Anyone who has grown up in the Northeast will tell you about the simple joys as a child of the region — swimming in clear mountain pools, spotting orchids on forest walks, and the quiet thrill of a jungle safari. These are exactly the kind of experiences that bring families closer together.

Fly into Guwahati and head straight to Kaziranga National Park, home to the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, alongside elephants, wild buffalo and a wealth of birdlife, with the chance to spot river dolphins on a nearby boat ride. Then journey into Meghalaya, the land of clouds, to explore the living root bridges of Wahrew and Umkar, swim in crystal-clear pools, marvel at cascading waterfalls and venture into ancient caves — adventures that captivate children and grandparents alike.

With local cuisines, knowledgeable guides, comfortable stays and experienced drivers, this is an offbeat family experience designed for connection, discovery and rejuvenation in the lap of nature.

Cherrapunjee – known as the wettest place on earth, definitely earns that title, however the rains fall during the heavy monsoon, which fills all the water bodies and keeps the state verdant and green. Surrounded by waterfalls and hiking opportunities, and living root bridges, it is also famous for the legacy of the Welsh missionaries who came and established settlements, schools and churches in the town.

Kaziranga – A UNESCO World Heritage Site along the banks of the Brahmaputra, Kaziranga is home to the world’s largest population of the great one-horned rhinoceros, alongside elephants, wild buffalo, swamp deer and the elusive Royal Bengal tiger. With its sweeping grasslands, rich birdlife and unforgettable safaris at dawn, it is the wild heart of Assam.

Living Root Bridges – The Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya are made using the auxiliary roots of the ficus trees. There are about 100 or so documented bridges in Meghalaya, These bridges were made by local villagers, sometimes over 100 years ago, and provided a means for them to cross over deep river gorges, connecting them one village to another. An ingenious natural and sustainable engineering method of maintaining connectivity.

Shillong – Also known as the Scotland of the East, Shillong is a charming hill station and capital of Meghalaya, as well as the capital of rock music in India. Surrounded by the Khasi Hills, forests and waterfalls, visit Shillong’s trendy cafes and Bara Bazaar, a bustling market and Uminag Lake on its outskirts for activities and gorgeous sunsets.

• Multiple jeep safaris through one of India’s most celebrated wildlife reserves, with the chance to spot the iconic one-horned rhino, elephants, wild buffalo and a wealth of birdlife
• A scenic boat ride along the Brahmaputra in search of the elusive river dolphin
• Guided eco-cultural walks through traditional tribal villages, led by local NGOs supporting community and environmental restoration
• Encounters with indigenous weaving, silk rearing and rustic bamboo craft demonstrations
• Visits to some of Meghalaya’s most extraordinary natural wonders, including the famed living root bridges
• Walks to sacred groves and ancient forests rich in cultural and ecological significance
• Time at hidden waterfalls, crystal-clear pools and dramatic limestone caves
• A guided heritage walk through colonial neighbourhoods and bustling local markets
• A glimpse into the region’s unique traditions, including the local archery game of Teer
• A hosted dinner with a local chef showcasing contemporary regional cuisine
• Meaningful encounters with the custodians of the living root bridges, who have dedicated their lives to preserving this remarkable natural heritage
• Stays at warm, locally run properties with home-cooked meals and authentic hospitality

Kaziranga is best visited between November and April, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are at their peak. Daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 26°C, with cooler mornings ideal for safaris. The park remains closed during the monsoon months (May to October), when heavy rains flood the grasslands and travel is not recommended.

Shillong is most beautiful during the spring when daytime highs range from 18°C to 22°C. Visit in November to witness India’s very own Cherry Blossom Festival.

In Cherrapunji, daytime temperatures range from 23°C to 17°C in the spring months, and between 8°C and 20°C in winter. The famed waterfalls of Meghalaya are at their most spectacular just after the monsoon, gradually drying out by April and May.

Due to the intense rains during the monsoon, we do not recommend travel at this time.

Day 1 |

Guwahati – Kaziranga Arrive at Guwahati Airport, where your driver will greet you for the scenic 4–5 hour drive to Kaziranga, passing through tea gardens and the Brahmaputra valley. Check in and unwind for the evening.

Day 2 |

Kaziranga Set out early for a morning jeep safari through Kaziranga National Park, returning to the property for breakfast and downtime. Head out again post-lunch for a second safari in a different range of the park. Optional in the evening: a visit to the Kaziranga Orchid Park for a cultural performance.

Day 3 |

Kaziranga – Shillong Begin with a guided eco-cultural walk to a nearby Karbi tribal village, organised with Aaranyak, an NGO supporting conservation and local livelihoods. Check out and drive onward to Shillong, with a lunch stop en route.

Day 4 |

Shillong Drive out to Laitlum Canyon for sweeping views of gorges and rolling hills. Later, visit the Don Bosco Museum for an insight into Northeast India’s tribal heritage, and in the afternoon, witness Teer — Shillong’s unique traditional archery game where you can place your own bets alongside the locals.

Day 5 |

Shillong A guided heritage walk through Shillong’s colonial neighbourhoods, followed by a stroll around Ward’s Lake and time at the vibrant Bara Bazar. In the evening, enjoy a special hosted dinner with a local chef — a warm introduction to contemporary regional cuisine.

Day 6 |

Shillong – Mawphlang – Cherrapunjee Visit the Mawphlang Sacred Grove with a local guide, followed by a freshly prepared lunch near the forest. Continue onward to Cherrapunjee and unwind for the evening.

Day 7 |

Cherrapunjee A full day exploring the region’s natural highlights — clear-water boating at Wahrew, the limestone formations of the Arwah Caves, the majestic Nohkalikai Falls, and the historic Welsh settlement.

Day 8 |

Cherrapunjee – Umkar – Guwahati Drive to Umkar to visit a living root bridge and meet Hally War, who has dedicated his life to preserving these extraordinary natural wonders. Continue on to Guwahati (around 5.5 hours), with a lunch stop at the Risai complex in Nongpoh, known for its eri silk textile studio.

Day 9 |

Guwahati – Departure Before your flight, choose between a textile shopping experience or a leisurely lunch at a farm by the Brahmaputra. Bid farewell to your driver at the airport, carrying with you the memories of an unforgettable journey through Assam and Meghalaya.