Documents You Need
Before picking up your self-drive rental, make sure you have the following ready. Missing even one document can delay your trip or prevent handover entirely.
- Valid driving licence — An Indian licence or a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) is mandatory. The licence must cover the vehicle category you are renting (LMV for cars, LMV-T for transport vehicles).
- Government-issued photo ID — Aadhaar, passport, or voter ID. Foreign nationals should carry their passport.
- Inner Line Permit (ILP) — Required if your route enters Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, or Mizoram. Apply online or at the relevant state office in Guwahati before departure.
- Security deposit — Most rentals require a refundable deposit. Confirm the amount and accepted payment methods when you book.
Understanding Northeast India's Roads
National highways connecting Guwahati to Kaziranga, Shillong, Tezpur, and Jorhat are generally well-maintained two-lane roads. However, conditions change once you leave the highway. State roads and hill routes can be narrow, winding, and occasionally unpaved. Drive defensively, keep your speed moderate on unknown stretches, and give way to heavy vehicles on single-lane bridges.
Road signs are present on major routes but sparse elsewhere. Download offline maps on Google Maps or use the Maps.me app before you set out — mobile signal can drop for long stretches in the hills of Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh.
Fuel Stations and Planning
Guwahati and district towns have plenty of fuel stations, including 24-hour ones on national highways. On remote routes — especially heading toward Tawang, the Jatinga hills, or interior Nagaland — stations become scarce. Fill your tank to full whenever you see a pump, and carry a spare jerry can for extended hill drives. Diesel vehicles are more economical for long trips, and diesel availability is generally better than petrol in rural areas.
Monsoon Driving (June–September)
Northeast India receives some of the heaviest rainfall in the world. The monsoon brings lush green scenery but also waterlogged roads, landslides on hill routes, and reduced visibility. If you plan to drive during monsoon season, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose an SUV with good ground clearance — sedans struggle with flooded patches.
- Reduce speed on wet tarmac and avoid crossing flowing water over the road unless you can see the surface beneath.
- Check the weather forecast and local road advisories before departing, especially for hill routes to Shillong, Cherrapunji, or Tawang.
- Carry a basic emergency kit: torch, first-aid supplies, a tow rope, and extra drinking water.
- Start your drives early. Afternoon downpours are common and can make hill roads dangerous after dark.
Insurance and Roadside Assistance
Every vehicle in our fleet comes with comprehensive insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance. Read the rental agreement carefully to understand the coverage limits, excess amounts, and what to do in case of an accident or breakdown. Keep the emergency contact number saved in your phone.
Before You Drive
- Inspect the vehicle for existing dents or scratches and photograph them before departure.
- Check tyre pressure, spare tyre condition, and that all lights work.
- Familiarise yourself with the controls — especially if you are renting a manual transmission vehicle.
- Confirm fuel type (petrol or diesel) and note the odometer reading.
With the right preparation, a self-drive trip through Northeast India is safe, comfortable, and deeply rewarding. Browse our self-drive adventure guides for route ideas, or contact us to book your car.