In a significant initiative to promote domestic tourism and showcase the picturesque beauty of the northeastern states of India, the Indian Railways, in partnership with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), is all set to launch the ‘North East Discovery’ tour. This specially-designed 15-day journey, scheduled to commence on November 16, 2023, promises a remarkable adventure through the northeastern region’s less-explored gems.
The journey begins at the historic Delhi Safdarjung Railway Station and takes travelers on an unforgettable odyssey through Assam, Tripura, Nagaland, and Meghalaya. The “Bharat Gaurav Deluxe AC Tourist Train” will be the mode of transportation for this unique expedition, featuring modern amenities and advanced security measures to ensure a comfortable and secure travel experience.
The 15-Day Journey
The 15-day itinerary offers a diverse range of experiences, each tailored to showcase the culture, heritage, and natural beauty of the northeastern states. Here are some of the highlights of this remarkable journey:
Guwahati, Assam: The tour kicks off in Guwahati, where tourists will have the opportunity to visit the Kamakhya Temple, the Umananda Temple, and enjoy a breathtaking sunset cruise on the Brahmaputra River.
Arunachal Pradesh: The train then takes travelers to Naharlagun Railway Station, leading to the capital city, Itanagar, in Arunachal Pradesh, offering a glimpse of the state’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Sivasagar, Assam: Guests will explore Sivasagar, the former capital of the Ahom Kingdom in Eastern Assam, with visits to landmarks like the Shiva temple Sivadol, Talatal Ghar, and Rang Ghar (Colosseum of the East).
Jorhat and Kaziranga: The journey includes a visit to tea gardens in Jorhat and an overnight stay at Kaziranga, where travelers can embark on an early morning jungle safari in Kaziranga National Park.
Tripura: The train departs for Tripura, with stops at the heritage site of Unakoti in Jampui Hills and a sightseeing tour in Agartala, featuring attractions like Ujjayanta Palace, Neermahal, and the Tripura Sundari Mandir in Udaipur.
Nagaland: The next leg takes travelers to Dimapur, where they can enjoy a scenic train journey from Badarpur station to Lumding Junction. From Dimapur, a bus journey leads to Kohima, allowing visitors to explore local sites and experience the unique Naga way of life, including a tour of Khonoma village.
Meghalaya: The final destinations in Meghalaya include Shillong, the capital, with a visit to Umium Lake en route. An excursion to Cherrapunji offers opportunities to explore Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Nawkhalikai Falls, and Mawsmai Caves.
After enjoying these breathtaking destinations, the journey concludes with a return to Guwahati Station, from where travelers will board the train back to Delhi, covering approximately 5800 kilometers throughout the entire tour.
This innovative initiative aligns perfectly with the Indian government’s “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” and “Dekho Apna Desh” campaigns, aimed at promoting domestic tourism and fostering a deeper appreciation of the rich cultural tapestry that India has to offer.
The ‘North East Discovery’ tour promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience, combining the charm of train travel with the enchanting beauty of the northeastern states, making it a must-do journey for those seeking to explore the uncharted and captivating corners of India. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on this remarkable adventure and discover the hidden treasures of the Northeast.
