14 Day Northeast India Guided Motorbike Trip: Discover India's Best-kept Secret

Overview

Every day on this Northeast India bike trip will bring a new revelation, from the crystal clear waters of the Dawki River to the cloud-wrapped passes of Arunachal and the wettest place on Earth at Cherrapunji. This Northeast India motorcycle tour package is built for adventure riders worldwide who have already done the popular routes and now want something genuinely uncharted - a corner of Asia where every road feels like a first crossing and every village feels like a discovery.

Highlights

• Starts and ends in Delhi
• Briefing on the bike route, riding conditions, safety guidelines, and cultural do's and don’t's
• Cross the Sela Pass at 13,700 ft, the highest point of your journey
• Explore nearby villages by trek and capture breathtaking views of the Himalayas
• Visit Bomdila Monastery, a famous Buddhist site surrounded by panoramic views
• Head to the Bhutan-Tibet-India tri-junction and visit Gorsam Chorten
• Ferry ride across the Brahmaputra River to Majuli Island
• 13 nights accommodation

Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

   Arrive at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, where Brahmand Tour's team will welcome you. Get transferred to your hotel and relax after your flight. Spend the evening at leisure or get ready for the adventure that awaits you.

2. Day 2: Delhi - Guwahati

   Fly from Delhi to Guwahati, the largest city of Assam and the gateway to Northeast India. Meet Brahmand Tour's local team on arrival and get transferred to your hotel. Once settled, attend a briefing on the bike route, riding conditions, safety guidelines, and cultural do's and don’t's. This day will be all about getting to know your bike, the route, and a taste of what’s in store for you.

3. Day 3: Guwahati - Bhalukpong (approximately 240 kms / 149 mi - 5 hours / 213 meters above sea level)

   The adventure will begin with a ride to Bhalukpong, a picturesque town situated on the banks of the Kameng River. From Guwahati to Bhalukpong, the distance is approximately 240 km and takes five hours to reach by motorbike. En route, take a quick stop at the gorgeous Umiam Lake for a beautiful view of the surroundings and crystal clear water streams. After arriving at Bhalukpong, check into the hotel and take some rest. The rest of the day will be at leisure, where you can visit local markets or visit the nearby Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary. Stay overnight at a hotel.

4. Day 4: Bhalukpong - Bomdila (approximately 100 kms / 62 mi - 4 hrs / 2,415 masl)

   After breakfast, drive to Bomdila, a charming hill town situated at an altitude of 2,430 meters. En route, stop at the Tipi Orchidarium, where you can explore the nearby villages by trek and capture breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It houses more than 500 species of orchids. The next stop will be in Bomdila after a four-hour drive. Check in at a hotel and get ready to explore this beautiful place in Northeast India. Visit Bomdila Monastery, a famous Buddhist site surrounded by panoramic views. Explore the ambience, surroundings, the market nearby, and the must-try local cuisine there. Bomd

5. Day 5: Bomdila - Tawang (approximately 170 kms / 106 mi - 6 hours / 2,665 masl)

   Get ready for an exciting ride as you cross the Sela Pass at 13,700 ft, the highest point of your journey. Ride through the mountain roads and get ready to see snow-capped peaks, alpine landscapes, and colorful prayer flags. Stop at Sela Lake, a high-altitude lake that is breathtakingly beautiful on a clear day. Descend from the pass and ride to Tawang, situated at 10,000 ft and home to the famous Tawang Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries outside Tibet. Tawang has a stunning view of Bhutan and Tibet, and its rich history and spiritual atmosphere makes it a must-see of the trip.

6. Day 6: Tawang

   Spend the day in Tawang and soak in the culture and landscapes. Visit Tawang Monastery, where the grand assembly hall and library will give you an insight into monastic life. If you are up for another ride, head to the Bhutan-Tibet-India tri-junction and visit Gorsam Chorten. Built in the 12th century, this is a unique structure in India, modeled after the Bodhnath Stupa in Nepal. Ride through remote mountain paths and enjoy the Himalayan views.

7. Day 7: Tawang - Dirang (approximately 130 kms / 81 mi - 5 hours / 2,000 masl)

   This day’s ride will take you back through Sela Pass and one last look at the snow-capped mountains and emerald lakes. The descent to Dirang will be a beautiful ride through hills and valleys. Upon arrival, visit Dirang Dzong, an ancient fort to get a glimpse of the traditional architecture and defense structures, as well as the Dirang Monastery, an important cultural site for the local Monpa tribes. Dirang’s hot springs are the perfect way to unwind after an action-packed day.

8. Day 08: Dirang - Kaziranga (approximately 250 kms / 155 mi - 6 hours)

   The distance between Dirang and Kaziranga is approximately 250 km and will take six hours to ride and reach. After breakfast, drive to Kaziranga for a wildlife adventure. You can also take a stop at Tipo Orchidarium. Upon arrival in Kaziranga, check into a hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the nearby tea gardens and local markets. The highlight of the Kaziranga trip will be a visit to a National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and famous for its endangered species of one-horned rhinoceros. The next day, take an early morning jeep safari into the Kaziranga National Park

9. Day 9: Kaziranga - Majuli (approximately 140 kms / 87 mi - 4 hours / 1 hour by ferry)

   After breakfast, drive to Nimatighat. The distance between Kaziranga and Nimatighat is approximately 120 km, and takes four hours to reach. It is the ferry point for Majuli Island. Post arrival, take a ferry ride across the Brahmaputra River to Majuli Island (approximately one hour), the largest river island in the world, and a hub of Assamese culture. Upon arrival on Majuli Island, check into a hotel and begin your island adventure by exploring the scenic countryside, visiting ancient satras (monasteries), and watching traditional mask-making and pottery. The next day, take a cycling tour or

10. Day 10: Majuli - Sonapur (1 hour by ferry, plus 300 kms / 186 mi)

    After breakfast, get back to Nimati Ghat by ferry and drive to Sonapur, which will be a six-hour ride to cover 300 km. En route, stop at the ancient town of Sibsagar, the former capital of the Ahom Kingdom, which is famous for historic monuments such as Rang Ghar and the Kareng Ghar. Upon arrival in Sonapur, check into a hotel and enjoy the day for leisure activities or exploring nearby markets.

11. Day 11: Sonapur - Shillong (approximately 100 kms / 62 mi - 5 hours)

    You can enjoy your morning with a visit to local places, restaurants, and temples. After breakfast, drive to Shillong (approximately 100 km / 62 mi - 4 to five hours), the capital city of Meghalaya, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and colonial charm. Upon arrival in Shillong, check into a hotel and take some rest. Afterwards, visit Ward's Lake and stroll through the lively Police Bazaar. Visit famous Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, and Don Bosco Museum, as well as explore the nearby Cherrapunji, the wettest place on earth.

12. Day 12: Shillong - Mawlynnong Dawki Cherrapunjee (approximately 80 kms / 50 mi - 3 hours - 35 kms / one hour - 85 kms / three hours / 4,900 masl)

    After breakfast, drive to Mawlynnong (approximately 80 km / 50 mi, two to three hours), a picturesque village in the East Khasi Hills, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and cleanliness. En route, stop at the stunning waterfalls and scenic viewpoints. Upon arrival in Mawlynnong, explore the village's clean streets, visit the famous Living Root Bridge, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You can also trek to the nearby Sky View Point for a panoramic view of the village and its surroundings.

13. Day 13: Cherappunjee - Guwahati (approximately 165 kms / 103 mi - 5 to six hours / 35 masl)

    Ride back to Guwahati on the final leg of your journey, passing through the hills and plains of Meghalaya and Assam. En route, stop at the Umiam Lake, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush green hills, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Upon arrival in Guwahati, visit the famous Kamakhya Temple, one of the most sacred Shakti temples in India, and explore the nearby Umananda Temple, located on picturesque Peacock Island. You can also visit the Assam State Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. As you approach Guwahati, think back on all the ad

14. Day 14: Guwahati - Delhi - Departure

    After breakfast, transfer to Guwahati Airport for your flight back to Delhi. Once in Delhi, enjoy the city’s markets, historical landmarks, or just relax and soak up the energy of India’s capital. This will be a good time to shop for souvenirs or try out the many cuisines of Delhi. There, the tour will conclude with a departure from Delhi.

Ride Details

Terrain

Mixed - mountains, steep hills, and river valleys

Bike

Royal Enfield Himalayan (411cc) rental

Mileage

1500 kilometers / 932 miles (approximate)

Daily rides

80 to 300 kms / 50 to 186 mi

Riding gear

Standard riding gear like helmet, gloves, plus waterproof riding jacket, thermal layers for high altitude areas, and knee / elbow guards (not included)

Meals

Daily buffet breakfast and dinner at the mentioned places, except in Delhi, where it would be breakfast only

Accommodation

Brahmand Tour provides homestays, guesthouses, or eco resorts where adventure meets local experience. This mix of accommodation also supports the local community and gives a taste of local hospitality and culture.​

Food

The food journey will be as varied as the terrain. You'll taste Naga and Assamese dishes like pork bamboo shoot and fish Tenga Anja. You'll stop at local eateries to have safe and authentic food to add to the experience.

Getting There

This Northeast India bike trip will be a life-changing journey through one of the most beautiful regions of India, covering the most beautiful seven sister states. Known for its landscapes and tribal culture, this 14-day tour of the northeast will give you not only the views, but also the culture, food, and heritage of these states. Starting from Assam, you will ride through tea gardens and villag