Mountains and Memories: Pritha Chatterjee’s Thrillophilia Review of North East

Life is all about the adventures you take and the memories you make. An adventurous 50-year-old woman, Mrs. Pritha Chatterjee had long envisioned going on a girls' trip. Pritha's much awaited journey started much earlier- as a silent wish, a far-off dream, and a sincere vow made by two friends. She had organised a fun getaway with her friend Sangeeta, but life's obligations kept putting it off. Nevertheless, they clung to the dream of going there someday. 

Today, in their 50s, their hair turned grey but their energy was still dynamic as in their college days. So, along with Sangeetac’s daughter, 22-year old Divyanshi, Pritha and Sangeetac were all set for their girls trip to Northeastern India.

“This is going to be so exciting”, said Pritha as they landed in Guwahati International Airport. They were welcomed by their tour coordinator from Thrillophilia who was standing with a placard outside the airport. He said, “You are in good hands madam. I will assure you a safe and memorable trip”.

Adventure activities at River Kameng

At Bhalukpong, the trio decided to visit River Kameng and take part in a few adventure activities. “Let’s go river rafting!”, shouted Divyanshi in excitement. Though Pritha and Sangeetac were scared, they decided to give it a try. Their laughs overpowered their fear every time the boat descended thrilling rapids through narrow valleys, dense forests and tribal colonies. Pritha exclaimed, “That was one awesome adventure to remember for the rest of our lives”.

Dreamy experiences in Dirang

The next day’s itinerary started with a quick journey to Dirang. On the way, they stopped at Tippi Orchid Research Centre, blooming with 500 different varieties of orchids. Divyanshi pulled out her camera to capture a vibrant red flower and observed the beauty of nature through her lens. Sangeetac whispered, “I was so caught up in everyday chores that I had forgotten how beautiful nature is. Thank you for bringing me here Pritha”. 

Then they visited the Nag Mandir set amidst misty hills and dense pine forests. While Pritha lit an incense and offered her prayers, Divyanshi and Sangeetac explored the rustic carvings and Assamese architectural style of the temple. The divine energy of the serpent deity, scenic views of the backdrop and calmness of the River Kamneg created a blissful start to the day. Later, they visited kiwi and apple farms, Dirang Monastery and Kalachakra Monastery before retiring to their rooms.

In the lap of Tawang

Morning mist and the rising sun whispered good morning as Pritha, Sangeetac and Divyanshi started off to Tawang. The drive from Dirang to Tawang was so magical that the landscape changed from green valleys to icy mountains. En route, they stopped at Sela Pass to click a few pictures with the snow-capped peaks and Sela Lake in the background. “Mom, I wish I could stay here forever”, sighed Divyanshi. After a quick stop at the JaswantGarh War Memorial, they visited the Nuranang Waterfalls. It was a breathtaking cascade flowing from a height of 100 metres into a clear emerald pool. The women captured as many pictures as they could and even video called their families to show the beauty of the waterfall.

The itinerary at Tawang included a guided tour around the town with a pitstop at Bum La Pass. As they drove through snow-laden valleys, they couldn’t help but be amazed at the enthralling background like kids. Their next stop was Shonga-tser Lake or Madhuri Lake. For a few moments, all three of them froze—not because of the cold, but from the breathtaking charm of the lake. Divyanshi wanted to shoot videos of her dancing like Madhuri Dixit by the river while Pritha and Sangeetac danced to their own tune. 

They also visited the Taktsang Gompa and Tawang Monastery for a peaceful end to the day. Holy chants of the monks, fluttering prayer flags, spinning prayer wheels and the serene prayer hall welcomed them into an abode of ecstasy. The humble architecture of the monastery, tranquil environment, scenic vistas and heartfelt prayers refreshed their souls after a long tiring day. 

Wandered Far, Grew Closer

Pritha’s Northeastern trip concluded with a short trip to Bomdila and the twin monasteries, Rabgyaling Monastery (Upper Gonpa) and Thub-Chog Gatsel Ling Monastery (Lower Gonpa). “I need to buy something as a keepsake for my son before I board the flight”, Pritha said. So, all three of them went on a shopping spree at the local markets of Guwahati. They walked through the vintage streets of Fancy Market and Paltan Market, enjoyed talking to the locals and tasted chais in clay pots. When they came back, their bags were loaded with tribal jewellery, wooden handicrafts, woollen garments and sweet treats. 

On the way to the airport, they stopped at Kamakhya Temple to get blessings from the goddess. “Thanks to Thrillophilia the trip was well-planned and everything was perfect," Pritha said. “I never realised how travelling could rejuvenate me”, Sangeetac replied. “Promise me, we should do this every year”, Divyanshi said as she held Pritha’s hands and Sangeetac’s. 

Read More: Thrillophilia North East Reviews