“Hello, I’m Mubarak Khan, a traveler, and landscape and timelapse photographer with a passion for capturing the beauty of our world.”

My recent adventure took me on a solo motorcycle journey across Northeast India, a region known for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and untamed wilderness. My mission was to capture a 5-minute timelapse film, a project that pushed my limits both physically and creatively. Here’s the story of my journey through five states, from the bustling streets of Delhi to the remote corners of Arunachal Pradesh.

The Road to the Northeast

My journey began in Delhi, where I geared up for an epic ride that would take me through the heart of India before reaching the Northeast. I traveled through Lucknow, with its rich history, crossed into Bihar with its cultural heritage, and then ventured through the lush landscapes of Bengal. Each state added its own flavor to the journey, but the real adventure began when I crossed into Assam, the gateway to Northeast India.

Assam: The Gateway to the Northeast

Assam, with its rolling tea gardens, mighty Brahmaputra River, and vibrant culture, was my first stop in the Northeast. I spent my days exploring the verdant landscapes, capturing the mist rising from the tea plantations, and the evenings were spent interacting with the warm and hospitable locals. Assam was just the beginning, a prelude to the adventures that lay ahead.

Meghalaya: The Abode of Clouds

From Assam, I rode into Meghalaya, a state known for its living root bridges, crystal-clear rivers, and some of the wettest places on earth. The landscapes here were nothing short of surreal. I camped in the wild, setting up my camera to capture the movement of clouds over the Khasi Hills and the shimmering waterfalls that seemed to be everywhere. The serenity of the place was almost otherworldly, and I found myself lost in the beauty of Meghalaya’s landscapes, each frame a testament to nature’s artistry.

Nagaland: The Land of Festivals

My journey then took me to Nagaland, a land rich in tribal culture and traditions. The undulating hills, dense forests, and vibrant tribal festivals provided a unique backdrop for my timelapse photography. I camped in remote locations, capturing the dramatic play of light and shadow across the landscape. The experience of being amidst the Naga tribes, witnessing their customs and way of life, added a cultural depth to my journey that was both enriching and humbling.

Manipur: The Jewel of India

Manipur, with its serene lakes and green valleys, was my next destination. I was particularly captivated by Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, known for its floating islands. Setting up my camera on the shores of this tranquil lake, I captured the sun rising and setting over the phumdis (floating islands), creating a timelapse that reflected the peaceful yet dynamic nature of this region. Manipur’s landscapes were a perfect blend of serenity and rugged beauty, offering endless possibilities for photography.

Majuli Island: A Cultural Odyssey

One of the most memorable parts of my journey was my stay on Majuli Island, the world’s largest river island located on the Brahmaputra River in Assam. After exploring Manipur, I spent 10 days on this island, immersing myself in the unique culture and exploring its remote villages. Majuli is a cultural hub, home to several satras (monasteries) where ancient traditions of dance, music, and craftsmanship are preserved. The island’s lush greenery, serene river views, and the simplicity of life here offered a stark contrast to the bustling cities I had passed through.

To fully embrace the island’s charm, I pitched my tent near a picturesque location, which allowed me to connect deeply with the landscape and its rhythms. I stayed in a small, local guesthouse for part of my time, but the experience of camping under the stars on the island’s serene shores was truly special. Each day was spent photographing Majuli’s tranquil landscapes and vibrant communities. The people of Majuli were incredibly welcoming, and I was fortunate to witness their daily lives, from fishing and farming to traditional mask-making and pottery. The sunsets over the Brahmaputra, the sound of the river lapping against the shore, and the sight of villagers going about their day created a sense of timelessness that I aimed to capture in my timelapse photography.

Arunachal Pradesh: The Land of the Rising Sun

The final leg of my journey took me to Arunachal Pradesh, a state known for its towering mountains, dense forests, and remote monasteries. Riding through the winding mountain roads, I felt like I was entering another world. I camped under the stars, surrounded by the silence of the mountains, capturing the celestial dance of the night sky. The timelapse shots from Arunachal Pradesh were some of the most challenging yet rewarding, as the unpredictable weather and rugged terrain tested my skills and perseverance.

The Challenges and Triumphs

Traveling solo on a motorcycle through such remote and varied landscapes was not without its challenges. The long hours on the road, the unpredictable weather, and the physical toll of constant travel were tough, but the rewards were immense. I recorded over 2000 GB of raw footage, each shot a piece of the larger puzzle that would become my final film. The editing process took another two months, during which I meticulously stitched together the footage to create a seamless visual journey through Northeast India.

The Final Film: Northeast Timelapse 8K

After months of hard work and dedication, I finally completed the 8K timelapse film, which I have uploaded on YouTube titled “Northeast Timelapse 8K.” The film is a culmination of my experiences, a visual ode to the beauty and diversity of Northeast India. It’s a journey through landscapes that few have ventured into, capturing moments that are fleeting yet eternal in their beauty.

This journey was not just about creating a film; it was about immersing myself in the landscapes, cultures, and experiences that define Northeast India. It was a journey of discovery, not just of the world around me, but of myself as a traveler and photographer. I hope this film inspires others to explore the Northeast, to see the world through a different lens, and to appreciate the beauty that lies in every corner of our planet.

Thank you for being part of this journey, and I invite you to watch the film on YouTube and experience the magic of Northeast India for yourself.

If you have any questions about photography techniques, are interested in joining one of my travel expeditions, or would like more information about my work, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can reach us by phone at +91 7006024964 or via email at soloinhimalayas@gmail.com. I look forward to connecting with you and assisting you in your photographic and travel endeavors.