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Dear Travel Partners,
As we step into November, the Eastern horizon opens up to reveal some of the year's most remarkable landscapes and ex- periences. The season's change brings cooler days and vibrant surroundings, making it the ideal time for both new and re- turning travelers to dive deeper into the Northeast's beauty, culture, and unique offerings.
This month, Rising Stories of the East highlights the region's growing accessibility, with improved flight connections, enhanced infrastructure, and upcoming events that will draw travelers from across the globe. The ATOAI Convention in Tawang this December is a major milestone for the travel industry, spotlighting Northeast India's potential to inspire and surprise. For operators and travelers alike, it's a gateway to new partner- ships, novel programs, and a deeper understanding of this culturally rich landscape.
In this issue, we introduce a range of hidden gems and time-honored destinations, each offering travelers a story worth experiencing. November is a time to be inspired by the Northeast's rare blend of natural beauty, history, and warm communities. Whether it's a quiet walk through tea gardens, a thrilling trek in the hills, or a discovery of ancient traditions, we invite readers to embrace the Eastern spirit with open hearts.
Thank you for being part of our journey as we shine a light on the stories, connections, and shared ambitions that continue to shape the East.
Best Regards,
Amit Periwal
Upcoming Events
Cherry Blossom Festival
Date: 15-16th November, 2024
Celebrated at: Meghalaya
Significance: Known as the "Scotland of the East," Shillong is a picturesque hill station cele- brated for its stunning beauty, rolling hills, and pleasant climate, attracting visitors year-round. However, November is particularly special as the city transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of blooming cherry blossoms. Travelers flock to Shillong to witness the enchanting sight of Prunus Cerasoides adorning the Khasi hills, cre- ating a captivating landscape that draws both ad- miration and photography, making it a memora- ble experience for all who visit.
Sakewa
Date: 20th November, 2024
Celebrated at: Sikkim
Significance: In Sikkim, Sakewa holds great cultural and religious importance, especially for the Limbu and Rai communities, who are part of the larger Kirat ethnic group. The festival marks the close of the harvest season, with particular em- phasis on the celebration of Sakewa Udhauli. This event complements Udhauli, which is ob- served in the spring to pray for a successful planting season. During Udhauli, the Kirat people give thanks to nature and the deities for the abundant harvest and seek their protection as they prepare for the approaching winter.
Wangala Festival
Date: 21st November, 2024
Celebrated at: Dimapur, Kohima, Nagaland
Significance: Wangala is a post-harvest festival celebrated by the Garo tribe of Nagaland in honor of "Misi Saljong," the sun god of fertility, to give thanks for a successful harvest. Observed on November 21st, the festival includes tradi- tional performances such as the Wangala dance and Rugala, along with indigenous games like Tug of War and stone lifting. Participants dress in vi- brant attire, accompanied by rhythmic drum music, feasts, and Chu (rice beer). Key rituals, such as the pouring of rice beer (Rugala) and the burning of incense, are conducted by the village priest to commence the festivities.
Sector Updates
Flight operations resume at Rupsi Airport, restoring Dhubri's connectivity to Kolkata and Guwahati.
- Flight operations from Rupsi Airport to Kolkata and Guwahati have resumed after nearly a year-long sus- pension, with services initially running three times a week (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays). The re- start was inaugurated by Cabinet Minister Urkhao Gwra Brahma.
- The flights are operated by Alliance Air under the UDAN scheme using a 72-seater ATR-72 aircraft, ben- efiting students, business professionals, and patients who require faster transportation. Operations at the airport are managed by around 150 personnel.
- Flights are expected to increase to five days a week after October, with the refurbished airport aiming to enhance regional connectivity and boost the local economy.
The Postcard Hotel at Durrung Tea Estate, Tezpur.
- The Postcard at Durrung Estate is set amidst 1,400 acres of lush tea plantations, offering a unique holi- day experience that combines luxury with the tran- quility of nature, celebrated for producing some of the finest teas in the world.
- The estate features twelve exquisitely designed luxury rooms, each crafted to create an intimate con- nection with the surrounding landscape, ensuring a delightful escape for guests.
- Guests enjoy a range of lavish amenities, including endless cups of premium tea brewed from the es- tate's own leaves, all while taking in breathtaking views from their private patios overlooking the ver- dant plantations.
The attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the largest underwater human chain in the Andaman Islands.
- The Andaman and Nicobar Administration is organizing a Guinness World Record attempt for the longest underwater human chain at Radha Nagar Beach in Swaraj Dweep (Havelock Island) from November 11 to 17, 2024.
- The event is open to both certified and recreational scuba divers from across India and aims to promote tourism by highlighting the region's diving opportunities.
- Support for the event will come from the Andaman Nicobar Command, the Andaman Chamber of Com- merce, and certifying agencies such as PADI, SSI, and NIWS.
GTA to start Siliguri-Mirik helicopter services
- The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) is introducing helicopter services between Siliguri and Mirik to enhance tourism and promote Mirik as a wedding destination.
- Passengers will enjoy stunning aerial views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mirik Lake, and surrounding tea gar- dens, using a helipad established in 1991.
- This initiative aims to attract adventure enthusiasts while highlighting the region's natural beauty and boosting its tourism appeal.
De-Coding Paradise Unexplored
Baratang Island: A Paradise of Limestone Caves and Mangrove Creeks
- Baratang Island is renowned for its natural wonders, including impressive limestone caves, dense mangrove creeks, tidal swamp forests, and intriguing mud volcanoes. Located between the Middle and South Andaman, it serves as the first gateway north from the capital city.
- Although slightly less developed and not a major tourist hub, Baratang offers a unique charm as a hidden gem of the Andaman Islands. Visitors can enjoy the island's natural beauty without the distractions of commercial tourism, as there are no luxury accommodations or fancy restaurants.
- The local community primarily speaks languages other than English, which adds to the island's authentic experience and enhances its natural allure.
Budha Organic Kiwi Garden
- Budha Organic Kiwi Garden is near Helipad Ground in Yuksam, West Sikkim, with an entry fee of Rs 20. A 30-minute lecture on kiwi cultivation by Mr. Budha Hang Subha, the "Kiwi Man of Sikkim," is available for Rs 500.
- The kiwi season runs from September to December, peaking from October to December, allowing visitors to see and taste fresh organic kiwis.
- The garden emphasizes sustainable farming practic- es, making it a great destination for nature lovers to enjoy Yuksam's beauty while learning about organic kiwi farming in a tranquil setting.
Pfutsero-Chizami Region in Nagaland
- The Pfutsero-Chizami region in southern Nagaland boasts picturesque hills and rich biodiversity, support- ing endangered species and forming part of the Chind- win River's catchment.
- Home to the Chakhesang tribe, the area is known for its vibrant festivals and crafts, with Pfutsero being the highest town in Nagaland and a gateway to Chizami's cultural richness.
- Pfutsero's cool weather attracts visitors seeking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
Market Tour - Explore the distinctive nature of Kolk- ata's traditional markets
Duration: 08 hours from hotel to hotel (approx)
Timings: 08:00 hrs to 16:00 hrs.
Pick Up Point: Hotel
Season: October - March
Strictly For: 01 to 05 pax
Inclusions: AC Transport, Local guide, Mineral Water & Incidentals.
Places Covered: Flower Market-Burra Bazar - Ezra Street - Chitpur
Road: Mechua Fruit Market Kumartuli College Street Book
Market: New Market
- The walk will be conducted by experienced licensed guides from the department of tourism.
- Confirmation of language speaking guides will be subject to availability at the time of booking.
- Small group gives exclusivity to the participants and the guide is able to conduct the walk without any hassle.
Flavours Of the East
Watepa: Fish Grilled in Banana Leaves
Watepa is a traditional dish from Northeast India, especially popular in Me- ghalaya. This unique culinary creation involves fresh fish marinated in a blend of fragrant spices and herbs, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled to perfec- tion over an open flame or in a tandoor.
Method:
- Clean the fish and make shallow cuts. In a bowl, mix the marinade ingredients and coat the fish thoroughly. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat the banana leaves over a flame or in hot water until they become pliable.
- Place the marinated fish on a banana leaf, adding green chilies and fresh coriander on top. Wrap the leaf securely around the fish.
- Cook the wrapped fish on a grill or in an oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through.
- Carefully unwrap the fish and serve it hot with steamed rice and your choice of dip- ping sauce.
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