North East India Birding Tour
Duration : 28 Nights / 29 Days
Travel season : November to April
north east india birding tour itinerary:
Day 01: Arrive Guwahati
Meet upon arrival at Guwahati Airport / Railway Station and take transfer to hotel.
Guwahati:
Guwahati, 'the city of Eastern light' stands on the southern bank of the mighty river Brahmaputra. It is the capital city of Assam and the gateway to the entire north-eastern states. Modern Guwahati is the hub city of Assam. It fulfills every aspect of a metropolitan city with its advanced means of transport, communication and media, as a major center of business activity, educational institutions, and various administrative and political activities of entire Assam. Besides, its landscape surrounded by hills and the mighty Brahmaputra River, rich and diverse flora and fauna enhances its natural scenic beauty.
In the afternoon, visit -
Kamakhya Temple:
Kamakhya Temple, one of the greatest 'Shaktipeeth', the shakti shrine of Goddess Kamakhya is situated on the Nilachal Hills. It is the oldest center of Tantric Shaktism. A famous 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 and eventually the place became a temple of worship in due course of time. The temple features various stone inscriptions, terracotta works, sculptures and idols of Ganesha and Chamundeswari which are worth mentioning. The famous 'Ambubachi Fair' is celebrated with great enthusiasm every year in mid-June in this temple and devotees from different parts of India throng into it for the special occasion.
Umananda Temple:
It is a legendary temple of Lord Shiva built by Ahom King Gadadhar Singha in 1664 AD. The temple is standing in an island hill in the middle of great Brahmaputra River. The temple possesses rock-cut figures and sculptures of God Surya, Ganesha, Shiva and Vishnu along with his ten incarnations. The temple is a major centre for the celebration of Shivaratri. The easiest means of transport to this temple is country boat or engine boat which is an added attraction to the tourists.
Overnight: Stay in hotel.
Day 02: Guwahati – Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary - Guwahati
In the early morning, go for guided bird-watching in Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary.
Deepor Beel Bird Sanctuary:
Deepor beel (beel meaning lake in local Assamese language), situated at the south-western part of Guwahati city is claimed to be the first bird sanctuary of Assam. It comprises an area of 40 sq kilometers of which 4.14 sq kilometers is declared as a bird sanctuary by the Govt. of Assam. Deepor beel is a permanent fresh water lake, located in a former channel of the mighty Brahmaputra River. The main sources of water are Basistha and Kalmini Rivers. At the time of flood in monsoon, the beel is approximately 4 meters deep while in the winter season, its level of depth decreases to just about 1 meter. The beel drains into Brahmaputra River through Khonajan channel, situated at a distance of 5 kilometes to the North.
Deepor Beel is gifted with a wide variety of flora and fauna. More than 220 species of birds have been recorded in the beel including 70 species of migratory birds. A record number of 19000 water birds have been witnessed in a single day count so far. Apart from these, Deepor beel harbours as many species as 20 amphibians, 18 snakes, 12 lizards and 6 turtle & tortoises.
Afternoon visit -
Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra:
Sankardev Kalakshetra is named after the most illustrious son and Vaishnavite propagator of Assam. It is the hub of all the cultural activities of entire Assam and a center for the promotion and preservation of the cultural heritage of the various tribes, communities and ethnic groups of Assam. It consists of a museum wherein lies the various traditional dresses, jewelry, ancient pottery, weapons belonging to various ethnic groups, sculpture, and works of art created by various artists depicting as a whole the entire Assam. The open air amphitheatre, wherein the cultural performances are held very often and the collection of whole life activities of the legendary artist Dr. Bhupen Hazarika carry a great measure in Kalakshetra.
Evening: Free at relaxation. Overnight: Stay in hotel.
Day 03: Guwahati - Manas National Park (176 kms, 3 & 1/2 hrs drive)
In the morning after breakfast, take transfer to Manas National Park. En-route visit -
Barpeta:
Barpeta is renowned to be the home of various Satras (monasteries), temples, mosques, shrines, rivers and the Gateway to Manas National Park. Acclaimed for its natural beauty and religious significance, Barpeta is also widely famous for its cultural and traditional crafts like pottery, wooden crafts, masks, gold ornaments and ivory carvings. Sarthebari is the home of household bell and brass-metal industry.
Barpeta Satra:
Barpeta Satra (monastery) was established by great Vaishnavite saint Shri Shri Madhav Dev, the disciple of Srimanta Shankar Dev. The reflection of religious and cultural tradition of Barpeta Satra is very ancient and unique. Madhav Dev stayed for 8 long years and produced his best literature here. Barpeta Satra encompasses a large area with an entrance gate known as 'Batsora'. Prayers or 'Naam Kirtan' are held in the prayer hall named 'Kirtan Ghar'. The Satra owned some other important wings which are not found in other satras of Assam. Those are Jagmohan Ghar, Daul Ghar, Paat Chang, Saaj Ghar, Bhaaj Ghar and the Math. These structures are beautiful and are used in different purposes of the satras. Devotees gather in large numbers during the anniversaries of Vaishnava Gurus and Doul festival.
Later, depart to Manas National Park.
Manas National Park:
Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, is situated on the foothills of the Himalayas in the district of Barpeta. It is a famous Tiger Reserve of Assam. It encompasses an area of 519.77 sq km and is a home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. It's rich bio-diversity and wealthy wildlife enhances the scenic beauty and glory of this park. Around 550 varieties of plant species identifies the rich flora of Manas National Park. It is a homeland to 60 species of mammals, 435 species of birds (10 species are globally threatened), 42 species of reptiles and amphibians, 54 species of fishes and 103 species of invertebrates.
Manas National Park is an ideal habitat to rare species such as One Horned Rhinoceros, Asian Elephant, Royal Bengal Tiger, Pygmy Hog, Hispid hare, Golden Langur, Bengal Florican, Gaur, Assam Roofed Turtle and Rat Snake. Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Himalayan Bear, Wild Boar, Sambar, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer are the common inhabitants of this park. Hundreds of migratory birds like Riverchats (White Capped Redstars) Forktails, Cormorants and Ruddy Shelduck visit this park during the winter season.
Click in the link to view Clements Check-list of birds (6th edition, updated in 2014) found in Manas National Park ->
Manas National Park Birds' Check-list
Arrive at Manas and check-in jungle cottage. Overnight: Stay in jungle cottage.
Day 04: Manas National Park
Elephant Safari:
In the early morning, enjoy an elephant ride in the Bansbari range of Manas National Park.
Jeep Safari:
After breakfast, enjoy one round of full day jeep safari in Manas National Park covering Bansbari and Mothanguri ranges of the National Park.
Evening: Free at relaxation. Overnight: Stay in jungle cottage.
Day 05: Manas National Park - Nameri National Park (270 kms, 6 hrs 30 mins drive)
In the morning after breakfast, take transfer to Nameri National Park.
Nameri National Park:
Nameri National Park is situated in the foothills of Eastern Himalayas and covers an area of about 200 sq km, stretching along both banks of the Jia Bhoroli River in the district of Sonitpur. The park is identified with its rich diversity of flora and fauna. It consists of semi-evergreen vegetation, moist deciduous forests and open grasslands along with about 600 species of flora.
It is the famous resident place for Asian Elephants. It is also a homeland to Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Indian Bison, Gaur, Wild Boar, Sloth Bear, Himalayan Black Bear, Capped Langur, Indian Giant Squirrel, Pygmy Hog, Indian Wild Dog and Civet Cat. Various beautiful birds like White Winged Wood Duck, Great Pied Hornbill, Wreathed Hornbill, Black Stork, Ibis Bill, Blue-bearded Bee Eaters, Babblers, Plovers, Rufous Necked Hornbill etc. are also found here.
Click in the link to view Clements Check-list of birds (6th edition, updated in 2014) found in Nameri National Park ->
Nameri National Park Birds' Check-list
Arrive at Nameri and check-in jungle cottage.
Evening: Free at leisure to explore the nature by your own. Overnight: Stay in jungle cottage.
Day 06: Nameri National Park
Trekking:
In the early morning, enjoy a full day guided trekking inside the dense forest of Nameri National Park along with an armed forest guard.
Evening: Free at relaxation. Overnight: Stay in jungle cottage.
Day 07: Nameri National Park - Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary (137 kms, 5 hrs drive)
In the morning after breakfast, take transfer to Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary. En-route visit -
Bhalukpong:
Situated on the Assam-Arunachal border, Bhalukpong is widely acclaimed to be a popular tourist spot with the Kameng River flowing through it. It is a famous location for picnic lovers and adventurous tourists.
Visit at Bhalukpong -
Tipi Orchid Sanctuary:
Also known as Tipi Orchidarium, this sanctuary is a home to a large collection of about 234 varieties of colorful orchids. Some rare and endangered species of orchids are displayed in the glass house. Some of these orchids have a quality of blooming for a longer duration. This sanctuary serves as an orchid research and development centre set up by the Department of Environment and Forest under Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh for the conservation and development of new variety of species.
Enjoy bird-watching on the way at Sessa Orchid Sanctuary.
Sessa Orchid Sanctuary:
Sessa Orchid Sanctuary is a protected forest reserve situated in the Himalayan foothills near Bhalukpong. It is located adjacent to Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary to the south-west. Sessa Orchid Sanctuary is globally acclaimed for occurrence of 234 orchid species. The sanctuary is distinctive in having 7 endemic species of saprotrophic orchids. Besides, 12 rare species of diverse orchid families are also found in the sanctuary.
Click in the link to view Clements Check-list of birds (6th edition, updated in 2014) found in Sessa Orchid Sanctuary & Eaglenest WLS ->
Sessa Orchid Sanctuary & Eaglenest WLS Check-list
Later, drive to Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary.
Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary:
A centre of nature lovers, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the magnificent bird sanctuaries in India owing its popularity as a holiday destination in the midst of lush green forests and grasslands with remarkable sightseeing of exotic flora and fauna. The sanctuary, situated in the West kameng District of Arunachal Pradesh encompasses an area of about 217 sq km. It serves a habitat to a wide variety of wild fauna such as Red Panda, Asian Elephants, Serow, Gorals, Sambars etc.
In 2006, famous birdwatcher Ramana Athreya discovered a new species of bird in Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, namely Bugun Liocichla. Birdlife International has considered the event as the most sensational ornithological discovery in India since last 50 years.
Click in the link to view Clements Check-list of birds (6th edition, updated in 2014) found in Eaglenest WLS & Sessa Orchid Sanctuary ->
Eaglenest WLS & Sessa Orchid Sanctuary Check-list
Arrive at Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary and check-in Lama Camp.
Evening: Free at leisure to explore the surrounding nature by your own. Overnight: Stay in Lama Camp.
Day 08: Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary
Trekking:
In the morning after breakfast, enjoy guided trekking for full day long in and around Lama Camp.
Later, return to Lama Camp on foot.
Overnight: Stay in Lama Camp.
Day 09: Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary
In the morning after breakfast, take transfer from Lama Camp to Bompu Camp via Sunderview and Eaglenest Pass. Enjoy guided bird watching on the way.
Arrive and check-in Bompu Camp.
Evening: Free at leisure to explore the surrounding nature by your own. Overnight: Stay in Bompu Camp.
Day 10: Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary
Trekking:
In the early morning after breakfast, enjoy guided trekking from Bompu Camp to Sessni.
Later, return to Bompu Camp on foot.
Evening: Free at leisure to explore the surrounding nature by your own. Overnight: Stay in Bompu Camp.
Day 11: Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary
In the morning after breakfast, take transfer from Bompu Camp to Lama Camp via Sunderview and Eaglenest Pass. Enjoy guided bird watching on the way.
Overnight: Stay in Lama Camp.
Day 12: Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary - Pakke Tiger Reserve (162 kms, 6 hrs 30 mins drive)
In the morning after breakfast, take transfer to Pakke Tiger Reserve.
Pakke Tiger Reserve:
Click in the link to view Clements Check-list of birds (6th edition, updated in 2014) found in Pakke Tiger Reserve ->
Pakke Tiger Reserve Birds' Check-list
Arrive at Pakke Tiger Reserve and check-in jungle camp.
Evening: Free at leisure. Overnight: Stay in jungle camp.
Day 13: Pakke Tiger Reserve
Enjoy full day bird watching in Pakke Tiger Reserve.
Evening: Free at relaxation. Overnight: Stay in jungle camp.
Day 14: Pakke Tiger Reserve - Kaziranga National Park (127 kms, 4 hrs drive)
In the morning hours, take transfer to Kaziranga National Park.
Kaziranga National Park:
Internationally popular forest reserve and a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park is situated on the northern banks of the mighty river Brahmaputra, spreading wide on both the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam. It covers an area of over 430 sq km. Its landscape is characterized by swamps, beels, tall elephant grass, flat grasslands with streams.
Kaziranga National Park supports a variety of flora and fauna. It is mainly the undistributed residence of the Great One horned Rhinoceros. It is also a home to a large population of Indian Elephant, Wild Water Buffalo, Swamp Deer, Indian Boson, Royal Bengal Tiger, Sloth Bear, Hog Deer, Leopard Cats, Otter, Hog Badger, Capped Langur, Hollock Gibbons, Wild Boar, Jackal, Pythons, Monitor Lizard, and Fishing Cat etc. Small mammals like the rare Hispid Hare, Indian Gray Mangoose, Large Indian Civet, Small Indian Civet, Bengal Fox, Golden Jackal, Chinese Pangolin, Indian Pangolin, Hog Badger, Chinese Ferret Badger, Parti-colored Flying Squirrels etc. are also found here.
More than 500 species of birds have been recorded in Kaziranga National Park including 26 species of globally threatened category. Migratory birds like Lesser White Fronted Goose, Ferruginous Duck, Baer's Pochard Duck and Lesser Adjutant, Greater Adjutant, Black Necked Stork, Asian Openbill Stork etc. migrate to this park during the winter season every year. It is also a habitat of threatened species like Blyth's Kingfisher, White Bellied Heron, Dalmatian Pelican, Spot-billed Pelican, Nordmann's Greenshank, Black-Bellied Tern and other birds like the Eastern Imperial Eagle, Palla's Fish Eagle, Grey Headed Fish Eagle, Lesser Kestrel, Indian Vulture, Slender billed Vulture, Indian White-rumped Vulture, Swamp Francolin, Bengal Florican, Pale- Capped Pigeon, Black Breasted Parrotbill and Rufous vented Prinia etc. It is also a home to the endangered Gangetic Dolphin. Besides there are more than 40 species of fishes and 42 species of reptiles are found in Kaziranga National Park.
Click in the link to view Clements Check-list of birds (6th edition, updated in 2014) found in Kaziranga ->
Kaziranga National Park Birds' Check-list
Jeep Safari:
After reaching Kaziranga , enjoy one round of Jeep safari in the western range (Bagori) of Kaziranga National Park.
After completing jeep safari, check-in jungle resort.
Evening: Free at leisure. Overnight: Stay in jungle resort.
Day 15: Kaziranga National Park
Elephant Safari:
In the early morning, enjoy an elephant ride in the western range (Bagori) / central range (Kohora) of Kaziranga National Park.
In the late morning after breakfast, take a visit to the Ethnic Village of Kajir Ronghangpi Aklam, Kohora and explore the way of living of North Eastern People. Have a glimpse of Assam tea plantation. Observe the teams of colorfully dressed tea garden female workers plucking the delicate buds and leaves with their nimble fingers. Also, visit the company outlet of Hathikuli Tea Estate for purchasing different kinds of organic Tea.
Later visit -
Kaziranga National Orchid and Bio-diversity Park:
Witness more than 500 varieties of wild orchids collected from different parts of North-East Indian states, 132 species of sour fruits and leafy vegetables, 12 species of cane, 46 species of bamboo and a large variety of local fishes in Kaziranga National Orchid and Bio-diversity Park, located in Durgapur.
Also visit - Souvenir shops of bamboo and wooden products near Orchid Park at Kaziranga.
Jeep Safari:
In the afternoon post lunch, enjoy one round of Jeep safari in the central range (Kohora) of Kaziranga National Park.
If interested, visit in the evening - Kaziranga Orchid Park again to enjoy special cultural show of different folk dances of Assam.
Overnight: Stay jungle resort.
Day 16: Kaziranga National Park
Trekking:
In the morning after breakfast, enjoy guided trekking inside the dense Kukurkata reserved forest under Burhapahar range of Kaziranga National Park along with an armed forest guard.
Jeep Safari:
In the afternoon post lunch, enjoy one round of Jeep safari in the eastern range (Agaratoli) of Kaziranga National Park.
Overnight: Stay in jungle resort.
Day 17: Kaziranga National Park - Majuli Island (153 kms, 4 hrs drive & 1 hr ferry ride)
In the early morning after breakfast, take transfer to Majuli Island. En-route cross - the Brahmaputra River by local ferryboat.
Majuli Island:
Majuli, the largest river island in the world, is being short listed for future status of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. The formation of this river island dates back to 1691 AD, when a great flood swept Assam and created a new island in the midst of river Brahmaputra. Majuli is acclaimed mainly as the main centre of vaishnavite culture and satras of Assam. Srimanta Sankardeva, the Vaishnava saint and religious reformer of vaishnavism and his disciple Madhavdeva took forward the vaishnavite culture at Majuli. The first satra (monastery) was established at Belguri, the western part of Majuli.
The satras represent the preservation and propagation of socio-cultural ethics and ideals of Assam. There had been about 66 satras at Majuli. At present, only 31 of them are survived. These satras are great places of visit during the Raas festivals. Majuli also appeals tourists for its various attractions like rare seasonal migratory birds, display of various collection of traditional handicrafts, pottery, various ethnic dance forms, religious and mythological-based dramas etc.
At Majuli, a rare sight of Gangetic River Dolphin in the mighty Brahmaputra River may be an experience for lifetime.
Arrive at Majuli and check-in traditionally built Bamboo Hut. Later visit -
Uttar Kamalabari Satra:
Uttar Kamalabari satra, a part of the actual Kamalabari Satra was founded by Padma Aata or Badula Aata, a disciple of Shri Shri Madhavdeva. It is a centre of Assamese art, culture and cultural studies. The satra is famous for Ankia Naat drama and Saali dance forms. It also has a branch in Guwahati. This branch has displayed Sattriya dance in many states of India and abroad.
Natun Samaguri Satra:
Globally famous for traditional art of mask making culture, Natun Samaguri Satra is a newly instituted branch of Samaguri Satra, originally established by Chakrapani Ata, an illustrious disciple of vaishnavite saints Srimanta Shankardeva and Shri Shri Madhavdeva. Experts of this monastery make masks for the performers of religious plays and also for decorative purpose. Masks crafted in this monastery are exported on demand made by the tourists from time to time.
Mishing Tribal Village:
The Mishings are the largest ethnic tribal group in India. Earlier called Miris in the historical days, this group belongs to greater Tani people community, which comprises other Tani tribes such as Adi, Apatani, Nyishi, Padam, Minyong etc. in India and in Tibet Autonomous Region in China. The cultural, linguistic and ritual aspects of all Tani tribes are quite similar. The Mishings specifically belong to a Southeast Asian sub-race of the Mongoloid race. There are no written records about the migration of Mishings from hills to the plains of Assam. Historical and folklore sources regard that the Mishings were the Adis who migrated to Assam. Legend narrates of the Mishings coming in contact with the more civilized communities residing in the plains of Assam during early 16th century.
The Mishings originally believed the Donyi-Polo religion, but later on a majority of them converted to Hinduism and a minimal group took to Christianity. Ali-Aye-Ligang is the major festival of this tribe celebrated during the month of February. They also observe other festivals such as Pohrag and Dobur. Mishing culture exhibits traditional craft of weaving colourful cotton cloths. Mishing women weave cotton jackets, light cotton towels, endi shawls, thick loin cloths and shirting. Mishing women weave 'ege', 'rihbi', 'gaseng', 'gero', 'seleng gasor', 'riya', 'segreg' and 'potub'. All these are beautiful cloth sheets with broad & narrow stripes of bright contrastive colours worn by Mishing women. They also weave 'niseg' so that mothers can carry their babies in their back.
If time permits, visit -
Pottery culture:
Pottery is an ancient culture of Majuli. It is one of the traditional forms of cottage industry in Assam. At present, more than 4000 people at Majuli live on pottery culture for their livelihood. The potters at Majuli practice a peculiar technique in which they beat the clay by hand to make the utensils. Visit Kumhar Gaon to have a glimpse in the rural lives of the potters at Majuli working without the wheels which indicate a historic origin of this culture.
Later, enjoy a magnificent Sunset view in the Brahmaputra River from Ferry Point.
Overnight: Stay in Bamboo Hut.
Day 18: Majuli Island - Jorhat (45 kms, 1 hr 15 mins drive & 1 hr ferry ride)
In the early morning, have a half day excursion to visit the wetlands (beels) of Majuli Island which serve as a major birding hotspot in Assam. The Revenue Department under State Govt. of Assam owns 156 beels at Majuli. During flood, the adjacent wetlands join into one single large water body and generates auto stocking of local fishes.
The migratory birds generally visit Majuli during winter from Europe, North Asia, South Asia, China, Tibet, Nepal, Kashmir and Ladakh for its cool climate & fresh water in the wetlands after flood every year.
Visit - Sakuli beel, Bhereki beel (located near Sakuli beel in front of Laholial village), Daukpara (located adjacent to Sakuli beel), Rambolia (a property of Dakhinpat satra near Brahmaputra river linked to Dubori Toli beel), Bor beel (located adjacent to Rawanagaon) and Dubori Toli beel (located in front of Mekheli Gaon) to witness abundance of endemic, migratory and endangered birds species.
Interesting species:
Little Grebe, Spotted billed Pelican, Large Cormorant, Oriental Darter, Grey Heron, Open-billed Stork, White Adjutant Stork, Lesser Adjutant Stork, Purple Heron, Pond Heron, Cattle Egret, Chest-nut Bittern, Great Egret, Little Egret, Greylag Goose, Bar-headed Goose, Lesser Whistling Teal, Ruddy Shelduck, Common Shelduck, Lesser Whistling-Duck, Mallard, Cotton Teal, Red Crested Pochard, Black Kite, Brahminy Kite, Common Moorhen, Purple Moorhen, White breasted Waterhen, Pheasant tailed Jacana. Bronzed winged Jacana, Red-wattled Lapwing, Stone Curlew, Black-headed Gull, Brown-headed Gull, River Tern, Common Green Pigeon, Spotted Dove, Red Turtle Dove, Large Indian Parakeet, Rose Ringed Parakeet, Red-breasted Parakeet, Large Hawk Cuckoo, Asian Koel, Barn Owl, Eurasian Eagle-Owl, Indian Scops-Owl, Grey nightjar, White-throated Kingfisher, Idian Roller, Eurasian Hoopoe, Ashy Woodswallow, Grey-backed Shrike, Oriole, Large-billed Crow, Grey headed Myna, Magpie Robin, White-rumped Shama, Great tit, Black Kite, Pallas's Fish-Eagle, Indian Vulture, Lagger falcon, Swamp Partridge, Jungle Bush Quail, Red Junglefowl, Common Crane, Wagtails, Bee-eaters, Hornbills, Barbets, Woodpeckers, Bulbuls, Sunbirds, Weavers, Sparrows etc.
After lunch, take transfer to Jorhat. En route cross - the Brahmaputra River by local ferryboat.
Jorhat:
Jorhat is known as one of the leading towns of Assam and the centre of tea industry. The earlier Jorhat town was sought to ruins as a result of the Burmese invasions in 1817 AD. But as the British ventured into Assam in 1824 AD, these invasions were cleared out under the British administrative officers, David Scott and Captain Richard. Present day Jorhat is the hometown of the world famous Tocklai Tea Research Center, Assam Agricultural University, North-East Institute of Science & Technology and the head office of Assam Sahitya Sabha. There are about 140 Tea Gardens in and around Jorhat.
Arrive and check-in heritage tea garden bungalow.
Overnight: Stay in heritage tea garden bungalow.
Day 19: Jorhat - Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary (37 kms, 1 hr drive)
In the early morning, have a glimpse of Assam tea plantation. Observe the teams of colorfully dressed tea garden female workers plucking the delicate buds and leaves with their nimble fingers.
Tea Factory:
In the morning after breakfast, visit the tea factory of Gatoonga Tea Estate and witness processing of Assam CTC tea.
After lunch, take transfer to Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary.
Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary:
Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary is an isolated protected area of evergreen forest located at Jorhat district of Assam. It comprises an area of 20.98 sq kilometers. Earlier Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary was identified as Holongapar Forest. Later, the reserved forest was renamed as Gibbon since it is a home to India’s only Gibbons – the Hoolock Gibbons. It is also an ideal habitat of North-East India’s only nocturnal primate – the Bengal Slow Ioris. It is the only wildlife sanctuary in North-East India which harbours seven out of nine species of non human primates – Hollock Gibbon, Indian Slow Ioris, Capped Langur, Rhesus Macaque, Assamese Macaque, Pigtailed Macaque and Stump tailed Macaque. Other important mammals found here are Asian Elephant, Wild Boar, Leopard, Leopard Cat, Jungle Cat, Indian Fox, Civet Cat, Chinese Pangolin, Squirrel etc. A wide variety of Lizards, Python, Cobra and Turtles are found in the sanctuary. Important birds recorded here are Hornbill, Green Pigeon, Owl, Woodpecker, Dove, Bulbul, Black headed Oriole, Drongo, Barbet, Egret etc.
Arrive near Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary and check-in jungle cottage.
Evening: Free at relaxation. Overnight: Stay in jungle cottage.
Day 20: Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary – Dibrugarh (140 kms, 3 hrs drive)
Trekking:
In the early morning, enjoy guided trekking inside the dense forest of Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary along with an armed forest guard.
Later after breakfast, take transfer to Dibrugarh. En-route visit –
Sibsagar:
Literally, the name ‘Sibsagar’ means ‘Ocean of Lord Shiva’. This historical city of Assam remained the capital seat of the mighty Ahoms who ruled over Assam for nearly 600 years till the arrival of the British. It reflects the glory of ancient Assam under the Ahom rule. The Ahom monarchs started the tradition of building royal palaces, tanks, roads, forts, temples, towns, embankments, bridges of stones and bricks all over the kingdom. Apart from representing a number of monuments of rare historical and archaeological significance, modern Sibsagar has grown as a fast developing town with leading oil and tea producing areas.
In Sibsagar, visit -
Shiva Dole:
This famous Shiva temple was built by the second queen of Shiva Singha, Queen Ambika in 1734 AD. It is reputed to be the tallest Shiva Temple in India with a height of 180 feet and 195 feet in diameter caped by seven feet height golden dome.
Sibsagar Tank (Barpukhuri):
The famous Sibsagar tank was dug in 1734 AD by Queen Ambika, the second queen of King Shiva Singha to honor the memory of her husband. The tank covers an area of 129 acres of land. The water level of the tank remains always above the level of the town and never changes. Due to its big size and depth, it is regarded as ‘Sagar’ meaning ‘sea’.
Rang Ghar:
Rang Ghar is a historic amphitheatre constructed during the rule of Ahom king Pramatta Singha in 1746AD. During those times, Rang Ghar acted as a royal pavilion where the Ahom royalties and officers witnessed several outdoor games such as wrestling, buffalo-fight, falconry, elephant fights and other sporting and cultural events. It is an antique oval-shaped two storied building. The ground floor is rectangular in shape with two trapezoidal ends. Due to its typical and special structure, it has become a symbol of modern Assam.
Tolatol Ghar:
Tolatol Ghar was originally constructed by Ahom King Rudra Singha in 1699AD. Several changes and additions were made by the later Ahom rulers and this palace got its present structure of bricks and indigenous type of cement during 1751-1769AD under Ahom king Rajeshwar Singha. It is a seven storied palace of which four stories are above ground and the remaining three stories are underground with two underground tunnels, one leading to Dikhow River and the other to Gorgaon palace at Nazira. It was also once the capital and military station of the Ahom kings.
Kareng Ghar (Gargaon Palace):
Kareng Ghar was constructed by the Ahom king Suklengmung in 1540 AD. Initially, the original structure of this palace was made of wood and stone. Later, a brick wall of about five kilometers surrounding the palace and masomory gate was built by King Parramatta Singha in 1747 AD. The palace got its present structure of brick palace of seven stories during the reign of King Rajeshwar Singha in 1752 AD.
Later, drive to Dibrugarh.
Dibrugarh:
The 'Tea City of India', Dibrugarh is located in the eastern part of Assam. It is situated on the banks of the river Brahmaputra in upper Assam. Main attraction is mainly tea gardens along with oil and natural gas reserves. There are more than 165 tea gardens in and around Dibrugarh district. The foothills region of Dibrugarh is composed of lateritic soils, which is suitable for the production of tea plants. Besides, Dibrugarh city is the main educational centre of Upper Assam with important educational institutions like Dibrugarh University, Assam Medical College, Kanoi College, Salt Brook Academy etc.
Arrive Dibrugarh and check-in hotel.
Overnight: Stay in hotel.
Day 21: Dibrugarh - Dibru-Saikhowa National Park (93 kms, 2 hrs drive), return to Tinsukia (43 kms, 1 hr drive)
In the early morning, take transfer to Dibru-Saikhowa National Park.
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park:
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park is a famous bio-sphere reserve encompassing an area of about 340 sq km. One part of the area is wet land and the rest part comprises of grasslands, canebrakes and dense forests. Bounded by the Brahmaputra and Lohit rivers in the North and Dibru River in the South, this park is a homeland to more than 250 varieties of endemic, endangered and migratory birds. Its main attractions are semi-wild Horse and White Winged Wood Duck. It is also a habitat to mammals like Asian Elephant, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Sambar, Slow Loris, Indian Wild Water Buffalo, Capped Langur, Gangetic River Dolphin, Indian Wild Dog etc.
Click in the link to view Clements Check-list of birds (6th edition, updated in 2014) found in Dibru-Saikhowa National Park ->
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park Birds' Check-list
Arrive at Dibru-Saikhowa National Park premises.
Boat ride:
Enjoy a country boat ride in Dibru River for two hours.
Trekking:
Enjoy guided sightseeing of wildlife and birdlife during trekking in Dibru-Saikhowa National Park along with an armed forest guard.
Later, return to Tinsukia.
Tinsukia:
Arrive Tinsukia and check-in hotel.
Overnight: Stay in hotel.
Day 22: Tinsukia - Namdapha National Park (178 kms, 4 hrs drive)
In the morning after breakfast, take transfer from Dibrugarh to Deban situated in the buffer zone of Namdapha National Park.
Namdapha National Park:
A treasure trove to wildlife enthusiast and nature lovers, Namdapha National Park is the largest national park in North-eastern region comprising an area of over 1985 sq km. It is the 15th Tiger Reserve in the country. The park is a habitat to a magnificent collection of unique and endangered species of flora and fauna. Namdapha National Park holds unique position in the world as the only dwelling place of four species of the big cat’s family – the Royal Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Snow Leopard and Clouded Leopard. It is a home to 96 species of mammals, 446 species of birds (10 globally threatened species), 50 species of reptiles, 140 types of butterflies & moths and 25 species of amphibians. Besides, Namdapha National Park shelters 76 species of fishes, 430 kinds of insects, and over 150 species of timber along with a variety of medicinal and ornamental plants.
Click in the link to view Clements Check-list of birds (6th edition, updated in 2014) found in Namdapha ->
Namdapha National Park Birds' Check-list
En-route visit -
Miao:
Miao, a sub-division headquarter at Changlang district, is located in the backdrop of a region featuring splendid natural beauty of Noa-Dihing River. Patkai Bum mountain range and the eastern extension of the great Himalayas form the hilly terrain of Miao. Tangsa, Singpho and Lisu are the main tribes inhabiting the region. The tribal population has made the region well-known for opium cultivation because of its suitable climate and location in dry mountainous landscape.
At Miao, visit -
Tibetan Refugee Camp:
Tibetan Refugee Camp at Miao is considered as one of the oldest settlements of Tibetan refugees among the 45 settlements in India and 75 all over the world. There are more than 500 families with 2800 individuals inhabiting the camp. The camp is well acclaimed among visitors for its production of high quality carpets, a bigger portion of which is exported to be sold in international market. A beautiful Buddhist monastery inside the camp is another key attraction for the tourists.
Later, depart to Deban.
Deban:
Deban, headquarter of forest department in Namdapha National Park is called ‘Mihi-phi-phi’ by the local Lisu tribal people, meaning ‘a place where wind blows continually’. Deban is located on the bank of Noa-Dihing River creating a magnificent landscape along with scenic beauty of evergreen tropical forest. It is an ideal place for trekking, hiking and angling in the Noa-Dihing River. Deban offers exhilarating experience of birdlife sightseeing, viewing primates like gibbons and capped langur, mammals like flying squirrels, slow loris, barking deer etc.
Arrive at Namdapha National Park and check-in Deban Guest House.
Evening: Free to explore the surrounding nature by your own. Overnight: Stay in Guest House.
Day 23: Namdapha National Park
In the morning after breakfast, go for trekking from Deban to Haldibari (6 kms trek) inside Namdapha National Park. Enjoy guided sightseeing of wildlife and birdlife on the way.
Haldibari:
Haldibari, one of the forest department selected campsite for adventurous tourists is situated in an open space (clearing) in the jungle across the Noa-Dihing River. It is an ideal location for bird watching. The trekking route from Deban to Haldibari through densely tall bamboo grass (locally known as Wachokha) in some areas offer lifetime memorable experience of viewing rich wildlife of the region to the trekkers across the globe.
Arrive at Haldibari campsite. Put up standard tents and make a comfortable shelter near woods with the assistance of our trained guide.
Evening: Free at relaxation. Overnight: Stay in standard tent.
Day 24: Namdapha National Park
In the morning after breakfast, go for trekking in and around Haldibari buffer zone in Namdapha National Park. Enjoy exquisite view of wildlife and birdlife in ever green landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh.
Return to Haldibari campsite. Overnight: Stay in standard tent.
Day 25: Namdapha National Park
In the morning after breakfast, go for trekking from Haldibari to Rani Jheel (12 kms trek) inside Namdapha National Park. Enjoy guided sightseeing of wildlife and birdlife on the way.
En-route visit -
Hornbill:
As the name signifies, Hornbill is one of the prominent buffer zone in Namdapha National Park, where all four species of Hornbill namely Great Hornbill, White-throated Brown Hornbill, Rufous necked Hornbill and Wreathed Hornbills are seen by visiting trekkers. Located at a distance of 5 kilometers from Haldibari, this enchanting campsite offers common view of several rare and endangered bird species as well as other interesting mammals.
Bulbulia:
Locally named by the Lisu tribal people as ‘Aji-polo’ meaning ‘place of bubbling water’, Bulbulia is a campsite in the buffer zone of Namdapha National Park having several natural springs. It is located at a distance of 3 kilometers from Hornbill on the way to Firmbase. The jungle road to Bulbulia surpasses through tall & dense tropical forest and bamboo grass, which provides an exhilarating trekking experience to the tourists while viewing rich birdlife of the region.
Later, depart to Rani Jheel.
Rani Jheel:
Situated at a distance of 4 kilometers from Bulbulia on the way to Firmbase, Rani Jheel is a major bird-watching hotspot falling in the buffer zone of Namdapha National Park. It is an ideal tourist’s spot for witnessing gibbons. Lisu tribal community calls this place as ‘Oopa-yubi’ meaning ‘frog pool’. It is a small lake located at 2600 feet on a highland and bounded by all sides by tropical forests.
Arrive at Rani Jheel campsite. Put up standard tents and make a comfortable shelter near woods with the assistance of our trained guide.
Overnight: Stay in standard tent.
Day 26: Namdapha National Park
In the morning after breakfast, go for trekking in and around Rani Jheel buffer zone inside Namdapha National Park. Enjoy guided sightseeing of wildlife and birdlife during trekking.
Return to Rani Jheel campsite. Overnight: Stay in standard tent.
Day 27: Namdapha National Park
In the morning after an early breakfast, go for trekking from Rani Jheel to Deban (18 kms trek) through Bulbulia, Hornbill and Haldibari. Enjoy guided sightseeing of wildlife and birdlife on the way.
Evening: Free at relaxation. Overnight: Stay in Guest House.
Day 28: Namdapha National Park - Dibrugarh (223 kms, 5 hrs drive)
In the morning after breakfast, take transfer from Deban to Dibrugarh.
Arrive at Dibrugarh and check-in hotel. If time permits, visit -
Haaj-Paar:
It is a small weaving centre located at Chiring Chapori, an urban locality of Dibrugarh. Here traditional mekhela chadars are woven in variety of designs by employed women and is run privately. They also weave sarees from both ‘muga’ and ‘paat’ silk unique to Assam. The products made in the centre are available for sale.
Overnight: Stay in hotel.
Day 29: Dibrugarh departure
In the morning after breakfast, take transfer to Dibrugarh Airport / Railway Station for your onward destination.
Tour terminates here
North East India Tourism
Important Note:
Due to arid winter from mid December to first week of March, the minimal growth of tea leaves results in declination of plucking activity in the Tea Estates of Assam every year. That's why, processing of tea leaves in the manufacturing units cannot be demonstrated to the visitors in its real sense. Besides, tea factories also remain close every Monday.
Package Inclusions:
# All ground transportation by a comfortable vehicle driven by dedicated driver
Package Exclusions:
# Any air fare or train fare
