Going beyond the known.
Northeast India
2-11th August, 2026
A hidden herping hotspot in the Eastern Himalayas
Join us for a pioneering 10-day recon expedition into the remote jungles of Northeast India: a region of staggering biodiversity and remarkable cultural diversity, yet rarely explored by herping groups. Together with the exceptional Girish Choure, who knows these forests and their inhabitants better than anyone, we’ll venture deep into the wilds of Northeast India’s dense tropical forests in search of some of India’s most iconic reptiles.
The main targets for this trip are two rare and incredible vipers: the elusive and stunning Kaulback’s Pit Viper (Protobothrops kaulbacki) and one of the rarest snakes in the world: the Arunachal Pit Viper (Trimeresurus arunachalensis), a snake that has recently been seen for the second time ever by our guide Girish. Some other incredible targets for this trip include Salazar’s Pit Viper (Trimeresurus salazar), Jerdon’s Pit Viper (Protobothrops jerdonii), the Himalayan Krait (Bungarus bungaroides) and even King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah), among many spectacular Indian colubrids.
As a recon trip, this expedition is unpredictable by nature, a true exploration where every trail, call, and movement in the forest could lead to discovery. It is important to note that hiking through the rainforest of the Eastern Himalayas is not easy. As temperatures can get low and terrain can be tough, we advise only experienced hikers to enquire for this unique adventure.
Meet your Tour Leader
Steijn Pulles
Wildlife Guide | Photographer | Conservationist
Itinerary
The exact itinerary is still being developed but here’s what you can expect.
After arriving in the West Kameng district of India, we will gather the group to start making our way to the first and furthest location. The destination is quite a drive but the other two locations will be on the way back from there. At the first location, we will be looking for the Jerdon’s Pit Viper, a top target for herpers across the globe. At the second spot we will be targeting a truly mythical snake; the Arunachal Pit Viper. This animal has only been recorded twice, one of which was by our guide not too long ago. Finally we are moving to the last spot, where in the start of august, chances are the best to find one of our top targets: Kaulback’s Pit Viper. This is the location where we will be spending most of our time. During the whole expedition we will of course have the chance to see many other beautiful Indian reptiles, like the vibrant Salazar’s Pit Viper, the rare Himalayan Krait and maybe even King Cobra.
The days will be spent enjoying Indian food, doing short hikes, Looking for diurnals and staying in basic accommodations in beautiful landscapes. For some targets we be roadcruising, some of other targets are easier to find on foot.
What is included.
Domestic Travel and private transfers
Expert guiding throughout the whole tour
Accomodation
Park entrance fees
Three meals per day (excluding breakfast on day 1, and lunch and dinner on day 10)
Expert photography guidance
What is not included.
Expedition gear (rubber boots, mosquito repellent etc.)
Flights to and from the destination
Travel insurance
Any extra hotels or transport
Potential visa costs
Snacks and alcoholic beverages
Tips
Limited spaces available
To ensure a high-quality, personalized experience, our herping trips are limited to small groups of 5–8 participants. This allows for better wildlife viewing opportunities, more direct interaction with guides, and a lower impact on the environment. Whether you're a photographer, researcher, or passionate nature enthusiast, the small group size ensures you get the most out of every moment in the field.