UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, has recognized several sites and elements of cultural and natural heritage in the North East region of India. These designations aim to preserve and promote the unique cultural and environmental diversity found in this part of the country. Here are some UNESCO-recognized sites and elements in North East India:
Kaziranga National Park (Assam): Kaziranga National Park, located in the Indian state of Assam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is renowned for its conservation efforts for the Indian one-horned rhinoceros and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and numerous bird species. The square kilometer area of Kaziranga National Park, Assam, is 1,090 km².
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary (Assam): Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, also located in Assam, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its significant biodiversity and is home to many endangered species, including the Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, and Indian rhinoceros. The square kilometer area of Manas National Park, Assam, is 950 km².
Sivasagar Sivadol (Assam): The Sivadol, located in the town of Sivasagar in Assam, is a prominent religious monument recognized by UNESCO as a tentative World Heritage Site. It is an important center of Assamese culture and Hindu religious heritage.
The Ahom Monuments of Sivasagar (Assam): This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes a group of historical monuments in Sivasagar associated with the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for several centuries. These monuments include temples, palaces, and tanks.
Khangchendzonga National Park (Sikkim): Khangchendzonga National Park, located in the Indian state of Sikkim, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is named after Mount Khangchendzonga, the third-highest peak in the world, and is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna.
Thembang Dzong (Arunachal Pradesh): Thembang Dzong in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh is a tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an ancient fortified village and is culturally significant to the Monpa tribe.
Living Root Bridges (Meghalaya): While not officially recognized by UNESCO, the living root bridges found in the Indian state of Meghalaya are natural wonders and an important cultural heritage of the Khasi and Jaintia tribes. These bridges are created by training tree roots to grow across rivers and streams.
These UNESCO recognitions reflect the cultural and natural richness of the North East region of India and the efforts to preserve and promote these unique assets. Keep in mind that the UNESCO status of some sites may change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest updates from UNESCO for the most current information.
Key Consideration:
- A plan for 20 Days for two people.
- Keeping it relaxed.
- Originates and ends in New Delhi.
- Staying in decent hotels, which included breakfast.
- High level estimate. Travelers are to reconfirm the latest prices before making the trip. Season, number of People could drive the cost factor. All estimates are in USD.
- If time does not permit for 20 days you can keep it shorter by selecting a handful of UNESCO locations.
Day 1-2: Arrival in Guwahati, Assam
- Fly from New Delhi to Guwahati.
- Hotel: Ginger Guwahati or similar (2 nights).
- Explore Guwahati, visit Kamakhya Temple, and relax by the Brahmaputra River.
Day 3-4: Kaziranga National Park
- Drive to Kaziranga National Park (Approx. 4 hours).
- Hotel: IORA – The Retreat or similar (2 nights).
- Enjoy safaris in Kaziranga to spot wildlife, including one-horned rhinoceros.
Day 5-7: Manas Wildlife Sanctuary
- Drive to Manas Wildlife Sanctuary (Approx. 5-6 hours).
- Hotel: Bansbari Lodge or similar (3 nights).
- Explore Manas Wildlife Sanctuary and go on wildlife safaris.
Day 8-9: Return to Guwahati
- Drive back to Guwahati (Approx. 4-5 hours).
- Hotel: Ginger Guwahati or similar (2 nights).
- Relax and explore the city further.
Day 10-11: Sivasagar
- Drive to Sivasagar (Approx. 6-7 hours).
- Hotel: Hotel Piccolo or similar (2 nights).
- Explore the Ahom monuments and Sivadol.
Day 12: Journey to Arunachal Pradesh
- Drive to Thembang Dzong in Arunachal Pradesh (Approx. 5-6 hours).
- Tentative UNESCO site, so accommodations might be limited.
- Camping or homestay experience.
Day 13-14: Shillong, Meghalaya
- Drive to Shillong (Approx. 7-8 hours).
- Hotel: Ri Kynjai Serenity by the Lake or similar (2 nights).
- Relax in the serene atmosphere of Shillong.
Day 15-16: Cherrapunji
- Drive to Cherrapunji (Approx. 2-3 hours).
- Hotel: Polo Orchid Resort or similar (2 nights).
- Visit the living root bridges and explore the scenic beauty.
Day 17-18: Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim
- Fly to Bagdogra Airport (near Siliguri).
- Drive to Khangchendzonga National Park (Approx. 5-6 hours).
- Hotel: Norbu Ghang Resort or similar (2 nights).
- Explore the national park, go for nature walks.
Day 19: Return to New Delhi
- Drive to Bagdogra Airport and fly back to New Delhi.
- Hotel: Suggested hotel near the airport for convenience (1 night).
Day 20: Departure from New Delhi
- Depart from New Delhi.
Estimated Cost Breakdown:
- Air Tickets (New Delhi to Guwahati, Bagdogra to New Delhi): $1,200 per person.
- Accommodations (16 nights): $3,500 for 2 people.
- Food (per day): $40 per person x 20 days = $800 for 2 people.
- Car Rental (including fuel and driver): $1,200 for 20 days.
- Miscellaneous and activities: $1,000.
Total Estimated Cost for 2 People: Approximately $7,700
Please note that these estimates can vary significantly based on your preferences and choices. Prices for accommodations, flights, and car rentals may fluctuate depending on the time of year and availability. Additionally, it’s essential to book accommodations well in advance, especially for remote areas like Thembang Dzong in Arunachal Pradesh, which may have limited options.
When planning a trip to the UNESCO-recognized sites in North East India, it’s essential to consider the climate of each destination as it can significantly impact your travel experience. Here’s a climate overview and some recommendations for each of the places you’ll visit:
Guwahati, Assam (Kamakhya Temple):
- Climate: Guwahati experiences a subtropical climate with warm and humid summers (March to June) and a monsoon season (June to September). Winters (November to February) are mild and dry.
- Recommendations: Visit during the winter months when the weather is pleasant for exploring the city and its attractions.
Kaziranga National Park (Assam):
- Climate: Similar to Guwahati, Kaziranga has a subtropical climate. The best time to visit is during the dry winter months (November to February).
- Recommendations: Plan your visit between November and February to maximize wildlife sightings and comfortable safaris.
Manas Wildlife Sanctuary (Assam):
- Climate: Manas experiences a subtropical monsoon climate. The ideal time to visit is from November to April when the weather is cool and dry.
- Recommendations: Visit during the dry season for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Sivasagar (Assam):
- Climate: Sivasagar has a subtropical climate similar to Guwahati. Winters are the best time to explore the historical monuments.
- Recommendations: Visit during the winter months (November to February) for pleasant weather.
Thembang Dzong (Arunachal Pradesh):
- Climate: Arunachal Pradesh generally has a pleasant climate, but Thembang Dzong may experience cold temperatures in the winter months.
- Recommendations: Carry warm clothing if visiting in winter, and check local conditions as accommodations might be basic.
Shillong (Meghalaya):
- Climate: Shillong enjoys a temperate climate. Summers are pleasant, and the monsoon season (June to September) can be wet.
- Recommendations: Visit during the summer (April to June) for comfortable weather and clear skies.
Cherrapunji (Meghalaya):
- Climate: Cherrapunji is one of the wettest places on Earth and receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.
- Recommendations: Visit between October and May to avoid excessive rainfall.
Khangchendzonga National Park (Sikkim):
- Climate: Sikkim has a varied climate. The best time to visit Khangchendzonga National Park is from March to May and September to November.
- Recommendations: Plan your visit during the spring or autumn for clear views and pleasant weather.
When planning your trip, make sure to check the current weather conditions and forecasts for each destination, especially if you plan to visit during the monsoon season. Packing appropriate clothing, including rain gear, is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
Please go to AMAZON link below to shop for the appropriate clothing that you might need.
Please customize this itinerary to your preferences and interests. Ensure you check for any travel advisories, entry permits, and COVID-19 guidelines before your trip. Hotel names and phone numbers can be found through online booking platforms or travel websites closer to your travel date.
Shopping:
Some of the essential items are listed below. Get it from Amazon. Suggested items as per the climate and the place you are visiting. Avoid shopping if you are unsure how to bargain, considering language limitations. You are better off shopping in places that clearly state fixed prices. Time could be a constraint; please keep that in mind.
Things you might need: