WHY TRAVEL WITH US
culture & nature
Eastern Discovery
Cultures, Rhinos & the Hornbill Spirit
Tour Duration:15 Days / 14 Nights
Step into the captivating world of Northeast India on this 14-day journey across Bengal, Assam, and Nagaland. Begin in the colonial charm of Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, before travelling to the wild floodplains of Assam, where Kaziranga's rhinos roam. Explore the sacred river island of Majuli and its ancient monastic traditions. Then, ascend into the hills of Nagaland, where tribal cultures are preserved with deep pride and celebrated in full splendour at the world-renowned Hornbill Festival. This thoughtfully paced tour offers a vibrant fusion of history, wildlife, spirituality, and living heritage, ideal for curious travellers seeking immersive and meaningful experiences.
A 15-day journey through Bengal, Assam & Nagaland with the Hornbill Festival
Highlights
- Walk through Kolkata’s colonial heritage and vibrant markets.
- Jeep safaris in Kaziranga National Park, home to the one-horned rhinoceros.
- Ferry rides on the Brahmaputra River and visit to Majuli, the world’s largest river island.
- Discover the cultural richness and tribal traditions of Nagaland.
- Attend the spectacular Hornbill Festival, a vibrant showcase of Naga heritage.
- Traditional food tastings, village walks, and artisan interactions.
Detailed Programme
Day 1: Arrival in Kolkata
Arrive in Kolkata, India’s cultural capital. You’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, the remainder of the day is at leisure to rest or explore your surroundings. If time allows, you may choose to take a walk along the riverside ghats or enjoy a casual dinner at a heritage café.
Overnight in Kolkata.
Day 2: Discovering the Colonial Charm of Kolkata
Begin your day with a guided heritage walk through the colonial precincts of Dalhousie Square, with visits to historic landmarks such as St. John’s Church, the Writer’s Building, and the General Post Office. In the afternoon, explore the grand Victoria Memorial and visit Tagore’s House to understand Bengal’s intellectual and artistic legacy. Later, wander through the lively markets of New Market or explore Kumartuli, the artisan district.
Overnight in Kolkata.
Day 3: Fly to Assam and Drive to Kaziranga National Park
Take a morning flight to Jorhat (or via Guwahati) and drive through the fertile plains of Assam to Kaziranga National Park. Check in to your jungle lodge and enjoy a relaxed evening amidst the sounds of the forest. Dinner is served at the lodge with views over the river or garden.
Overnight in Kaziranga.
Day 4: Wildlife Encounters in Kaziranga
Enjoy morning and afternoon jeep safaris in different zones of Kaziranga. The park is famed for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses and also supports wild elephants, swamp deer, water buffalo, and elusive big cats. Bird lovers will appreciate sightings of hornbills, kingfishers, and migratory storks. In between safaris, you can visit a local orchid garden or stop by a Mishing tribal village.
Overnight in Kaziranga.
Day 5: Tea Estates and Local Culture
Start the day with another early safari or a more relaxed breakfast followed by a visit to a nearby tea estate. Learn about the history and process of Assam tea production and enjoy a tasting session. Return to the lodge for a quiet evening. Optional cultural performance can be arranged on request.
Overnight in Kaziranga.
Day 6: Ferry to Majuli Island
After breakfast, drive to Nimatighat and take a ferry to Majuli Island, one of the world’s largest river islands and a unique cultural landscape. Check in to your island lodge and enjoy a home-style Assamese lunch. Later, visit a Satra monastery to observe the daily rituals and meet the monks. Enjoy sunset over the riverbank.
Overnight in Majuli.
Day 7: Cultural Immersion on Majuli
Spend the day exploring Majuli’s cultural treasures. Visit several Satras that have preserved art forms such as Sattriya dance and theatre. Meet mask makers, potters, and weavers who continue centuries-old traditions. Take a cycle or bullock-cart ride through the island’s scenic paddy fields and wetlands.
Overnight in Majuli.
Day 8: Drive to Mokokchung in the Naga Hills
Return to the mainland by ferry and continue by road to Mokokchung in Nagaland. Enjoy scenic views as you ascend into the cooler hill country. Arrive in the evening and settle into your homestay or guesthouse.
Overnight in Mokokchung.
Day 9: Exploring Ao Naga Villages
Today you will explore Ao Naga culture in the nearby villages of Ungma and Mopungchuket. Visit traditional homes and village museums, and learn about the Ao people's rich oral traditions, crafts, and unique religious practices. Engage with the community through informal conversations and shared meals.
Overnight in Mokokchung.
Day 10: Journey to Touphema Village
Drive to the model Angami village of Touphema, where you’ll stay in traditional-style cottages managed by the local community. After lunch, take a guided walk through the village and learn about local customs, attire, and agricultural life. In the evening, enjoy a cultural programme featuring folk music, dance, and a traditional feast around the hearth.
Overnight in Touphema.
Day 11: Onward to Kohima
Depart for Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, and check into your hotel or comfortable festival camp. Visit the Kohima War Cemetery, a beautifully maintained memorial honouring soldiers who fought in WWII. Continue to the State Museum to get an overview of Nagaland’s many tribes. Enjoy dinner at a local Naga restaurant.
Overnight in Kohima.
Day 12: Hornbill Festival – Day 1
Spend a full day at the Hornbill Festival in Kisama Heritage Village, where Naga tribes from across the region gather to showcase their cultural heritage through dance, music, sport, crafts, and food. From log drum performances to archery contests and beauty pageants, the atmosphere is vibrant and inclusive. Sample a wide array of local dishes at the food court.
Overnight in Kohima.
Day 13: Hornbill Festival – Day 2 & Khonoma Village
This morning, take a half-day trip to Khonoma, a picturesque Angami village known for its conservation efforts and traditional architecture. Walk through its terraced farms and meet local elders who share stories of resistance and resilience. Return to the Hornbill Festival for more performances and tribal showcases.
Overnight in Kohima.
Day 14: Return to Kolkata via Dimapur
After breakfast, drive to Dimapur and fly to Kolkata. Check in to a comfortable hotel for your final night in India. The evening is free to relax or enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city’s iconic restaurants.
Overnight in Kolkata.
HORNBILL FESTIVAL
The Festival is an annual cultural extravaganza held in Nagaland, India, celebrating the rich heritage of the state's indigenous tribes. It takes place at the Kisama Heritage Village, located approximately 12 km from Kohima, the capital of Nagaland.
Festival Dates:
- 2025: December 1 to December 10
- 2026: December 1 to December 10
