Dear Travel Partners,
December brings renewed momentum to travel in the East and Northeast — clear skies, festive energy, and a steady rise in demand for authentic, culture-rich experiences.
In this edition, we highlight:
– Magh Bihu, Assam’s warm celebration of harvest, fire, and community.
– Shantiniketan, our hidden gem of the month — where art, heritage, and rural calm create a truly enriching escape.
– Important sector updates across hospitality and regional regulations that shape the travel season ahead.
We are also pleased to share a moment of pride for our organisation.
Clubside has received an award and recognition from the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR) for our contribution to responsible and heritage-based tourism.
This acknowledgment reinforces our long-standing commitment to preserving the legacy of the DHR while enhancing visitor experiences across the region.
As travellers continue to seek deeper stories and meaningful journeys, the East stands strong with experiences that stay with them long after they return. Our focus remains consistent — to deliver expertise, reliability, and heartfelt service through every itinerary.
Best Regards,
Amit Periwal
Director, Clubside Tours & Travels Pvt. Ltd.
Festival Watch: Culture in Full Bloom
Magh Bihu – Assam’s Grand Harvest Festival (15th January 2026)
Every winter, the villages and countryside of Assam light up with warmth, feasting, and celebration during Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu. Marking the end of the harvest season, this vibrant festival is a joyful expression of abundance, gratitude, and community spirit.
The eve of Bihu, known as Uruka, fills the air with laughter as communities build traditional bamboo huts—Meji and Bhelaghar—and gather for a hearty feast by the bonfire. At sunrise, the burning of the Meji symbolizes purification and prayers for prosperity. Homes brim with traditional treats like pithas, laru, and jalpaan, while open fields come alive with rural sports and social festivities.
For travelers, Magh Bihu offers an authentic window into Assam’s rich agrarian heritage — where food, fire, and friendship create the heart of the celebration.
Monasteries like Rumtek, Pemayangtse, and Enchey host sacred Cham dances, while homes glow with butter lamps and colorful prayer flags. Families gather over traditional dishes like Guthuk, Khapsay, and Butter Tea.
For travelers, Losar is a magical glimpse into Sikkim’s living Buddhist culture — where faith and festivity blend in the heart of the Himalayas.
Nearest Airport & Railway Station
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station, a major rail hub with regular trains across India.
Nearest Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati), well-connected to major Indian cities.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 01 : Arrive in Guwahati and drive to Kaziranga National Park. Spend the evening at leisure amid nature.
Day 02: Enjoy an optional early morning jungle activity (elephant ride / jeep safari). Immerse yourself in Magh Bihu celebrations with local communities—experience Uruka feasting and bonfire traditions.
Day 03: Witness traditional Bihu rituals, rural games, and festive activities. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance at Kaziranga Orchid Park.
Day 04 : Drive back to Guwahati for onward travel, carrying with you the warmth and festive spirit of Assam’s harvest celebration.
Accommodation & Transport
Choose from a wide range of comfortable stays in Kaziranga—from standard hotels to premium resorts.
Travel is arranged based on group size, with options including Sedan, Innova Crysta, Tempo Traveller, and Urbania for smooth journeys across Assam’s scenic routes.
Extension Tours
Enhance your Magh Bihu experience with nearby destinations:
Jorhat & Majuli Island – Explore the world’s largest river island and its vibrant neo-Vaishnavite culture.
Kohima, Nagaland – Discover tribal heritage and picturesque landscapes.
Meghalaya (Shillong, Cherrapunjee & Dawki) – Misty hills, waterfalls, living root bridges, and crystal-clear rivers.
Magh Bihu is more than just a harvest festival — it is a beautiful celebration of abundance, togetherness, and the timeless spirit of rural Assam.
Destination Decode : This Month’s Hidden Gem
Shantiniketan: Where Art, Culture & Calm Embrace Your Soul.
Why Visit Shantiniketan?
Founded in 1901 by Rabindranath Tagore, Shantiniketan is a unique blend of heritage, education, and culture set in the serene rural landscape of West Bengal. Built on the philosophy of Visva Bharati—the unity of humanity—Tagore envisioned an open-air learning environment rooted in ancient Indian traditions yet welcoming global ideas. Its distinctive architecture, artworks by legends like Nandalal Bose and Ramkinkar Baij, and an emphasis on creativity and nature make it a living museum of Bengal’s cultural renaissance.
Beyond its academic legacy, Shantiniketan is a vibrant cultural hub known for iconic festivals such as Poush Mela, Basanta Utsav, and Joydev Mela. Visitors can explore the tranquil Uttarayan Complex, Rabindra Museum, Kala Bhavana, Chhatimtala, and the lively Sonajhuri Haat, where local handicrafts, folk music, and the region’s artistic soul come alive. Shantiniketan offers a peaceful yet enriching escape—perfect for travellers seeking heritage, art, and authentic rural charm.
Recommended Duration of Stay
To fully experience Shantiniketan’s heritage, culture, and serene village life, 2–3 nights is ideal—perfect for exploring Visva Bharati, Sonajhuri, and nearby sacred sites at a relaxed pace.
Visitor Information
- Getting There: The most popular route is by train from Kolkata to the Bolpur Santiniketan Railway Station, a journey of approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Best Time to Visit: The winter months, from November to March, are the most popular due to the pleasant weather conditions for sightseeing. Monsoon season offers lush greenery.
- Accommodation: A range of options is available, including hotels, resorts, and homestays.
- Museum Timings: The Rabindra Museum is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Drive from Kolkata to Shantiniketan (4–5 hrs). After check-in, explore the Visva Bharati University campus including China Bhawan, Chhatimtala, Kala Bhavan, Patha Bhavan, Prayer Hall, Bichitra Museum, Sangeet Bhavan, and the Uttarayan Complex.
Overnight in Shantiniketan.
Day 2 : Visit Sonajhuri Tribal Village, known for its forests, Adivasi settlements, Kopai River, and the scenic Khoai region. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Later visit Kankalitala, a revered Shaktipeeth located by the Kopai River.
Overnight in Shantiniketan.
Day 3: After breakfast, drive back to Kolkata (4–5 hrs).
Shantiniketan at a Glance
Founded by Rabindranath Tagore, Shantiniketan is a peaceful cultural hub known for Visva Bharati University, open-air learning, vibrant festivals, and rich artistic heritage. With serene spots like Sonajhuri and the Khoai region, it offers a blend of nature, history, and Bengal’s creative spirit.
Shantiniketan: Bengal’s Cultural Heartbeat
- UNESCO World Heritage Site founded by Rabindranath Tagore.
- Home to Visva-Bharati University and its iconic open-air classrooms.
- Famous for vibrant festivals like Poush Mela & Basanta Utsav.
On the Ground: Sector-Wise Travel Buzz
Fortune Select Siliguri: ITC Hotels Unveils Its Premium Gateway to the Himalayas
ITC Hotels has launched Fortune Select Siliguri, which opened on 19th November, offering a 70-key premium stay. With elegant rooms, exclusive vegetarian dining, and modern event spaces, it serves as the perfect gateway to Darjeeling, Sikkim, and Bhutan.
Darjeeling to Enforce New Pet Regulations from January 2026
From January 2026, Darjeeling will require visitors to carry dog vaccination cards and follow strict waste-disposal rules. A new annual dog licensing system and ₹500 spot fines aim to ensure responsible pet ownership.
Sundarbans to Close for Tiger Census on December 11–12
The Sundarbans will shut to tourists on December 11–12 for an extensive tiger census using 1,400 camera traps. The survey will track tiger and prey populations across 4,100 sq km with real-time data reporting.
Supercar Rally to Roar Through Sikkim This December
From December 11–15, Sikkim will host a Supercar Rally featuring Lamborghinis and Porsches across Gangtok, Natu La, and Zuluk. Supported by the Indian Army, the event aims to promote tourism and showcase Sikkim’s scenic routes.
Ginger Dimapur: IHCL Signs Its First Hotel in Nagaland
IHCL has announced its entry into Nagaland with the signing of Ginger Dimapur, a new greenfield project. The upcoming hotel marks a significant milestone for the brand as it expands into the Northeast’s emerging travel and business hub.
Sikkim Hosted the 13th International Tourism Mart 2025
Sikkim showcased its acclaimed sustainable tourism model as it hosted the 13th International Tourism Mart in Gangtok from 13–16 November 2025. Delegates from 19 countries, industry leaders, influencers, and tourism officials participated in the event.
Sikkim Hosted the 13th International Tourism Mart 2025
Sikkim showcased its acclaimed sustainable tourism model as it hosted the 13th International Tourism Mart in Gangtok from 13–16 November 2025. Delegates from 19 countries, industry leaders, influencers, and tourism officials participated in the event.
Clubside Honoured with the AJAX Award at DHR Awards Ceremony 2025
Clubside was felicitated with the prestigious AJAX Award at the DHR Awards Ceremony held at Ghum Railway Station on 30th November 2025. The recognition celebrates the organisation’s outstanding contribution and excellence within the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway tourism ecosystem.
