6-Day Tour of Exotic Northeast India: Mawsmai Caves, Double Decker Living Root Bridge and Kaziranga National Park

Traveling through Northeast India offers a blend of natural wonders, vibrant culture, and unexpected adventures. This 6-day guided tour, organized by Ihct Heritage and Adventure Tours, presents an opportunity to explore iconic sights like the Mawsmai Caves, the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, and Kaziranga National Park — all with the comfort of private transportation and expert guides. With a reputation for authentic experiences and thoughtful itineraries, this tour balances adventure with culture.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is its focus on standout sights coupled with meaningful local interactions, such as visiting a tea garden and chatting with women workers. The fact that it’s a private tour means you’ll enjoy personalized attention, which can make a big difference in remote, busy spots like Kaziranga. One potential consideration is that the schedule is packed, with some very long driving days, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and long hours on the road. This tour is ideal for those eager to see the highlights of Northeast India without sacrificing comfort or local flavor.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Insights: Engage with local communities at tea gardens and markets for genuine interactions.
• Natural Wonders: Experience some of India’s most stunning landscapes, from caves to rainforests and wildlife-rich parks.
• Expert Guides: Local guides with knowledge about the region’s history, wildlife, and culture enrich the experience.
• Balanced Itinerary: A mix of sightseeing, wildlife safaris, and cultural visits provides a well-rounded trip.
• Value for Money: At $537, this tour offers a comprehensive package including accommodation, meals, and key activities.
• Limited Group Size: Small, private groups mean more personalized service and flexibility.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Brahmaputra River Cruise

The journey begins with a cruise on the mighty Brahmaputra River, giving you your first glimpse of the region’s natural beauty. This two-hour cruise is included in the price and offers a tranquil start to your adventure. Expect panoramic views of the river’s breadth and maybe some glimpses of local boats and birdlife. This is a fantastic way to settle into the pace of Northeast India and appreciate the scale of the region’s waterways.

Travelers have mentioned that the cruise is a relaxing and picturesque way to kick off the tour, with some noting the guide’s commentary added valuable context about the river’s significance to local communities and ecosystems.

Day 2: Cherrapunji — The Rainiest Place on Earth

Driving north to Cherrapunji, renowned for receiving the highest annual rainfall globally, showcases lush green landscapes and waterfalls. The drive takes about five hours, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the scenic vistas and perhaps spot some wildlife along the way. Staying overnight here gives you a chance to experience the area’s unique climate and lush environment.

Reviewers mention that Cherrapunji’s rain-soaked beauty is unforgettable, and the cool weather offers a refreshing break from lower-altitude heat. It’s worth noting that the town’s heavy rainfall means you should be prepared with waterproof gear, especially if you want to explore outside.

Day 3: Meghalaya — Living Root Bridges and Mawasmai Caves

This day is a highlight for many travelers. Visiting the Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya is a bucket-list experience, as these natural, botanical marvels are both functional and stunning. The tour includes walking through the forests to these impressive structures, which are centuries old and created by local Khasi communities.

Following that, you explore the Mawsmai Caves, noted for their impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Though the caves are accessible and well-maintained, reviewers recommend comfortable footwear, as parts of the walk can be uneven. The day rounds off with a walk through Shillong bazaars, enjoying local culture, shopping for handicrafts, and sampling regional snacks.

One reviewer raved that the caves are “really good, a must-visit,” and appreciated the guide’s insights into the traditional methods used to maintain the roots and the significance of these bridges.

Day 4: Kaziranga National Park — Into the Wild

The drive to Kaziranga takes about eight hours, so it’s a long travel day, but the destination is worth it. Kaziranga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to the one-horned rhinoceros. The park is also rich in other wildlife, including tigers, wild buffalo, and various bird species.

Included in the package is a jeep safari, which is an excellent opportunity for wildlife spotting. Reviewers mention that the park is “really far from Guwahati and Shillong,” but the safari experience is well worth the journey. Guides are knowledgeable about animal behaviors and park history, which enhances the chances of spotting rare creatures.

Staying overnight near Kaziranga means you get an early start the next day, maximizing your chances of wildlife encounters in the early morning hours.

Day 5: Guwahati — Tea Gardens and Local Life

After returning to Guwahati, the tour includes a visit to a tea garden, where you can see the plucking and processing of tea leaves. Talking with the women workers, who often do this labor-intensive work, offers a personal perspective on the local economy and daily life.

Guests often mention how worthwhile it is to witness the tea-making process firsthand, as well as to enjoy a fresh cup of local brew. The day provides a relaxed, culturally immersive break after days of travel and wildlife safaris.

Day 6: Guwahati — Temples and Departure

On the final day, you’ll visit the ISKCON Temple and the Kamakhya Devi Temple, perched atop a hill with spectacular views. These spiritual sites give you a glimpse of the region’s religious diversity and cultural richness.

Afterward, your guide will escort you to the airport or your hotel, bringing an end to a well-rounded tour filled with natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural experiences.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size: The tour is designed for private groups of up to nine people, ensuring plenty of space and personalized attention. The long drives are broken up with stops for sightseeing and meals, but be prepared for a fair amount of time on the road — some days involve 8-9 hour travel durations.

Accommodation & Meals: Included are five nights of air-conditioned stays, with breakfast and dinner provided. Meals are a great chance to try local flavors, and vegetarian options are available if you specify this during booking. Guests have appreciated the quality of the food, often noting that it was filling and flavorful.

Guides & Local Experts: The guides are knowledgeable, with some reviews highlighting their insightful commentary and friendly demeanor. They help navigate the logistics and enrich the experience with cultural and historical context.

Cost & Value: At $537 per person, this package offers good value considering the accommodation, activities, and included excursions. It’s a comprehensive experience for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer appreciated the “knowledgeable guides” and the stunning views, especially during the Brahmaputra cruise and visits to the caves and bridges. The guide’s local expertise added depth to the experience, making it more than just sightseeing.

Another mentioned that Kaziranga’s park is “really far from Guwahati and Shillong,” but the safari was enjoyable enough to justify the long drive. For wildlife enthusiasts, the chance to see rhinos and tigers in their natural habitat is a major draw.

A recurring theme was the quality of interaction with local communities, such as the women working in tea gardens, which added a meaningful human touch to the journey.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of Northeast India without the stress of organization. It’s ideal for those with moderate physical fitness — comfortable with walking, some cave exploration, and wildlife safaris. Nature lovers will delight in the caves, bridges, and parks, while culture enthusiasts will enjoy the local markets and temple visits.

Travelers who appreciate guided experiences that combine sightseeing with authentic cultural interactions will find this package offers both.

The Sum Up

This 6-day Northeast India tour delivers a compelling mix of natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights. The chance to walk across the Double Decker Living Root Bridge, explore ancient caves, cruise the Brahmaputra, and spot rhinos in Kaziranga makes this a well-rounded adventure. The private format ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of comfortable accommodations and thoughtful meals adds value.

While the long travel days may be tiring, the sights, sounds, and interactions make it worthwhile. It’s perfect for travelers who want to dive into the essence of Northeast India, with a good balance of guided expertise and freedom to absorb the region’s distinctive charm.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized experience that goes beyond typical tourist routes, this tour offers a memorable glimpse into an extraordinary part of India.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is included. The tour provides private pickup, transfers, and jeep safaris, making logistics smooth and comfortable.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is nine people, ensuring a private, personalized experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and dinner are included for all six days. Vegetarian options are available if specified at booking.

What kind of accommodation can I expect?
You’ll stay in 5-star AC accommodations, providing comfort after long days of sightseeing.

Are there any long driving days?
Yes, some days involve lengthy drives, notably the 8-hour trip to Kaziranga. Be prepared for travel hours but enjoy the scenic views en route.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations closer to the date have partial or no refunds.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and travelers should have moderate physical fitness. It’s best for those comfortable with some walking and outdoor activities.

In summary, this tour offers a true taste of Northeast India’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and wildlife. It’s a well-structured journey for curious explorers eager to experience the region’s authentic charm in a comfortable, guided setting.