21 DAYS | 20 NIGHTS

$7,980.00* AUD per person Double or Twin Share
$2,375.00* AUD Single Supplement

7 – 27 November 2025
3 ROOMS AVAILABLE!

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR BOOKING REQUEST

This part of the country is truly unique and the best way to discover the area is by immersing yourself in the life and cultures of the remote villages.

This part of the country is truly unique and the best way to discover the area is by immersing yourself in the life and cultures of the remote villages. Join Gools and Thommo on this amazing new Adventure! The Travel Club has run several amazing tours to India before but never to the remote Northeast of the country. For many years this has been on our personal bucket list. This part of the country is truly unique and the best way to discover the area is by immersing yourself in the life and cultures of the remote villages. Together with our trusted friend and ground operator in Delhi, Nadeem, we have designed our very first ‘ONTRACK Adventure’ to include WEST BENGAL, SIKKIM, ASSAM & NAGALAND. This tour will allow us to add in some exciting and rewarding hikes/walks to an alreadyawesome culturally diverse itinerary.

NOTE: While an intermediate level of fitness is required, our vehicles will always be available on the walking components to transfer you to the days destination if you choose not to walk on any given day. Our local guides will also help to assess your fitness levels and make sure that you are fully capable of completing the planned daily activities. If this sounds like you, then make the commitment to join us on the first of our new range of ‘active tours’.

A single departure for our 21-day tour starting and finishing in Kolkata (Calcutta) commencing the 7th November 2025 and finishing on the 27th November 2025. We have already an ‘Expression of Interest’ list, and we have several people already awaiting this VIP launch. Spots will be strictly limited as we have secured only 10 rooms for this itinerary. This tour will be hosted of course by Gools and Thommo!

NOTE: The departure date is not that far away so there is time to commit to the date and get your fitness ‘Back ONTRACK’!

Sikkim is the home of  Darjeeling, in West Bengal, probably because of the Tea industry. Many people do travel here and enjoy the spectacular mountain views from villages perched high on the fertile ridges. It is easily accessible and sometimes a place where travellers simply search out to escape the summer heat. But the area has a whole lot more to offer than just Darjeeling town. Sikkim, located in the North-eastern part of India in the eastern Himalayas. It is one of the smallest states in India. Sikkim is bordered by the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north and northeast, by Bhutan to the southeast, by the Indian state of West Bengal to the south, and by Nepal to the west. Sikkim therefore is an absolute melting pot of culture! The People of Sikkim consist of three different ethnic groups, they are, Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali. These people intermingle freely to create a harmonious and homogenous group. It’s here where Buddhist Monasteries coexist respectfully with Hindu temples, churches and mosques. These three cultures have produced a Sikkimese Culture that encompasses the different ways and walks of life. They have also, amazingly, managed to preserve their own individual identities.

These identities can be seen in the various festivals, cultural dance styles and places of worship. Sikkim is also notable for its biodiversity, including alpine and subtropical climates, as well as being a host to Mount Kangchenjunga, the highest peak in India and the third highest on Earth at 8586 metres!

Assam is also a meeting ground of diverse cultures. The people of the enchanting state of Assam are an interesting mixture of various racial backgrounds such as Mongolian, Indo-Burmese, Indo-Iranian and Aryan. The Assamese culture is a rich and exotic tapestry of all these races that have evolved through a long assimilative process. The natives of the state of Assam are known as Assamese which is also the state language of Assam. The state has a great number of tribes, each unique in its tradition, culture, dress style and exotic way of life. Diverse tribes like Bodo, Kachari, Karbi, Miri, Mishimi, Rabha, etc co-exist in Assam. Interestingly most tribes still have their own languages. Assam is also famous for its tea plantations and the incredible Kaziranga National Park. This park, which hosts two-thirds of the world’s great one-horned rhinoceroses along with the beautiful Bengal Tiger is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nagaland is one of the least explored regions in this vast country! Accessed through a narrow corridor and nestled in the ‘far east’ of the state. If you yearn adventure and want to travel to a place few (if any) of your friends have been, then this is the place for you! It is still raw and pure to a large degree, untouched by mass tourism which is due in part to its geographical location. English is barely spoken, and the accommodation here can at times be basic but comfortable, which is part of the charm for intrepid type travellers. The full itinerary does have a well-balanced blend of Luxury Heritage accommodation as well which is interspersed to add a level of comfort between the more basic options. Our luxury hotels chosen will be a real treat! The blend of culture, colour, and the music along with the natural beauty will leave you in awe!

On this tour you will interact with the locals who look more ‘Asian’ than the typical Indian* and whose culture differs greatly from the rest of India. (* India is such a large and diverse country that it’s difficult of course to identify what is a typical Indian. Only you can decide).

If you are looking for an adventure that encompasses 4 different ‘destinations’, all with their own cultural experience in a part of the world that oozes with natural beauty and stunning scenery and wish to do some picturesque walks than this is certainly one to sign up for! Simply grab your walking gear and start a plan to work on your fitness (if you need to of course) and prepare to join us on a trip of a lifetime.

BECOME A G&T CLUBBER

Our new touring style is being offered and has two new aspects.

  • Firstly, ‘ONTRACK Adventures’ will address the question often asked by our Clubbers!
    ‘Can G&T Travel Club offer a more Active Product’

  • Secondly, it could be an ‘Exploratory Adventure’ where clubbers can help to unlock some new and exciting destinations with us. The research behind the itinerary will always be as extensive and complete as all G&T Travel Club trips are. We will always work directly with our friend/ground operators to create the best possible itinerary with lots of adventure and wow! We will also continue to choose the accommodation personally as we love the experience that comes with the right choices.

EAST INDIA ITINERARY

DAY 1, ARRIVAL DAY: KOLKATA (CALCUTTA)

Welcome to the bustling city of Kolkata! 

Upon arrival you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.   

Meals included: Welcome Dinner 

Overnight: The LaLit Great Eastern  

Style: Heritage Luxury (or similar) 

DAY 2, KOLKATA

After breakfast we will meet our local guide for a fascinating city sightseeing tour. 

The port city of Kolkata, (formerly known as Calcutta) was the centre for both intellectual and cultural change across India. Kolkata is still a rich and cultural potpourri of the quintessential Indian experience with many colonial elements overlaid by a patriotic, revolutionary zeal. Today’s city tour will include some walking and driving to discover the vibrant flower market and Kumartuli (the potter’s quarter). It is here where giant life-like religious idols are created for the city’s numerous festivals out of river clay, bamboo and straw. We will swing by Dalhousie Square and then visit Pareshnath Jain Temple complex composed of 4 ornate temples. One such temple is unique with its shimmering mirrors, ceramic tiles and chandeliers brought over to India by rich merchants from lands far away.  

We will visit Fort William, the Town Hall plus the street markets and heritage buildings of Kolkata city. We will see the Park Street Cemetery and Victoria Memorial – two great institutions left behind by the British. In the late afternoon we will take a boat ride up the Hooghly River where we will enjoy a ringside view of the myriad happenings on the river’s ‘Ghats’. This day ends with a visit to the Eden Garden.  

Dinner will be back at the hotel or local restaurant if the group prefers? (Dinner tonight is at own your expense). 

Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch 

Overnight: The LaLit Great Eastern  

Style: Heritage Luxury (or similar) 

DAY 3, KOLKATA – BAGDOGRA (FLIGHT 1.15 HRS) – DARJEELING (DRIVE 4 HRS)

Today we fly along the incredible Himalayas to Bagdogra. If the weather is nice, we will see the 8000m plus peaks of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Everest and Kanchenjunga.  

From Bagdogra we drive to Darjeeling on a winding road past wooded hills, small villages and tea plantations. At the time of the English colonial power in India, Darjeeling was one of the most popular ‘hill station’ to escape the heat of the lowlands. Still today you can feel the ingrown colonial flair here. Tonight, we settle into our luxurious colonial Manor House for 2 nights. 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: The Elgin

Style: Heritage Luxury Resort (or similar) 

DAY 4, EXPLORE DARJEELING – TOY TRAIN (2 HRS) & WALKING TOUR (2 HRS)

After a leisurely breakfast we take our toy-train ride from Darjeeling station to Ghoom where we visit a mountainside Buddhist Monastery. From here we have the option to return on foot along the scenic route back to town or a car will be available for those who don’t wish to walk. In the afternoon we’ll visit the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute and see the amazing exhibits belonging to both Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing. The exhibits include those items used during their conquest of Mt Everest back in 1953.  

Later we visit the P.N. Zoological Park, a chance to see the red pandas and the exquisite snow leopards, and then finish the day with an insightful visit to the Tibetan Refugee Centre.  

The walk from Ghoom Monastery to Mall Road (city centre) via Alu Bari is around 7kms. It is a gradual trail. One can also drive to the city centre.

You may wish to pamper yourself in the onsite holistic spa.  

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: The Elgin

Style: Heritage Luxury Resort (or similar) 

DAY 5: DARJEELING – TIGER HILL – DARJEELING – RINCHENPONG (DRIVE 5 HRS)

Weather permitting, we will set off early in the morning to ‘Tiger Hill’ (2590m). We hope to experience a spectacular sunrise and fantastic views of the Kangchenjunga massif. If it’s clear enough, we may even see as far as Mount Everest. We will then drive back to the hotel for our breakfast. 

After breakfast, we set off for an interesting and very visual journey to the remote west of Sikkim. We cross the Rangit River on the valley floor and follow it up until a pass road leads us to Rinchenpong. Kangchenjunga, in the distance, may just watch our every move from above. The next 2 nights we’ll have the opportunity to stay in a very typical Sikkimese homestay and/or farmhouse lodge (our group may be split over the two options due to limited accommodation in this remote area). This is a great way to experience and share some real local cultural differences. Note that our evening meals will all be together at Yangsum Heritage Farm. 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Yangsum Heritage Farm/Mayal Paradise Homestay   

Style: Basic Heritage/Homestay (or similar) 

DAY 6: HIKING THE SURROUNDS OF RINCHENPONG (WALKING 4-5 HRS)

Today we discover the rural surroundings of Rinchenpong on foot. First, we hike through a delightful oak forest to a nearby hill where there is a very lonely monastery. Once we reach the monastery, we are expecting a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. At 1900m above sea level, we hope to see the mountain giants of Pandim, Kabru and Narsing. As we continue, we will discover some lonely hamlets with their traditional Lepcha houses and experience the rural and simple way of life of the small local farmers. In the evening, we will have the opportunity to attend the evening ceremonies and evening prayers in our village.   

This walk today will be around 4-5kms / a hilly walk. The vehicle cannot go to this little Monastery so for those who do not wish to walk can drive to Rinchenpong Monastery instead.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Yangsum Heritage Farm/Mayal Paradise Homestay   

Style: Basic Heritage/Homestay (or similar) 

DAY 7: RINCHENPONG – PELLING (WALKING 2 HRS, DRIVE 3 HRS)

Our journey continues today to Pelling. This region is known to be very fertile with varied landscape including terraced rice fields, rushing waterfalls and remote settlements. We will be passing through the village of Dentam, which is not that far from the Nepalese border. We will encounter a village inhabited by the Gurung ethnic group, a group who also reside in Nepal. 

On arrival at our hotel, we will check in than after that we will enjoy a lovely local lunch of Momo (or mok-mok) a traditional dish emblematic of Tibetan cuisine. It is a ravioli stuffed with yak meat, pork or beef, steamed and served with a spicy sauce (spicy is optional) Let us know if we need a vego version? This dish, although simple, requires a certain know-how to perfect, which our local regional guide promises to share with us. 

After lunch, we will visit the well-known 18th-century Pemayangtse Monastery with its uniquely carved wooden sculptures. Pemayangtse Monastery is also called ‘Perfect Sublime Lotus’, which means ‘the all-encompassing, perfect lotus’.  

This monastery being the most famous in Sikkim also played an important role in the royal government during the Kingdom times. 

From the monastery we walk to the ruins of the former royal fortress of Rabdentse before making our way back to the hotel to enjoy all the creature comforts of The Elgin Mount Pandim and the breath-taking views.

The walk from Pemayangtse Monastery to the Ruins of Rabdentse is about 3kms. Easy downhill and flat walk.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: The Elgin Mount Pandim

Style: Heritage Luxury Boutique (or similar) 

DAY 8, PELLING – KHECHEOPALRI LAKE – YUKSUM (WALKING 2-3 HRS, DRIVE 3-4 HRS)

An optional early start for those who wish to drive to the Nyingma monastery Sanga Chöling before breakfast. From the monastery you can enjoy an incredibly beautiful view of the snow-capped mountain peaks. You can walk from the monastery to the Chenrezig statue, which was only completed in autumn 2018. This newly built complex includes a skywalk and a gallery inside the statue. With a height of 41 meters, it is the tallest of the three large statues in Sikkim.  

After breakfast, we all continue to the former capital, Yuksum. Enroute we will stop at the sacred ‘wish-fulfilling’ Khecheopalri Lake. The lake’s original name was Kha-Chot-Palri, which translates to ‘Heaven of Guru Padmasambhava’. The small, legendary lake is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus.  

From the lake we will take a pleasant hike past small villages, terraced fields and forests with cardamom plantations. The hike is mostly downhill and takes about 3 hours. From the terminus at Rathong River we continue back to Yuksum. If you wish not to hike you may take the transport down to the river and then back to Yuksum. 

The walk from the hotel to Sanga Choling Monastery is about 3kms (a little up and a little down). One can also drive to the Monastery.

Tonight, we have a 2-night stop in a modest but elegant ethnic style hotel with grand vistas. 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Red Palace

Style: 3 Star Elegant Ethnic Hotel (or similar) 

DAY 9, YUKSUM – SIKKIMESE ORGANIC FARMING (WALKING 4-5 HRS, DRIVE 1 HR)

Today we undertake a longer hike where along the way we will learn about the agriculture and the life of the locals.  Spring is the flowering season and autumn is the harvesting season for black cardamom. The 1-2m high plants are widespread throughout Sikkim and bring important income to local farmers. The harvested capsule fruits are traditionally dried over an open fire in large stone ovens, giving the spice its smoky taste. The walking path leads uphill for approximately 2 hours to a small village. Here you are invited to a local family for a traditional lunch. The family will then show you the terraced plantations on the steep slopes around the house.  All agriculture in Sikkim is organic and that is why Sikkim was declared an ‘Organic State’ in early 2016. Artificial fertilizers, pesticides or genetic engineering are prohibited by law. 

Later, we make our way to the coronation site of the first king of Sikkim. A small temple and a huge stupa announce the place where the empire was founded. We get to the Norbugang Chorten, the sacred place where the coronation of the 1st King took place in 1642. Under a gigantic cedar tree stands the stone throne on which Chogyal Phuntsok Namgyal was crowned King of Sikkim by three Lamas. We then make our way uphill to Dubdi by vehicle or on foot. Here we find the oldest monastery in Sikkim, which was built in 1701.   

The full walk is about 4-5kms and a hilly walk (a little up and a little down).

The walk from Norbugang Chorten to Dubdi Monastery is around 3kms (a little up and a little down). One can also drive to the Dubdi Monastery.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Red Palace

Style: 3 Star Elegant Ethnic Hotel (or similar) 

DAY 10: YUKSUM – RUMTEK (DRIVE 5-6 HRS)

Today’s drive is diverse and takes us through to the small town of Ravangla (Sikkim’s hidden gem) where we stroll through the town past tiny pubs and corner shops. We make a detour and visit the Buddha Park with a gigantic Buddha statue, which was inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in March 2013.  

Along the mountain ridge (which offers a spectacular panoramic view) we drive to the largest tea garden in Sikkim. The Temi tea garden is known for its excellent and organically grown tea. It is considered an insider’s tip among tea connoisseurs. It is the most charming of the tea gardens in Sikkim. We continue then to the town of Singtam on the valley floor and head north to the Rumtek region.  

We will follow the street lined with prayer flags to the original old monastery of Rumtek, dating back to 1734.  It exudes a wonderful tranquillity and is situated on a ridge with a fantastic view of the hills and fields of Martam below. A small shrine in an adjoining room is dedicated to the protector of the Kagyu School, the Mahakala. Due to its powerful effect, the figure is veiled.  

From 1959 to 1981, his Holiness the 16th Karmapa, head of the Kagyu order of Tibetan Buddhism, lived here. After fleeing to Sikkim due to the Chinese invasion of Tibet, he received asylum, support and some land from the King of Sikkim. With this he constructed the new monastery of Rumtek. His home monastery in Tsurphu in Tibet served as a template. The monastery was an important place of pilgrimage for Tibetan Buddhists during the lifetime of the 16th Karmapa. Karmapa is one of the most important reincarnations in the Tibetan Buddhist world and the head of the Karma Kagyu School. The Karma Kagyu School is one of the four main schools of Tibetan Buddhism.  

Rumtek is remote and our overnight accommodation reflects this remoteness. 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Bamboo Retreat

Style: Basic but comfortable Retreat that boasts a Permaculture Garden estate (or similar) 

DAY 11, RUMTEK – SIKKIM COUNTRYSIDE (WALKING 2-3 HRS, DRIVE 1-2 HRS)

Today we will get a deep insight into local life in the Sikkim countryside. After breakfast, we hike along narrow trails across terraced paddy fields to a small settlement. If we come across the local village Sharman, he may invite us into his house (a house built on stilts). If lucky we can witness a ceremony and enjoy drinking tea together. The villagers here rely heavily on agriculture. It is impressive to see just how they still do many things by hand. 

In the afternoon we have an optional visit to the Lingdum Zurman Kharwang monastery. Inside the colourful complex, the murals tell of important events in the life of the Buddha. The cosmopolitan monastery also maintains an active monastic school. The young religious students can often be found memorizing the Tibetan alphabet or reciting mantras (powerful prayers).  

If today, you prefer some down time you can relax at the Retreat.    

The whole walk is about 3-4kms / a hilly walk. One can also drive to the Rumtek Monastery and Ani Monastery.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Hotel Bamboo Retreat

Style: Basic but comfortable Retreat that boasts a Permaculture Garden estate (or similar)

DAY 12, RUMTEK – GANGTOK (WALKING 2 HRS, DRIVE 1-2 HRS)

Today we drive to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. We will walk to Gangtok Bazaar. Here we have an opportunity to enjoy the hustle and bustle and maybe even make a deal or two. The Institute of Tibetology has one of the finest collections of Buddhist literature, along with many thangkas, stunning bronze figures and cult objects.  

From here we can make a quick stop at Do-Drul Chorten. Traditional crafts are taught at the Cottage Industries Institute. Traditional wood carvings, textiles and bamboo items are also available here.  

Tonight, we sleep amongst the opulence of a bygone era. Nor-Khill means ‘House of Jewels’. 

The Gangtok Bazar Walk will be around 2kms and then The Institute of Tibetology is about 2kms. Tonight, we sleep amongst the opulence of a bygone era. Nor-Khill means ‘House of Jewels’.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: The Elgin Nor-Khill 

Style: Heritage Luxury (or similar) 

DAY 13, GANGTOK – SILIGURI (DRIVE 4 HRS)

We enjoy some time at leisure this morning before our scenic drive south following the Teesta River downstream towards the Dooars plains. You may wish to use your free morning to indulge in a Massage or Spa treatment or maybe take a ride on a cable car above Gangtok. Today it is necessary to break the journey and stay in Siliguri so after lunch we will head off. This makes our travel time to Bagdogra tomorrow more comfortable and perfect for our flight onto Dibrugarh. 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Mayfair Tea Resort

Style: Luxury Resort (or similar) 

DAY 14, SILIGURI – BAGDOGRA (DRIVE 30 MINS) – FLIGHT TO DIBRUGARH (1.15 HRS)

In the morning we transfer to the airport for our short flight to Dibrugarh, a city located in the far east of the province of Assam, known as the gateway to the ‘Hidden Land’ of Northeast India. Assam is known mainly for its tea culture and the Brahmaputra River which crosses it from East to West. Dibrugarh was a major centre for tea plantations during the days of the Raj. The British built many Chang Bungalows here (‘chang’ meaning raised on stilts in the local language) which served a dual purpose of keeping the house cool by allowing the breeze to blow underneath and to keep both water and animals out! We will spend tonight in one such bungalow. To achieve this overnight experience, it is necessary to spread our group over two neighbouring Heritage Chang buildings. 

In the afternoon we will pay a visit to a local tea factory, which is the oldest in the Assam state (160yrs old) for a tour and have a chance to explore the tea plantations in the vicinity. We continue out of town to visit a traditional Assamese village and market, as well as a local weaving centre. We have some time to walk in the market before our first taste of Assamese cuisine. 

Tonight’s accommodation, although we will be spread over 2 bungalows, we will all enjoy our evening meals together at Mancotta Heritage Chang Bungalow.  

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Mancotta Heritage Chang Bungalow and Chowkidinghee Heritage Chang Bungalow  

Style: Heritage Tea Bungalows (or similar) 

DAY 15, DIBRUGARH – SIVASAGAR – MON (DRIVE 5 – 6 HRS)

Today we follow the Brahmaputra River to the city of Sivasagar. The city, located in the fertile valley fames the former capital of the Ahom Kingdom. The Ahoms are descended from the Shans, who came to this area from Thailand via Northern Myanmar in the early 13th century and ruled for around 600 years. The Shiva Temple here, built by the Ahoms, is believed to be the tallest of all existing Hindu temples and is an impressive sight. We then continue our journey to Mon in the state of Nagaland. This state is one of the smallest but most mountainous. It is also one of the least visited states of India, where the allied forces finally stemmed the flow of the Japanese army from Burma during the Second World War. We will notice the change in terrain as we enter the hills and the roads become more winding and rougher, but the views become more spectacular. The tribespeople of Nagaland are known for their tattooed faces and bodies, and until relatively recently, the headhunting Naga tribes bravely fought off their intruders. The hillside village of Mon serves as an access point for the many Konyak villages in the area and we’ll spend the next two nights here to explore these. Our accommodation is limited for the next two nights as we need to be off the beaten track to fully expose ourselves to the lifestyles of the Naga peoples. The experience will be well worth the effort.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Helsa Morung Retreat/ Vinngoi Resort   

Style: Basic but comfortable accommodation (or similar) 

DAY 16, MON; TREK NYASA VILLAGE – LONGZANG VILLAGE & VEHICLE TO LONGWA – MON (DRIVING 3 HRS, WALKING 4-5 HRS)

Today we discover the country of the Naga Konyak and their villages. Our day begins with the short transfer to Nysa village, the starting point of our hike. Along the way we will get insights into the secluded living and working in the countryside amidst the mountain landscape of Nagaland. Our hike ends at Longzang where we have lunch and get to meet the local peoples.  

Afterwards, we proceed and discover the village of Longwa, which is one of the largest in the region. Located on a ridge, it is crossed by the official border between India and Myanmar (Burma). The Angh, hereditary chief of the village, has precisely positioned his house to straddle the two countries borders.  

We visit other important Naga villages including Shangnyu, which houses an amazing carved wooden panel. The Angh of this village also plays a very important role in this remote northern region of Nagaland which is very close to Arunachal Pradesh (India) and Myanmar (Burma). Later, we return to Mon where we are treated to a Naga dance performance. 

The walk today is about 4/5 kms mostly flat with a little up.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Helsa Morung Retreat/ Vinngoi Resort   

Style: Basic but comfortable accommodation (or similar)

DAY 17, MON – NIMATI GHAT (DRIVE 4-5 HRS) – MAJULI ISLAND (FERRY 2 HRS) WALKING 3-4 HRS

After early breakfast, we leave behind Nagaland and return to Assam, heading for Nimati Ghat Jetty to board the ferry to Majuli.

Majuli is the largest river island in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is still pure and untouched by the modern world and mindless tourism. Life in Majuli is serene and the Mishing tribe still make up 60% of the island’s population. 

The enjoyable ferry journey takes approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival we will take a short drive to our lodge which will be our base for tonight. Again, we can appreciate the effort it takes to explore these far and fascinating communities. 

After lunch, we will take a short drive to visit the Auniati Satra, or Hindu Vaishnavite monastery. Here we will take a walk around the monk quarters and the prayer hall where we hope to have a chance to interact with the monks. We will also visit a community tribal village. We then return to our guest house for the evening where we may have the chance to witness a Satriya or monastic dance.  

The walk today is about 3/4 kms mostly flat walk.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Enchanting Majuli Resort    

Style: Basic but comfortable accommodation (or similar) 

DAY 18, MAJULI ISLAND – NIMATI GHAT (FERRY 2.5 HRS) – KAZIRANGA NP (DRIVE 3 HRS)

After breakfast we drive to the village of Samaguri to see the art of traditional mask making. These masks are used in bhaonas or one-act plays in the Satras, mostly during festival times. After our visit we say goodbye to the stilt houses and take the ferry back to the mainland where we leave with fond memories of Majuli Island’s simple way of life.  

We make our way now to the World Heritage Site of Kaziranga National Park located in the fertile plains of Brahmaputra. We are now at the foot of the Himalayan hills of Assam. Our journey will take around 3 hours.  

We arrive late afternoon and check-in at the IORA The Retreat hotel where we’ll spend our next two nights in the heart of this magnificent landscape. The area is well known for the amazing birdlife, and we may just be lucky enough to spot ‘The Big Five of Kaziranga’.  

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: IORA – The Retreat

Style: 4-star Retreat (or similar) 

DAY 19, KAZIRANGA NP

Kaziranga National Park is a World Heritage Site and Tiger reserve. It’s home to the Royal Bengal Tiger and more than 80% of the world’s population of the Great One-Horned Rhinoceros. It also has a significant population of Asian Elephants and Asiatic Water Buffalo. Combined with the Eastern Swamp Deer we have ‘The Big Five’. 

It has a wide variety of flora and avifauna in a unique habitat of mainly grasslands. More than 400 species of birds – both resident and migratory – are also found here.  Nine of the fourteen primates found in India do occur in this park. We may see the capped and golden langur or the hoolock gibbon.  

To do the park justice we will enjoy a morning and afternoon jeep safari to discover the diversity of Kaziranga NP and fingers crossed we get to encounter the Great One-Horned Rhinos. After lunch, we resume our safari in a different area of ​​the park. A new environment with the possibility of new animal encounters like deer, wild boar and a rich variety of water birds including herons, black-collared storks, Indian hornbills and eagles. If we get to see a Bengal Tiger on top of all that then it’s time to head back to base to celebrate! 

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: IORA – The Retreat    

Style: 4-star Retreat (or similar)  

DAY 20, KAZIRANGA NP – JORHAT (DRIVE 2.5 HRS) – KOLKATA (FLIGHT 1.40 HRS)

After a leisurely breakfast, we drive to Johrat airport (2.5 hours) for our short flight back to Kolkata. Upon arrival we will transfer to our hotel.  After checking in to the hotel the balance of the day is yours to explore before our final farewell dinner. 

Here we will take the time to remember our adventures over the past three weeks and reflect on just how amazing it was to get to see some of the more traditional tribal peoples of this extraordinary country.  

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Farewell Dinner.

Overnight: The LaLit Great Eastern 

Style: Heritage Luxury (or similar) 

DAY 20, DEPARTURE DAY

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast this morning before the tour ends.  There may be time for some last-minute shopping before being transferred to Kolkata International airport to catch your flight home. 

Meals included: Breakfast

VIEW THE NORTHEAST INDIA BROCHURE

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TOUR INCLUDES

  • 20 Nights Accommodation on twin/double sharing basis (single supplement applicable for single travellers).
  • Airport arrival transfer on day 1 of the tour and departure transfer on day 21 of the tour.
  • Daily breakfasts, lunch and dinners at hotels, except lunch on day 1 and dinner on day 2 in Kolkata. Lunches will be at local restaurants while we are out and about. This is a great opportunity to taste the local specialties.
  • All transport in either a coach or private vehicles.
  • All the entry fees to monuments/activities as per the itinerary.
  • Boat ride on Hooghly River, Kolkata.
  • Toy train joy ride in Darjeeling mountains.
  • An exclusive ferry from Nimati Ghat – Majuli Island – Nimati Ghat as per the itinerary.
  • In Kaziranga NP. Two game drives by an exclusive 4×4 jeep with naturalist/guide (4‐5 Passengers in one jeep)
  • English speaking local guide throughout the itinerary.
  • English speaking local guide in Darjeeling‐Sikkim & Assam‐Nagaland as per the itinerary.
  • The Indian Goods and Services Tax (GST)

TOUR EXCLUDES

  • Comprehensive Travel insurance (Compulsory).
  • Transfers outside of day 1 and day 21 are not included and will be added to the tour cost.
  • Lunch on day 1 & Dinner on day 2 in Kolkata.
  • Expenses of a personal nature like laundry, internet, alcohol, snacks etc.
  • Camera/video camera fees at some monuments.
  • Local Airport departure taxes.
  • India Visa Fees.
  • Tips and Gratuities. (see special notes below).
  • Any expenses caused by factors beyond our control.
  • Any other services not mentioned in Price Inclusions above.

OUR TRANSPORT STYLE

  • Chauffeured air‐conditioned vehicles for all transfers.
  • Excursions and sightseeing tours by air‐conditioned Mini Coach (for 10‐14 passengers) and Large Coach (from 15 Passengers onwards) in Kolkata.
  • We will provide air‐conditioned Innova/Scorpio large cars for the balance of the tour.

TIPS & GRATUITIES

PLEASE NOTE:

  • Tipping of drivers, guides and accommodation staff is customary in India. We have found from experience that the best way to deal with this is to generate a ‘tips kitty’ which takes away the guess work and the need for constant small change which can be embarrassing.
  • Please budget US$15 dollars a day (US$300) cash for this kitty.
  • Please have cash ready for collection at our pre departure meeting on day 1.
  • Small denominations are best. We will, where possible, ask guests to assist in the distribution of the kitty money to ensure full transparency. We always inform the hotels on arrival that we will be organising a group gratuity at the end of our stay.

NOTE: USD$ notes must be 2013 series or newer as older notes are often not accepted in developing countries.

SPECIAL NOTES

IMPORTANT:

Domestic flights on the Indian subcontinent impose baggage restrictions:

  • 15kgs for check in baggage.
  • 7kgs for cabin baggage.
  • Additional baggage fees may apply.
  • We have 3 included flights on this itinerary. The price of these included flights is subject to change until we have guaranteed the departure and have your passport details on file.
  • The total value of the 3 quoted flights is currently $420.00 per person (as of 26 Sept 2024)
  • Additional luggage may be stored at the start/end point hotel in Kolkata. Charges may apply.
  • Check‐in time at hotels is usually 14.00 hrs and check out time is 12.00 noon.

NOTE: In case of any significant foreign exchange fluctuations or amendment in local Government taxes, or fuel hikes etc, our in-country operator reserves the right to reprice the tour accordingly.

AUD REPRICE CLAUSE

G&T price our tours on a very narrow margin to give you, our clubbers, the very best possible value for money. In the event of a major currency fluctuation/devaluation, we reserve the right to recalculate the price until the final payment due date. If the AUD versus INR (Indian Rupee) rate drops below AUD 1 = INR 50 we reserve the right to reprice the tour.

NOTE: This ‘trigger rate’ of AUD 1 = INR 50 is not the ‘official rate’ you see advertised by the bank, but our ‘buy’ rate when we purchase the currency through our bank which is the National Australia Bank (NAB).

G&T NUTS & BOLTS

We are not a Tour Company, we are a Travel Club. This means this tour is not open to the general public. This invitation is only for those of you who have travelled with us before and is extended to your family and friends.

PLEASE NOTE:

Our G&T Travel Club is not associated in any way with Adventure Wild Pty Ltd. Adventure Wild are very aware and fully supportive of our Travel Club but please ensure all correspondence is directed back to us.

GRAB YOUR SPOT

  • This tour has only one departure, so seats are strictly limited, and it is a first in first served basis to secure a spot.
  • Our group sizes are a minimum 10 guests and a maximum 16 guests, plus Gools and Thommo.
  • Tour group size is dictated by the maximum number of rooms available at our selected accommodation Therefore, if we have several single travellers the max group size will decrease.
  • Some of our chosen smaller heritage accommodations have just 10 rooms in total. And in some cases, we need to utilise 2 different properties due to the remoteness of this tour.

NOTE: Completing & submitting a booking form does not automatically secure your booking.

  • Once we receive your form, we will check availability and confirm with you asap.
  • Once received, G&T will confirm and provide an invoice for your deposit.
  • A $2000 AUD non-refundable deposit is required and receipt of your deposit by G&T Travel Club will then secure your booking.
CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR BOOKING REQUEST