How To Plan A Trip To Assam And Arunachal From Major Indian Cities – Ideal Itinerary & Duration?

Whether you’re flying from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, or any other major city, this guide will help you plan your journey — including travel routes, ideal duration, and must-visit attractions in each state.

Starting Your Journey

The gateway to Assam and Arunachal Pradesh is Guwahati, well-connected by flights from all major Indian cities.

• Delhi to Guwahati: 2.5 hours

• Mumbai to Guwahati: 3.5–4 hours

• Bangalore to Guwahati: 4 hours

From Guwahati, travelers can explore Assam’s famous destinations before heading north toward Arunachal Pradesh’s mountainous landscapes.

Ideal Duration – 9 to 10 Days

A 10-day itinerary offers the perfect balance between sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation. Here’s a sample plan:

Suggested 10-Day Itinerary for  Assam and Arunachal Pradesh Tour

Day 1: Arrive in Guwahati; visit Maa Kamakhya Temple and take a Brahmaputra River cruise.

Day 2: Drive to Kaziranga National Park (5 hrs) and enjoy an evening safari.

Day 3: Morning elephant safari at Kaziranga; drive to Tezpur or Bomdila (6 hrs).

Day 4: Continue to Tawang via Sela Pass (13,700 ft).

Day 5: Explore Tawang Monastery, War Memorial, and Madhuri Lake.

Day 6: Drive to Bomdila, visit apple orchards and monasteries.

Day 7: Head to Ziro Valley, known for its unique Apatani tribal villages.

Day 8: Explore Ziro and nearby attractions; experience local music and cuisine.

Day 9: Return to Guwahati via Itanagar or Naharlagun.

Day 10: Depart from Guwahati.

Top Attractions in Assam

1. Kaziranga National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, and tigers.

2. Majuli Island – The world’s largest river island, known for its monasteries (Satras) and peaceful environment.

3. Guwahati – Visit Kamakhya Temple, Umananda Island, and Assam State Museum. Don’t miss a sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra.

4. Tea Gardens of Dibrugarh and Jorhat – Walk through scenic tea estates, enjoy tastings, and learn about the tea-making process.

Top Attractions in Arunachal Pradesh

1. Tawang – The spiritual heart of Arunachal, home to the Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, and stunning Himalayan views.

2. Ziro Valley – A UNESCO tentative site famous for the Ziro Music Festival, picturesque rice fields, and Apatani tribal culture.

3. Bomdila – Surrounded by the Himalayas, it offers apple orchards, monasteries, and charming local markets.

4. Namdapha National Park – One of India’s richest biodiversity hotspots, home to red pandas and snow leopards.

Adventure and Activities

• River Rafting: The Brahmaputra and Subansiri rivers offer thrilling rafting experiences.

• Trekking: Explore Gorichen Base Camp and Mechuka Valley for spectacular Himalayan treks.

• Wildlife Safaris: Visit Kaziranga and Manas National Parks for rhino and tiger sightings.

• Cultural Experiences: Attend local festivals like Bihu in Assam or Losar in Arunachal Pradesh.

Local Cuisine to Try in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh

In Assam:

Masor Tenga (sour fish curry), Assamese Thali, and Pitha (rice cake).

In Arunachal Pradesh:

Thukpa (noodle soup), Bamboo Shoot Curry, and Apong (local rice beer).

Both states offer food prepared with local herbs, fresh vegetables, and a touch of homely hospitality.

Travel Requirements & Tips to Visit Assam and Arunachal Pradesh

• Permits: Visitors need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh. It can be obtained online or from Guwahati.

• Weather: Carry warm clothes, as temperatures in Arunachal can drop significantly.

• Connectivity: Mobile networks may be weak in remote areas, so plan accordingly.

• Respect Local Customs: Always ask before photographing people or religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Assam and Arunachal Pradesh

The best months to explore both states are October to April, when the weather is pleasant and road conditions are ideal. Avoid the monsoon season (June–September) due to heavy rainfall in hilly regions.

How to Reach

• By Air: Guwahati Airport (Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport) serves as the main hub.

• By Train: Major stations include Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Naharlagun (Itanagar).

• By Road: National highways connect Assam and Arunachal; taxis and rented vehicles are best for sightseeing.

Conclusion

A trip to Assam and Arunachal Pradesh is more than just a holiday — it’s a soulful journey through nature, spirituality, and culture. From Kaziranga’s grasslands to Tawang’s monasteries and Ziro’s green valleys, this itinerary promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Quick Info Table – Assam & Arunachal Pradesh Travel Guide

FAQs with Short Answers

1. How many days are enough for Assam and Arunachal Pradesh?
   A 9–10 day itinerary is ideal to explore key destinations in both states.

2. Do I need a permit to visit Arunachal Pradesh?
   Yes, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indian citizens.

3. When is the best time to visit Assam and Arunachal Pradesh?
   October to April is the best time with pleasant weather and clear skies.

4. How do I reach Tawang from Guwahati?
   By road via Bomdila and Sela Pass; it takes around 12–13 hours.

5. Is it safe to travel in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh?
   Yes, both are safe with friendly locals and improving infrastructure.

6. What is special about Kaziranga National Park?
   It’s famous for its one-horned rhinoceros and rich wildlife diversity.

7. Which is better to visit first — Assam or Arunachal?
   Start with Assam (Guwahati/Kaziranga) and move towards Arunachal.

8. Can I do Assam and Arunachal trip by train?
   Partial routes yes, but major travel within requires road journeys.

9. What food should I try during the trip?
   Masor Tenga, Assamese Thali, Thukpa, and Bamboo Shoot Curry.

10. What’s the average budget for a 10-day Assam-Arunachal trip?
    Around ₹35,000–₹50,000 per person depending on travel style.