You may embark on this Assam Nagaland Manipur road trip to explore the history, culture and wildlife of these three north-eastern states of India. With visits to two revered temples, you can learn about the religious beliefs of the locals. The war memorials in Kohima and Imphal bespeak about the brave warriors of the Commonwealth forces, who stopped the Japanese from entering India. In Kohima, you also have the opportunity to attend the Hornbill Festival, which draws hordes from around the country. You will learn a lot about the Naga tribes while you explore the city of Kohima. This Assam Nagaland Manipur Jeep safari tour will take you on two naturalistic excursions in Kaziranga National Park and around Loktak Lake.

Itinerary:                                                      

Day 01: Arrival in Imphal | Local Sightseeing

On arrival at Imphal International Airport, transfer to the hotel and enjoy refreshments. Imphal – the capital of the Manipur state – is located about 2500 feet above sea level. Its humid subtropical climate, combined with it moderate elevation, bestows it with pleasant weather all through the year.

After resting for some time at the hotel, begin the Assam Nagaland Manipur road trip by going on a sightseeing excursion. First, head to Govindajee Temple, located on the banks of the Imphal River in front of lush lawns. This twin-domed shrine is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Lord Balarama, Subhadra, Lord Krishna and Lord Jagan Nath. Thereafter, move to Ima Market – one of the few sites that are run exclusively by women. Here, you can buy household tools, groceries and meat. Later, move back to the hotel and take some rest.

Day 02: Sightseeing in Imphal

In the morning, travel to Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is located within Loktak Lake. The national park comprises masses of decayed plants and animals that have formed reef-life structures, called phumdis. Among the species of animals here are sangai deer, hog deer, wild boars, rats, vipers, kraits, foxes and jungle cats.

Thereafter, head to Bishnupur to see the Vishnu temple, built in the 15^th century. Later, travel back to Imphal by road and on the way; stop at the Japanese War Memorial. The site houses a cemetery, containing graves of around 1600 soldiers, who died in WWII. After the memorial visit, come back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 03: Imphal to Kohima (approx. 137 km | 2.5 hours) | Hornbill Festival

After breakfast, check-out from the hotel and head to Kohima. The capital of the state of Nagaland, Kohima has a hilly terrain and a picturesque setting. Warm summers and cool winters characterise the local weather, which is governed by humid subtropical climate. On reaching the city, travel to the venue of the popular Hornbill Festival and enjoy the day at leisure. Later, transfer to the hotel to rest at night.

Day 04: Sightseeing in Kohima

Following breakfast, travel to the village of Khonoma, which is surrounded by lush forests. In the recent time, its policy of an environment-friendly way of life has increased its popularity as a tourist destination. Later, head to the Kohima War Cemetery, constructed at the site of a fierce hand-to-hand battle between the Commonwealth and Japanese forces during WWII.

From here, move to the State Museum to learn about the tribal culture of Nagaland. Here, see weapons, jewellery, traditional attires and a ceremonial drum. Thereafter, travel to the Handicrafts Emporium to admire and shop for locally produced artefacts. After the sightseeing excursion, either attend the Hornbill Festival or retreat to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 05: Kohima to Kaziranga National Park (approx. 235 km | 5 hours)

Post breakfast at the hotel, check-out and embark on a drive to Kaziranga National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for holding the single largest population of the endangered one-horned rhinoceroses. The approximately 858-sq km territory of the park contains vast grasslands and thick forests. On reaching the destination, transfer to the resort and rest at night.

Day 06: Wildlife Safaris

Following breakfast, continue the Assam Nagaland Manipur Jeep safari tour by boarding the 4X4 vehicles and heading into the central range of the park. Thereafter, relish lunch and embark on yet another Jeep safari, this time in the western range. Post the wildlife tour, return to the resort for an overnight stay.

Day 07: Kaziranga National Park to Guwahati (approx. 195 km | 3.5 hours)

After breakfast, check-out and drive to the city of Guwahati. Once here, transfer to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport for your onward flight.