2-Day Hoolock Gibbons Wildlife Tour from Guwahati

Our review of this 2-day wildlife adventure takes you through one of Assam’s most unique natural experiences—spotting India’s only wild apes, the Hoolock Gibbons, in their habitat. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and the natural beauty of Assam suggest it offers a truly authentic and immersive wildlife experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you get the chance to listen to and watch the dawn duets of Hoolock Gibbons, an unforgettable soundscape. Second, the visit to a local tea estate offers insight into Assam’s famous tea industry combined with scenic views. Lastly, the expert guides and naturalists make all the difference, providing not just sightings but stories and knowledge that deepen your understanding of the region’s biodiversity.

One potential consideration is the long drives—about 6 hours each way—which might feel lengthy for some travelers. However, this scenic journey across Assam’s lush landscapes is part of the charm. This tour is best suited for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in authentic local culture. If you’re ready for early mornings and a bit of travel, this experience offers rich rewards.

Good To Know

• Unique wildlife encounter with India’s only wild apes, the Hoolock Gibbons
• Expert naturalist guides enhance understanding and spotting chances
• Beautiful scenic drives through Assam’s famous tea estates
• Authentic cultural experiences with visits to local markets and tea farms
• Comfortable accommodations and private transportation streamline logistics
• Limited group size and private tour ensure a personalized experience

Starting Point: Guwahati and the Scenic Drive to Jorhat

The adventure kicks off early in the morning with a 7:30 AM pickup in Guwahati. From here, you’ll embark on a roughly six-hour drive northward through Assam’s iconic tea estates, which define the landscape of Upper Assam.

This drive isn’t just a means to an end; it’s a chance to soak in the rolling hills and emerald fields that have made Assam famous. Many reviewers highlight the scenic beauty of this journey, with one noting that the drive “enjoys a 6-hour scenic drive through the rolling tea estates that define Upper Assam.” It’s the kind of scenery that makes the long hours worthwhile, especially if you’re a photography buff or simply love observing rural life.

Jorhat: Gateway to Assam’s Natural Treasures

Arriving in Jorhat, the heart of Assam’s tea country, you’ll step into a region with a distinct blend of colonial charm and indigenous culture. Some travelers take advantage of this stop to visit a nearby tea estate, where pluckers work their way through lush bushes, and you can learn how Assam’s world-famous tea is harvested. These visits aren’t just educational—they’re a sensory delight, with the sight of lush plantations and the aroma of fresh tea leaves.

Another highlight is visiting a local market, where you can browse bamboo crafts, spices, and other local products. Reviewers often mention how welcoming the town is and how easy it is to connect with local artisans, giving you a taste of Assam’s vibrant rural economy.

Night at a Comfortable Lodge

After a full day of travel and exploration, you’ll settle into a cozy lodge. While details on the accommodation are limited, most reviews indicate that the stay is comfortable, making the early start on day two more manageable.

Dawn at Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

The real magic begins early the next morning, just before sunrise, at the Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary. Here, the forest comes alive with the distinctive duets of Hoolock Gibbons—a haunting, soulful chorus that echoes through the trees.

The guided forest walk lasts around two hours, led by a knowledgeable naturalist. One reviewer remembers the experience as “spectacular,” noting that the guide patiently pointed out these elusive primates and helped them understand their behaviors. The guides are praised for their expertise, making it easier for visitors to spot the gibbons and appreciate their social dynamics.

What’s fascinating about these morning duets is that they are not just random sounds—they serve as communication and territorial signals, making the experience both auditory and visual. Besides the gibbons, expect to see up to seven species of primates within the sanctuary, ensuring a lively and biodiverse outing.

Exploring Assam’s Biodiversity

Beyond the gibbons, the sanctuary itself is a haven for various animals, birds, and plant species. The experience is about more than just spotting primates—it’s about feeling the rhythm of the forest and understanding the delicate balance of this ecosystem.

Return Journey to Guwahati

After a morning in the forest, you’ll head back to Guwahati, completing the journey with a six-hour drive filled with scenic views and reflections on the morning’s wildlife encounters. Many reviewers mention that the drive back, while long, offers additional opportunities to discuss the morning sightings with your naturalist.

Additional Experiences and Value

This tour includes breakfast each day, air-conditioned transport, and guided forest walks, which all contribute to a smooth and enriching experience. However, meals for lunch and dinner are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local eateries or enjoy your own arrangements.

The private nature of the tour means only your group participates, allowing for a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. Plus, with flexible cancellation policies—full refunds are available if you cancel three days in advance—it’s a low-risk opportunity to explore Assam’s wildlife.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, describing them as “amazing naturalists” who made the morning walks memorable. One reviewer mentions that they “had an excellent guide who took us walking in the forest to show us the lives of Hoolock Gibbons,” emphasizing the importance of guided expertise.

The soundscape of the gibbons’ duets is repeatedly highlighted as a defining feature, with visitors noting how haunting and beautiful it is to hear these apes calling at dawn. Many describe the experience as “unforgettable,” with one reviewer remarking that they walked on the forest floor for the first time to spot these animals—a rare and special moment.

This experience truly caters to wildlife lovers and anyone eager to see a rare primate in the wild. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind early mornings, appreciate scenic drives, and enjoy learning about local culture through visits to markets and tea estates. With its expert guides and intimate group setting, it suits those looking for a personalized, authentic encounter with nature.

While the long drives might be a downside for some, the rewarding wildlife sightings and cultural insights make it worth the effort. It’s a great choice for those seeking a meaningful, off-the-beaten-path adventure in Assam.

This 2-day tour delivers more than just wildlife viewing—it offers a genuine connection to Assam’s natural and cultural world. The guided forest walks with naturalists are a highlight, providing expert insights that elevate the experience from simple sightseeing to meaningful discovery.

The scenic drive through tea estates adds a layer of regional charm, allowing you to experience Assam’s landscape and lifestyle firsthand. The exclusive focus on the Hoolock Gibbons, India’s only wild apes, makes this a rare opportunity to observe these engaging primates in their natural environment.

The overall experience, as reflected in the glowing reviews, emphasizes well-organized logistics, knowledgeable guides, and unforgettable sounds and sights. While the journey involves some long drives, the rewards—unique wildlife encounters and cultural visits—make it a worthwhile investment.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife photographer, or someone eager to explore India’s lesser-known treasures, this tour offers excellent value, memorable moments, and a chance to see one of the world’s most charming primates in the wild.

Is transportation provided from Guwahati? Yes, the tour includes private car transportation with air-conditioning from Guwahati to Jorhat and back.

What’s included in the price? The package covers breakfast, an air-conditioned vehicle, a comfortable hotel stay, and a guided forest walk with an expert naturalist.

Are meals provided beyond breakfast? No, lunch and dinner are not included, giving you the flexibility to explore local options on your own.

How long is the drive each way? Expect around 6 hours each way from Guwahati to Jorhat, making it a full-day travel experience but filled with scenic views.

Can anyone join this tour? Most travelers can participate, and it’s a private tour, so only your group will be involved, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is the best time to visit? The reviews suggest that early mornings are best for hearing the gibbons’ duets, so plan your trip around sunrise for the most memorable experience.

This 2-day Hoolock Gibbons Wildlife Tour offers a rare glimpse into Assam’s vibrant biodiversity and cultural richness. It’s perfect for those seeking a meaningful adventure, blending wildlife, scenic beauty, and local flavor in one well-organized package.