Your adventure begins upon arrival at Dibrugarh Airport, where our team will warmly welcome you. From here, we embark on a scenic 121 km journey to Mon, the land of the Konyak tribe, renowned for their facial tattoos and warrior legacy. The drive takes approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, offering stunning views of lush valleys, rolling tea plantations, and winding mountain roads as we transition from Assam into Nagaland.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Naga culture over a traditional dinner at a local eatery.

Overnight Stay: Mon Homestay or similar (3-star accommodation).

After an early breakfast, we set off for Longwa Village, located 38 kilometers from Mon, a journey of approximately 1.5 hours through scenic, rugged terrain. This extraordinary village straddles the India-Myanmar border, offering a rare glimpse into a culture that transcends national boundaries.

In Longwa, we’ll have the exclusive opportunity to meet the Angh (chief) and photograph the tattooed elders and former warriors of the Konyak tribe. Engage with the villagers to gain deeper cultural insights and listen to compelling stories of their warrior past.

As the day unfolds, we’ll make the most of the golden hour, capturing striking portraits and the village’s ethereal beauty bathed in soft, natural light.

By evening, we return to Mon for an overnight stay.
Overnight Stay: Mon Homestay or similar (3-star accommodation).

After breakfast, we drive to Chui Village, located 37 kilometers from Mon, a journey of approximately 1 hour. This is one of the most culturally intact Konyak settlements, where traditions remain deeply rooted.

Here, we will visit a traditional Morung (men’s dormitory), where remnants of the tribe’s headhunting past are still preserved through intricate wood carvings and historical relics.

This setting provides a perfect backdrop for a staged portrait session, capturing the striking contrast between the old and new generations of the Konyak people. Through carefully composed shots, we will document their evolving identity while preserving the essence of their warrior heritage.

Overnight Stay: Chui Village Homestay or similar (2-star accommodation).

After breakfast, we drive to Hongphoi Village, home to retired Konyak warriors and a place rich in cultural heritage. This village offers a unique opportunity to conduct a concept shoot, featuring traditional Konyak weapons, tribal huts, and everyday activities that reflect their warrior legacy.

We will also explore local craftsmanship, including intricate beadwork and wood carving, capturing the fine details that define Konyak artistry.

After completing our photography sessions, we return to Mon for an overnight stay.

Overnight Stay: Mon Homestay or similar (3-star accommodation).

After breakfast, we pack our luggage and begin our return journey to Dibrugarh. Enjoy the scenic drive through Nagaland and Assam, reflecting on the incredible experiences and photographs captured during the tour.

We arrive in Dibrugarh by evening, where you’ll have free time to rest or explore the local markets.

Overnight Stay: Hotel Tree Fern or similar (3-star accommodation).

Today, we set off early after breakfast for Ziro, located approximately 231 km from Dibrugarh—a scenic drive of around 6 hours. As we journey into Arunachal Pradesh, enjoy the ever-changing landscape of lush valleys, river crossings, and rolling hills.

By evening, we arrive at the serene Ziro Valley, home to the unique and culturally rich Apatani tribe. The evening is free for leisure and soaking in the peaceful charm of this Himalayan highland.

Overnight Stay: KASA Resort or similar (3-star accommodation).

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Apatani villages of Ziro Valley, immersing ourselves in their rich cultural heritage. This is a rare opportunity to capture portraits of elderly Apatani women, adorned with their traditional face tattoos and nose plugs, as well as document the rhythms of daily life, including their unique wet rice farming techniques.

Our focus will be on concept photography, using visual storytelling to highlight the tribe’s traditions, lifestyle, and deep connection to nature. As the day winds down, we take advantage of the golden hour, capturing the valley’s ethereal beauty in soft, warm light.

Overnight Stay: KASA Resort or similar (3-star accommodation).

After breakfast, we visit Hong Village, the largest Apatani settlement, known for its unique grid-patterned layout and rich cultural heritage.

Today’s focus is on portrait and documentary photography, capturing Apatani women adorned with traditional facial tattoos and nose plugs. We’ll also document their traditional attire, daily routines, and deep connection with nature, offering an intimate glimpse into their way of life.

Overnight Stay: KASA Resort or similar (3-star accommodation).

We begin the day early with a portrait session of an Apatani priest, capturing sacred rituals and traditional attire in the soft morning light—an opportunity to document the spiritual essence of the tribe.

After breakfast, we take a final walk through the village, photographing the last glimpses of Apatani daily life before bidding farewell to Ziro.

By midday, we depart for Itanagar (103 km, approx. 2 hrs 45 mins), arriving by evening. The rest of the evening is at leisure, with an option to explore the local markets.

Overnight Stay: Hotel or similar.

After breakfast, we proceed to Itanagar Airport for your departure, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the tribal heartlands of Northeast India.

As we bid farewell, take with you not just stunning photographs but also cherished memories of the people, landscapes, and cultures encountered along the way.

Wishing you a safe journey home!

Not at all. Our Photo Tours and Workshops welcome everyone from casual hobbyists to seasoned professionals.
While each participant has their own learning curve, we ensure that everyone benefits from our trips—whether you’re just starting with photography or seeking advanced guidance to refine your vision and processing skills.
You’ll gain valuable insights not only from the instructor but also from the collective knowledge and experiences of the group, enhancing your overall learning experience.

All of the places we visit on this trip will be accessible in our trusty 4-wheel drive vehicles so physical fitness is not a huge priority on this trip but a reasonable level of fitness is required. You will need to be able to walk for a few hours most of the time taking pictures – at a gentle pace, remain standing, and get on and off cars, and planes. There are very few tarmac roads where we are going. Please bear this in mind before you book.

If you choose not to come with us when we travel on foot, don’t worry, there will be plenty of other things to occupy your time back at our hotel we always set up alongside local families who are happy to have visitors. In the past, people have had some very unique experiences by choosing to do this.

• 🌧️ Unpredictable Weather: Be prepared for occasional rain and dust, especially in remote village areas.

• 🌿 High Humidity: Parts of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland—especially areas with tropical rainforests—can be extremely humid.

• This isn’t a holiday trip. At times, you could face some extreme weather conditions.

Healthcare in major towns and cities like Guwahati, Shillong, and Imphal are fairly advanced with hospitals equipped to handle most medical emergencies. However, in remote areas, medical facilities may be limited. It is advisable to carry a personal medical kit, ensure vaccinations are up to date, and consider obtaining travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Staying hydrated and avoiding street food can prevent common ailments related to travel.

Climate
November is one of the best times to visit Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, with pleasant, mild winter weather ideal for travel and photography. Expect comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and dry conditions—perfect for outdoor activities and village explorations.

Nagaland
Temperature: Highs around 20°C, lows around 10°C, especially in higher altitudes.

Weather: Generally dry and clear, with crisp mountain air. Ideal conditions for portrait and landscape photography.

Arunachal Pradesh
Temperature: Similar to Nagaland, with highs around 20°C and lows around 10°C in elevated regions.

Weather: Bright, sunny days with clear skies and minimal rainfall. A great time to experience and document the region’s natural beauty and cultural life.

Arrival Airport: Dibrugarh Airport (DIB)to Itanagar Airport (Departure)
Departure Airport: Itanagar Airport (HGI)

Travel Visa & immigration
You will generally need a tourist visa for the country where we run your chosen tour. On your landing/immigration form, you should state that you are on a group tour if requested, and provide the name of our local tour operator. We will provide the necessary details once your booking is confirmed.

Permits
India has special entry regulations for certain northeastern states. We will handle all required permits on your behalf once your booking is confirmed.

Nagaland

For Indian Citizens:

• An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for entry.
• It can be applied for online via the Nagaland ILP Portal.
• The ILP helps regulate entry and preserve local cultures and resources.

For Foreign Nationals:

• Foreign tourists no longer need special entry permits (PAP/RAP) for Nagaland.
• However, registration at the nearest police station within 24 hours of arrival is mandatory.
• Nationals of Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan, or those of these origins, still require prior approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Myanmar nationals are exempt from PAP until further notice but must have a valid visa and register upon arrival.

Arunachal Pradesh

For Indian Citizens:

• An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for travel.

For Foreign Nationals (including OCI holders):

• A Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required.
• It can be obtained through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or state liaison offices.
• As regulations may change, please consult the Indian Bureau of Immigration or your nearest embassy for updated guidance.

Visa for Entry into India
All foreign nationals require a valid visa to enter India. Most travelers can apply for an e-Tourist Visa online. We recommend checking the latest visa guidelines with your nearest Indian embassy or consulate, as requirements may vary based on your passport and country of residence.

To explore current visa policies by nationality, you can visit Visa Map.

EXPOSURE cannot be held responsible for your entry/exit arrangements, so please note that obtaining the required documentation is solely your responsibility. No refunds will be made in the event of you being refused entry into the country where travel is to take place.

Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, known for their breathtaking landscapes and rich tribal heritage, are gradually becoming more accessible to travelers. With growing tourism initiatives and improving infrastructure, these regions offer a truly immersive cultural experience.

Nagaland is widely regarded as one of the safest states in India, boasting low crime rates and a strong community ethos. The people here live with virtue, dignity, and pride, and visitors often feel welcomed and well-respected. Even solo travelers find it to be a secure and hospitable environment.

These states offer an incredible opportunity to engage with indigenous communities, witness traditional lifestyles, and document stories that remain largely unseen by the outside world—making them ideal destinations for photographers and cultural explorers.

We work closely with our trusted local team in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, who bring over 15 years of on-ground experience in the region. Their deep-rooted knowledge and connections ensure that every aspect of the tour is conducted with the utmost care, respect, and safety.

Our local partners have previously supported renowned organizations such as National Geographic and Discovery Channel, further attesting to their professionalism and expertise in handling culturally sensitive and logistically challenging projects.

If you have any concerns regarding travel or safety, please feel free to reach out—we’re here to address your questions and ensure your experience is both enriching and secure.

This is a moderately cold-weather trip and your packing should reflect that. During this time the weather in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh can be very unpredictable and you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors so it’s important to have the right gear with you. Clothing-wise, layers are the key since you will be potentially both walking and sitting in cold vehicles. The amount of each that you choose to do will depend on your fitness and preference.

This is a suggested packing list to make your trip a fulfilling and comfortable experience.

• Backpack or suitcase
• Comfortable hard-wearing shoes
• Winter jacket for moderate cold
• lightweight trousers
• Sun hat
• Sunglasses
• Sun care cream
• Headlamp/flashlight
• Wet tissues
• Thermoflask
• Anti-mosquito repellents
• Insurance confirmation copy
• Emergency contact number
• Carry your essential and basic medicines for headaches, fever, stomach upset, etc.

You should bring cameras, a laptop (for editing in the evenings), and a head torch; these kinds of things instantly spring to mind. Don’t worry about recharging since we will have generators to top up our tent each night. Once you confirm your booking with a 50% deposit, we will send you all the information you need to fully prepare yourself for this epic journey.

This is just an idea about the suggested camera and accessory:

• One or two DSLR or Mirrorless (Full Frame or Crop Sensor) cameras. If you use a full-frame DSLR or mirrorless camera, for much of the time, when photographing tribals in a group, you will want to cover focal lengths of around 16-35mm, 24-70mm or 24-105mm. You can bring an 85mm for staged portraiture also. However, a kit lens (18-55/3.5 or 4.0) will also work.
• If you bring a good quality bridge camera instead of a DSLR or mirrorless camera, it will be best if it has an optical zoom of 18-20x or more, combined with a reasonably wide angle at the other end of the zoom range.
• Protector for your lens.
• Power Bank & Electric Socket Extension.
• Adequate memory card and Card reader.
• Be sure to bring plenty of spare battery power for your camera and external hard drive with adequate space and a card reader.
• A Computer with photo-processing software [Lightroom, Photoshop]. (If you do not have this software, don’t worry, we’ll provide it.)
• Carry a microfiber to wipe the lens.

You may choose any flight on Day -1, but we highly recommend arriving before 2 p.m. as it takes approximately 3.5 hours to reach the hotel from Dibrugarh Airport. This ensures a smoother arrival and avoids late-night travel through hilly terrain.

• If you’re flying internationally, arriving a day early will help you recover from jet lag and be fresh for the journey ahead. We can also arrange extra nights in the same hotel and room, so you won’t need to shift accommodations.
• Please note: International flights are not included in the tour cost.