My wife, Sheela and I thoroughly enjoyed our NE trip thanks to the thoughtful itinerary that Rajiv of North East Explorers had chalked out for us of 5 nights and... read more 6 days in Arunachal. It's a truly wonderful place we strongly recommend that one visit this State while one is still able to. Right from the moment we were picked up from Guwahati airport till the time we were dropped off we did not have to think of anything. We stayed at Bomdila, Tawang and Dirang at lovely, homely, hospitable and caring homestays and visited Sela Pass, Sungester Lake, the Indo-Chinese border at Bum La, War Memorials and the beautiful monasteries at Dirang as well as Tawang, amongst others. Our driver cum-guide was also exceptional - not only did he have exceptional control of the vehicle, he possessed good knowledge of all the sites and was ready to stop for us to take pics and spend time as per our wish at various scenic locales enroute. Thanks once again to the North East Explorers and Rajiv in particular. Have already recommended you to our family and friends.

  Ordinarily we organise our own travel, but with travel/accommodation options limited in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, and logistical issues including border security, we opted for a travel agent. North East... read more Explorers (NEE) developed a customised itinerary for 9 nights (5 in AP; 4 in Assam) in January 2023.
In terms of NEE's service, the pluses outnumbered the minuses. But we did not have a trouble-free experience - although problems were surmountable. We also thought it was pretty expensive, particularly given the quality of the accommodation (all 3-star or less, except for one night at an Assam tea bungalow).
In terms of our NEE experience, specifically:
Pluses:
- Good and comfortable car (Innova) with room for us and luggage
- An experienced, professional driver
- Good guide for 2 days in Ziro
- Assistance with AP permit application
- Prompt follow-up re our questions/concerns
Minuses:
- Accommodation quality variable - some poor; see reviews on Tripadvisor
- Payment: website says NEE takes credit card, but this is via Paypal with significant surcharge
- Package seemed expensive given accommodation quality
The following might also be useful as feedback:
1. Warn travellers about connectivity BEFOREHAND so they can plan. There was no WIFI at the AP accommodation, but it was only AFTER we encountered problems that it was explained that it's generally not availabe in AP. Also, we were not warned that international phone networks (ie roaming) doesn't work in AP.
2. Re homestays, "authenticity" on its own doesn't mean the accommodation is OK; hygiene, safety and accessibility are not luxuries. Our Ziro homestay had bathroom basin waste water discharging on to the floor and no bath/shower; many stairs to enter - and more just to get around - the property (impossible for anybody with mobility issues); and a frisky dog (some people are scared of dogs). We stayed one night and then asked to move to somewhere with a better/cleaner bathroom.
3. Travel agents should be familiar with the accommodation. We had the impression that NEE did not have first-hand experience of all our accommodation.
4. Route planning: after a long wait at the Kimin Gate to get to Ziro, NEE specifically told us that we would only have to enter AP once, and that when we went across to the western circuit we would remain inside AP. This was incorrect - the itinerary showed we had a night at Bhalukpong in Assam (meaning another wait at the Assam/AP border to go up to Dirang). Not a big deal, but it gave the impression that NEE wasn't on top of the itinerary.
Overall we had a great time. The people we met were friendly and welcoming; the distinct geography and diverse cultures mean AP and Assam are fascinating destinations. With roads improving and more direct flights, there will be a wider range of options for travel there in the future.

  I cannot say enough positive things about my experience with Rajiv and his team. The homestays were amazing - everyone was so caring, made sure they catered to the... read more dietary needs of our large group (9 people). And they also managed last minute changes with no hassle at all. We are so glad we had an opportunity to explore this part of India and the experience of working with a local, indigenous organization was completely different than a large tour agency. Rajiv checked in every day, multiple times a day to make sure we were ok and that we were aware of the plans for the next day. Our group comprised one family from the U.S. and it was their first visit to India, and they could not have had a better experience.

  A fabulous experience. All arrangements perfect. A wonderful company in the form of Jameer our cabbie and travel guide - a truly pleasant personality, With Rajiv checking every 6 hours... read more on our levels of comfort. All the home stays - Seuj, Dondrub, Gonpalok and De Dhen were carefully chosen by Rajiv and team and were very homely with awesome hospitality. Thank you for making our trip memorable.

  We had visited Mechuka in Arunachal from 24 Dec to 29 Dec with North East Explorers. Highly satisfied with the way the tour was conducted. We did not have to... read more worry about anything during the tour. From permits to some of the finest homestays, everything was perfectly arranged. Our request for our preferred homestay in Mechuka was also addressed. Throughout the tour, Rajiv used to coordinate with us or the homestay owners in case we were not reachable on cell.

Considering how remote the area was, we were a bit sceptical initially how it would turn out but it turned out to be one of the finest tours done. Thanks to Rajiv and his team for all the arrangements.

Special call out to our driver com guide Sukhbir who made our trip even more enjoyable !! Would highly recommend Northeast Explorers.

  Northeast, God's land and nature at its best - We had booked our trip 2 years ago, due to Covid-19 we had to cancel. Thank Mr. Rajiv for giving us Credit and organized such a Wonderful, Memorable and so... read more nicely organized tour, right from one of his best driver, to booking nice, cosy guest house accommodation in Kaziranga and Meghalaya. Unfortunately Time was a factor we had to return. We will surely return to the northeast and look forward from, Mr. Rajiv to craft us a perfect tour, this time it would be Arunachal and again Meghalaya. My Family enjoyed the trip. Hats off to Northeast Explorers

  We were 12 senior citizens travelling to NE states. Rajiv did a marvellous job. He has good knowledge of NE states. He is amazing and has excellent homestays in... read more his list. He can be trusted for your NE trips. Don't have to look elsewhere. Thanks Rajiv

  Northeast India was on our wishlist for a long time. Did a bit of research on Google and we decided to go with North East Explores based on the reviews.... read more We did a 8 day trip to Kaziranga - Meghalaya with a 5 year old kid and it turned out to be one of our best trips.

We got in touch through their website and had further discussion with Rajiv. We needed a few customizations like having a relaxed itinerary and addition of a few places. Once it was finalized he took care of the entire trip including Safaris and required permits. We just needed to book flight tickets.

We had Dzire for all our 8 days which was clean and well maintained. All the homestays were neat and clean with all required amenities. Rajiv was in touch with us throughout the trip to ensure we are comfortable and not having any issue.

Regarding the place itself, It’s beautiful. Both Assam and Meghalaya have their unique beauty. We covered Kaziranga where we could spot the Rhinos. In Meghalaya we visited Dawaki, Mawlynnong, Cherrapunjee and Laitlum along with Shillong. Each place has its unique charm.

Finally, a big shout out to our Driver cum guide for 8 Days, Apu. He made us feel comfortable the moment we landed and sat in Car. He has good knowledge of places to visit and good eateries. He took extra efforts to ensure we make the most out of our time there.

If you ever wish to visit North East India, do not hesitate and contact Rajiv and North East Explorers. Highly recommended

  It was a very nicely organized trip. We appreciate that Rajiv was constantly in touch with us throughout the trip. Overall it was a wonderful experience

  Wanna explore North East? Call up Rajiv and forget all your worries! - We, 2 families, explored North East (Arunachal) planned and professionally executed by Rajiv! It’s indeed a wonderful experience to enjoy 12 days in one of the beautiful and serene locations... read more in the world. Our experience throughout the process of booking till each step of the journey handled flawlessly by Rajiv! His passion, caring nature is commendable! Highly recommended those who wants to explore NE! Thanks for everything, Rajiv! And of course, our Innova drivers who became our extended family by end of the trip! Will see you all again soon!