A. ABOUT NORTH EAST.
1) Why North East?

An odyssey of unlimited adventures await the itinerant traveler amongst South Asia’s most vibrantly multi-cultural, multi-lingual societies, sequestered in the far-flung reaches of India’s Northeast region – the ancient crossroad of people, commerce and culture. Not only is it a fabulous storehouse of faunal, floral and avian biodiversity, the North East holds the promise of kaleidoscopic range of experiences of racial, religious and linguistic cross-currents in India’s most thrilling ethno-cultural frontier.

Each state has its own unique history and culture, and for a traveler, the region is a repository of rare experiences. It is fascinating that even many Indians from outside the northeast region know so little about the place. The place is ideally suited for Well-Travelled Experiential Tourist and not for Tourist who are looking for Luxury & comfort.

2) Where Is North East?

The states located on the northeast part of India are regarded as the North-East India States. Previously known as the Seven Sisters, North-East India became richer with the addition of an eighth State, Sikkim into North Eastern Council. Original Seven Sisters consist of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. It is the eastern most region of India representing both a geographic and political administrative division of the country.

3) What Is North East Famous For?

National parks and wildlife sanctuaries, Tea, Tribes, ethnic communities, festivals, crafts, Brahmaputra River – all make it a holiday wonderland that is just begging to discover afresh. Within the short spectrum, its house great uniqueness i.e Mawlynnong in Meghalaya is the cleanest village in Asia, Kaziranga National Park house highest numbers of one horn Rhino; the largest river island in the world, Majuli is located in the Jorhat district of Assam. It is located in the mighty Brahmaputra; having an area total of around 1100 sq. km. Meghalaya is the only state in the world to have living root tree bridges.

4) How Does One Reach North East?
A) By Air.

Assam
• Guwahati (GAU) Airport – Flight connectivity to Kolkata (CCU), Mumbai (BOM),Hyderabad (HYD),Bangalore (BLR), Delhi (DEL), Chennai (MAA), Imphal (IMF), Silchar (IXS), Dibrugarh (DIB), Bagdogra (IXB), Agartala (IXA), Jorhat (JRH) & Lengpui (Aizwal – AJL).

• Jorhat (JRH) Airport – Flight connectivity to Kolkata (CCU) & Guwahati (GAU).
• Dibrugarh (DIB) Airport – Flight connectivity to Kolkata (CCU), Delhi (DEL) & Guwahati (GAU).

Manipur
• Imphal (IMF) Airport – Flight connectivity to Kolkata (CCU), Agartala (IXA), Lengpui (Aizwal – AJL) & Guwahati (GAU).

Meghalaya
• Shillong (SHL) Airport – Flight connectivity to Kolkata (CCU).

Mizoram
• Lengpui / Aizwal (AJL) Airport - Flight connectivity to Kolkata (CCU), Imphal (IMF) & Guwahati (GAU).

Nagaland
• Dimapur (DMU) Airport – Flight connectivity to Kolkata (CCU).

Tripura
• Agartala (IXA) Airport – Flight connectivity to Kolkata (CCU), Imphal (IMF) & Guwahati (GAU).

*Notes: It is always wise, to kindly reconfirm flight operations for the smaller airport.

B) By Rail

• Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) is the major railway station. To name a few, Dibrugarh Rajdhani express, Brahmaputra mail, LTT-Kamakhya Express, Guwahati Express, Kamrup, Saraighat and Kanchenjunga Express connect Guwahati with cities in India.

C) By Road

• The road connectivity of India main land to the States in the North Eastern Region is through the Siliguri Corridor. NH-31 connects the city of Guwahati to the rest of the country while NH 37 connects the NE states.

5) When Is The Best Time To Travel?

All National Parks and Wildlife sanctuaries are open for visitors from November to April.
• Arunachal Pradesh - From October to April (Tawang: To avoid in January and February).
• Assam – To avoid June, July, August (National Parks are open from November to April).
• Manipur –Throughout the year (except monsoon).
• Meghalaya - Throughout the year.
• Mizoram - October to April.
• Nagaland - October to April.
• Tripura - Round the year (hot and humid during June, July and August).

6) What Is The Average Temperature Of The Area?

North East is a cluster of states with a varied temperature.
• Arunachal Pradesh - 12° Celsius during daytime & 06° Celsius approx. during nighttime.
• Assam - 27° Celsius during daytime & 15° Celsius approx. during nighttime.
• Manipur - 25° Celsius during daytime & 18° Celsius approx. during nighttime.
• Meghalaya - 18° Celsius during daytime & 12° Celsius approx. during nighttime.
• Mizoram - 25° Celsius during daytime & 18° Celsius approx. during nighttime.
• Nagaland - 30° Celsius during daytime & 16° Celsius approx. during nighttime.
• Tripura - 32° Celsius during daytime & 23° Celsius approx. during nighttime.

7) What Is The Ideal Holiday Duration For North East?

Itineraries for the area can be structure for a minimum of 06 Nights for a combination of two states and minimum of 10 Nights for covering combinations of three States. For an interest enthusiast even a month falls short to cover the North Eastern State.

8) What Are The Various Activities & Options Available For Tourist?

a) Cultural – For Cultural Tourists, the area offers Ambubachi Mela (Assam), Krishna Ras Lila (Manipur), Strawberry Festival, Siang (Yomgo) River Festival (Arunachal Pradesh), Asokastami Festival (Tripura) & Hornbill Festival (Nagaland) etc.

b) Adventure – Along with Wild life & Safari of Assam, the area offer adventure activities Zip Line, Cliff jumping, Kayaking, Rock Climbing / Rappelling & Trekking in Meghalaya etc.

c) Special Interest Group – For such groups, the area offers Tribal Tourism especially in state of Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Manipur, and Mizoram & Assam. For people who love Fabric & Textile, the area offer Silk Handloom of Assam, Shawls of Nagaland and many more.

d) Other Activities – Special community services such as charity, support to orphanages etc. can be incorporated.

9) How Is The Mobile Connectivity In North East? Which Local Operator Has Good Network?

Communication plays a very important role in staying connected, wherever one goes. Telecom operators like BSNL, Airtel & Vodafone have good connectivity in our area.

10) How Safe Is North East For Tourist, Especially For Female Travelers?

North East is completely safe when it comes to travel, especially when females are concerned. Women of the area are very active and play a major role in family’s decision-making & big contributor to livelihood to the family.
Best way to travel is always through a Tour Operator, who has local presence. Lack of knowledge & depending on online portals may be sometime not a good way to travel to any destination as still the area largely depends of Face & Human value. The Tour Operator has the knowledge of that particular area, in case of any issue; the person is just a phone call away.

B. ABOUT ENTRY FORMALITIES, DOCUMENTATION & GENERAL RESTRICTIONS IN TRAVELLING TO NORTH EAST.
1) For Indian Nationals.

Guests willing to North East are requested to bring / submit the following documents.
a) 04 passport size photographs of each member traveling whether Adult or Child with their name, age & gender written behind each photograph.
b) Original along with photo Copy of the photo ID of each member traveling, whether adult or child.
c) Valid Passport, Election ID card, Driving License or any documents issued by Central or State Government having Photo, Name and the address will be considered as valid ID Proof only. Aadhar Card & Pan Card are not accepted as valid ID Proof for issuance of Restricted Area Permit (RAP).
d) In case of Child less than 18 Years of age, who is traveling and does not have Passport, in such case he / she will have to carry his / her School / College ID. In such a case, it is also advisable to carry photo copy along with the original Birth Certificate.

2) For NRI & Foreign Nationals.

The entry process & documents required, for NRI’s & Foreign Passport Holders will be the same. Please note the following:
a) For NRI’s - it is mandatory to bring their Passport (in original) along with their PIO (Person of Indian Origin) Card / OCI (Overseas Citizenship of India) Card.
b) For Foreign National - valid Indian Visa, is a must. Visa’s can be obtained from Indian embassy in the home country. The facility of E Visa’s is also available for citizens of authorized countries.
c) In case, the guest has a valid Indian visa and do not have an ILP endorsed on the Visa, our Trip Leader or Escort accompanying the guest will assist at the FRO (Foreigner Registration Office) at the respective state of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. This is done within 24 hours of their arrival at the State, District Office (other than citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan Nationals and they would require prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs before visiting the state of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland) on the basis of following documents:
• 06 Passport Size Photographs.
• Photocopy of Passport along with Original.
• Photocopy of PIO Card / OCI Card / Visa along with the Original.
• To visit Arunachal Pradesh all Foreign Nationals, NRIs require PAP (Protected Area Permit). All Foreign Tourists / NRI require PAP to visit Arunachal Pradesh with fees of US $ 30 per person in a group of 2 or more person and the permit is avlid for 30 days.
d) PAP (Protected Area Permit) for Arunachal Pradesh is NOT GIVEN upon arrival and they have to apply before hand and processing of permit takes minimum of Seven working days

3) General Update & Restriction.
A) General Update

• The locals tend to be helpful as long as one respect their culture and way of life. Things move at a slow pace in North East and travel plans can be derailed sometimes, but it is important to keep things in perspective and not loose cool. In remote regions, do not venture outside the hotel at night.

• The most convenient way to explore the region is to plan your itinerary around major cities, which serve as convenient base to explore remote places.

• The road connectivity and conditions between Guwahati and the rest of the North Eastern states varies from place to place. The developed parts of Assam have good roads, while others are just about fine. Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland is infamous for its bumpy roads. While travelling through the state, be prepared for unplanned delays. Do not attempt to drive during unfavorable weather conditions or in the darkness. While travelling away from towns, make sure to carry packaged food and water bottles.

• Travelling in the Northeast is an experience unlike any other; a little planning and precaution will ensure that tourists have an exciting and enjoyable trip.

• North East tours are not recommended for those guests who have back pain/ Heart & Asthma (Berthing)/Knee stress/ motion sickness/ blood pressure/ problem as it could be of high risk & medical facility is very poor.

• The area is backward but rich in Nature and the facilities available cannot be matched to those available in the other developed destinations. We strongly regret this constraint of the area.

• Every effort will be made to maintain the itinerary, in view of local strikes, landslide etc., which are beyond our control all schedule and itineraries are subject to last moment changes and any additional cost, will be borne by the guests directly.

• Credit Cards / Traveler’s cheque is not freely accepted.

• Mobile services may not be active in all destinations. Pre-paid roaming and International roaming connection does not work in many areas.

B) Club & Discotheques

Nightclubs and discotheques are mostly concentrated in Shillong (Meghalaya) and Guwahati (Assam). Due to non-availability of nightlife, the whole area goes to bed early & wakes up early. We request you to go to bed on time so that next day you can start your tour early.

C) Alcoholic Beverages

Other than Mizoram, Nagaland & few places of Manipur, which are dry state, alcoholic beverages are available. However, in the state of Tripura which has liquor shops but there are no bars.

4) Area Specific Restriction

Arunachal Pradesh
• All hotels in Arunachal Pradesh are non-star category, having basic facility.
• Guests with adventurous mind should travel to Arunachal Pradesh.
• Room heaters may not work in all places due to voltage fluctuations.
• In this region, there is no relevance between the distance and time travelling as it depends upon the conditions of roads and congestion of traffic.
• Mobile services may not be active in all destinations. International roaming connection does not work in the region’s most of the time.
• Credit Cards are not freely accepted in some of the remote places
• Road condition is not smooth in Arunachal Pradesh as the road is under construction.
• Tours to Arunachal Pradesh are not recommended for guests who have Heart /Asthma and Knee stress/ problem.
• Heavy woolen clothes, jacket, Umbrella is advisable to carry.
• For comfortable journey, we advise carry limited luggage.
• Luggage carrier in vehicle is not permitted.
• All Indian Nationals require ILP (Inner Line permit) and all Foreign nationals and NRIs require PAP
(Protected Area Permit) to visit Arunachal Pradesh. Foreign tourists must be in a group of 2 or more person can obtain PAP to visit Arunachal Pradesh for 30 days with fees of USD 30 per person (One time – Validity for 30days at a stretch).

Assam
• Assam has some good quality hotels mainly in Guwahati (Few 5 Star & 4 stars and Boutique properties).
• Luxury hotels / resorts including decent accommodations are available in Kaziranga, Manas and Pobitora.
• Tea Bungalows available near Nameri including cottages and tents (with attached toilets and geyser facilities). Tea Bungalows also available at Jorhat and Dibrugarh for tourists including deluxe properties.
• Pobitora Wildlife sanctuary (highest density of rhinoceros) is 45 Kms away from Guwahati.
• Kamakhya temple is about 8 Kms away from the main city. The entry timings are from 8.30am to 1pm and again from 3.00pm to 5 pm. Advance tickets are not issued.
• Regular boat cruise on river Brahmaputra mainly sunset and dinner cruise available (subject to weather and river condition).

Manipur.
• Imphal is the capital of Manipur and there are deluxe hotels available in Imphal.
• All Indian Nationals require ILP (Inner Line Permit) since 1st January 2020. For ILP documents require Identity Proof such as copy of self-attested Passport or similar (PAN card not accepted), Passport size photo, for children copy of School Identity card and it takes 2 to 3 working days for processing of the permit
• As per instructions issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on 30.12.2010, the entire area of the States of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland has been excluded from the Protected Area regime notified under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958, initially for a period of one-year w.e.f. 1.1.2011, which has been extended from time to time. This relaxation has been extended till 31.12.2022 subject to the following conditions:- (i) Citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals having their origin in these countries would continue to require prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs before their visit to the States of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. (ii) All foreigners visiting these States will register themselves with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the State/District they visit within 24 hours of their arrival i.e., foreigners do not require any permits to visit Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland.
• Most of the vehicles used for transfer and sightseeing are private registered vehicle.
• Manipur is a dry state, therefore are no liquor shops or bar in Manipur.

Meghalaya
• Shillong, capital of Meghalaya and Cherrapunjee (60 Kms from Shillong) has good quality of hotels) (Luxury, Boutique & home stays. However, there are no five star hotels at Shillong).
• On way to Shillong from Guwahati airport / city one may stop at Umiam Lake (also known as Barapani). The lake offers water sports. When water recedes during winters, a concrete road (Old Guwahati-Shillong Road) re-emerges and one could walk across.
• About 75% of the population practices Christianity, Some of the sightseeing areas are closed on Sundays.
• Double decker Root Bridge at Cherrapunjee is closed for tourists on Sundays.

Mizoram
• Aizawl is the capital of Mizoram and there are only Standard hotels available in Aizawl.
• All Indian Nationals require ILP (Inner Line Permit). For ILP documents require Identity Proof such as copy of self-attested Passport or similar (PAN card not accepted), Passport size photo, for children copy of School Identity card and it takes 2 to 3 working days for processing of the permit.
• As per instructions issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on 30.12.2010, the entire area of the States of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland has been excluded from the Protected Area regime notified under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958, initially for a period of one-year w.e.f. 1.1.2011, which has been extended from time to time. This relaxation has been extended till 31.12.2022 subject to the following conditions:- (i) Citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals having their origin in these countries would continue to require prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs before their visit to the States of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. (ii) All foreigners visiting these States will register themselves with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the State/District they visit within 24 hours of their arrival i.e., foreigners do not require any permits to visit Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland.
• Most of the tourist’s vehicles available in Aizawl are private registered vehicle.
• Mizoram is a dry state, therefore are no liquor shops or bar in Mizoram.

Nagaland
• Kohima is the capital of Nagaland and there are Home Stays, Standard and Deluxe hotels available at Dimapur and Kohima. At Khonoma, Mokokchong and Mon there are standard hotels / Home stays.
• All Indian Nationals require ILP (Inner Line Permit). For ILP documents require Identity Proof such as copy of self-attested Passport or similar (PAN card not accepted), Passport size photo, for children copy of School Identity card and it takes 2 to 3 working days for processing of the permit.
• As per instructions issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on 30.12.2010, the entire area of the States of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland has been excluded from the Protected Area regime notified under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958, initially for a period of one-year w.e.f. 1.1.2011, which has been extended from time to time. This relaxation has been extended till 31.12.2022 subject to the following conditions:- (i) Citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals having their origin in these countries would continue to require prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs before their visit to the States of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland. (ii) All foreigners visiting these States will register themselves with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the State/District they visit within 24 hours of their arrival i.e., foreigners do not require any permits to visit Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland.
• Good quality vehicles are not available such as Innova etc. One has to hire vehicle from Assam.
• Nagaland is a dry state, therefore are no liquor shops or bar in Nagaland.

Tripura 
• Agartala is the capital of Tripura and there are Standard and Deluxe hotels available at Agartala.
• Most of the vehicles used for transfer and sightseeing are private registered vehicle.
• There are no bars at Agartala except liquor shops.

5) Are There Any Custom, Administrative Restrictions In North East?

a) Custom restrictions
There are few items, which are strictly forbidden by North East, namely;
• Arms, ammunition and explosives.
• All narcotics and drugs except medically prescribed drugs.
• Wildlife products, especially those of endangered species.
• Antiques.
Please note: Visitors are advised to be careful when purchasing old and used items, especially of religious or cultural significance, as such items may not be exported without a clearance certificate.

b) Dress code for visiting Monasteries / Temple
While visiting religious monuments short, mini & Sleeve cut dresses are not permitted, it is advisable to take off hats while entering a temple or monastery. It is safer to dress up in smart casual. Always walk in clockwise direction while visiting religious places or do not step on any clothes, books, heap or materials left open at religious sites.

c) Prohibitions on the use of tobacco & smoking in North East
Smoking in public areas is banned. Tobacco, Pan Masala & Gutka are available, but if you are caught spitting here and there, you could be fined.

d) North East is one of the safest places to travel however; one should still exercise caution while travelling. Please ensure that your belongings especially your passports, cameras, wallets and purses are properly secured. Please refrain from leaving such items in locked vehicles while sightseeing, moreover its ones responsibility to take care of one is belonging while travelling or staying in hotels self-cautions are must for all travelers.

e) Avoid drinking tap water, which has not been boiled, or ice cubes in drinks at all times, as most water sources in North East are untreated. One can easily get bottled water at reasonable price.

f) It has been observed that many visitors have arrived at their destination with a photocopy of the valid identification proof (election ID card or passport) rather than the original. In case the guests are asked to produce original at entry, then it could be a case of negligence and the authority could fine them.

C. ABOUT HOTEL FACILITIES, POLICY & CUISINE AVAILABLE IN NORTH EAST.
1) What Kind Of Hotels Options, Available In North East?

We have used hotels, which are not to be, compared with the Hotels, of other developed destinations. We have selected, combined & graded the hotels in a fashion, so that the Guest gets similar kind of standard in services & facilities at every destination / place of retirement other than specific grade like Tea Bungalows, Accommodation at Wildlife Park & remote location of Balipara (near Nameri National Park or Tezpur town) Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Kaziranga National Park

For the easy understanding we have graded the hotel used as follows:
GRADE A3+ - ‘The Area’s First Best Hotels’ whose services are similar to a Four Star+ hotel (Guwahati, Kaziranga, Shillong, Cherrapunjee, Agartala, Imphal, Tea Bungalows in Assam at Balipara, Jorhat and Dibrugarh

GRADE A2+, GRADE A1+ & GRADE A - ‘The Area’s Second Best Hotels’ whose services are close to a Four Star / Three Star+ Hotel (Guwahati, Manas, Kaziranga, Pobitora, Shillong, Cherrapunjee, Bomdila, Dirang, Tawang, Ziro)

GRADE B2+, B1+ - ‘The Area’s Third Best Hotels’ whose services are similar to a Three Star Hotel (Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Kohima, Agartala,).

GRADE B - ‘The Area’s Fourth Best Hotels’ whose services are similar to a Two Star Hotel (Manas, Kaziranga, Pobitora, Jorhat, Dibrugarh, Kohima, Agartala, Dirang, Bomdila & Tawang, Ziro and Pasighat).

Note : Hotels that are located in the remote areas like Tura in Meghalaya, Tuephema, Mon & Mokochong in Nagaland and Bomdila, Ziro, Daporijo, Along and Pasighat (in Arunachal Pradesh), Aizawl (in Mizoram) etc where they don’t have higher categories hotel option there we use areas best property.

2) Do We Get Similar Hotel At All Places Or It Is Only Limited To Main City Only?

As mentioned above we do not work with all hotels, hence we have selected, combined & graded the hotels in such a way, so that the guest get similar standard of services & facilities at every destination / place of retirement other than requested & specific grade.
In our area, most of the hotels do not have lift. You will have to climb stairs to reach your allotted rooms. In case any of you, have problems related to blood pressure, breathing, knee & heart or if you cannot climb higher floors, then we request you to let us know this at the time of confirming the booking / immediately on check-in, so that we handle it with care, before the Hotels assign you your room, which will be convenient than the ones quoted/reserved for you. DIFFERENCE IN PRICE IF ANY WILL HAVE TO BE SETTLED DIRECTLY BEFORE CHECK OUT.

3) Are The Hotel Option Given, In City Or Away From The City?

Most hotels are located in the city, while new and higher-level hotels are located a short distance from the city centre. Since the area is backward, it is obvious that the constructions of the hotels are unplanned. This ensures that most of the chosen hotels are situated in the city centre. Such hotels can have a view of the building on the front, beside or behind them. As services are not up to the mark in the area, we have made our hotel selection on the basis of SERVICES provided by them.

4) Do Hotel Charges Extra For Room Heaters?

Certain Hotels in Grade B1, Grade B Category & all hotels in C, D & LTC Category have system of providing room heater on request, on extra payment basis. This payment is not included in the cost & the user will have to settle it directly with the hotels before check-out. The charge varies from INR 250.00 to INR 500.00 per heater per room per night.

5) What Is The Child Policy For Hotels?

Majority of the hotels follows below mentioned child policy.
• Children above 11+ years will be charged 100% as per EPSR.
• Children of 5+ to 11 sharing parent’s room with bed / rollaway or mattress will be charged as per CWB.
• Children of 5+ to 11 sharing parent’s room without bed / rollaway or mattress will be charged as per CNB.
• Children below 5 years Complimentary without bed (Sharing the parent’s room).
(Hotels are very strict with the child policy. Please carry the age proof so that it can be produced when asked for).

6) Does The Hotel Provide Proper Extra Bed / Roll Away / Mattresses?

For Extra Person Sharing the Room & Child with Extra Bed, we will provide Extra bed (Wherever Possible), but most of the hotel of our area only provides MATTRESS and ROLL OVERS as a supplement to Extra Bed.

7) What Are The Standard Check In & Checkout Time?

Check in time at Hotel: 1400 Hrs / Check out time: 1100 Hrs. All the bookings are non-transferable & all in-house hotel rules will be applicable during your stay. As per Government norms valid photo ID for all members staying at the hotel is mandatory. For request such as, early check in / late checkout / extending of stay, will completely be on subject to availability.

8) Are Pure Vegetarian & Jain Food Available In North East?

Indian food is available in North East but no regional specific cuisines are served. The people of this area are mostly Non Vegetarian. Most of the hotels, serves both Vegetarian & Non-Vegetarian food. The Jain food served by these hotels will be basic & cannot be compared, to the ones available, at the hometown of the traveler. For the understanding, the food provided will be pure vegetarian meals, which will not include onion, potato, garlic etc, and items, which are grown underground. With changes in food habit globally, few hotels in North East, are exclusively serving vegetable food to its entire guest. Vegetarian food available everywhere but do remember rice is the staple food for the area. Chapattis / rotis are available on request.

9) Is Power Failure Or Load Shading A Issue In North East?

In hilly area, scarcity of water & electricity is a natural phenomenon. Everybody buys water for their day-to-day needs & have learnt to live even without electricity. Most of the places in North East has frequent power cuts, it is advisable to carry additional batteries for camera and charge mobiles before going to bed, In case of Load Shedding, we would request you to bear with such situation. We strongly regret the inconvenience. Most of the high-end hotels do have power back system.

D. ABOUT TRANSPORT & GUIDE OPERATIONS.
1) What Kind Of Vehicles Is Used For Servicing Tourist In North East?

• Arunachal Pradesh – Innova (Ex Guwahati) / Tempo Travelers’ (13 seatter)
• Assam – Innova, Swift Dzire, Etios and Tempo Travellers (Commercial vehicle).
• Meghalaya - Innova, Swift Dzire, Etios and Tempo Travellers -13 seaters(Commercial vehicle) – Ex Guwahati.
• Manipur – Bolero, Scorpio, Swift Dzire (Mostly private registered vehicles).
• Mizoram - Bolero, Scorpio, Swift Dzire (Mostly private registered vehicles).
• Nagaland – Bolero, Scorpio (Private vehicles mostly), Innova – Ex-Guwahati.
• Tripura – Bolero, Scorpio, Innova (Private vehicles), Swift Dzire (Private & Commercial vehicles).
As a matter of policy & honest practices, we try to use Taxi number plate vehicle, wherever possible helping the social economic development & employment at grass root label.

2) Does The Vehicle Provided To Tourist In Northeast Have Air-conditioning, Roof Top Carrier & Music System?

Generally, in North East, most of the vehicle, we write NAC (Non AC) as because of its location & Altitude, AC is not required. In case guest is insisting on AC, The AC will be on when the Vehicle is on move only. While travelling in the plains the clients would need AC, which will be switch on. When the car is travelling uphill AC will be switched off. Most of the vehicle nowadays does come with music system; it is wise if you can carry personal collection of songs on your pen drive. Roof top carriers are banned in most part of the states.

3) Does The Vehicle Change City Wise Or Remains The Same Throughout?

Yes, change in Vehicle is required sometimes in some particular area, like if a person is travelling from Guwahati to Arunachal Pradesh in Tawang only local vehicles are allowed at an additional cost.

4) Can We Take The Allocated Vehicle For Shopping And Evening Dinner To Local Restaurant & Hotels? Do We Have The Option Of Upgrading Or Changing The Vehicle On Tour?

The allocated vehicle is exclusively for you but not a disposal; it is strictly as per the itinerary. For extra vehicle usage, supplement cost will be applicable. Yes in case of mechanical failure, we do have the option of changing or upgrading of vehicle on additional cost but in case guest feels that, they want to switch or upgrade the vehicle on tour. Since the Vehicles are limited in number, cancellation rules will be applicable on the complete tour package as vehicle are contracted accordingly plus the cost of new vehicle will be applicable. In case the guest wants the vehicle after scheduled duty, then there will be additional charge of INR 2000 per vehicle for minimum 02 Hrs & INR 4000.00 per vehicle for maximum 04 Hrs)

5) Does My Tour Have An Exclusive Guide Or He/she Will Be A Driver Cum Guide?

We do not have a concept of using Driver cum Guide. In our packages, Driver is separate person and Guide (Trip Leader) is a separate person. For Domestic Tourist, Trip leader(Guide) is not compulsory, but in case of big family where 2 or more vehicle are used , it is wise to take the services of Trip leader(Guide) to enhance, travel experience & smooth operational flow of activities. This Trip leader speaks comfortable English and majority of them do understand & speak Hindi. Here we would also like to inform you that the drivers are mainly concern with driving the vehicle with safety & comfort of the guest. They come from remote places and are not educated in tourism etiquette and some of them do not know how to speak & behave. You are requested to be soft & gentle with the drivers. Your point of contact is your Trip leader (Guide) or the FHE (File handling Executive), who is pre-assigned for your file. All though there is dirt of professional guides in North East, we have our escorts available who have good area knowledge, as they have been escorting guest for quite some time now.

6) Anything Specific Or Extra That We Have To Be Careful For Availing Vehicle Services In North East?

As the area is backward & due to unwritten syndicate, rules your vehicle & drivers will change based on the ground operation scenario, even certain sightseeing, are totally controlled, by the syndicate. We do not have any say over such services. We will request you to bear with such uncalculated situations. Especially while using such services you will have to be gentle in dealing with the drivers as due to lack of their exposure to the tourism industry & practices. They at times, get annoyed and may misbehave.

a) As the vehicles & drivers change always, we will request you to be very careful with personal belongings. Once left in the vehicle, there is, almost nil or little chance, of getting it back.

b) Often in past guests have been misguided by such drivers. We would like to inform you not to listen to such people & reconfirm whatever they say with your File Handling Executive (FHE).

c) Due to shortage in space for parking, please be informed that you will have to be ready on time & wait in the lobby. Due to uncalculated situations, the vehicle reporting may get delayed. We will request you to bear with us and as soon as vehicle arrives, you will have to get in, within few seconds, before the traffic police officer blow his whistle.

d) Smoking & drinking while travelling should be strictly avoided.

E. PERTAINING TO QUERY BEFORE CONFIRMING THE TOUR.
1) What Is The Right Meal To Opt For, While Booking A Tour To North East?

We strongly recommend that the guest should opt for MAPAI (Breakfast & Dinner), where they will have option of having lunch in local restaurant during sightseeing.

2) Can We Pay You Advance Now And Balance Upon Arrival?

We do not have any credit policy hence payment option of upon arrival is not applicable. The very reason for upfront payment is that we also pay upfront payment to hotels & vendors thus commanding better price & services authenticity, which are passed to the end consumer. With the situation like room, bouncing / services disparity is not applicable as we pay in advance and demand the promised services.

3) What Is These Amendment Fee On Booking After Confirmation?

Once the booking are confirmed, all booking confirmation will attract a NON WAVER FEE of INR 5000.00 per amendment + applicable cancellation if any + Difference in amount attracted due to change.

F. ANSWERS TO QUESTION BEFORE STARTING Or WHILE ON TOUR.
1) What Is A Pre-briefing Call?

Our FHE (File handling Executive) give a call to the guest, on behalf of our booking office, informing the guest, how to prepare for the tour, what to except, taking extra request for making the tour comfortable.

2) Where Do We Meet Our Tour Guide / Driver Arrival Officer?

a) Guwahati (GHY) Railway Station – If you are arriving at Guwahati Railway station, one is requested to come out using Platform No 1 Exit Gate (Pan Bazaar Side), where the driver will be waiting at the exit gate side & would be holding a placard in guest name / or as advised.
b) Guwahati (GAU) Airport - Please note that our Airport Executive/ driver will hold placard just outside the exit gate of Guwahati Airport.

3) Who Will Be Our One Point Contact While We Are On Tour?

FHE (File handling Executive) will be your one point contact for all matters.

4) Are Sightseeing / Monument Entrance Fee Included In Our Tour Cost?

The same is not included as it provides the guest the freedom to choose & pay the monuments entrance fee directly as per their preference. The cost estimate is given as supplement cost in the day wise itinerary.

5) As We Are Booking So Much In Advance, We Should Get Best View Facing & New Vehicle At All Places?

Many of the guests have mentioned that they have booked the tour very well in advance so why isn’t the best room allotted to them. When the client chooses to travel in the month of October to April, and this happens to be the busiest months for North East. Kindly be updated that the area of North East are not developed like many other hill stations of the world. Here we understand very well the size of India & its population. We also understand well that most of India has festival & Vacations during these times. There are not many places where one can go for relief. Now even if 0.1% of the population turns up, towards North East, the area runs out of capacity. Everything becomes chaotic. Delivering the promised becomes an issue. Patience & understanding becomes an important part in getting the tour organized & making the holiday into a memorable one. This is where our services & we come into counting.

6) We Are Arriving Late In The Evening / Very Early Morning At Railway Station. Please Advice Further?

It is to be noted that in case, you are arriving by train in the late evening / night & are departing early morning, it is mandatory for you to spend a night in Guwahati. In such situation of late arrival & early departure, if you have not opted for a stopover package at Guwahati, then you will have to wait at the Waiting / Retiring Room of the station. Our Executive will be meeting you at 0600 hrs in the morning for the meet & greet and arrival transfer. This has been planned keeping your security factors in mind.

7) As We Are Arriving Early, What Happens To Our Meals?

Tour start and end from Guwahati Railway (GHY) Station / Guwahati (GAU) Airport. The 1st Day tour Meal starts with Dinner at the booked hotel & ends with Breakfast at the booked hotel, on the last day for all the bookings on MAPAI. For APAI 1st Day tour, Meal starts with Dinner at the booked hotel & ends with Packet lunch from the booked hotel on the last day.

8) In Case Our Train / Flight Are Cancelled And We Are Not Able To Start Out Tour As Planned, What Will Be Your Advice?

In case of any Flight / Train Cancellation has affected the operation of the Tours then the Company will not be responsible for the same and the cancellation as per the policy will be applicable, we will still try our best to help the guest wherever possible to minimize the damages.

9) Is The Vehicle That Pickup From Guwahati Airport / Guwahati Railways Station Will Be With Us Until The End?

The vehicle that picks you will only do the services for that day. The vehicles keep on changing base on sector & operations.

10) Due To Landslide Or Any Other Unseen, Forced Measures, Should There Be A Diversion From The Main Tour, Who Pays Extra Cost Incurred In Such A Situation?

Landslide is a common occurrence in hilly areas. Expenses incurred due to change in oil price, mishaps, landslide, strike, political unrest etc. In such case, extra will be charged as per actual which will be collected directly from the guest.

11) Are The Tour Planned Rigid Or Some Minor Changes Can Be Made?

We try our best to assist the guest with minor changes, wherever until & unless it does fetch financial damages. The cost for any alteration if any will be collected directly as per actual expenditure incurred

12) Do We Have The Option Of Adding Extra Sightseeing & Add-on Tours I.e. Rafting

Yes one has the option of adding extra sightseeing or add-on tours in due consultation with your file FHE. Our only request that people in mountain sleep early, hence your timely & prior intimation on changes will give the necessary reaction time to the FHE to organize better operation for you.

13) Just In Case, If Some Sightseeing Are Closed On A Particular Day Do We Have The Option Of Covering It Next Day?

We make all contingency plans so that the sightseeing points do not fall on a closing day. Incase due to inevitable situation if the sightseeing falls on a closing day, it will have to be left out & cannot be carried forward to the next day. If you are taking the left out tour on the next day, you will have to pay the extra against the vehicle charges as advised by the File Handling Executive (FHE).

14) If We Are Unable To Utilize Some Services Of The Tour, Will There Be Refund?

There will be no refund for unutilized service in part or in full, what so ever may be the reason.

15) Once All The Services Are Confirmed, Is There Any Possibility Of Changes By The Operating Company?

Due to any unforeseen happening, and for suitable operational conditions, at the time of actual travelling, the itinerary could be altered, changed or removed. All such right are reserved with the operating company.