| Thomas Cook | 2 |
| North East tour packages | 6 |
| Nepal tour packages | 6 |
The Eastern Himalayas offer breathtaking views and are a perfect blend of snow-capped mountains, vibrant cultures, ancient monasteries, and lush valleys. Here you will also see diverse wildlife. But if you are an adventure enthusiast, you might want to combine a Nepal trip with a trip to the Eastern Himalayas.
From the towering Himalayan peaks of Nepal to the serene landscapes of Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh, you can cover this cross-border trip easily. All you need are carefully curated Nepal tour packages and North East tour packages.
Why Combine Nepal and North East India?
Nepal is known for its mountains, treks, and adventures, and Northeast India offers lush landscapes, tribal cultures, tea gardens, and unique biodiversity. Together, these two travel experiences offer an unforgettable experience.
You can begin your journey in Kathmandu, discover Nepal, and then continue to the Indian states nestled in the Eastern Himalayas.
You can get a customised itinerary and travel package from Thomas Cook for a hassle-free journey.
Begin Your Journey in Nepal
Nepal is the perfect introduction to the Himalayan region as this country has a fascinating mix of spirituality, adventure, and stunning scenery.
The following are the places you should include in Nepal tour packages:
1. Kathmandu Valley
Kathmandu is Nepal’s capital, and here you will find beautiful temples, bustling markets, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here, places like Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, and Kathmandu Durbar Square are a must-visit.
2. Pokhara
Pokhara is one of the picturesque cities of Nepal. It is located beside Phewa Lake and is surrounded by mountain ranges. Here you can enjoy boating, paragliding, cave exploration, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Most Nepal tour packages include Pokhara due to its incredible natural beauty and relaxed ambience.
3. Chitwan National Park
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, Chitwan National Park is perfect for you. You get to see rhinoceroses, elephants, crocodiles, and many bird species here.
Crossing Into North East India
Now that you have seen Nepal, you should fly to the North East. To make your trip easier, you should choose customised North East tour packages, as they will offer you comfortable transportation and accommodation arrangements.
1. Sikkim
Sikkim is often the first stop if you are entering North East India. It is known for its pristine environment and Buddhist heritage. Must-visit places in Sikkim are:
2. Gangtok
Gangtok is Sikkim’s capital, and here you can enjoy places like MG Marg, Rumtek Monastery, and Tashi View Point. Also, enjoy ethereal views of the Kanchenjunga range here.
3. Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass
These are high-altitude attractions that provide breathtaking scenery and unique insights into the region’s geography and strategic importance. Make sure to get these added to your custom North East tour package.
4. Meghalaya
Meghalaya is famous for its rolling hills, waterfalls, and living root bridges. Some of the must-visit places in Meghalaya are:
5. Shillong
Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong is extremely pretty. It has pleasant weather throughout the year and offers colonial charm. Attractions include Ward’s Lake, Elephant Falls, and Shillong Peak, which are not to be missed. You can also experience the cherry blossoms here in November.
Also, must visit Mawlynnong, which is often called the cleanest village in Asia.
6. Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji is renowned for its spectacular waterfalls, caves, and lush greenery. There are living root bridges here, which are created by local Khasi communities. Make sure to include these two places in your North East tour packages to enjoy Meghalaya’s unique landscapes.
7. Assam
Assam serves as the gateway to North East India and offers a blend of nature, culture, and wildlife. Some of the must-visit places are:
8. Kaziranga National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga is famous for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses. You can also come here from Shillon via train or taxi. You can observe a wide variety of wildlife here.
9. Tea Estates
Assamese tea gardens are among the largest in the world, and you should definitely visit when in the state and enjoy tastings of premium Assam tea. North East tour packages combine Kaziranga and a tea estate for the best Assamese experience.
10. Arunachal Pradesh
If you are someone who loves offbeat destinations, Arunachal Pradesh is perfect for you.
11. Tawang
Tawang is home to one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Asia. This place has dramatic mountain scenery, serene lakes, and is an offbeat location.
- Ziro Valley
Ziro Valley is a stunning, lush valley in Arunachal, and it is known for its terraced rice paddies and pine-clad hills. Here you will also see the unique, sustainable culture of the indigenous Apatani tribe. Ziro Valley is located about 1,688 meters above sea level.
Cultural Similarities and Differences Between Nepal and North East India
In Nepal, Hindu and Buddhist influences coexist, and North East India showcases an incredible mix of tribal, Buddhist, Christian, and indigenous cultures.
The cuisine, culture, and language at both of these trips will vary significantly, but will leave you with an enriching experience. This is why you should combine your Nepal tour packages with a trip to North East India.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore Nepal and North East India is between October and April, as the weather is pleasant and chilly. So, if you enjoy winters and fewer crowds, choose seasonal Nepal tour packages and North East tour packages during these months.
A combined Nepal and North East India itinerary typically requires 12 to 18 days, depending on the destinations included. Thomas Cook can help you plan a perfect trip.
FAQs
Some of the commonly asked questions regarding these two trips are:
1. How many days are needed to cover Nepal and North East India together?
A trip of 12 to 18 days is generally ideal for exploring major destinations in both Nepal and North East India without hassle.
2. Is it easy to travel from Nepal to North East India?
Yes, there are several flight routes connecting Nepal with North East Indian cities.
3. What is the best season for this combined trip?
October to April offers clear mountain views and pleasant, chilly temperatures.
4. Are permits required for North East India?
Some states, particularly Arunachal Pradesh, require permits for Indian and foreign travellers. Your tour operators usually assist you with these formalities.
5. Can families and senior citizens undertake this trip?
They can, but with properly planned Nepal tour packages and North East tour packages only. Some destinations, like Tawang and Ziro Valley, can be hard for them, so the itinerary can be customised.
