altitude Sela Pass
- Arrival into the mountain town of Tawang
Travel Information:
• Drive from Dirang to Tawang (approx. 160 km / 5 hours)
Overnight: Timilo Boutique or Similar Hotel
- Today offers a deeper look into the cultural traditions and lesser-explored heritage of the Tawang region. After breakfast, set out on an excursion to Mukto Village, a quiet settlement known for its traditional craftsmanship and rural Himalayan character.
- En route, visit the historic Chagzam Iron Bridge, an extraordinary example of early Himalayan engineering. Built by the renowned Tibetan saint, architect, and bridge-builder Tangton Gyalpo, this iron chain bridge is believed to date back to the 15th century and stands as a remarkable testament to the region’s metallurgical and architectural ingenuity. Spanning the Tawang Chu River, the bridge once served as an important link through the mountain route connecting nearby settlements.
- Continue onward to Mukto Village, one of the few places in the region where select families still preserve the traditional art of handmade paper-making. Here, witness the intricate process of crafting paper by hand using age-old methods and natural materials — a rare and meaningful cultural experience that reflects the continuity of local heritage and craftsmanship.
- Later, return to Tawang and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Experiences:
- Visit the historic Chagzam Iron Bridge
- Explore Mukto Village
- Witness the traditional handmade paper-making process
Travel Information:
• Excursion from Tawang to Mukto Village and back
Overnight: Timilo Boutique or Similar Hotel
- After breakfast, check out and begin the day with a visit to the iconic Tawang Monastery, one of the most important spiritual landmarks in the Eastern Himalayas and the second largest monastery in the world after the Potala Palace in Tibet.
- Founded in the 17th century, this revered monastery is a major centre of Mahayana Buddhism and holds immense religious and cultural significance for the region. Set against a dramatic mountain backdrop, the monastery houses an impressive collection of ancient scriptures, manuscripts, sacred objects, and traditional artworks, offering a profound glimpse into the spiritual heritage of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Continue to Urgelling Monastery, a serene and historically significant site known as the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama. Surrounded by quiet mountain scenery, this monastery adds another meaningful layer to the region’s rich Buddhist legacy.
- Later, begin your drive towards Dirang (approx. 180 km / 5 hours) with a stop in Bomdila, the headquarters of West Kameng district, located at an altitude of approximately 8,500 feet above sea level. Known for its apple orchards, monastery culture, cool climate, and panoramic Himalayan setting, Bomdila offers a peaceful glimpse into the region’s spiritual and scenic charm.
- Post the visit, continue your drive onward to Dirang, where you will check in for the night and unwind amidst the tranquil mountain surroundings.
Experiences:
- Visit to Tawang Monastery
- Visit to Urgelling Monastery
- Scenic mountain drive to Bomdila
Travel Information:
• Drive from Tawang to Bomdila (approx. 180 km / 5 hours)
Overnight: Hotel Rigsel Hotel or Similar
- After breakfast, begin your drive back to Tezpur (approx. 170 km / 4 hours), descending gradually from the Himalayan foothills into the greener lowlands of Assam.
- The journey offers a final opportunity to take in the changing landscapes of the Northeast, from mountain roads and forested slopes to open plains and tea country. Upon arrival in Tezpur, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
- This evening allows time to unwind and reflect on the cultural encounters, mountain monasteries, and remote Himalayan landscapes experienced over the past few days.
Experiences:
• Walking tour of Sighnaghi
• Ziplining experience
• Visit to Bodbe Monastery
• Vineyard-hosted lunch
Travel Information:
- Drive from Bomdila to Tezpur (approx. 170 km / 4 hours)
Overnight: Wild Mahseer hotel or similar
- After breakfast, check out and begin your drive to Guwahati (approx. 220 km / 4–5 hours), journeying once again through the varied landscapes of Assam.
- As you travel past small towns, open countryside, and riverine stretches, the route offers a final glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and everyday rhythm. Upon arrival in Guwahati, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax.
- If time permits, you may visit the revered Kamakhya Temple, one of the most important Shakti Peethas in India and among the country’s most significant spiritual landmarks. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya, the temple is deeply rooted in ancient Hindu tradition and is known for its powerful spiritual atmosphere and hilltop setting overlooking the city.
- Later in the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River, a peaceful and scenic experience that offers beautiful views of the river, the changing sky, and the city’s riverside landscape — a fitting close to your journey through the Northeast.
Experience:
- Visit to Kamakhya Temple (subject to time permitting)
- Sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River
Travel Information:
- Drive from Tezpur to Guwahati (approx. 220 km / 4–5 hours)
Overnight: Arista by Ambition hotel or similar
- After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Guwahati Airport for your onward flight.
- As your journey comes to an end, depart with memories of Arunachal Pradesh’s mountain landscapes, monastery towns, cultural traditions, and spiritual heritage — from the riverside charm of Tezpur and the stone villages of Dirang, to the sacred monasteries of Tawang, the scenic passes of the Eastern Himalayas, and the quiet beauty of Bomdila.
- This immersive journey through the Northeast of India offers a rare blend of nature, culture, spirituality, and remote Himalayan character, leaving behind a deeply memorable travel experience.
Travel Information:
- Transfer from hotel to Guwahati Airport
Accommodation
Wild Mahseer or similar
Tezpur
Hotel Rigsel or similar
Dirang
Timilo Boutique or similar
Tawang
Arista by Ambition or Similar
Guwahati
What's Included
Inclusions
The cost of accommodation for 8 Nights / 9 Days in the suggested hotels, on a double sharing basis
Please note: if required, Anecdotes reserves the right to offer similar category hotels and will advise the guests of any
change.
All transport and vehicles as required per the itinerary. Transport will be provided in Innova or Xylo Vehicles (4 persons in each vehicle). Vehicle usage will be from point to point basis as per the itinerary
Accompanying English Speaking guide services as per the itinerary
- Breakfast - On all days at the hotels
- Lunch - On all days at the hotels
- Dinner - On all the days at the hotels
- Entry Fees - The tour cost includes all entry fees, as per the itinerary, assuming all Indian Nationals
- Sunset River cruise in Brahmaputra River, Guwahati.
- Permits- Inner Line Permit charges for Arunachal Pradesh (all permits are subject to the discretion of the concerned
authorities). - Entry formalities for Indian nationals:- Indian Nationals requires Inner Line Permit for Arunachal Pradesh, and to obtain it minimum of 07 working days is required.
Documents required (any one): Aadhar Card, Driving Licence, Voter ID, Passport (Indian), 01 Passport size photo
Please note, your personal concierge will be able to assist in coordinating any medical requirements or aid, if required, during the tour
Exclusions
- Taxes of 5% will be added to the presented per-person cost
- All airfare and other travel arrangements to and from the destinations
- Meals as not mentioned in the above tour cost
- Any Optional activity
- The above proposal is applicable for Indian passport holders and foreign passport holders are available on request
- Beverages, alcohol, and non-alcoholic beverages would be at the guest's own discretion
- Any additional services utilized at the hotel or items purchased during the tour
- In the event of any unforeseen medical requirements, the expenses would be at the guest's discretion
- Personal or medical insurance
What Our Customers Say
We took our trip to India with Anecdotes, and their attention to detail and excellent service throughout our journey were truly delightful. Getting to know each city with such talented guides was an outstanding experience, and the transportation was always planned with great care, allowing us to travel smoothly throughout. Special thanks to Subodh for making this a perfect trip with my mom and for always being one step ahead, thoughtfully arranging everything for us. Namaste, and we hope to return to this beautiful India someday!
Ximena & Enecoiz
We are very appreciative of the services provided by Anecdotes; you were the best choice for Mongolia. The entire experience was thoughtfully organised and ran seamlessly. Many people have since asked who planned our trip, and we have happily recommended Anecdotes to them.
Priya Sen
What a fabulous trip Anecdotes planned for us to Spain to celebrate our Golden Anniversary! Special thanks to the team and Apoorva from Anecdotes, who was our senior curator. He was so responsive to our queries and made sure that all went well - from suggesting suitable hotels, getting our internal air and train tickets, arranging our sightseeing, and our airport pickups and drops- everything was perfect. I would strongly recommend Anecdotes if you are planning a trip anywhere. This is the third time we have used them for our trip planning and execution, and they never disappoint!