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Rising Stories in the East - August Edition

Rising Stories in the East - August Edition

By Admin — Jul 31st, 2025
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Dear Travel Partners,
 
As the monsoon deepens its rhythm across the East and Northeast, the month of August unveils a rich tapestry of spiritual sanctity, cultural vibrance, and immersive travel stories.
 
From the divine chants echoing through the serene banks of Mayapur-our hidden gem of the month to the tribal drumbeats that set the stage for Nagaland's grand Hornbill Festival later this year, this season blends devotion with discovery.
 
With Raksha Bandhan, Independence Day, Janmashtami, and Ganesh Chaturthi lighting up the festive calendar, every journey becomes a celebration of family, freedom, and faith.
 
In the Northeast, the resumption of Meghalaya's helicopter services and improving access to sacred sites like Khecheopalri Lake and Tendong Hill mark welcome steps towards deeper cultural exploration.
 
We are also happy to share that we've launched the East Decoded video series-quick, insightful capsules answering the most frequently asked questions about travel to East and Northeast(https://www.youtube.com/@clubsidetoursandtravels). 
 
Let's continue crafting journeys that go beyond sightseeing-into stories that resonate.
 
Best regards,
Amit Periwal Director, Clubside Tours & Travels
 

Weather Watch: Know Before You Go

Northeast India

Min Temp: 24°C
Max Temp: 31°C

Prediction/Rainfall: Moderate to heavy rainfall

Darjeeling–Sikkim Sector

Min Temp: 14°C
Max Temp: 25°C
 
Prediction/Rainfall: Moderate to heavy rainfall

West Bengal (Kolkata & Surrounding Plains)

Min Temp: 27°C
Max Temp: 35°C
 
Prediction/Rainfall: Moderate to heavy rainfall

Andaman

Min Temp: 26°C
Max Temp: 32°C
 
Prediction/Rainfall: Moderate to heavy rainfall

Bhutan

Min Temp: 12°C
Max Temp: 23°C
 
Prediction/Rainfall: Moderate to heavy rainfall
 

Upcoming Festivals:

  • Raksha Bandhan – August 9
  • Independence Day – August 15
  • Janmashtami – August 16
  • Ganesh Chaturthi – August 27

Festival Watch: Culture in Full Bloom

Hornbill Festival, Nagaland – A Cultural Spectacle of Northeast India (1st–10th Dec 2025)

The Hornbill Festival, held every December at Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima, is a vibrant celebration of all Naga tribes, showcasing their traditional and contemporary culture. Started in 2000, it aims to preserve Naga heritage and promote tourism through a unified cultural platform. Featuring 17 tribal Morungs (youth dormitories), the festival offers visitors a unique glimpse into the rich diversity and unity of Nagaland's indigenous communities.

Festival Dates : 1st to 10th Dec 2025

Nearest airport: Dimapur Airport, approximately 70 km from Kohima. It is well connected with direct flights to Kolkata and Delhi.

Nearest railway station: Dimapur Railway Station, approximately 75 km from Kohima. It is well connected with major cities across India.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 01: Dimapur – Kohima (70 km / 2 hrs)
 
Arrival at Dimapur and transfer to Kohima. Check-in at the hotel for your stay.
 
 
Day 02: Kohima
Full day visit to the Hornbill Festival ground to experience the cultural performances, traditional games, music, and food.
 
 
Day 03: Kohima
 
Morning visit to the Hornbill Festival ground. Post-lunch, explore nearby local villages and visit the historic 2nd World War Cemetery.
 
 
Day 04: Kohima – Dimapur (70 km / 2 hrs)
 
Transfer back to Dimapur for departure.
 
Accommodation & Transport
 
Accommodation during this tour will range from well-rated 3-star to premium 5-star category properties, ensuring comfort and convenience. For transport, ideal vehicle options include Innova Crysta, Tempo Traveller, and Urbania—suited for both small groups and larger parties.
 
Extension Tours Available
 
you can extend your journey to include nearby gems like Kaziranga National Park, Shillong, Cherrapunjee, and the river island of Majuli for a more immersive Northeast experience.
 
Conclusion
 
The Hornbill Festival beautifully showcases the rich cultural diversity, traditions, and heritage of Nagaland’s tribes in one vibrant platform.

It offers travelers a unique opportunity to experience authentic tribal life, making it a must-visit cultural celebration in Northeast India.

Destination Decode: This Month’s Hidden Gem

MAYAPUR – A JOURNEY INTO SPIRITUAL WEST BENGAL

Experience the peace and devotion at the sacred heart of Gaudiya Vaishnavism in Mayapur, located about 130 km north of Kolkata at the confluence of the Ganges and Jalangi rivers. Revered as the birthplace of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu—believed to be Krishna in the mood of Radha - Mayapur holds deep spiritual significance for followers of Gaudiya Vaishnavism. As the global headquarters of ISKCON, it draws over a million pilgrims each year, offering a unique blend of devotion, vibrant cultural practices, and tranquil surroundings that make it a truly transformative destination.

How to Reach Mayapur – Gateway to Spiritual Bengal

By Air: Fly to Kolkata Airport (117 km from Mayapur); take a taxi/private transfer onward.

By Train: Nearest station is Nabadwip Dham (30 km away); accessible via Howrah.

By Road: Well-connected to towns like Krishnanagar (20 km); taxis and shared cabs available.

ISCKON Temple Timings :

  • Mangala arati - 4.30 AM
  • Darshan arthi - 7:00 AM
  • Bhagavatham Class - 8:00 AM
  • Rajabhoga Arthi - 11:45 AM
  • Temple Closes - 1:00 PM
  • Dhoop Arthi - 4:00 Pm
  • Sandhya arthi - 6:30 Pm
  • Bhagavad Gita - 7:15 PM
  • Shayan Arthi - 8:15 PM
  • Temple closes - 8:30 PM

Places to See in Mayapur

Goshala

A peaceful shelter for over 200 cows and bulls, the Goshala promotes sustainable living and traditional wellness. Visitors can explore its natural offerings like ghee, yoghurt, and go-ark, all derived from cow care practices rooted in Vedic tradition.
 
 

Srila Prabhupada’s Pushpa Samadhi Mandir

This grand marble-domed memorial is the largest of its kind in India. Inside, a brass murti of Srila Prabhupada is worshipped amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, intricate dioramas, and terracotta panels depicting Krishna's pastimes. The auditorium below hosts regular cultural and spiritual events. 
 
 

Sri Mayapur Chandrodaya Mandir (Temple of the Vedic Planetarium)

Still under construction, this temple will be the world’s largest of its kind. It houses stunning deities of Sri Sri Radha Madhava, the Pancha-tattva, and the rare form of Lord Nrisimhadeva. Srila Prabhupada’s original rooms are preserved here, along with his personal deity, belongings, and a 24-hour kirtan space near the historic straw hut where he once stayed.
 

Things to Do in Mayapur

  • Chaitanya Lila Exhibition: Visual storytelling of Sri Chaitanya’s life, open daily 10 AM–1 PM & 4 PM–6 PM.
  • Chanting the Holy Name: Join continuous Hare Krishna chants in the temple for a soulful experience.
  • Attend Mangal Arati: Begin your day at 4:00 AM with the peaceful morning prayer at Sri Radha Madhav Temple.

Places to Stay in Mayapur

Hotel Sonar Bangla 

Just minutes from the ISKCON Temple, Hotel Sonar Bangla offers a luxurious and comfortable stay amidst spiritual serenity. With warm hospitality and modern amenities, it's an ideal retreat for visitors seeking both devotion and comfort.
Accommodation Inside ISKCON Campus
 

Gada Bhavan

Located near key attractions within the campus, Gada Bhavan offers peaceful surroundings, spacious rooms, and essential facilities including a snack corner, prasadam hall (serving 1000+ guests per sitting), and a restaurant.

Conch Bhavan

Just behind the main temple, Conch Bhavan is ideal for families and spiritual travelers. Surrounded by greenery, it promises tranquility and proximity to temple activities.
 

Ishodyan Bhavan 

 

Offering scenic views and serene surroundings, Ishodyan Bhavan is a photogenic and peaceful stay option, perfect for those looking to unwind within the holy atmosphere.

On the Ground: Sector-Wise Travel Buzz

Northeast Travel Updates

  • Meghalaya Helicopter Service resumes flights between Guwahati, Shillong & Tura – offering faster, scenic travel.
  • All treks/outdoor activities in Meghalaya now require registered local guides.
  • Cygnett Hotels signs its 9th NE property: Cygnett Park Guwahati, boosting the city’s gateway status.

Kolkata–Kathmandu Flights Resume

  • Buddha Air resumes direct flights from Sept 1, operating Tue, Thu, Sat & Sun.

  • 70-seater ATR 72-500 aircraft to be used on the route.
  • Marks return to Kolkata after 11 months; offers alternative to Delhi layovers.
 

Khecheopalri Lake – The Sacred Wish-Fulfilling Waters of West Sikkim

  • Located 34 km from Pelling, the lake is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus for its spiritual and wish-fulfilling significance.
  • It is a prominent stop on the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit, attracting devotees and spiritual seekers year-round.
  • A new parking area is being developed to improve accessibility and enhance the visitor experience.
 

Tendong Lho Rum Faat – Honouring Sikkim’s Sacred Hill and Lepcha Heritage

  • Celebrated on August 8, 2025, this indigenous festival holds deep cultural significance for the Lepcha community of Sikkim.
  • “Tendong” refers to a sacred hill in South Sikkim, while “Lho Rum Faat” means prayer or worship of the holy hill.
  • The festival commemorates the legend of Tendong Hill saving the Lepchas during a 40-day-long great flood.

 

 

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