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India Travel Advisory

Travel advisory june 23, 2023, india - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism.

Do not travel to:

• The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir (except the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh) due to terrorism and civil unrest .
• Within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border due to the potential for armed conflict .

Country Summary : Indian authorities report rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, has occurred at tourist sites and in other locations.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and government facilities.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in rural areas from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to India.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined India has a moderate level of COVID-19.  Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to India:

• Do not travel alone, particularly if you are a woman. Visit our website for Women Travelers .
• Review your personal security plans and remain alert to your surroundings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for India.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Avoid all travel to this state (with the exception of visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh). Sporadic violence occurs particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating India and Pakistan, and in tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. The Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from visiting certain areas along the LOC.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

India-Pakistan Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official India-Pakistan border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the state of Punjab between Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. The border crossing is usually open but confirm the current status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. A Pakistani visa is required to enter Pakistan. Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise apply for a Pakistani visa in your country of residence before traveling to India.

Northeastern States – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Incidents of violence by ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occur occasionally in the northeast.

U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are prohibited from traveling to the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur without special authorization from the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata.

Central and East India – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in a large swath of India from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal, particularly in rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and on the borders of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. The Naxalites have conducted frequent terrorist attacks on local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials.

Due to the fluid nature of the threat, all U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity must receive special authorization from the U.S. consulate responsible for the area to be visited. U.S. officials traveling only to the capital cities in these states do not need prior authorization.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas . 

Travel Advisory Levels

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Guide to North East India States and Places to Visit

Northeast India is made up of seven separate but adjoining states, as well as standalone Sikkim, and is the most tribal region of India. Although the mountainous scenery is arresting, the Northeast region remains the least visited part of India. This has been due to its remoteness, and also the permit requirements placed on tourists . Ethnic violence, as well as the northeast's sensitive location bordering Bhutan, China, and Myanmar, remain issues. Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Tripura are regarded as relatively peaceful though. Tourist numbers to the region have been dramatically increasing in recent years. Find out about what to see there in this guide to Northeast India states.

Want to Take a Tour of the Northeast Region?

Going on a guided tour is recommended as a hassle-free way of seeing the Northeast. Kipepeo is involved in sustainable and responsible tourism, and capacity building in local communities. The company offers a wide range of custom and flexible departure trips and homestay accommodations. Root Bridge is a responsible tourism company that endeavors to tell the untold stories of the Northeast. North East Explorers , The Holiday Scout and The Greener Pastures are recommended too.

Arunachal Pradesh

Until recently, travel to Arunachal Pradesh was highly restricted to foreigners due to its proximity to China. The Indian government has relaxed permit requirements somewhat, and added new tourist circuits, bringing the total number to 12. Limitations on independent travel, the places that can be visited, and the high cost of travel does discourage foreign tourism to the state though. However, adventurous young Indian backpackers are starting to flock there. Tawang Monastery is the state's most well-known attraction. Perched at 10,000 feet above sea level, it overlooks the Tawang Valley near the border of Bhutan. The monastery is the largest Buddhist monastery in India. It also has a fascinating collection of thangkas (Tibetan paintings). If you can, visit it during the Torgya Festival in January or Tawang Festival in October. Other attractions include pristine national parks such as Namdapha, and remarkable tribes. In the Ziro district, the annual Dree festival (early July) and Myoko festival (late March) of the Apatani tribe, and Ziro Music Festival (late September) are popular too. The Mopin Festival of the Galo tribe is celebrated in Arunachal Pradesh in early April.

Assam is the largest and most accessible of the northeast India states. It's best known for its tea, and around 60% of India's tea is grown there . The capital and gateway of Assam is the sprawling and rather unattractive Guwahati. Most people spend a few days there though, as it's the best place to organize tours around Assam and the other Northeast India states. There are also several temples of interest in Guwahati. However, the most famous attraction in Assam is Kaziranga National Park , home to the rare Great Indian One-Horned Rhinocerous. Smaller and lesser-known Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is an excellent place to see these animals as well. Also, don't miss visiting beautiful Majuli, the world’s largest inhabited river island .

Meghalaya used to be part of Assam. Known as the Abode of the Clouds, it's one of the wettest places on earth . So, do choose the time when you visit wisely! Capital Shillong was a popular hill station during colonial times, with leftover features being a championship golf course and polo ground, Victorian bungalows, and churches. Concrete buildings have sprouted since then, but the charm hasn't been completely lost. The abundant natural attractions in Meghalaya include caves, waterfalls, lakes, and ancient living root bridges . In fact, Meghalaya has the largest number of known caves in India. Check out these top places to visit in Meghalaya for nature lovers and Shillong hotels with a difference.

There are 16 major tribes in untamed Nagaland, which shares a border with Myanmar. Relatively new to tourism, the people are curious, warm, informal -- and open to attracting visitors. You'll never feel alone when visiting villages in Nagaland. Plus, there are tourist lodges with cultural programs in almost every location in the state to accommodate you. However, what's really placed Nagaland on the tourist map is the vibrant tribal Hornbill Festival (first week of December), Moatsu Festival (first week of May), and Aoling Festival of the Konyak tribe (first week of April). Read more about Nagaland's tourist districts and exploring Nagaland.

Manipur, located on the far northeast border below Nagaland, has been described as the Jewel of the East because of its picturesque hills and valleys. The capital, Imphal, is surrounded by wooded hills and lakes. Loktak Lake, with its multitude of floating swampy islands, is remarkable for being the only floating lake in the world. Stay at Sendra Park and Resort for the best experience of it. Manipur has recently begun taking steps to develop its tourist potential, which is essential as the state struggles to overcome poverty in rural areas and rebellions between ethnic groups. A Lemon Festival is held every January in Kachai and the Kang Chingba Festival is also a big event.

Mizoram juts out at the bottom of the Northeast region, finger-like in its form. Its landscape is stunning and varied, with dense bamboo jungles, plunging gorges, rivers, and lush paddy fields. Mizoram will hold a great deal of appeal for those who enjoy the great outdoors. The state's festivals provide a good dose of culture as well, with the Chapchar Kut being one of the most popular.

Tiny Tripura, almost surrounded by Bangladesh, is the second smallest state in India. Heavily forested, it's renowned for its vast array of bamboo products. Handloom weaving is also a significant industry there. The mixed European-Mughal style Ujjayanta Palace is of interest in Tripura's capital, Agartala. However, as it's occupied by the State Legislative Assembly, only the grounds can be explored. Tripura's star attraction, however, is the lake place of Neermahal. It was constructed as a summer resort in 1930 by late Maharaja Birbikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur. There's a boating facility on the lake. Tripura also has a number of Buddhist temples, giving it appeal as a Buddhist pilgrimage place. Unakoti, a Shiva pilgrimage site, is notable for the largest rock-cut images and stone idols of Lord Shiva in India.

The ​Himalayan state of Sikkim was recognized as part of Northeast India in the 1990s. Bordered by China, Nepal and Bhutan, Sikkim has long been regarded as one of the last Himalayan Shangri-las. There's something very soothing to the soul about the mountainous beauty and ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture in Sikkim. Find out more about Sikkim's top places to visit.

Permits for North East India and What You Need to Know

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Top 5 Places to Tour Tribal India

13 Popular North East India Festivals

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10 Places to Visit in Meghalaya for Nature Lovers

5 Nagaland Tourist Places to Visit Including Headhunters

12 Top Things to Do in Sikkim, India

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Is it safe to travel to North East India? 5 Safety Tips To Avoid Danger

Synopsis: Is North East India SAFE to Travel in 2023? How safe is travel to North East India? North East India is generally safe for travel, but certain areas have experienced violence due to historical insurgency and ethnic conflict. Though the situation has improved, isolated incidents of violence still occur. The reasons why you should never travel to the Northeast as Manipur was affected by recent riots, resulting in deaths and displacement. While the security situation has improved, it remains somewhat unstable. Governments advise against non-essential travel to Manipur. Other regions like Mizoram, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh are considered safer. It’s essential to research the latest security situation, avoid risky areas, and stay aware of surroundings.

In This Article...

Is North East India SAFE to Travel in 2023

North East India SAFE to Travel, but certain areas have a higher risk of violence due to a history of insurgency and ethnic conflict. While the situation has improved in recent years, isolated incidents of violence can still occur, making it important to be aware of potential risks before traveling.

Manipur, a state in North East India, has experienced recent violence. In May 2023, widespread riots and protests resulted in the deaths of dozens and the displacement of thousands. The unrest was triggered by a dispute over the citizenship status of certain ethnic groups in the state.

——————— Also Read: Top 5 Monsoon Destinations in India ———————

Current Security Situation in Manipur : Dangers of traveling in Northeast India

Although the security situation in Manipur has improved since the riots, it remains somewhat unstable. The government has deployed troops to restore order, and internet access has been restricted to prevent misinformation from spreading. However, the risk of violence persists, making it essential to consider these factors before traveling to the state.

Travel Advisory : Is it safe to travel to North East India?

The UK government and the US government have both issued travel advisories against all but essential travel to Manipur. The FCDO warns of the risk of terrorism and organized crime in the region, while the US State Department cites the ongoing violence and civil unrest. If you must travel to Manipur, be sure to take all necessary precautions and follow the advice of local authorities.

Safer Areas in North East India

Other parts of North East India, such as Mizoram, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh, are generally considered safe for travel. However, it’s crucial to stay informed about the current security situation and take necessary precautions.

Tips for Staying Safe in North East India

• Do Your Research: Prior to traveling, research the latest security situation through government websites, travel advisories, and news reports.
• Avoid Dangerous Areas: Stay away from regions known to be dangerous or uncertain in terms of security.
• Stay Aware: Be vigilant of your surroundings, avoid crowded areas, refrain from walking alone at night, and keep valuables secure.
• Stay in Touch: Inform your family and friends about your travel plans, including your itinerary and expected return time, so they can notify authorities if needed.
• Reacting to Violence: In the event of violence, stay calm, assess the situation, and seek help from local authorities if in immediate danger. Attempt to de-escalate the situation through communication if there is no immediate threat.

Government Travel Advisories

Check your government’s travel advisories for North East India, as they may offer important safety information and recommendations.

• Government travel advisories are issued by the governments of different countries to inform their citizens about the safety risks in a particular country or region.
• North East India is a region in the northeastern part of India that is home to a number of ethnic groups and languages. The region has been plagued by violence and unrest in recent years, and there is a risk of terrorism, kidnapping, and armed conflict.
• It is important to check your government’s travel advisory for North East India before you travel to the region. The advisory will provide you with information about the current safety situation, as well as recommendations for how to stay safe.
• The level of political instability in the region
• The risk of terrorism
• The risk of kidnapping
• The risk of armed conflict
• The risk of natural disasters
• If you are planning to travel to North East India, it is important to read the government travel advisory carefully and follow the recommendations. This will help you to stay safe and avoid any unnecessary risks.

Time to Take Decision

The decision to travel to North East India ultimately lies with the individual. By following the provided tips, you can enhance your safety and ensure an enjoyable trip.

You may also read: Maldives vs Lakshadweep Controversy: Who Will Be Benefited?

Few Commonly Asked Question

Why should i visit north east india.

10 Reasons Why You Should Visit the North East – A Unique Side of India. The northeast is unlike the rest of the country. … – Untouched Natural Beauty. – Different Cultures. – Organic Way of Living. – Spirituality. – Rare Species of Animals. – Interesting Food and Beverages. – Festivals.

Which states are safe in North East India?

The states of Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Tripura are considered to be relatively peaceful destinations. These regions have experienced a significant surge in tourist numbers over the past few years.

Is Manipur safe for tourists?

In Manipur, there is a significant risk of terrorism and organized crime, particularly in rural regions. It’s important to note that while foreigners have not been specifically targeted so far, the attacks can occur without discrimination. Additionally, certain insurgent groups remain active in the north-eastern part of India. Caution and awareness of these security concerns are advisable when traveling to the region.

How safe is Nagaland for tourists? Is Nagaland tourist friendly?

Is Nagaland safe for travel? Yes, absolutely! Just like other popular tourist destinations in India, Nagaland is considered a safe place for exploration. Currently, the local insurgency groups are not active, ensuring a safe environment for visitors.

Is North East India safe for solo travel?

North East India offers an ideal destination for solo travelers, and here’s why – A journey to this region can be exceptionally enjoyable and visually stunning, making it one of the best solo trips you can take in India. Additionally, you might be intrigued to learn about the fascinating legend surrounding Sikkim’s Gurudongmar Lake. If you want to experience the joys of solo travel, the northeastern part of India is a must-visit destination.

What are the problems faced by tourists in North East India?

The region faces several challenges that hinder its development and appeal to tourists. One major issue is the lack of adequate infrastructure and communication networks. The region’s geographical isolation further exacerbates these problems. Additionally, security concerns pose a significant challenge, discouraging tourists from choosing the region as a holiday destination. Another obstacle is the absence of a comprehensive and integrated policy by the Government to address these issues.

Is North East India expensive?

Travelling in groups of 4 or more people is the most cost-effective way to travel. Staying in hotels can be pricier compared to other options. One significant advantage of this approach is that the overall cost of living at your destination will be lower. Additionally, the likelihood of encountering someone attempting to scam you is very low.

Hi I am Harish. I am a blogger, writer. I am also a photographer. I love to share my thoughts and experiences through the words in my blog. Thank you.

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8 Essential North East India Travel Tips – Important Things No One Tells You!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: August 18, 2023

Categories NORTH EAST INDIA , INDIA

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

My North East India travels were, for me, one of my most awesome adventures to date.

It was a journey like no other, a bittersweet challenge if you will and gave me some of the most fantastic memories I’ve ever had on the road.

As there is limited information on this beautiful underrated part of India, I felt like I had little or no time to prepare for what awaited me there.

I was heading into the unknown and all by myself. To say I was scared was an understatement.

But, on reflection, I had nothing to worry about.

I just wish that there was more up to date information available for people travelling there.

That’s why I’ve made it my mission on my blog to write about it as much as possible so that travellers like me could prepare for what to expect!

So, I’ve come up with some North East India travel tips and the things that no one told me before I arrived.

Top North East India travel tips

1. that north east india travel would be like visiting another world entirely.

From the mountains of Arunachal Pradesh, to the green forests of Meghalaya, the river islands of Assam and the tribes of Nagaland, you will feel like you’ve been transported to another planet!

I couldn’t believe my eyes when I was travelling from state to city to tribal land.

There were villages that looked like I went back in time to the last century and bustling cities that were building up with tall buildings and shopping centres.

It was an amazing mix of sights, people and places and somewhere I couldn’t get enough of.

Each place I visited turned out to be more beautiful than the last and it really made me feel what I had been missing all this time.

You have to see it (and pinch yourself) to believe it.

2. That it would be completely safe to travel

Before I landed in the main city of Guwahati, I started to browse some travel tips for North East India and what I was getting myself into.

I wish I hadn’t bothered.

The articles I read spoke of the kidnapping of foreign tourists, women not being able to travel on their own, road toll rebels on the road and violent unrest in certain states.

It made me regret buying my plane ticket entirely!

I gave my contact details to friends and family, my itinerary and whereabouts and kept people updated. But, I felt a bit silly getting myself worked up so much.

North East India has come a long way in enabling tourists to travel safely including limiting the number of permits required (see below for more detail), allowing tourists to travel freely without supervision and setting up more hotels and guest houses in a bid to encourage more tourism there.

I actually felt safer in North East India than I did in Delhi or Rajasthan.

I was a woman travelling solo and no one stared at me, I could travel at night alone and felt safe, I was greeted with kindness wherever I went.

The local’s primary concern was that I got to my next destination safely, had a good time and that I left with positive things to say about their city or state.

If you were more comfortable visiting North-East India with a tour guide, I would recommend Holiday Scout.

You can read a full review of my experience with Holiday Scout here

3. The transport would be like working out a puzzle

The one thing that is the most time consuming and will be the undoing of many of your travel plans is the transport options here.

Everything is plain sailing in the state of Assam but once you start travelling into the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya or Nagaland – that’s where it starts to get tricky.

Sometimes it would take me a full 24 hours to get somewhere and sometimes I would arrive at a destination at 1 pm and the buses were finished for the day.

Luckily, I relish a challenge and it was kind of satisfying to work it out and get moving on the road.

You will need to be acquainted with the sumo (a sharing jeep), start to look out for sharing cars, get used to getting up before the crack of dawn, sleeping on night buses and get used to massive delays due to the road quality.

It will take a little bit of planning, trust and pixie dust but you’ll make it to your destination eventually.

If you want to know more about North East India transport, s ee my article here !

4. A smile will be your language of choice

Although we are still in India, not many people speak Hindi let alone English.

You’ll find each state or even tribe will have their own dialects and it can be quite difficult to navigate around, buy bus tickets, order food or even book hotels.

This was especially difficult in Nagaland where the majority of people speak Nagamese. So, you’ll need to don your best smile and communicate in any way you can.

Saying that there are a lot of people who do speak English, however basic and will always be on hand to help you.

5. You won’t need as many permits as they say

To encourage North East India travel and tourism, they have actually done away with a lot of the permits and set new rules where you don’t need to report to the police station to state that you’re visiting which makes the whole process a lot less stressful.

The only places that you will need a permit for are Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim.

You don’t need to report to the police station much (Apart from I did need to in Longwa in Nagaland) but your guest house should be able to advise you on the process.

Rules changes all the time so make sure you check with your guesthouse owner if you need to check in with the local authorities.

If you would like to know a bit more information about sourcing a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for Arunachal Pradesh, please see here.

6. It’s completely budget friendly

Despite the remoteness of the North East, it’s incredibly cheap for food, guest houses, transport and activities. So, it’s perfect for the budget-conscious traveller.

I will list some basic prices in Rupees so you can get a general idea of the cost of travel there;

• Guest Houses (private room): 500 – 1500 a night
• Hostels: 200 – 500 rupees a night
• Food (Thali, rice, Momos, chow): 75 – 200 rupees per meal
• Travel (Sumo): 200 – 700 rupees
• Bus (Coach): 200 – 700 rupees
• Kaziranga Safari: 500 rupees (4 sharing) 1800 rupees (solo)
• Living root bridge entry: 10 rupees, 30 rupees with a camera
• Hornbill Festival: 20 rupees entry, 30 rupees for camera

I was coming up to the end of my travels in India (and my budget!) so thankfully it didn’t cost that much to get around or I would be totally broke!

7. The people you meet will leave their footprint

Some of my most precious memories involve the kind and gracious hospitality I received from the people of the North East.

I was amazed at how welcoming, open and warm people were.

They were curious to learn about me just as much as I was curious to know more about them.

In Nagaland, I was invited by the King of Longwa into his palace to tal k, I was invited for chai and buttermilk tea in every home I passed in Arunachal Pradesh and in Meghalaya I loved chatting to the stall owners of the markets and the local ladies who passed me by.

You really don’t get that sort of hospitality everywhere in the world, so I would relish it while you’re there. It will restore your faith in humanity and make you want to do the same for travellers back home.

8. It will take a piece of your heart along with it

When I was on my way back to Delhi and looking back at all the wonderful captures and memories I had made on my trip, my heart broke a little bit.

I couldn’t believe my North East trip was over.

It’s funny because even though I was ready to go back to running hot water, electricity and Wi-Fi, 24-hour transport and hotels with comfy beds; I knew I would miss it unconditionally.

It’s like nowhere that I’ve ever visited before or anywhere I am yet to visit.

It’s vibrant and unique and I’m so happy I didn’t let fear or negative press get the better of me.

It’s a part of the world that I would encourage everyone to visit and I would book a ticket there again without a second thought.

Be open, travel as far and wide as you can and don’t look back. This is North East India, and it’s waiting to delight in you.

Want even more North East India travel guides?

Here are some of my favourite articles;

My big fat North East India bucket list; 32 things you must do!

the 14 reasons why you should visit North East India with Holiday Scout

Why visiting Arunachal Pradesh will ruin your life

A beginner’s guide to Guwahati; gateway to North East India

The ultimate 2018 Kaziranga National Park Safari Guide

A complete guide to Majuli, the world’s biggest river island

An Epic step by step guide to the Double Decker Root Bridges in Cherrapunjee

The ultimate 2018 guide to Hornbill Festival

11 fail safe tips for visiting the last surviving head hunters of Mon

Save these North East India travel tips for later!

travelnortheastindia

Tuesday 5th of January 2021

Thanks for the blog about north east India travel tips.

Sophie Pearce

Thursday 15th of April 2021

Thank you so much! I'm glad you liked the post :) Sophie x

Monday 10th of February 2020

Thanks for a great post! I can't wait to travel to North East India this year

Hi Utel, thanks for the kind comment. Enjoy North East! Sophie x

Wednesday 16th of October 2019

Thanks for sharing. I am a travel freak. So your tip is really helpful. Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow mindedness., and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. People often have a theme that they base their worldly travels on, but how about a mental mantra for your travel? Thank you so much for giving mind-blowing information about travel.

Thursday 17th of October 2019

Hi Dhanvi, thank you for your comment! North East India is one of the most beautiful places I have visited in this country and will continue to promote it. Safe travels and maybe see you on the road. Sophie x

Savita Choudhary

Friday 20th of September 2019

Hi Sophie, thanks for all the information and experience you shared about North East. I am 31 and never traveled solo but since last few months this thought of traveling somewhere on my own is exciting me. I have been to most part of the India but not to North East, so I have selected it to be the place to go. This article is exactly what I was looking for and has inspired me more. There are many monasteries in NE and Kamakhaya Devi temple is also one of the famous place to visit, would like to know if you visited any of these. Also can you please suggest some places to stay in budget which are also safe. Thank you.

Hi Savita, I'm SO happy you've decided to go travelling solo and the North East is a great place to start as it's incredibly safe. My travels took me through many cities including Guwahati, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh and all have incredible temples. I have a whole post on Khamakya you can read. Also, I would recommend the satras on Majuli Island and also a visit to Tawang monastery in Arunachal. I have a TONNE Of North East posts you can find here. have an incredible time! Thanks for reading. Sophie x

Best Northeast India Travel Guide – Things to Know Before You Go (FAQs Answered)

Northeast India , Featured

Last Updated on: Jul 16, 2023  

This is the place for those who want to go a little off-the-beaten-track. For travel to Northeast India is definitely going to be one of the most amazing experiences of your life. Here, the landscape is as varied as the culture. It is a land full of surprises. Jaw-dropping sceneries, the gracious hospitality of the locals, the diverse traditions and culture along with a rich history and the eco-friendly way of life have made Northeast India one of the most unique and special travel destinations in India .

Northeast India is undoubtedly one of our favourite destinations and we keep going back there whenever we can. We have been often asked by our readers about Northeast India Tourism and travel. The result of all such questions is this article, the comprehensive Northeast India travel guide where we have tried to answer the travel related queries and have given important tips regarding travel to Northeast India.

Northeast India travel has never failed to surprise us. Be it chasing the clouds and waterfalls of Meghalaya or attending the colourful festivals of Northeast, each time we visited the land we were overwhelmed by the natural beauty, tribes and culture of the northeast Indian states. And the best thing is that Northeast India is one of the few places where the people still respect nature and live in perfect harmony with them. Of late, the states of northeast India has come on the tourist map because of various annual festivals like Hornbill , NH7 Weekender, Ziro Music Festival, Sangai, Dambuk Orange Festival and others. But believe me, northeast is much more than these colourful festivals.

You must have understood by now that we love Northeast India. Agni also has his roots in Assam, one of the northeast states. Our first trip to the northeast was in 2012 when we visited Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh . That was the first time I was introduced to this exotic and brazen land that is so rich in history and culture.

Where is Northeast?

Northeast India consists of 8 states – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. Earlier the northeast Indian states were known as the Seven Sisters and included Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. It was only in 2002 that Sikkim was added as the member of Northeast Council and became the eight state of Northeast India and is known as the only Brother of the Seven Sister States.

The Indian Prime Minister has also regarded the eight northeast Indian states as the Ashta Lakshmi , which means the eight forms of goodness and wealth.

The 8 northeast states have a common border with foreign countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar, Bhutan, China and Nepal.

Northeast India states only 2% of their border with mainland India and the remaining 98% is linked with international boundary.

Quite obviously, the influence of these neighbouring countries is more in this region than that of mainland India. And so it might also seem that this region is quite different from mainland India as well. The Seven Sister States are connected with the rest of India by a thin strip of land of about 22 km (14 miles) known as Chicken’s Neck of Bengal or the Siliguri Corridor. Nepal and Bangladesh are on either side of the Chicken’s Neck. Sikkim lies on the other side of the Chicken’s Neck.

A Very Brief History of Northeast India

I believe that a place and its people cannot be fully understood if we do not know its history. So here is a little bit of history about the land.

Northeast India is considered to be a Neolitic enigma for the archaeologist. The area is yet to be mapped and documented in a proper way by the archaeologists mainly because of the wild forests and rugged terrains that make excavation difficult. It is now known that the Neolithic life in the region dates back to at least 6000 years !

Coming back a little later in time, the Ahom kingdom was established in the Brahmaputra valley in the first half 13th century by the Shans who had migrated from Upper Burma. The Ahoms were the undisputed rulers in the region for almost 600 years and even the Mughals were unable to invade the region.

The Mughals tried to capture the Ahom kingdom time and again and failed miserably each time. They tried for the last time in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671 when the Mughals were beaten by the Ahoms.

However, with time, the might of the Ahom rulers waned and in 1818, disturbed by the repeated Burmese invasions, the Ahom King requested the assistance of the British East India Company to teach the Burmese a lesson. The British East India Company fought the war and defeated the Burmese resulting in the Treaty of Yandaboo , by which the Burmese agreed to withdraw from Assam and the Ahom Kings ceded a part of their territory to the British East India Company. This is how the British finally entered the Northeast region. Till 1947, the northeast region faced the expansion of the British rule along with social, economic and political changes in the region.

At that time, all seven states did not exist. Assam existed as a large land region and was known as the Assam province. Later the hill kingdoms of the Khasi and Jaintia were annexed and hilly areas like the Lushai Hills (Mizoram) and Naga Hills (Nagaland) were added to the Assam Province.

After the Indian independence, the northeast region consisted of the Assam province and the princely states of Manipur and Tripura. The first state to be carved out of Assam was Nagaland in 1963. Later Meghalaya became a separate state in 1971 and Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram were carved out of Assam in 1987. Sikkim was once a princely kingdom and was annexed to India in 1975. Later in 2002, Sikkim was made a part of the Northeast Regional Council.

The northeast India had always been a part of major and minor trade routes from India to various other countries like Tibet, Myanmar and China.

That was quite a bit of history lesson. Now let us delve into all the necessary and relevant information about Northeast India trip that nobody had told you before.

Northeast India Travel Guide

Northeast India is still considered remote and difficult terrain. The roads are a bit difficult and there is a lot of space for improvement of the infrastructure. As for the accommodations, you will get good hotels and resorts in the main cities. Homestays are also available. You can check Cozycozy to look for stays in the main tourist destinations. The remote areas, however, has basic stay options.

What the region lacks in luxurious comfort is totally fulfilled by the stunning and virgin landscapes, friendly locals and the vibrant culture. No two states in the Northeast are the same. You will find a variety in every state, every part of the region. It is like visiting a different place in every single state of the northeast. You might be tempted to call it the hidden utopia of India.

However, if you are planning a Northeast India travel and a visit this untouched paradise of India, there are certain facts and things you must know before your Northeast trip. So if you are thinking of adding Northeast India in your India guided tour , then simply read on!

What is the best time to visit North East India?

The best time to visit the northeast region is from October to mid-May. This is the dry period though you can get occasional showers in this time as well. Due to its varied geography, the temperature of the region varies drastically depending on the altitude. The northern part is influenced by the Himalayas and the temperature usually remains cold. Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim are mostly influenced by this and have a colder climate.

The summer temperature in the hilly areas remains around 15 to 20 degrees while it can go to subzero during the winters. The higher altitudes of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim often witness snowfall in the winters.

The plains of Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura have warmer climates. In summer, the temperature ranges from 30-35 0 C and about 20 0 C in the winters. The hilly areas of Nagaland and Mizoram have a cooler temperature.

The monsoon in Northeast India can be quite heavy with torrential rains in most of the areas. The monsoon coincides with the summer season and is from June to September. The latter half of May can also witness rainfall. Monsoon is not a very good time to visit the region as landslides are common during the monsoon. Roads can also be disrupted during the monsoon.

However, Meghalaya is a good place to visit during the monsoon. Meghalaya is one of the wettest places on the earth with Mawsynram receiving the highest rainfall in the world. We had visited Meghalaya in August and had a great time chasing the rains and waterfalls of Meghalaya.

I would not say the same thing about Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Sikkim. Landslides in monsoon are very common in Sikkim and Arunachal. Sometimes, you can be stuck for a day due to landslide and bad roads in Arunachal. The Brahmaputra plains of Assam gets flooded every year in the monsoon and hence best avoided during this time.

How do I get permits for Northeast India?

To visit some of the Northeast India states, you need to get an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian nationals. Foreign tourists also need ILP and Protected Area Permits (PAP) or Restricted Area Permits (RAP) for visiting the northeast India states. These permits are required because of the strategic and sensitive positions of these states as they share their border with other countries. However, in recent days, the government of India has relaxed some of the rules of ILP and PAP to promote Northeast India tourism.

There are some places which are completely off bound to both Indian and foreign tourists while in some places, foreign tourists are not allowed. Here I will provide the information about each of the states.

Arunachal Pradesh : ILP is required for Indian tourists and PAP for foreign tourists.

Assam : No ILP and PAP is required to visit Assam

Manipur: ILP is not required for Indian tourists visiting Manipur. However, wef January 2020, the ILP system came into effect in Manipur. The process and procedure to obtain ILP for Manipur is still not clear. I will update it as soon as we come to know about this. Foreigners do not require PAP to visit Manipur.

Meghalaya: No ILP and PAP is required to visit Assam

Mizoram: Indian tourists require an ILP to visit Mizoram. Foreign tourists do not require any PAP to enter Mizoram.

Nagaland: Indian tourists require an ILP to visit Mizoram. Foreign tourists do not require any PAP to enter Mizoram.

Sikkim: Indian tourists do not require ILP to visit Sikkim except certain areas like North Sikkim, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Menmecho Lake, Singalila area and Dzongri area. Foreign Tourists require a permit to enter Sikkim. This permit can be readily obtained at the Melli and Rangpo border-crossing checkpoint on producing valid Indian Visa. Foreigners are not allowed to visit Gurudongmar Lake in North Sikkim, Baba Mandir and Nathula Pass in East Sikkim. For Tsomgo Lake, Yumthang, Chopta Valley, foreign tourists require PAP. Trekking permits are required for trekking in Singalila, Dzongri and Goechela area.

Tripura: No ILP and PAP is required to visit Assam

For getting an ILP, you generally require a photo identity proof, an address proof and a photograph. The cost of ILP varies from state to state. You can read all the information needed for getting an ILP for Northeast India states here.

How do I get to Northeast India?

Guwahati in Assam is the gateway to Northeast India. Guwahati is well connected by flights and trains from all the major cities in India. From Guwahati, you can visit all the Seven Sisters by either by air or by road. There are overnight bus services to reach the Seven Sister states from Guwahati.

Reaching Sikkim is comparatively easier. Sikkim now has an airport at Pakyong, but the number of flights to Pakyong is quite less. It is better to fly into Bagdogra in West Bengal and then travel to Gangtok in Sikkim. You can also travel by train to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) and then travel to Sikkim.

Train service is available in Assam and Tripura and you can reach to various parts of these states by train.

How to get around Northeast India?

Shared jeeps and sumos are available in all the 8 Northeast India states for getting around different towns and villages. Bus services are also available at some of the states, however, you will not find Volvo bus services to reach each state. For a Northeast India trip, you can either go for a booked tour or can backpack across the region on shared vehicles.

Before planning your Northeast India trip, you have to keep in mind the distances between two destinations and the conditions of the roads. The roads in most parts of Northeast India are not in a very good state, especially in parts of Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Mizoram. Even the remote areas of Meghalaya have bumpy roads.

In general, the roads in Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura are in good condition and quite smooth . We had done a bike trip across Meghalaya a few years back and found the roads to be quite good. Assam and Tripura, too have nice roads. The road conditions in Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim leaves much to be desired. Most of the roads are in sorry conditions and you will generally have a bumpy ride. However, these states have a robust sumo system, especially Mizoram and Sikkim that can connect to every part of the state.

Getting around Tripura is comparatively easier because of the availability of train services. Local buses are also available that can take you across the main towns and places of attractions.

How is the infrastructure in Northeast India?

The infrastructure in Northeastern states has improved a lot in the present years. Roads are being built and electricity has reached most of the villages. However, the remote areas are still lacking in these basic facilities. In general, Meghalaya has proper roads, hotels for tourists, electricity in the villages and other basic amenities. However, when we had visited Mawlyngot , we found a village that could be only reached by climbing down almost a thousand stairs from Mawlyngot. The villagers are used to climbing up and down for their daily needs. There are other such remote villages all over Northeast states.

Mobile network and wifi are good in the cities and the capitals of the states. But once you venture to the remote areas, mobile network invariably fails. We hardly got Vodafone connection in Basar, Mawlyngbna and even in some remote parts of Sikkim like Martam . You will probably get BSNL connection in these remote areas. But it would be foolhardy to expect good wifi in these areas. Poor mobile connectivity is a blessing in disguise for these areas. These are the places where you can enjoy nature and the landscape to the fullest. The joy of missing out on the worldly news is great in these areas.

Where do I stay in Northeast India?

Hotels are available in main cities and the popular tourist destinations of Northeast India. You will get luxury hotels with a high standard of service in big cities like Guwahati, Shillong and Gangtok. These places have witnessed tourism for a long time and so are more developed. Of late, accommodation options have increased with the increase in tourism in Northeast India. Now places like Majuli , Cherrapunjee,  Kohima, Tawang, Tura in the Garo Hills have hotels of various categories. Resorts have also come up in a few areas like Cherrapunjee, Tura, Langkawet and many tourist spots in Sikkim.

But if you choose to visit the offbeat destinations, then expect basic accommodation. Hotels, if available will not be luxurious ones and often the standard of service is not up to the mark.

We, however, recommend you to stay at homestays when you visit Northeast India. Homestays are the best way to experience the lifestyle of the locals. Infact, the locals are very friendly and welcome you with open arms as well as hearts. We had the most amazing stays in homestays at Martam and Dzongu (Sikkim), Mawlyngot, Cherrapunjee and Tura in Meghalaya and at Basar in Arunachal Pradesh.

In fact, most of the remote and offbeat areas in Northeast India rely on homestays for accommodation and hospitality. These places do not have hotels. The locals have developed community-based tourism and have opened their homes for the tourists. We would always recommend you to stay at homestays. Not only will you get an awesome experience, but you will also do your bit to help the locals to boost their economy.

Mizoram has a great network of Government-run tourist lodges in all the major locations. Those are the best places to stay in Mizoram.

Where to visit in Northeast India?

Northeast India is an unexplored paradise in India. To be honest, the region does not have many architectural masterpieces that you can find in rest of India. Apart from Sivsagar in Assam and Kangra Fort in Manipur, there are hardly any architectural gems. But what Northeast India lacks in architecture, it fulfils in its surreal landscape, colourful festivals and the diverse tribes.

As I had mentioned before, each of the states is different from the other. While you can explore the Buddhist monasteries and way of life in Sikkim and parts of Arunachal Pradesh, the tribal life of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh are fascinating. While Tripura boasts of a rich heritage in its archaeological sites like Unakoti, Chabimura and Pilak, Mizoram stuns with its stunning vistas. Meghalaya is in its own world of clouds and rains, while the river plains and rural beauty of Assam are totally bewitching.

It would be very difficult for me to write down about all the places that you can visit in Northeast India. I have taken each state and have written briefly about the places you can visit. For more details about these places, you can read individual blogs.

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is the easternmost state in the country and it is said that the first rays of sun fall at Dong in Arunachal . The place is captivating with its mountain ranges, captivating valleys, vast forest cover, exotic wildlife, unexplored trails, Buddhist monasteries and an incredible cultural variety. There are 26 tribes and more than 100 sub-tribes in Arunachal Pradesh . The eastern and central part of Arunachal is mainly influenced by animist traditions. They are the worshippers of Sun and Moon God – Donyi Polo and Abo-Tani. The major tribes in this region are the Apatanis, Adi, Akas, Galos, Mishmis, Nyishis and Thangsos. The western part of the state has Monpa population and they mainly follow Mahayana Buddhism.

Places not to be missed in Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang circuit: The main destination is Tawang and you will also visit Bhalukpong, Bomdila, Dirang on the way.

Ziro and Mechuka circuit: This is where you will see the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh – Apatani, Adi, Galo, Nyishi and Mishmis. Along with Ziro and Mechuka, also visit Dapoiji, Along and Pasighat.

Trek to the Namdhapa National Park .

How to reach Arunachal Pradesh?

There are no direct flights to Arunachal. The nearest airport to Itanagar, the capital city is Lilabari in Assam. From Itanagar, eastern and central Arunachal is easily accessible. Similarly, if you want to visit Tawang then the nearest airport will be Tezpur in Assam.

Trains are also available from Guwahati to Silapathar, Naharlagun and Dibrugarh, which are the nearest entry points to Arunachal Pradesh.

In Assam, the Brahmaputra river not only dominates the landscape but also the lives of its people. Both the environment and culture of Assam is shaped by the Brahmaputra River. Assam is famous for its tea gardens, wildlife, its countryside and the Assamese Silk.

Places not to be missed in Assam

Guwahati: The largest city in Assam is also the largest city in Northeast India. The city being the gateway to the other six states is also famous for its temples and attractions.

Wildlife of Assam: Your visit to Assam cannot be completed without a visit to Kaziranga National Park that is famous for one-horned rhinoceros. Wildlife enthusiasts should not miss visiting Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, Manas National Park , Hoollongapar gibbon Sanctuary, Nameri National Park and Dibru Saikhowa National Park.

Majuli: This is the largest river island in the world also famous for its Satras, the monastic traditions started by Sri Shankaradeva. Know more about Majuli here.

Sivsagar: The place where the Ahom kings ruled is known for the Shivadol, the temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Haflong: The only hill station in Assam is also known for the curious case of Jatinga birds .

How to reach Assam?

Guwahati in Assam is well connected by flights and trains from the major cities of India. Assam also has domestic airports in Jorhat (nearest to Majuli), Dibrugarh (for visiting Sivasagar, Digboi), Silchar, Tezpur and Lakhimpur.

Manipur literally means the land of jewels. The state is absolutely beautiful with stunning landscapes, gentle rolling hills, emerald green valleys and the dark misty mountain ranges. The Loktak Lake is the only floating national park in the world and the place is known for the elusive Sangai Deer, found only in this region. The modern-day polo also has its roots in ‘Sagol Kangjei’ , a traditional sport in Manipur. The state is also famous for the captivating and charming Manipuri dance.

Places not to be missed in Manipur

Imphal: The capital city is charming in its own way.

Loktak Lake & Moirang: The largest floating national park in the world and also the habitat of the Sangai deer.

Ukhrul: Known for its natural beauty, caving and trekking.

How to reach Manipur?

Reaching Manipur is easy. Direct flights to Imphal are available from the major cities of India like New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati and Hyderabad. You can also reach Guwahati and then take a bus to Imphal.

Hidden between the hills of the lower Himalayas, Meghalaya is the place between the heaven and earth, where the clouds dwell. Meghalaya is perhaps closest to Guwahati. It takes only 3-4 hours to reach Shillong from Guwahati. The roads are also smooth. Perhaps this is the reason why Meghalaya is relatively famous on the tourist map than the other remote states. Meghalaya is known for its rainfall and rock music. But the place is

much more than that. Waterfalls, nature, sacred groves, crystal clear rivers, living root bridges , natural caves and picturesque villages abound in the state and they will simply mesmerize you.

Meghalaya is the home to three tribes – Khasis, Garos and Jaintias. Each of the tribes has their own distinct culture and traditions. The Khasis occupy the Khasi hills of central Meghalaya; Garos occupy the western Garo Hills while the Jaintias occupy the Jaintia hills of eastern Meghalaya. The common trait binding all three communities is its matrilineal system in which the family linage is taken from the mother side.

Places not to be missed in Meghalaya

Shillong: The capital city is known for its quaint cafes, NH7 Weekender Music Festival, lakes and Jadoh, a traditional Khasi dish.

Cherrapunjee: The place of eternal beauty known for its waterfalls and natural caves. Cherrapunjee cannot be described in a line. You need to head over to this post on Cherrapunjee to know more.

Mawlynnong: This quaint village is the cleanest village in Asia.

Dawki: Located near the India-Bangladesh border, Dawki is known for the crystal clear waters of Umngot River .

Tura: Tura is the headquarters of Garo Hilla and you need to visit this place to explore the Garo Hills. You can visit Nokrek Reserve, Siju caves and the beautiful waterfalls.

How to reach Meghalaya?

Meghalaya is easy to reach. You can fly into Shillong. You can also reach Guwahati and take shared sumo to Shillong. It takes only about 4 hours to reach Shillong.

Mizoram is also known as the land of blue mountains after Phawngpui Peak , the highest peak in the state. Mizoram is perhaps the remotest state of India and hardly sees any tourists. Mizoram is covered with lush green forests, mountain peaks covered with a blue haze and a colourful culture. Mizoram is also famous for caving activities.

Places not to be missed in Mizoram

Aizawl: The capital city is a quaint town sitting by the Durtlang Hills known for its churches and memorials.

Champhai: The border town is also known as the Rice Bowl of Mizoram. You can visit the Rih Dil Lake from Zokawthar, about 20 km from Champhai. The Rih Dil is the most important lake for the Mizos, however, it lies in Myanmar. Champhai is also famous for its vineyards and wines.

Thenzawl: This is the handloom centre of Mizoram and Thenzawl is also known for its waterfalls and lush landscape.

Reiek: Trek to the Reiek Peak and enjoy the great views of the valleys.

How to reach Mizoram?

You can fly into Aizawl, which is connected to most of the major cities of India. From Guwahati, you can take an overnight bus to reach Aizawl, but the journey is going to be a long one. You can also take shared sumo from Silchar in Assam.

The land of the Nagas is undoubtedly the wild east of India. Known for fierce warriors and hunters who have been eulogized by the folk songs, Nagaland is the home to 16 tribes . Each tribe can be distinguished by their own colourful costumes and jewellery and beads they adorn. Nagaland is brought on the tourist map of India by the annual Hornbill Festival held in December.

Places not to be missed in Nagaland

Kohima and around: The capital city Kohima is beautiful in its own way.

Khonoma: Khonoma is known for its greenery, beautiful landscape and unspoilt nature.

Mokokchung: One of the liveliest districts of Nagaland, Mokokchung is the home to the Ao Naga tribes.

Mon: Mon belongs to the Konyak Nagas, the fascinating and brave head hunters of yesteryears.

Dzukou Valley: A short and beautiful trek through the lush Dzukou Valley.

How to reach Nagaland?

Dimapur in Nagaland has both an airport and a railway station. Dimapur is connected by flight from the major cities of India like New Delhi, Kolkata and Guwahati. Trains to Dimapur run from Guwahati. Kohima, the capital city is about 70 km from Dimapur. You can also take an overnight bus from Guwahati to Dimapur/Kohima. But be prepared for a long and bumpy ride.

Sikkim has been added to Northeast India states only in 2002. Sikkim lies on the other side of the Siliguri Corridor or the Chicken’s Neck. Sikkim is definitely a more popular tourist destination, perhaps because it is relatively easier to reach. Sikkim has a charm of its own . One of the smallest states in India, Sikkim is nestled in the eastern Himalayas with the Kanchenjunga ranges looming over its landscape. The Sikkimese considers the Kanchenjunga as their guardian deity .

Sikkim is an adventure enthusiast’s delight. The state has some of the best and unexplored trekking trails. The Goechela trek is one of the best high altitude Himalayan treks where you can see as many as 14 summits.

Sikkim is divided into 4 district – east, west, north and south. Tourism in Sikkim can also be divided accordingly.

Places not to be missed in Sikkim

East Sikkim: Gangtok , Aritar, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass and the Silk Route.

West Sikkim: Pelling, Pemyangtse, Tashiding and Yuksom.

North Sikkim: Lachen, Lachung, Gurudongmar Lake , Yumthang Valley and Dzongu .

South Sikkim: Ravangla, Namchi and Temi Tea Garden.

How to reach Sikkim?

The nearest international airport to Gangtok is at Bagdogra near Siliguri in West Bengal. The nearest Railway station is at New Jalpaiguri near Siliguri. You can take shared vehicles and well as rented ones from Bagdogra, NJP or Siliguri to Gangtok.

Recently, Pakyong Airport has been opened at Gangtok. But flights to this airport are not regular yet.

Tripura tucked away in a corner of the seven sister states was once a princely state. And the magnificence of the kings can be still seen in the building, roads and even in the people of Tripura. The princely state of Tripura never came directly under the British rule and acceded to the Indian Union in 1949. The state has a unique combination of nature, history and wilderness.

Places not to be missed in Tripura

Agartala: The capital city has a charm of its own. The grand Ujjayanta Palace standing right in the middle of the city is a testimony to the royal past of Tripura.

Udaipur: Not to be mistaken with Udaipur of Rajasthan, this place is also known for its lakes and temples.

Melaghar: Known for Neermahal , the exquisitely beautiful summer palace of the Tripura kings.

Unakoti: The place is known for its bas-relief structures on the face of the mountain ranges. Unakoti is shrouded in forests and vegetation has interesting mythology behind it.

Chabimura: One of the hidden gems of Tripura, Chabimura is known for the image of Devi Chakrama on the rock face of the mountain beside a river.

Pilak: One of the important archaeological sites of Tripura.

Jampui Hills: Enjoy the nature and serenity at this hill station of Tripura.

Dumboor Lake: The largest lake in Tripura, the place is an absolute beauty for the eyes.

How to reach Tripura?

Agartala is well connected by flights from the major Indian towns. Agartala also has a railway station that is connected with trains from Guwahati, Silchar and Sealdah.

Northeast India travel is like reading a good book. They don’t reveal their secrets at once.

The People of Northeast India

I have always believed that a place can be best understood through its people. But before visiting northeast India, we would recommend you to learn something about the tribes and locals of the place. The tribal communities usually have a different lifestyle, food habits, rituals and traditions. Respect their traditions and lifestyle. You will be able to enjoy your trip in a much better way if you do so.

For example, while travelling in Sikkim, the popular tourist destinations like Gangtok and Pelling have amenities catering to the facilities of the tourists. But when we visited Dzongu, the Lepcha Reserve in North Sikkim , we found that the locals there are early risers and have their lunch by 10.30 and dinner by 7.30 pm. Our host wanted to change the rules for us, but we decided to have food with them. This made our hosts extremely happy and we spent some of the best times in Dzongu.

The people of Northeast India are very warm and friendly. They can go out of the way to help you and make you comfortable. Our guide in David Scott Trail was a shy young boy. Once he was comfortable, he was full of stories and anecdotes about Meghalaya and the Khasi Hills.

Wildlife of Northeast India

Northeast India has one of the highest forest covers in India. Quite naturally, the region rich with natural splendour is also the home to abundant flora and fauna. The wilderness of the region also adds to its aura and those who have a penchant for wildlife would not be disappointed. There are many national parks, wildlife sanctuaries in Northeast India that are home to many endangered and exotic species of animals.

If you are looking for tigers, you will not find it here. What you will find here is the endangered one-horned rhinoceros. Almost 2/3 rd of the rhino population in the world are found in this region. Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam are the home to these one-horned rhinos.

Arunachal Pradesh is one of the rare places where seven types of wild cats are found – tiger, leopard, clouded leopard, snow leopard, leopard cat, marbled cat and the golden cat. Namdhapa National Park and Mouling National Parks are the best places for wildlife.

Keibul Lamjao National Park is the world’s only floating National Park and is the home to the e ndangered Sangai deer or dancing deer of Manipur .

Hoolock gibbons are found in abundance in Nokrek Biosphere Reserve in Meghalaya, Hoolongapar Wildlife Sanctuary near Jorhat in Assam, Murlen National Park in Mizoram, Trishna WLS and Sepahijala WLS in Tripura. Tripura is also the home to the cute looking Phayre’s Langoor or the Spectacled monkeys . Nagaland is known for its birds – the great Indian Hornbill, Rufous-necked Hornbill, tragopans and many more.

Sikkim is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers. 30% of all the birds found in the Indian subcontinent are found in Sikkim. There are about 550 species of birds recorded in Sikkim and many of them are endangered. Many endangered animals like the red panda, Himalayan Black Bear, Snow leopard etc are also found in Sikkim.

So if you wish to go for a wildlife trip to Northeast India, you will definitely not be disappointed.

Festivals of Northeast India

Festivals in Northeast India is a mélange of music, dance and colourful costumes. The festivals of northeast India are quite a spectacle to watch. While the Hornbill Festival and Ziro Festival of Music happen to be quite famous, there are many other festivals that are equally interesting and fun to attend. Here I have mentioned only a few festivals celebrated in Northeast India according to the months.

• Magh Bihu, Assam
• Dwijing Festival , Assam

• Losar, Arunachal Pradesh
• Nyokum Yullo, Arunachal Pradesh
• Chapchar Kut, Mizoram
• Myoko Festival, Arunachal Pradesh
• Rongali Bihu, Assam
• Aoling Festival, Nagaland
• Mopin Festival, Arunachal Pradesh
• Dree Festival, Arunachal Pradesh
• Kharchi Puja, Tripura
• Pang Lhabsol, Sikkim

• Ziro Festival of Music , Arunachal Pradesh
• Anthurium Festival, Mizoram
• Tawang Festival , Arunachal Pradesh

• Raas Utsav, Majuli (Assam) and Manipur
• Nongkrem Festival, Khasi Hills, Meghalaya
• Wangala Festival , Garo Hills, Meghalaya
• India International Cherry Blossom Festival , Shillong
• Sangai Festival , Manipur
• NH7 Weekender, Shillong

• Hornbill Festival, Nagaland
• Losoong and Kagyed Dance , Sikkim
• Basar Confluence , Arunachal Pradesh
• Dambuk Orange Festival, Arunachal Pradesh

Northeast India Travel Tips

A few things that you must remember while visiting Northeast India.

• Please respect the place, people and their culture.
• Respect nature and do not disturb the eco-system of the place. The locals live in close communion with nature.
• Do not judge the local community by their food habits and lifestyle. If you do not like any custom and rituals, stay away from it instead of being vocal about them. These customs are their heritage and they have been living by it since long.
• The people in Northeast India mainly eat non-vegetarian food. If you do not want to eat it, please let your host or tour agent know about it beforehand. Do not complain about the type of food you get. Do remember, that these are remote areas and your host provides you with the best they can. If you cannot compromise on your food habit, then probably northeast India is not the place for you.
• While staying in a homestay, please adhere to the house rules. Every community has its own set of rules and it is appreciated if you adhere to them. Live like a local when you are in Northeast India.
• Finally do not throw garbage and litter anywhere. Most of the villages in Northeast are very clean and they have dustbins placed at various locations.
• Do not get into fights and altercation with the locals. If anything is bothering you, let your host know it.
• Dress conservatively while visiting the remote areas.
• Do not venture out alone in remote areas. Take a local guide with you.
• Do not bring anything out from the sacred groves and be reverent to these groves. The locals consider these forest areas holy and it is their place for worship as well.

Should I opt for Northeast India Tour Package?

Well, this is one of the most important questions that can come to your mind. Well, if you are young and energetic, have time in hand and do not get frustrated if your travel plans get awry, then you can definitely travel northeast India on your own. While Assam, Meghalaya, Sikkim and Tripura have fairly satisfactory transport and infrastructure, the same cannot be said for the other states. Before you decide you want to travel on your own, keep a few things in mind:

• The roads are in bad conditions in remote areas. Landslides are common in hilly areas. It may so happen that you get stuck at a remote place and cannot move from there even in a couple of days.
• The shared vehicles start from its source usually early in the morning. If you miss it, you have to wait for the next day.
• Your plans can go awry any time in Northeast if there is a roadblock or landslide or some problem in the area. So you need to be flexible in your plans.

However, if you use to take a Northeast India tour package from an operator, then you do not have to think about these problems on the road. Your transfers will be seamless and you need not worry about the getting vehicles from one place to another. Also, you will be provided with a guide who will give you information about the place and people. He can also act as the interpreter between you and the local tribal people. Especially, if you are travelling with family, we would recommend you to take the help of tour operators.

Northeast India Travel Guide (FAQs Answered)

Carrying a raincoat or rain jacket is a must for your Northeast India trip, irrespective of the season you visit. You never know when it can rain there. If you are visiting during the winter, do carry proper woollens like sweaters, jackets, gloves, woollen socks and caps. Carry a good pair of shoes and a pair of flipflops. Do not forget to carry your ILP and PAP (where needed), Identity and Adress proofs and photographs. Foreign tourists need to carry their passport and Indian Visa. Carry a mosquito repellant. You will thank me later!

Northeast India is a fairly remote area. The main cities, mainly the capital cities do have hostels. We have stayed in the hostels in Gangtok and Shillong and they were fairly good in terms of cleanliness and comfort. We had also looked for hostels in Aizawl, Mizoram. The hostels were very cheap, but they were not clean. We also did not see and facility for warm water. However, in Mizoram, the government-run tourist lodges are the best options to stay. I am sure Guwahati also will have proper hostels though we haven’t stayed in any. Do not expect hostels in the remote destinations, especially the villages. Homestays are the preferred accommodation options in those places. Homestays are great ways to experience the local culture.

Different places have different language. There’s a huge variety. Each tribe has many sub-tribes and they have their own dialect. The same language can also have various dialects. However, as a traveller, you need not worry. Most of the people speak English. You will not have any problems with all the main tourist destinations. Only when you visit the remote areas, there can be a language barrier. But I am sure you will find a few in the village who can speak English and will help you.

This totally depends on what you want to see and where you want to visit. Our recommendation is not to rush travelling in Northeast India. The place is best enjoyed and experienced if you travel slow. If you wish to visit one state, then 7-10 days will be good to cover the main attractions of that state.

Mobile and wifi connection is available in the main cities, towns and popular tourist destinations. But connectivity is poor in the remote areas.

In this blog about Northeast India travel, we have tried to cover all the important information. If you still have any questions, do ask us by commenting below. You can also send us a mail to [email protected] with your queries.

Resources for Travelling to Northeast India

• Tawang Travel Guide
• Majuli – A complete travel guide
• Meghalaya Travel Guide
• Offbeat Places to visit in Meghalaya
• Mizoram Travel Guide
• Sikkim Travel Guide
• Tripura Travel Guide

Agni Amrita

Related posts.

Aoling Festival at Nagaland – The Grand Festival of Konyak Nagas

Konyak Tribe – In Search of The Tattooed Headhunters of Nagaland

Garo Hills, Meghalaya – Travel Guide for Your First Time Visit

Phe Phe Falls – Most Jaw-dropping Waterfall in Meghalaya

Siju Cave & Rock Formation – Nature’s Play at Garo Hills Meghalaya

Wari Chora – Hidden Paradise in Garo Hills of Meghalaya

44 comments.

Thank You so much for this detailed article on North-east India .

I have visited Gangtok two years back and what an experience ! It was so soothing to mind and body that I can’t express it . I am now planning to visit Assam next . And specially the Kamakhya temple which carry a great history with itself .

On thing I must say that the rich history of Northeast region needs a close attention of both state government and central government . People of India aren’t aware much about the rich culture and history of north-east because of the ignorance of the Government .

Nice pics……. great place …… wanna go ……. very nice description …… thank you for this blog….

Wow. Very detailed and informative. Covers whole north east. Would look forward to specific travel guide for Manipur and nagaland too. Thanks!!

Thank you so much for your kind comment. Blogs on Manipur are coming soon!

Never seen such a wide coverage on seven sisters. You have covered every aspect, so nothing much to ask – just take your baggage and catch the flight. Would love to combine a package tour and my own programme. Thank you. Debasis Mallik

Thank you so much for your comment! Northeast India is a wonderful place. Hope you have a wonderful time there.

I am a passionate travel blogger. I look at your posts regularly and thank you so much that you have shown the places of North East India in such detail. I especially like the location display map. Thank you very much sir for giving this update.

Thank you so much for your kind words. Keep reading our blogs and supporting us.

Amazing North East of India! We had just visited the Meghalaya and covered almost all the places you have listed here.

Thank you Abhi for the comment. Watched your vlog. Its lovely!

Thank you so much for showing me the details of so many things from the North East.I must travel north-east

Thank you so much for our comment.

I am a travel blogger. I found your blog interesting. I appreciate your writing. The author rightly highlighted the favorite destination to visit in the northeast. I personally follow your blog on regular basis for new updates.

Thank you so much for your kind words! Please keep following our blog!

Superb, detailed guidebook to travel the heaven. Thank you so much. I had certain queries, how to get in touch to know more about it?

You can send us a mail at [email protected] or drop a message at Instagram.

Thank you Agni & Amrita. Super detailed, and best guide. Looks like we need a good 2.5 months to cover the entire North East. May I request if you can suggest how can we divide these 7 states in sections for example Assam & Meghalaya can be done in 2-3 weeks & in next trip other two states can be clubbed together etc. Which can give a fair introduction to North East region and quest to visit other places in next trip 😉 ( I am planning for Jan 21 ) Again, Thank you so much for taking these efforts and inspiring us to travel to these gems of India.

Thank you Neha for the lovely comment. Yes, you would need at least 2.5-3 months to cover entire northeast India. I would request you to please drop us a mail with your queries. Thanks again.

You have kind of presented a wholesome introduction and guide to Northeast India. I especially loved the Map showcasing the locations.

Thank you so much Joydeep!

Wow wow wow !! This is the most detailed travel guide anyone can ever ask for…after reading this I don’t think I need to look up anything else before visiting all of North East! Well done! I have been to Sikkim many times since I was born and brought up in Kolkata and totally love Sikkim. Shillong is another favourite, stayed at Ri Kyunjai and was so awesome , the view was to die for. Looking forward to your next blog.

Thank you Anindita!

Looking at the post makes me wanna go and relive all the memories which I had in bits in north east m. There is so much more to just visiting Meghalaya or Assam. Reminds me of my quite days in Imphal .. I wanted to go and attend the Zero and Hornbill festival bit let’s see if this can be done this year or not

I also want to visit the Ziro and Hornbill Festival. Lets plan together!

Wow guys, this is a Northeast India Bible. We love the Northeast and the love started when we took our firs trip together to Meghalaya in 2019 after which we made a pact to travel to atleast one north east state once a year.

Thank you Diana! We have been visiting this beautiful place for long.

This is such a comprehensive guide of entire North East India, we are going to save it definitely. Was searching for something similar for long.

wow man! The blog post is so detailed. Really loved how it has been written. Starting form the maps to history to finally places to see. I have been to only Meghalaya in North East and would love to explore more. Will surely be pinning the blog for my northeast trip

Thanks Nishu! Glad that you liked it!

This is by far one of best, most comprehensive and detailed guides on the North East. Apart from Sikkim, I haven’t been to any other state in the North East and this post has only reignited the travel itch. One of my biggest apprehensions has been the availability of veg food. Some friends returned from Nagaland complaining about going hungry on so many days! The raw beauty of Arunachal and the national parks of Assam are my biggest motivations to visit the NE:)

Thank you Divyakshi. Yes, food can be a problem for vegetarians, but if you don’t mind eating boiled vegetables and rice for a few days, I think Northeast will be just great!

Quite a comprehensive guide for all the 8 states with all the basics covered! Loved how precise and well researched this piece was. I’ve only been to Nagaland in the northeast and the culture uniqueness is astounding. Northeast is one of India’s most beautiful regions and you’ve showcased that pretty well here. Especially the last image that marks the top things to do in each state. Pinned it for later!

Thank you Avantika! I was reading your posts on Nagaland and they are beautiful!

This is most detailed blog on North East India I have ever come across. I now know where I need to look for any information when I’m planning my trip here. Such a great effort guys. You’ll have mentioned every possible detail anyone would require! So commendable.

Thank you so much!

wow this is such a comprehensive guide for North East. I am surely keeping this pinned for my upcoming trip to North East. This is insightful

Thank you Tanayesh!

That is a solid guide that I am bookmarking for my travel – whenever that happens. I have only done one of the 7 states there and was hoping to do one more this year. In particular, I loved the section on the permits coz that info is not that easy to get.

Thank you Ami!

Wow! This is an amazing and comprehensive guide to visiting the North East, Agni & Amrita! Really appreciate the efforts you would’ve out into this for curious travellers like us who are eager to explore that region (especially the ILP guide) 🙂

And the pictures are interwoven well too. Can’t wait for the pandemic to ease out so that we can venture out here 🙂

Thank you so much both of you! Glad that you liked it!

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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

15 days in North East India | A Travel Guide and Itinerary

Jack Kerouac in his book On the Road , says, “There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars.” Traversing through majestic mountains and lustrous valleys in the middle of nowhere while admiring the flawless creations of nature seems like an idea, too good to be real for now. But it is wise enough to find respite from mundane schedules by making a virtual tour of destinations in your bucket list and plan for future travel.

North East India is known to be in the bucket list of many discerning travelers. The alluring beauty of nature and rich culture intertwine to make the North East a top pick for many. The eight states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim constitute the North East region in India.

The vas t region with countless idyllic travel destinations requires you to spend months there to be able to explore the region well but in reality, this is not something everyone can possibly do. But setting aside 15 days in a year to head to the rather unexplored part of India is something doable. Hence, I am compiling this 15-Day Travel Itinerary comprising of 3 states in the North East – Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh.

If you are someone who had always wished to wander through the winding roads in the North East and jump into the pools of hidden waterfalls but never found a perfect itinerary to make the best out of your available time, this itinerary is for you. Go ahead to read and plan your next trip to the North East.

How to reach Shillong?

Where to stay in shillong, where to eat in shillong, how to reach cherrapunjee, where to stay in cherrapunjee, nohkalikai falls, mawsmai caves, arwah caves, how to reach nongriat, where to stay in tyrna, how to reach tezpur, tezpur to kaziranga, where to stay in kaziranga, how to book a jeep safari, where to stay in tezpur, how to reach dirang, where to stay in dirang, dirang dzong, dirang monastery, explore dirang on foot, how to reach tawang, where to stay in tawang, things to do in tawang, how to reach bomdila, where to stay in bomdila, things to do in bomdila, how to reach guwahati, where to stay in guwahati.

Day 14 : Explore Guwahati

Day 15 : Fly out from Guwahati

North East Itinerary – In brief

Tips to remember while planning the trip, share this:.

A detailed 15-day Travel Itinerary for North East

Day 1 : Guwahati to Shillong

To start your journey in the North East, you’d have to fly to Guwahati in Assam, which serves as the base for almost all routes.

• Hire a vehicle from Guwahati Airport or Guwahati Railway Station to Shillong. It would ideally cost you about INR 2000 for a drop off at Police Bazar, Shillong or your Hotel.
• You can also hop onto a shared sumo/taxi from the airport or railway station which would cost about INR 300. If you do not find shared vehicles there, you can head to Paltan Bazar in Guwahati from where you’d easily find shared vehicles for Shillong.
• You will also find buses for Shillong from ISBT, Beltola in Guwahati.
• The journey is approximately 3 hours long.

Backpacker’s Hostel : Silver Brook

Home-stays : Mid Pine Homestay

Hotels : Windermere Inn | Hotel Polo Towers | Rockski Boutique Bed and Breakfast | The Loft Executive Inn

Dylan’s Cafe | ML 05 Cafe | Cafe Shillong

Tango Restobar and Lounge | Deja Vu |  The Evening Club

If you manage to reach Shillong by afternoon, you can easily take a short tour of the city. Hire a local cab to visit Elephant Falls and Shillong Peak, which are within 15 kms distance from the central part of the city. Ward’s Lake is right in the heart of the city and you may stop by to spend some quiet time by the lake.

In the evening, take a stroll in the Police Bazar area and check out the amazing cafes and restaurants in the area.

Day 2 : Shillong to Cherrapunjee

• Private cabs can be booked from the main market area, known as Police Bazar.
• There are shared vehicles available too which are available from Bara Bazar Area . Usually these are Tata Sumos or Altos that ply between Shillong and Cherrapunjee. Cherrapunjee and Sohra are the same places. Do not get confused if the taxi drivers are calling out for passengers for Sohra.
• It takes about 2 hours to travel the distance of 52 kms.

Homestays : Goshen Homestay | Aisha Guest House | Shalom Guest House  

Hotels : Coniferous Resort | Polo Orchid Resort | Sulawado Resort

Things to do in Cherrapunjee

Make sure you start early from Shillong so that you may reach Cherrapunjee by first half of the day. You may hire a local cab to take you around the famous spots in Cherrapunjee. Here’s a list of things you can do at Cherrapunjee:

Visit the tallest plunge waterfall in India, Nohkalikai Falls , which has a height of 350 metres. There is an entry gate from where you can reach the mouth of the waterfall by following the trail. The view point of the waterfall is about 4-8 kms from Cherrapunjee, depending on where you start your journey from.

Take a tour of Mawsmai Caves , located about 6 kms away from Cherrapunjee. The cave is made of limestone and is home to unique flora and fauna. Once you enter the cave, you are only allowed to walk up till 150 metres inside the cave and the rest of the cave is not open for visitors.

Arwah Caves is a hidden gem in Cherrapunjee. This cave does not have well demarcated trails and thus, it is advisable to take a guide along with you. You need to take a detour from the main road and cover a muddy patch of road to reach Arwah Cave. Before you reach the entrance of the cave, you’d find a beautiful bridge. You would spot limestones and fossils inside the cave. A visit to Arwah Cave would be an adventurous activity. But considering the fact that you only have one day to visit all these places, you might have to pick one between Mawsmai and Arwah Caves as they are located in the extreme opposite locations outside Cherrapunjee.

Day 3 : Cherrapunjee – Tyrna – Nongriat – Tyrna

Start your day early as you have to trek the most talked about Living Root bridge of Meghalaya in Nongriat on this day. 

• Take a private taxi from Cherrapunjee to drop you at Tyrna , the starting point of the trek.
• It would cost you about INR 500 or a little more for this distance.
• From Tyrna Village , your downward hike for Nongriat starts .
• It is advisable to take a porter if you have a heavy rucksack. A porter would charge INR 500 a day.
• It usually takes about 2 hours for the downward hike. But you may finish the hike faster depending on your speed.

After crossing many suspension bridges and root bridges along the forest trail, you’d reach one of the major highlights of Meghalaya, the Double Decker Living Root Bridge. Only when you see the marvelous creation, you’d know how beautiful and powerful nature can be, if utilised well. Sit by the natural pool and soak in all the energy of the forest.

You can also ask your guide to take you to the Rainbow Waterfall , located a short hike away from Nongriat village. There are also a number of gorgeous natural pools which are untraceable and only known by the locals. If time permits, pay a visit to these naturals pools to make your day even more exciting.

By afternoon, start your upward hike back to Tyrna. The upward hike may take a longer time. Reach back to the starting point and stay at Tyrna, to get an experience of the rural side of Meghalaya.

Delight Homestay | Royal View Resort

Day 4 : Tyrna to Shillong

On the fourth day of your trip, head back to Shillong and spend a day in the Scotland of the East.

• Travel to Cherrapunjee from Tyrna in a reserved cab , following the same route.
• From Cherrapunjee, you can hire a vehicle for Shillong or take a shared vehicle .

Upon reaching Shillong, spend the day to explore the famous spots of the city if you had missed them on the day of your arrival. 

Day 5 : Shillong – Tezpur – Kaziranga

This will be a long day on the roads as you head back to Assam from Shillong. To proceed with your journey to the North East, you’d need to head to Tezpur in Assam from where you will further head to Kaziranga National Park.

• The first and the most comfortable way to travel to Tezpur from Assam is to reserve a vehicle. But it will cost you a whopping INR 5000-6000. If you are traveling in a group and would not want to compromise on comfort, you may choose this option.
• There are bus services between these two places. The buses would take about 7 hours to cover the distance and the schedule can be checked and tickets can be booked on the Assam State Transport Corporation ‘s website .

Tezpur to Kaziranga is a 40 kms journey that takes about 1.5 hours. It’s best that you move to Kaziranga from Tezpur and spend the night there because the safaris start very early in the morning. You need to spend a night in a nearby homestay or resort in order to make it to the morning safaris, which are most preferred. Staying in a cottage or homestay in Kaziranga will also give you a taste of the Assamese culture and daily life.

• You will find Assam State Transport Corporation Buses from Tezpur to go to Kaziranga. 
• You can also reserve a cab to drop you off till your accommodation this being a short distance. It will make your travel easier.

You can put up in the cottages that are run by the Kaziranga National Park. But do note that they are more on the expensive side for solo travellers. Works fine if you are in a group.

You can also opt to stay in a cottage near the National Park, which are more budget friendly. Some options are listed here:

Dhanshree Resort |   Kaziranga Florican Lodge | Kaziranga Resort

End the day and get some good sleep as you reach your destination as the day starts very early the next day.

Day 6 : Excursion to Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park, well known across the country for being home to the one-horned rhino is one of the Best National Parks of India. Not only the one-horned rhino, but you can also spot Royal Bengal tigers, swamp deer, wild water buffaloes and Asian elephants in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spread over 430 square kilometers, Kaziranga National Park houses unique flora and fauna. 

There are two ways you can take a tour around in this place. The first is an Elephant Safari and the other is a Jeep Safari. An Elephant Safari starts as early as 5:30am in the morning and you need to book them a day prior to when you want to go for the safari. The slots for Indians are way too less than the number of slots reserved for foreigners. Also, not many people personally prefer Elephant Safaris on grounds of morality. But even if you want to, you may not get a chance at this because of the one day prior booking policy.

The best way to explore the Kaziranga National Park is to opt for a Jeep Safari which has many slots, even in the afternoons. Please note that Kaziranga National Park is only open during the months of November to April so plan your travel accordingly  if you don’t want to be disappointed at the last moment.

• The tickets can be booked from the counter on the same day on first come first served basis.
• The Safaris are about 2 hours long. You can check the schedule of the Jeep Safaris beforehand.
• You cannot book a seat but will have to book the entire Jeep and pay an extra amount for cameras. If you are traveling solo, the best is to wait and join another group and split the cost.
• An entire Safari costs between INR 1550-2750. There are different price ranges for different circuits. For cameras, you need to pay INR 100 extra per camera; INR 200 for foreigners.
• From your stay, you will need a vehicle to drop you at the starting point of the Safari. You can ask your hosts to arrange for this and they’d be glad to help you out.

If you take a morning safari, you will have ample time to head to the Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park . The biggest Orchid park in the North East belt in India, this park hosts 500 varieties of wild orchids, 132 species of fruits and vegetables, various species of bamboo, cane and other plants.

After a tour of the Orchid park, you can head back to Tezpur from Kaziranga and spend the night in Tezpur.

Homestays :  The Bhowmick’s Bungalow  

Hotels : Hotel Gateway Tezpur | Hotel Palazzo Prime | Dayal Residency  

Day 7 : Tezpur to Dirang

Dirang is a picture perfect town in West Kameng District in Arunachal Pradesh, often chosen as a transit point by traveler. Dirang is quite unexplored till this point of time probably because its counterpart, Bomdila is known more in the travellers circuit. Surrounded by tall mountains, beautiful monasteries and crystal clear river waters, a stop at Dirang would be the best way to start your trip to Arunachal Pradesh.

• There won’t be shared cabs specifically  meant for Dirang but you can hop onto one going to Tawang and get down at Dirang.
• Shared Sumos are found at ASTC bus stand in Tezpur and they leave around 6am. Check for the Tata Sumo Counter for Tawang as you reach there. Make sure you reach well ahead of time to find yourself the best seats, else you will end up stuck at the last row with no legroom for this long journey.
• The shared Sumo fair for Tawang from Tezpur is usually INR 750 per person . Dirang would cost you lesser than that. But post pandemic, the costs are expected to go higher.
• A reserved vehicle from Tezpur to Dirang would cost somewhere around INR 8000 . If you are in a group, you may opt for this as you won’t be compromising on comfort.
• The distance is about 200 kms and it takes around 6 hours to cover.

J L Homestay | Pemaling Lords Inn Homestay | Tenzing Dolma Homestay | Keeduk Inn

After having completed a long and bumpy ride, take rest in your hotel/homestay.

Day 8 : Explore Dirang

Even though Dirang has gained popularity only among travelers only in the recent years, there is a lot to explore in this quaint village. One day is never enough to explore the place to the fullest. Still, something is better than nothing so you can utilise the day to the fullest and go around and breathe the fresh air of this surreal destination, your first stop in Arunachal Pradesh.

Things to do in Dirang

Visit Dirang Dzong located on the banks of Dirang Chu (river), an outstanding remnant of the rich cultural history of Arunachal Pradesh. It is a small village with a few houses that are more than 500 years old. Dirang Dzong also has a prison which dates back to 9th century. Walk through the houses and alleys and interact with the locals to know more about the ancient architecture, traditions, art and culture. It is located about 3-4 kms from the main town of Dirang. You can take a local cab but the distance is walkable if you are comfortable walking.

Originally known as the Thupsung Dhargye monastery, Dirang Monastery is a rather new monastery and recently renovated. The monastery is surrounded by manicured gardens and the view from here is serene. Spend an hour at this place to experience tranquility. It is located right in the heart of Dirang.

There is no better way to explore a place than to explore the place on foot. Walk around the town, the river banks and drink tea with the locals. You will know a lot more about the history and culture than what the internet tells you about a place.

Day 9 : Dirang to Tawang

• The shared sumos start very early in the morning. Talk to your hotel/homestay management to find out if you can book a seat the previous way. There is no straightjacket formula to traveling in public transports in the North East.
• The shared sumos would cost around INR 450 from Dirang to Tawang and travel time would be around 6 hours. 
• You can also join other groups if they are booking a private vehicle and share the expenses.
• Ask the driver to stop at Sela Lake for tea. That way you get a glimpse of the splendid Sela Lake.

Dondrub Homestay | Hotel Tawang Heights | Hotel The Oak | Hotel Tawang Centre Point

Spend the evening strolling around the town of Tawang or head to Dharma Coffee House for a cup of hot chocolate.

Day 10 : Explore Tawang

To explore the various places in Tawang, the only option is to book a local cab for sightseeing. If you are traveling solo, you would probably have to join another group. But there is no issue if you are in a group. In the local taxi stand, you will find local drivers who conduct these Bum La Pass, Sangetsar Lake, P T Tso Lake sightseeing trips. You will need a permit from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner in Tawang District to visit Bum La Pass . But not to worry, the driver can arrange that for you easily. Make sure you make this arrangement right on the day you arrive. A full day trip will cost you between INR 5000-6000.

• Visit the Tawang Monastery , the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world. Situated at a height of 3000 metres, this three stories monastery is postcard perfect and one of the main highlights of your trip to Tawang.
• Visit the historically significant Urgeling Gompa , the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama.
• Head to Tawang War Memorial , which commemorates the martyrdom of 2140 Indian soldiers of the Indo-China War.
• Explore the popular Bumla pass , located at an altitude of 4633 meters in  the Indo-China border.
• Stop by Sangetsar Lake,  more famously known as Madhuri Lake after a Bollywood movie starring Madhuri Dixit was shot here. A walk around the lake will be enough to refresh your mind and soul.
• Visit the P T Tso Lake , another famous spot in this circuit. With crystal clear waters and mountains on all sides, you will find this lake a rejuvenating escape.

Head back to your hotel/homestay and rest in the evening.

Day 11 : Tawang to Bomdila

This day holds a long journey for you. The shares Sumos for Bomdila leave very early in the morning and hence, you’d have to be prepared to leave early. 

• Hop onto a shared Sumo from Tawang.
• It takes between 7-8 hours to cover this leg of the journey, depending on the conditions of the road.
• The fare for a seat in a shared vehicle is around INR 600.
• Reserved Vehicles would cost about INR 10000 (Xylo/Innova).

Holiday Hills | Hotel Tashi Den | Doe-Gu-Khil Guest House

Spend the day rest of the evening strolling around the streets of Bomdila or stay back at your hotel/homestay.

Day 12 : Explore Bomdila

Bomdila is another transit point apart from Dirang, between Tezpur and Tawang. Bomdila is known more and opted by the travelers because of its easy accessibility with other places. Situated amidst lofty mountains and home to beautiful monasteries, Bomdila truly deserves the attention of the travelers. There are many things you can do in this quaint town. Some of the places of interest are listed here.

• Head to the highest view point of Bomdila, RR Hill to witness a unparalelled views of Bhutan and Tibet.
• Visit the gorgeously built Bomdila Monastery . Built in 1965, this monastery is divided into three segments, the Upper Gompa, the Middle Gompa and the Lower Gompa. The Upper Gompa is situated on a steep mountain slope and is the biggest among the three.
• Hire a vehicle and head to Eagle’s Nest Sanctuary, located 20 kms outside the town. It is a great spot for bird watchers.
• Head to the apple orchards of Bomdila and pack some apples for your journey backwards.

Day 13 : Bomdila – Tezpur – Guwahati

• There are two possible ways to reach Guwahati.
• You will find direct buses that go to Guwahati but they are extremely long and tiring. A 15 hours of journey through the bumpy roads would be no less than a pain. But you may still opt for this if you are used to traveling in buses.
• The alternative option is to break the journey at Tezpur . First take a Shared Jeep to Tezpur that’d cost you INR 350 . From Tezpur, you may either take another Sumo or get onto an ASTC bus towards Guwahati. Take a seat in the front of the bus and it will be quite a comfortable journey.

TRAVEL TIME:

Bomdila to Tezpur – 4.5 hours

Tezpur to Guwahati – 4.5 hours

(It is always best to keep some buffer time and not having anything booked in advance)

Backpackers Hostels : Gibbon Backpackers Hostel | Cupidtrail Backpacker’s Penthouse  

Mid-Ranged Stays : Magnolia Inn | The Riverside Lodge | Hotel The Kalyaniz

Luxury Stays : Vivanta Guwahati | Radisson Blu Guwahat i | Novotel Guwahati

After a long day of travel, retreat to sleep early as you approach the last day of your trip.

Though the itinerary starts from Guwahati, you technically do not get to spend a day in Guwahati, often considered a gateway and junction to travel to all other destinations in the North East region. It is thus advisable to dedicate a leisurely day to explore the city at your own pace. There would be no checklists to follow or rush to visit all possible points. Just take a walk, spend the afternoon at a cafe or engage in some shopping at Fancy Bazaar or The Maati Centre .

But if you are still keen on visiting some popular spots in the city, you may head to Assam State Museum or stargaze at Guwahati Planetarium.

If you want to add on a few extra days to the itinerary and explore some more places in Assam, you must check these 6 jaw-dropping locations in Assam that should be on your list.

Fly out or take a train back from Guwahati with bag full of memories.

Day 3 : Cherrpunjee – Tyrna – Nongriat – Tyrna

Day 4 : Tyrna – Cherrapunjee – Shillong

Day 6 : Excursion at Kaziranga National Park – Transfer to Tezpur

Day 13 : Bomdila -Tezpur – Guwahati

• It is best to travel in the months of November to early December or March-April . The itinerary covers high altitude destinations like Tawang and you would not want to get stuck due to excessive snowfall during winter months or landslides in monsoon.
• Traveling to Arunachal Pradesh requires an Inner Line Permit which maybe applied online and obtained beforehand. The fee is INR 100 for Indians and is valid for 30 days.
• You will be on the roads on almost every day of the trip. It is advisable to carry water bottle and dry fruits so that you can stay hydrated and have something to munch on.
• Please avoid carrying snacks in plastic packs . Most of these locations are in remote places and they do not have a recycling system. If at all you produce plastic waste, carry them till Guwahati and dispose them at Guwahati .
• Always keep some buffer time when you travel in public transports . You never know what unforeseen circumstances may arrive.
• Reach the booking counters well before time so that you may find the front seats in the Tata Sumos . If possible, book both the seats so that you can travel comfortably.
• Respect the culture of the locals and thank them for every service.

Also, check these articles if you want to travel further to other places in the North East:

• 5 Offbeat Destinations in Meghalaya
• A 10-Day Travel Itinerary to experience Community Tourism in Sikkim
• 7 Day Arunachal Pradesh Itinerary
• A Comprehensive Travel Guide for Nepal
• A Guide for spending 2 days in Pokhara
• A 7-Day Travel Itinerary for Bhutan
• Thimpu City Guide
• 10 Offbeat Himalayan Destinations in West Bengal
• 7 Day Meghalaya Travel Itinerary

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Hailing from the foothill town of Siliguri, Michelle takes keen interest in storytelling, through words and photographs. Having a home so close to the mountains is what she considers a gift. A law student and freelance content writer at present, she often takes time out to travel to the mountains and pen down her experiences. She believes in giving back to the community through volunteering in local projects and strongly supports community tourism.

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Exploring The 7 Sisters: Backpacking North East India

India has captured the imaginations of explorers since the beginning of time. While the world has fallen in love with the architectural beauty of the Taj Mahal, and the forts and palaces of Rajasthan, north east India is still an enchanting mystery to many who land on her shores.

The 7 regions of north east India are known lovingly as the 7 Sisters, which are: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura.

This part of India took my breath away and I hope by the end of this blog, you will understand why.

The entire region is nestled between Bangladesh, Tibet , Bhutan and Myanmar . It is a surprising retreat away from the madness and mayhem of Delhi and other stereotypical tourist traps that most people have heard about.

Instead, backpacking north east India brings you face-to-face with tribal cultures, rare wildlife and hidden paradise.

However, this blog isn’t just about her beauty. While exploring the 7 Sisters of India is an eye-opening experience, there are practicalities to be considered: where to go, how to get around, why it’s different and when to go.

*This blog is long – so feel free to skip to the sections that are most useful to you. It’s meant to be used more as a reference point to answer any questions you may have about backpacking north east India.*

So come on in, let me take you on that journey of discovery of one of the most beautiful places in the world…

Best Places to Go Backpacking North East India

Boy is this a hard section to write. My natural instinct is to say: everywhere, but if time is of the essence when you are backpacking north east India, then below are some of the highlights.

Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park is an area of natural beauty that is located in the northeastern state of Assam. Home to rare species such as the one-horned Rhino, the park is the breeding ground of elephants, wild water buffalo, and swamp deer.

Over the last 10 years, there has also been an explosion in the tiger population,  which led to Kaziranga being declared as a Tiger Reserve in 2006.

The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its 430 square kilometre area is sprinkled with elephant-grass meadows, swampy lagoons, and dense forests, that simply take the breath away.

Phawngpui Peak, Mizoram

Phawngpui Peak is the highest in Mizoram and is also known as the Blue Mountain. I can’t help but think of climbing mountains as a spiritual retreat, and climbing this majestic mountain certainly does something to your soul.

I think it is the landscape, which is surrounded by sheer precipices and cliffs, of which Thlazuang Kham is the most spectacular one.

The mountain is famous for its orchids and rhododendrons with spectacular trees and flowers of all colours. You can find many blogs out there that describe the beauty of this place.

But it still doesn’t beat the experience and the serenity you get when you sit on one of the steep slopes and passively watch the sunbirds swooping over the cliffs, and hovering over the colourful landscapes. I don’t know, it just does something to you.

Mawsynram, Meghalaya

You’ve never experienced rain until you’ve been to Mawsynram. This is officially the wettest place on earth. The village of Mawsynram is recorded to receive the highest average rainfall on the entire planet of 467 inches of rain per year.

The rains in Meghalaya are so intense that the villagers need to use thick grass to protect their house from the deafening sounds of the downpours. Torrential rain doesn’t cover it. It’s probably one of the few places in the world where labourers have to wear full body umbrellas made from bamboo and banana leaf.

I say it is one of the few and not the only because Meghalaya overtook Cherrapunji as the wettest place on earth by a very slender margin.

Villagers in these parts spend months preparing for the rainy season between May and July and stocking up on food. The rain is part of what makes it beautiful.

It’s got some of the most beautiful mountains, valleys and natural scenery in the world and it owes part of its dense, luxurious greenery to the rain.

Here’s another interesting fact about Meghalaya – it is one of the only places in the world where you’ll see the living bridges. For centuries, locals have been training the roots of rubber trees to grow into natural bridges, which has lasted much longer than the man-made imitations.

The bridges are called Jingkieng Deingjris, and they strengthen themselves to become more durable over time as the root systems grow.

Tawang, Pradesh

If you’re backpacking north east India, then you definitely should not miss out on Tawang, the birthplace of the Dalai Lama.

Tawang is the spiritual heart and soul of India, and as you might expect in such a sacred place, it has an abundance of beautiful monasteries, temples, and yoga centres. It is also home to the Monpa tribes and Tibetan refugees.

Agriculture and animal husbandry are the fundamental means of the Monpas occupation. This beautiful Himalayan state is home to many colourful festivals and dances, with strong religious and agricultural themes.

Tawang is also famous for its flora and fauna, superb heritage spots, and natural scenery.

Khonoma is a mountainous village in north east India and is estimated to be around 700 years old. It is famous for its forests, gentle slopes and biodiversity. Here you’ll get a glimpse into the day-to-day life for the Naga tribes.

One of the quirky things about this village is that every year, 1 September is celebrated as the village’s ‘birthday’, with Khonomaians from far and wide coming to the village to celebrate, or carrying out celebrations wherever they may be.

Over the years, efforts have been made in the village to support conservation, and the village is a sanctuary for bird watching and exploring the local wildlife.

Agartala, North East India

Agartala has it all. It is the second largest city in North East India after Guwahati and comes complete with palaces, mountains, valleys, museums and heritage parks. One of the most famous palaces is Ujjayanta Palace, which was built by Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya.

It is also home to Sukanta Academy, a museum located in the heart of town. A small planetarium has also been set up within the complex to attract students, research scholars and scientists.

Another little gem in Agartala is the Heritage Park, spread over twelve acres of land.

Entrance to the park has an imposing gate constructed with depicting the mixed cultural heritage of Tripura, both tribal and non-tribal.

How to Get Around When Backpacking North East  India

So here’s the bad news: north east India is difficult to travel independently. This is partly because it is still relatively untouched. The roads are unbelievably bumpy, and some areas don’t have roads yet.

I would definitely recommend the services of a local tour operator. Here’s the good news – there are plenty of great tour operators to choose from that are priced reasonably. One of the best ones I’ve used is Travel Talk Tours , which offers all-inclusive tours to India.

Last time I went to the north east, I travelled to Assam and Tawang, and it wasn’t uncommon to spend 6 hours every day in the car, so you can imagine long it would take to drive independently around the north east.

But, this blog wouldn’t be that useful if I didn’t give you some clue as to how to travel around semi-independently.

Your best bet is a shared Sumo (which are mini-vans – see above pic). There are no tourist buses and the trains are not connected. The great thing about travelling in a shared taxi, however, is that you get to see more of the landscape without having to wait around for an organised tour.

Helicopter rides are almost another option, and these are available. I say ‘almost’ because they are known to crash at high altitudes, so they are not exactly what you would call ‘safe’.

How to Get to The North of India

The best way to get to north east India is to fly to Guwahati, which is the gateway to the north east.

You can then travel by land to your chosen destination.

Will I Need Travel Permits When I Go Backpacking North East India?

Permits are not needed in every state in north east India. For example, foreigners can travel freely in Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya and Nagaland. Indian nationals will need the Inner Line Permit. Neither foreigners or Indians need anything for A ssam or Tripura.

If you want to travel in Arunachal Pradesh, then you will need to apply for the PAP (Protected Area Permit), if you are a foreigner. The permit is around $50, if you get it via a tour company and is valid for 30 days.

Indian nationals will need the ILP (Inner Line Permit). In Sikkim, Indians don’t need the INL but foreigners do.

If in doubt, just check at the police station or FFRO when you arrive in each state if you need a permit.

Please note that the rules are different for those from China, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.

Why is Backpacking North East India Different From Other Parts of India?

I think the greatest appeal is the fact that it is not as ‘touristy’ as other parts of India. The very fact that it can be a little more difficult to navigate your way around this part of the country gives you a clue as to how off-the-beaten track it is.

If you want to get to know the ‘real India’, then the north east is a great place to start.

But I don’t want to be misleading here.

It is not completely devoid of tourists and cities such as Assam are popular starting points for many foreigners. North east India is also growing increasingly popular among tourists, so the ‘unexplored’ gems that you find in this part of the country may not look the same a few years from now.

Another great reason to go backpacking north east India is its religious diversity.

In these parts you’ll find entire states that are predominantly Muslim, others are mostly Buddhist, Nagaland is overwhelmingly Christian, while states such as Manipur is almost equally divided between Hindus and Christians.

The Tibetan influence is also strong in the north east, especially in areas such as Tawang, that are close to the borders of Tibet and Bhutan. This is because of the presence of Tibetan refugees that emigrated to north east India after being exiled from the country.

In fact, Tibetan culture extends far beyond practicing Buddhists, and has influenced local cuisines, markets and architecture.

The key thing to remember about the northeast is the diversity in terms of religion, race, tribal culture and food.

When to Go Backpacking North East India

If you want to avoid the heavy monsoon rains, I’d visit between October and April. Landslides are common here, so I’d definitely stick to the dry season.

Just be aware that although it is dry, it is also winter between October and April in the higher parts of the Himalayas, so it can be pretty cold.

There’s a high chance that most of the available accommodation will not have heating, but the staff will usually be more than happy to bring you extra blankets and hot water.

Be sure to bring plenty of warm clothing when you are backpacking north east India.

What is The Accommodation Like in North East India?

Although accommodation is still very much in its infancy, you can still find plenty of great hotels, homestays and hostels. It’s just that they are not as abundant as they are in the most popular hotspots of India.

Accommodation is very easily arranged by a tour provider but if you want a more personal touch, then you can opt for a homestay.

A homestay will give you a better, more personal experience and also provide much-needed income to local people.

However, remember that the quality will not be the same as we may expect in the West, so expect squat toilets, bucket showers, cold water and power outages at times. It’s all part of the package!

General Safety in North East  India

If you’ve been paying attention to any of the news coverage of north east India, then you’ll find your fair share of government advisory warnings, kidnappings, crime, combat zones and murders reported.

Frankly, it’s enough to put everyone off.

What I’ve come to learn is that the perception created by the media can long outlive the reality of a region.

That’s not to say there is no danger.

Northeast India was indeed unsafe until the early 2000s. There were combat zones that were closed off to tourists.

Tourism is still in its early stages and so you’ll naturally draw a lot of attention. You are also likely to be overcharged whenever you go out to buy something.

But I can’t think of a single country I’ve been to where that is not the case. Even in England where I’m from, tourists still get ripped off from time-to-time, and the country is nowhere near as impoverished.

Bottom line is, you’re as safe when you go backpacking north east India as you are anywhere else, even if you travel by yourself.

If you go with a tour – then safety isn’t even much of a consideration – just respect local customs, dress conservatively and you’ll more than likely be fine.

Advice For Female Travellers Who Go Backpacking in North East India

I felt perfectly safe as a female traveller in north east India. But the advice in this section is not about me. It’s about giving practical, accurate advice to other female travellers.

We’ve all heard the horror stories about what happens to women in India. But to understand why north east India is safer than other parts of India, it is necessary to understand the culture.

In north east India, women have a much more powerful standing in society and it is common to find female business owners, women travelling alone, female public figures and women who are the sole providers.

Some communities, such as the Khasi community in Meghalaya, has the world’s largest matrilineal society where women have the right to seek divorce and the youngest daughter of the family inherits the property.

Female travellers almost unanimously report that they feel much safer in the diverse and progressive states of the north east, than they do in the more popular parts of India, such as Delhi.

That’s not to say that nothing ever happens in north east India or that there is no crime, and nobody who will harass women. You’ll get that everywhere, unfortunately, and north east India is no different.

It just so happens to be safer than many other parts of the country and as long as you observe Indian customs and dress respectfully, you are unlikely to encounter any problems.

In Nagaland, women’s rights are mostly traditionally enforced and it is statistically the safest place for women of all the regions in India.

There seems to be a high correlation between areas that have a high focus on education and equality and women’s rights.

My only advice to female travellers in this part of India is that if you are worried about travelling solo there – don’t be.

While no honest blogger can 100% guarantee safety, it is as good as it gets and you are unlikely to face any problems as long as you observe basic safety practices that you would everywhere else.

The only thing I’d personally advise against is wondering around on your own after dark.

You’ll probably be OK if you do it occasionally in a few of the tourist areas of bigger cities, but it’s ill-advised to do so anywhere you’re not familiar with because the nightlife in north east India isn’t prevalent like it is in other places.

I’ve never heard of a tourist being kidnapped or attacked in the region, but that’s no reason to throw out common sense when travelling – especially as a solo female.

Language in North East India

So if anyone were to ask me: ‘what’s the language in northeast India?’, my response would be: ‘which one?’.

What I mean is that there are 220 languages in north east India. Like I said, the region is famous for its ethnic, cultural and tribal diversity and this has resulted in hundreds of languages being spoken in the region alone.

You’ll find people speaking everything from Indo-Aryan, Dravidian, Austric and Sino-Tibetan, as well as English.

India as a whole is known for the sheer number of languages spoken, and that’s one of the reasons so many people there speak English – because it was the easiest way to get all of the disparate communities to speak the same language.

That’s not to say that everyone speaks English. In fact, there are some places you’ll go where this is not the case. But if you are hoping to find the one language other than English which everyone speaks in the northeast, then I suggest you learn several, as there really is no one size fits all when it comes to spoken words in the region.

Many of the kids learn some English in school, and there are other areas where Bengali, Hindi and Nepalese is the dominant language.

What to Pack When Backpacking North East India

I don’t know about you, but one of the things I love about travelling is packing for my trip. Packing your bags really brings home the anticipation of the journey ahead.

It’s one of the best chores that I can think of. But not all packing lists are created equal.

The time of year, the country, weather and culture will all have an influence on the kind of things you should pack. So if you go in the wet season, or you go somewhere with a lot of rain such as Meghalaya, then you might want to pack accordingly (e.g bring an umbrella!).

So without further ado, here is the packing list for North East India:

65L Backpack

I recommend a larger bag that is big enough for all of your travel gear. A 65L backpack is ideal, because it is not too big or heavy on your back, but still gives you plenty of space for the clothing, camera, accessories and toiletries you’ll need.

Some of the best brands include Osprey and North Face, but you can also find plenty of others.

Obviously, you don’t want to drag your backpack everywhere once you arrive at the various destinations, so be sure to take a smaller bag that you can carry around comfortably on the smaller journeys.

Jeans – a pair of jeans will always be useful when you travel. If you’re a man, you might want to take 2, but most women will also have other types of clothing such as leggings, and long skirts (this is India after all!), so women will probably only need one.

Yoga Pants – if you are planning on going on any retreats, staying at ashrams or practising yoga, then these will definitely come in handy. If you’re not planning on any of those things, they will be the most comfortable and useful pair of pyjama pants you can take with you.

Leggings (for the ladies) – leggings are a girl’s best friend. They go with pretty much any outfit and are just that little bit cooler in hot weather than jeans.

Outfits and underwear – naturally, for any trip overseas, you’ll need enough tops, and underwear to last for the duration of your journey. Of course, it also depends on how long you plan to travel. If you’re only in north east India for a week, then you obviously won’t need to bring as many outfits or underwear. As a general rule of thumb, I take enough clothing to last me a week or two, regardless of how long I plan to be there.

If you travel for 8 months, you don’t need to pack for 8 months, because even in remote areas that do not have hotels or laundrettes, you will always find the opportunity to either hand wash your clothes, or find someone who can do this for you.

I did this in rural Nepal and India, where it was easy to pay people to handwash my clothing. I realised that I had made a mistake in bringing 4 weeks worth of clothing – and I ended up having to give half of it away anyway.

Cardigans/jumpers/hoodies – I would bring at least 2 cardigans/jumpers as it can get quite chilly in parts of NE India.

Camera – one of the mistakes I made on my first backpacking trips is failing to get a decent camera. I just used my iPad and phone instead. The great thing about an iPad is that it gives you the option of recording the exact location and time of wherever you are taking pictures, which helped me to remember and document my adventure accurately during my trip.

However, I constantly wished I had brought a decent camera for the journey. Make sure you bring plenty of memory cards too – like I didn’t . I regretted not taking that advice.

Shoes – bring at least two pairs of shoes and a pair of sandals. If I hadn’t observed this rule during my time away when I damaged one pair of shoes, then my options would have been to either walk barefoot (not an option in India) or wear broken shoes.

It wasn’t always possible to buy new footwear in some of the more remote parts of India. Flip flops are a good idea too – as the hotel showers may not have the same standards of cleanliness that you’re used to.

Scarves – it can get chilly at times in north east India, so it’s always best to be prepared with a scarf or two!

Toiletries – don’t forget to pack things such as soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, combs, lotions, razors and bodywash that you will need during your adventure.

Medical supplies – you should definitely pack some mosquito repellant when you’re heading to India, as the risk of malaria and dengue fever is great.

It doesn’t hurt to take a spare box of painkillers, a mini first aid kit, disinfectant and bandaids as well to use in case of emergency.

Be sure to take any prescription medications you have a doctor’s note for – but be sure to check the guidelines on what you can and cannot take first!

Electronics – this depends on what you’ve got and how much you plan on doing when you get out there. So you might want to carry things like your laptop (I’d carry a mini laptop as opposed to a normal sized one), mobile phone that can accept local SIM cards around the world, MP4, headphones and chargers.

Personally, I’d look into getting a solar charger for those times when getting access to a wall socket isn’t possible. While we’re on the subject, it’s not a bad idea to get access to plug adaptors, that will enable you to plug your sockets in wherever you go.

Food safety

In India, there may be lots of bacteria and viruses that you are not accustomed to and local people cannot always afford to keep good hygiene.

For example, fruits and vegetables may be rinsed in tap water that contains a high level of bacteria, and meat dishes may not have been cooked properly.

I managed to avoid the infamous ‘Delhi Belly’ when I travelled to India. I did this by sticking to vegetarian foods, using hand sanitizer pretty much all the time, and only eating fruits and vegetables that are naturally covered in skin (such as bananas and oranges).

If you do eat fruits and vegetables, be sure that it is cooked thoroughly beforehand.

Although I’m tempted to say that sticking to the finest restaurants will help you to stay safe – I also knew people who got salmonella poisoning after eating at some of the best restaurants in the city, so this is not always a reliable indicator of hygiene.

Although most people do advise you to stay away from street stalls, I think discernment is probably better than a total boycott. The one advantage street food stalls have over restaurants is transparency.

You can see how the food is being stored and prepared. Below are my top tips for reducing the risk of food-related illness when you are travelling. Many of them apply to restaurants too, although this is mainly geared towards street stalls:

1)   Choose a stall that has plenty of customers and is clearly quite popular

2) If lots of people are buying from that stall, it is less likely that the food will have been sitting around all day.

3) If the lineup for the stall is full of families and older locals, that is the meal you typically want – they are the group with the most discerning tastes

4) Pay attention to water and ice – you don’t know where the water for the ice came from

5) Bring your own cutlery if possible – this might earn you strange looks from the locals, but your stomach will thank you

6) Failing that – you can always use your fingers. You know how clean your fingers are but you have no idea whether the water your cutlery was washed in is clean

7) Food should be hot and properly cooked through

8) Consider the cleanliness of the stall – are the dishes being washed? What water are they being washed in?

Remember that as with any country you travel to – there are no cast-iron guarantees against food poisoning. I’ve had food poisoning a few times in my home country, England.

Sometimes it is just bad luck that will happen despite your due diligence. But I hope that by following the steps above, you will significantly reduce your chances of becoming another victim of the infamous Delhi Belly.

Much of north east India is still a hidden paradise. But why should it be hidden? This blog hasn’t even touched the surface of the magnificent landscapes, wildlife, culture and spiritual retreats available in this part of the country.

Rather, it is meant as a general guide that tells you everything you need to know when you travel to the region.

Backpacking north east India allows you to see a different side of the country that you don’t often see featured prominently in travel documentaries and guidebooks. You are more likely to hear of the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort, Goa and the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra and Jaipur).

Don’t get me wrong, those places should definitely be on your bucket list, but there’s so much more to India than that.

And as long as you observe basic safety practices, customs and respect the culture, your trip to NE India will be a magical one.

Treat this blog as a mini guide and you won’t go far wrong!

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I really enjoyed reading your article and hope to backpack someday. Very informative, and loved all your tips; so on point. Which was your favourite place in Northeast India?

Liked reading your long article.

Thanks, glad you enjoyed! 🙂

Hey, Really enjoyed reading your article. love the information that you shared in this post. Great Read! Thank you for sharing.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Regional risks

This section has safety advice for regions of India. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice for India.

Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh

FCDO advises against all travel to the region of Jammu and Kashmir (including Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, the city of Srinagar, and the Jammu-Srinagar national highway), except for:

• travel by air to and from the city of Jammu
• travel within the city of Jammu
• travel within the region of Ladakh

There have been frequent terrorist incidents in Jammu and Kashmir. There is a continuing threat, mainly towards Government of India targets.

There is a heavy security presence in the Kashmir Valley. This, combined with violent protests and operations by security forces, have resulted in a number of deaths and serious casualties.

Curfews and other restrictions can be imposed and lifted frequently and quickly. Stay vigilant, monitor local media, and follow the advice of local authorities and your travel company.

Foreigners are vulnerable in rural districts and outside the main population centres and tourist areas. There is a risk of unpredictable violence, including bombings, grenade attacks, shootings, and kidnapping. The long-standing policy of the UK government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The level of consular assistance that the British High Commission in India can provide in Jammu and Kashmir is severely limited.

Other northern states

FCDO advises against all travel within the vicinity of the India-Pakistan border, except for at Wagah where travellers can cross the border.

Follow FCDO advice if you are trekking in India.

North-east India

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the state of Manipur. Some insurgent groups are active in North-East India in the state of Manipur.

In April-May 2023 violent ethnic clashes broke out across Manipur, including in the state capital Imphal. Curfews and other restrictions have been imposed in many parts of the state. There may be transport disruptions. Internet services may be limited and restrictions might be imposed at short notice.

You should:

• avoid protests or large gatherings
• follow the advice of the local authorities and your travel company
• monitor local media and follow any curfew restrictions

Other northeastern states

During 2021-22:

• violent clashes along the disputed border between Assam and Mizoram and Assam-Meghalaya led to deaths
• violent communal and political clashes were reported in Tripura
• a number of civilians were killed by security forces in Nagaland near the Myanmar border

There have been skirmishes on the India-Bangladesh border. Travellers are advised to check with local authorities that it is safe to travel before visiting these areas.

Protests and large gatherings are common in India’s north-eastern states. They can happen without warning and occasionally result in disorder. Avoid protests and leave as soon as possible if a crowd develops. Review your security arrangements carefully and follow the advice of local authorities.

Access permits in northeast India

Permits from the Government of India are needed for travel to Sikkim , Arunachal Pradesh , Nagaland and parts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands . Apply at least 3 months in advance.

In India, apply at the liaison office of the state for which you need a permit or the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).

Permit regulations can change at any time. Contact the relevant state liaison office or the Indian Bureau of Immigration for the latest guidance.

For travelling to Mizoram, you need to register online with the Superintendent of Police in Aizawl or state CID on the e-FRRO online portal .

If you are travelling to Mizoram, Meghalaya and Nagaland you are advised to check guidelines issued by local authorities. This is because traffic along the National Highways connecting them with each other and with Assam may be disrupted due to blockades and protests, particularly in border areas.

Naxalite (radical Maoist communist) insurgents target police officers, paramilitary forces and government officials. This caused several deaths and injuries in 2019. The Government of India has identified 25 districts as worst affected, 21 of which are in East India.

Get advice from your travel provider and local authorities if you plan to travel to rural areas of:

• Gaya, Jamui or Lakhisarai (Bihar) - there is risk of violent crime in the rural areas of Bihar
• Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, Kanker, Narayanpur, Rajnandgaon, Sukma (Chhattisgarh)
• Chatra, Giridih, Gumla, Khunti, Latehar, Lohardaga, West Singhbhum, Saraikela-Kharaswan (Jharkhand) - there is risk of violent crime in the rural areas of Jharkhand
• Kandhamal, Kalahandi or Malkangiri (Odisha) - foreign tourists and researchers must keep to security guidelines during visits to tribal areas in Odisha

The India-Pakistan border in Gujarat and Rajasthan is unmarked in some areas. Approaching it away from an official crossing point could be dangerous. Where it is unmarked, you could stray into Pakistan illegally.

Most British nationals visiting Goa do so without problems. However, because of the high number of tourists there are many opportunistic criminals operating in the region.

There have been some serious incidents involving British nationals in recent years, including sexual assaults and the murder of a young female traveller.

It is an offence to drink alcohol in public places in Goa. If you drink alcohol outside the limits of a place licensed to serve it, you could be fined or imprisoned. You can drink within the limits of a registered beach shack or bar, for example, but you cannot do so on an open beach or road.

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Solo female travel anywhere and everywhere.

Here’s why you need to travel in Northeast India

5 reasons why you need to travel in Northeast India, one of our favorite regions of India to date.

In case you haven’t noticed, we’re totally in love with Northeast India. That is, the seven “sister states” of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura. We spent about 2.5 months there, and would’ve gladly stayed longer if monsoon hadn’t rained us out. We didn’t make it to Mizoram or Tripura, but we hear great things. Needless to say, we hope to visit these states soon.

The region is a dream, and not just because there are fewer honking horns than the rest of India (though that certainly plays a part). The relaxed pace of life is alluring to even the speediest travelers, and warm local hearts slow visitors down to their own steady beat. Birdcalls sang to us from the depths of lush tropical forests, and fresh Himalayan air nipped our noses as we crossed sky-high mountain passes. Friendships were forged over beers on the banks of rushing rivers, and stories were shared while scrambling up muddy mountains in the pouring rain.

Best of all, Northeast India is still well away from being a beaten tourist track. As tempting as it is to keep it a secret, the wonders of the Northeast are something to be shared. The region’s tourism potential is enormous, and could provide a steady source of income for many of its people. We can’t say no to that!

If you enjoy straying off the beaten track and into nature, are titillated by the possibility of adventure, or simply want to explore a new part of India you haven’t seen before, here are five reasons you need to travel in Northeast India.

Many people add Sikkim to their Northeast itinerary. Want to know more, check out this guide on Sikkim!

5 reasons why you need to travel in Northeast India

Yaowang, an elder from Longwa, Nagaland who once represented his tribe as a headhunting warrior

1. There are more cultures than you can shake a stick at.

We reference Northeast India as one entity to make things easier. In reality, the region is wildly diverse, home to hundreds of different tribes. Travelers could explore the region for a lifetime, and still only scrape the surface of the region’s cultural offerings.

Fiercely proud Naga people live in bamboo villages in the hilly regions spanning several states. Calm Tibetans occupy towns and villages precariously perched on the edges of mountains in Arunachal Pradesh. Peaceful Khasi tribes act as forest guardians and protectors in wet Meghalaya.

At the Natun Samaguri Satra, a sort of monastery-meets-art center on Majuli island in Assam , mask making and theater performances have been an integral part of life for the residents for centuries.

When people ask us if we ever grow bored of traveling in India, we always chuckle and give the same response. “In India, if you take a bus for two hours, you’ll be met by a different group of people with a totally different language, culture, and history from the place and people you just left.”

Northeast India is no exception.

Serene Loktak Lake in Manipur felt almost like a mirror image of Inle Lake in Burma, right down to the colorful longyi the women wear.

2. It’s completely different from the rest of India.

Despite being equally as diverse as the rest of the country, much of the Northeast couldn’t be further from “stereotypical” India. Aside from Assam, the places we visited felt much more like Southeast Asia… minus the mass tourism and backpacker pancake trails.

Forget the Chang towers or crates of Beer Lao—how about sharing some cups of homemade yu (rice beer) with friendly locals in Tamenglong, Manipur instead?

We often asked locals if they felt like they are a part of India, and the responses were overwhelmingly similar:

“Yes, I feel this is India. I am Indian. But we are not like other Indians.”

The difference is visible almost immediately. Gone are the massive throngs of loitering men, eyes staring incessantly as you walk past. Young girls stroll the streets without a care, and it’s totally normal to see groups of young girls and boys hanging out together in public in villages.

Faces are broader and fairer, eye shapes reminiscent of past Burmese or Mongolian ancestry. Time moves more slowly, and pace of life on the streets is more relaxed. Perhaps most importantly, people seem to understand honking your horn doesn’t make traffic move faster.

Our beautiful homestay hostess of Tibetan descent in Mechuka, Arunachal Pradesh

If you’re a traveler in need of a vacation from the rest of India, or simply want to appreciate how diverse the country truly is, time to pack your bags and book a train to the Northeast!

Dzukou Valley in Nagaland and Manipur is a popular destination for local tourists… but hardly any foreigners ever make it to this far-flung reach of India!

3. No matter where you go, you’re traveling off the beaten track.

Bar parts of well-developed Assam, virtually all of Northeast India qualifies as off the beaten track. There simply aren’t many tourists visiting this part of the country!

Take 2015, for example: in that year, 118,644 foreign tourists visited the Northeast region, only 0.5% of total foreign visitors in India. That same year, 1.43 billion domestic tourists visited other states, but only 7.2 million of those were in the Northeast. That’s nothing!

Army bros on the border of Manipur gettin’ all excited to see the white man rolling in

You might run into the occasional tour groups in the most popular destinations in Assam or Meghalaya, or need to share the view with selfie squads at Tawang monastery in Arunachal, but that’s about it. No need to worry about streets lined with souvenir stalls, or untrustworthy touts on a quest to part you from your money.

Lack of space down below? No problem, I’ll ride on top!

Tourism in the Northeast is still finding its feet, and we assure you, any Northeast India destination you choose will feel like an offbeat adventure.

Enjoying the awesomesauce that is every single degrees of view in Mechuka, Arunachal Pradesh

4. You can see what unspoiled Indian nature looks like. 

Yes, such a thing exists in India, which can be hard to grasp given the state of many sights and natural areas in the rest of the country!

That’s not to say the region is spotlessly clean—there are plenty of people who like to use nature as a trash can rather than respect it—but there are still a good number of places where you can roam without tripping over bottles and cans. or tangling feet in plastic bags and kite strings.

The rolling hills of Dzukou Valley aren’t spotless, but the locals running the only guesthouse in the valley have installed trash bins and pick up litter in a grassroots attempt to keep the area clean.

The offbeat and untraveled status of the region is part of the reason so much of the nature is unspoiled, but in some areas, the credit belongs to the people. Many of the tribes in Northeast India worship nature, particularly the sun and the moon, which leads to a greater respect for their natural surroundings.

The Apatani tribe in Ziro work together with the land in a fascinating fashion. One example: they raise fish in the water of their rice paddies, maximizing their food outputs every season.

The Khasi tribes in Meghalaya are the perfect example. A Khasi village named Mawlynnong is famous for earning the moniker of “Cleanest village in Asia”. Aside from the fact that this is a slightly absurd and very unfortunate competition, it’s a clear case of the Khasi tribes’ devotion to respecting their environment. Even outside of Mawlynnong, it’s not uncommon to see Khasi adults and children picking up trash from the ground… something we never expected to see in India.

A young Khasi girl running by the famous double decker root bridge in Nongriat, Meghalaya

Instead of taking my word for it, come savor the nature yourself. More importantly, be inspired to action by the cleanliness of the Northeast’s nature and people.

(And please, for the love of god, clean up your trash while you’re there.)

A woman selling seasonal flowers outside the women’s bazaar in Imphal, Manipur’s capital

5. The people.

We came to the Northeast for the nature, but it’s the people we met who left the most lasting impressions.

On Majuli river island in Assam, a friend led us all over the island. He acted as a guide and translator, helping us better understand the place and its people, hoping we’d share our experience with others.

This monk studying at a satra in Majuli insisted we sit for a chat… and tea, and fresh apples, and biscuits!

In Imphal, Manipur’s capital, our homestay host and friend took us around the city and the surrounding areas (despite proclaiming there to be nothing for tourists in Imphal). He showed us everything from local hangout spots to ladies at the city bazaar secretly selling weed!

A young hotel owner in Daporijo, Arunachal Pradesh, loaded us up on the back of his motorbike one afternoon. We bounced and bumped over muddy roads for over an hour so he could show us a cave temple hidden amongst misty mountains.

Zipping around Guwahati, Assam with some friends we met weeks before in Dzukou Valley, Nagaland!

To be fair, we admit this would not necessarily happen to everyone and anyone. Sebastiaan is a tall, white, blond foreigner who immediately attracts attention—usually positive—wherever he goes. It’s privilege at play, but if you’re a clear-cut foreigner, you’re likely to experience the same.

Domestic tourists may face a different welcome. Bitterness towards mainland Indians is not uncommon in the Northeast. Many men from the Northeast study in other parts of India; they often face harassment, racial slurs and jokes, and general discrimination. Experiences not easily forgotten.

Domestic tourists, don’t let this deter you. Travel to the Northeast is an opportunity to learn more about the homelands of your distant brothers and sisters. It’ll encourage better understanding between the Northeast and the rest of India.

Many locals are excited to see domestic tourists. “Before we only saw them on television and in Bollywood films, and now they are coming in real life!” a man in Ziro Valley exclaimed over chai one evening. If you are kind to the local people and give them a chance, they will not disappoint you.

The famous tea fields of Assam

Get inspired for your trip to Northeast India

So ends my list of reasons you need to travel in Northeast India. I’m assuming you’re all aboard the Northeast India train by now (if there were more trains through Northeast India).

Though select areas in some of the Northeastern states are connected by railway, Assam is the only state with a flourishing rail network. The fact that much of Assam is flatlands helps!

If you’re looking for inspiration on India’s Northeast, below are all of our blog posts on the region. Make yourself a cup of tea, get comfortable, and enjoy reading!

Our travel blog posts on Northeast India

Arunachal pradesh.

• Travel guide to backpacking in Arunachal Pradesh
• How much it costs to go backpacking in Arunachal Pradesh
• Loktak Lake, jewel of Manipur
• Paradise in Nongriat, where bridges come alive
• Headhunters and ricebeaters: tribal culture in Longwa
• Junkies for Jesus in Longwa
• Rolling hills and flowers galore in Dzukou Valley

* For more travel advice and how-to guides, see our Northeast India archives .

• Northeast India

Alex Reynolds

36 thoughts on “ here’s why you need to travel in northeast india ”.

This blog is very helpful for planning my trip… Can i get local ppl contact for travel guide n home stay details

Really This goes far beyond the commenting! It Wrote his thoughts while reading the blog amazingly. Travelling really can’t be taught; you can learn about other cultures, but you cant be fully taught unless you experience it. Scientifically, it is shown that travelling also gains you more confidence and a great way to develop cultural sensitivity. Thanks for sharing with us!! Keep it up!!

Need your help to plan a North East trip Excluding Assam and Meghalaya where I have been twice

This is calming to read. To know that being a domestic, I’ll still be welcomed. The mindset and the places attract me so much ever since I became conscious of North-east India, it had a dream of literally living my each day there. Let’s say, to settle in North-east India has been my childhood dream that still lives on! Your blog has given every single spark and reason that I was missing for being just motivated enough! You guys do such great work that I am so overwhelmed rn, I can cry literal tears over why I was sleeping on this beautiful corner of my homeland! Boarding the train ASAP!

Always love your article. Can you name a few places in North East purely from a stoner’s point of view. Thanks

It was disheartening to note that few people from both mainland India and NE India have some disapproving views of each other, which I don’t think is the general feeling of follow countrymen. I wish that mental divide is wiped out at the earliest. Nevertheless, NE India is nature’s bounty to India! So proud as an Indian. Visited Meghalaya way back in 2010 and it was fabulous. Most eager to explore remaining parts of NE.

Tnq so much,a great research u done.👍

Amazing North East of India! We had just visited the Meghalaya and covered almost all the places you have listed here.

Making a Vlog of the same- I hope you all like it- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IeeDl4wc38

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Solo Travel in North East India – What You Need To Know

• Updated on February 3, 2024

North East India, a gem tucked away in the farthest reaches of the country, offers an unparalleled blend of cultural richness and breathtaking natural beauty. This region, comprising eight states, is a kaleidoscope of diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes, making it a paradise for travelers seeking paths less trodden. From the snow-capped Himalayas in Arunachal Pradesh to the lush greenery of Meghalaya’s rainforests, the geographical diversity is as vast as its cultural spectrum.

For first-time solo travellers, navigating this mosaic of experiences can be both thrilling and daunting. This guide is crafted to illuminate the path, offering insights and practical advice to ensure a journey as smooth as it is memorable. Solo travel in North East India isn’t just about discovering new places; it’s about experiencing the myriad cultures, cuisines, and traditions that make this region unique.

What sets North East India apart for solo adventurers is the sense of discovery it offers. Every state, with its distinct identity, presents new languages, traditions, and landscapes to explore. Whether you’re trekking through the virgin forests of Nagaland, experiencing the spiritual calm of Sikkim’s monasteries, or navigating the bustling bazaars of Assam, you’re in for an experience that promises to be as enriching as it is exhilarating.

Table of Contents

Why Choose North East India for Solo Travel?

• Diverse Cultures and Languages : The North East is home to over 220 ethnic groups and an even greater number of dialects. This diversity offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from traditional dance and music to festivals and cuisine, allowing solo travelers to immerse themselves in a world vastly different from their own.
• Unspoiled Nature : The region’s pristine landscapes are a haven for nature lovers. Solo travelers can find solitude amidst the stunning Himalayan vistas, explore the uncharted territories of the dense rainforests, or unwind by the tranquil lakes. The untouched beauty of places like Tawang , Cherrapunji , and the banks of the Brahmaputra River is a testament to the region’s claim as one of the last great wildernesses in India.
• Safety for Solo Travelers : North East India is known for its welcoming and hospitable people. The region is relatively safe for solo travelers, with low crime rates against tourists. The locals are often eager to help, making it easier for solo travelers to navigate through their journey with a sense of security.

The best things about solo travel in North East India

Hence, a trip to North East India is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The eight North Eastern states, formerly seven, are Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim , Nagaland , Mizoram, Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya . There are numerous unique charms, but not much is indicated on the map for travellers.

Solo travel in North East India is an enchanting experience that offers a unique blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and personal growth. Here are the best things about embarking on a solo journey in this unexplored paradise:

Deep Cultural Immersion :

With over 220 ethnic groups, each with its language, traditions, and festivals, solo travel allows for authentic interactions with diverse cultures, offering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the world.

Breathtaking Natural Beauty :

From the majestic Himalayas and verdant tea gardens to the crystal-clear lakes and cascading waterfalls, the sheer natural beauty of North East India can be experienced at a personal, unhurried pace, allowing for moments of reflection and connection with nature.

Safe and Welcoming Environment :

The people of North East India are known for their warmth and hospitality, making solo travelers feel safe and welcomed. This friendly atmosphere facilitates easier interactions and the chance to form genuine connections with locals.

Adventure at Every Turn :

Whether it’s trekking through unspoiled landscapes, river rafting in the wild waters, or exploring ancient monasteries, the region offers endless adventures for those seeking thrills and new experiences.

Opportunity for Self-Discovery :

Solo travel in North East India challenges and pushes boundaries, offering countless opportunities for self-discovery. Navigating through new terrains, languages, and cultures on your own cultivates independence, confidence, and a broader perspective on life.

Mindful Travel :

Traveling alone allows for a mindful exploration of the region, where you can truly absorb the sights, sounds, and scents around you. It’s an immersive experience that fosters a deep connection with the places you visit and the stories they hold.

Every time you travel, you come back with priceless memories from North Eastern India’s unique experiences. You can plan your trip with the complete information on North East India provided here. Check out the North East India Travel Guide for more information on tourist attractions and how to get there.

North East India Travel Attractions:

Northeast India has a plethora of destinations to explore, making it a traveller’s paradise. These locations must be on your bucket list, whether you’re travelling alone or with family. Let’s examine each in more detail, one at a time.

1. Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

Ziro is an old, scenic village inhabited by the Apa Tani tribe. Hills and verdant rice fields border it. One of the well-known hill resorts in North East India is Ziro, which is well-known for its eco-friendly outdoor music event, the Ziro Music Festival, which takes place in September.

Ziro Valley is unquestionably a traveller’s dream due to the distinctive tribe’s culture, the tranquility of the valley, and the clear Himalayan views from the highest point, Kile Pakho.

Arunachal With Assam Package: 7 Nights 8 Days Assam and Arunachal Trip Itinerary

2. Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya

Cherrapunjee , one of the most picturesque hill towns in North East India, is home to magnificent waterfalls, unspoiled forested valleys, and the well-known Living Root Bridge. This little village, located southwest of Shillong , Meghalaya’s capital, is regarded as the “abode of clouds”.

A quick trip to the Living Root Bridge, one of the top tourist attractions in Meghalaya , will provide you with some of the best memories to treasure forever.

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3. Unakoti, Tripura

All types of travellers, including those who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, animal exploration, and cultural tourism, should visit North East India. In Tripura , the third-smallest state in North East India, Unakoti is extremely close to Agartala.

Unakoti is renowned for its magnificent Shiva and Hindu deity rock carvings. People go from all over the world to see the magnificent rock carvings at the Angkor Wat temples in Cambodia , which are well known.

• 6 Days Tripura Travel Package
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4. Tamenglong, Manipur

Tamenglong is close to the border between Manipur and Myanmar in the western part of the state. A fantastic place to stay if you want to see rare orchids, untouched forests, lush meadows, and magnificent waterfalls. This spot, well-known for rare bird sightings, is ideal for adventurous travellers.

When viewed during the rains, the Buning Meadow is a visual delight. The scene is bizarre as the entire meadow turns a rich green colour.

5. Mon Village, Nagaland

Are you fascinated by Africa’s Masai Mara tribes or Papua New Guinea’s Asaro Mudmen tribes? What if we told you there is an Indian tribe with a reputation for headhunting and face tattoos? The Konyak tribes of Nagaland’s Mon village are well known for their brave way of life and glorious past.

The younger generation has acclimated to the modern era, yet the tribes still hold to numerous rituals to preserve their distinctive and enduring legacy.

Nagaland Package: 4 Nights 5 Days Dzukou Valley Trekking Trip Itinerary

6. Dong, Arunachal Pradesh

In the biggest state in North East India, there is yet another hidden gem. A town called Dong is situated in the Anjaw district. What makes this town in Arunachal Pradesh so unique compared to other places?

In the village of Dong, the first rays of sunlight in India strike the ground. The sun rises here, according to locals, as early as 4:30 IST. It’s impossible to adequately express the emotion of hiking uphill and seeing the first sunrise.

7. Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim

The lake at this elevation flaunts its silence in the most surreal circumstances with Himalayan peaks around it, and the winding roads that make the 37 km trek from Gangtok to get there are ethereally gorgeous.

It is one of the best spots to visit in North East India. Don’t forget to learn about the legends associated with this serene lake when you journey to Tsomgo in the winter, when it may be snow-covered.

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8. Haflong, Assam

Say goodbye to the urban lifestyle and welcome to Haflong in Assam’s new home. Haflong , the lone hill town in Assam , has captured people’s attention with its lovely hillocks and clean streams. It’s sometimes referred to as the “Switzerland of the East”.

Haflong is a haven for nature lovers and is roughly a 7-hour drive from Guwahati . Haflong Lake may improve your day with a pleasant selfie session; boating is a great activity to enjoy there.

9. Dawki River

There is a crystal-clear river in Dawki known for its transparency. Tourism is thriving on West Jantai Hill. It is renowned for its clear riverbed, so tourists flock to Dawki every year.

You could be tempted to take a plunge in the water because of the suspension bridge and the dive-able river hotbeds.

• 10 Days North East India Itinerary
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How To Reach North East India

Guwahati, the capital of Assam and the region’s most developed and ‘Indian’ city is the entry point to North East India. Also, although the distance is somewhat far, it is connected to the rest of India by rail. Regular flights are available to and from Delhi , Kolkata , Mumbai , and the rest of India.

Both Guwahati Airport and Bagdogra Airport service North-East India. The amount of flight traffic at these two international airports is high. Almost every state has several airports and airfields for domestic air travel.

Two cities that act as entry points into the North East include Guwahati and New Jalpaiguri. These cities also have excellent train links from all over India at their well-connected railway stations.

Gorgeous roads are found in North East India. In reality, travelling by road and taking in the breathtaking countryside is pure delight. Except during the monsoon, landslides frequently cause the route’s closure in higher altitudes. Nevertheless, travelling by road is pretty pleasurable throughout the entire year.

Getting Ready For A Solo Trip To Northeast India

Your motivation for going to Northeast India alone may be different from the usual trips you have taken. Even though there are many opportunities, you must modify your travel planning. You should be ready for a wonderful vacation, whether it’s a nature adventure, a cultural discovery, or just some alone time to relax. These are some suggestions.

1. Do Research On The Place You Wish To Visit

It applies to all travel arrangements, but organizing a solo journey to Northeast India requires extra consideration. There is no denying that every location on earth is beautiful and has its own distinct culture, traditions, and way of life.

But before you travel to this vast area, you need to study the best travel times, seasons, or locations. For instance, you may only attend the Sangai Festival and Nagaland’s renowned Hornbill Festival during the first and last weeks of December and November, respectively.

2. Pack Your Bag

Your bag will be filled with items depending on where you are going. Given that the Northeast is a hilly region, visitors to Shillong, some of Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur should be prepared to battle cold and unexpected rain. Because you are travelling alone, few people can help you if you need it.

Pack efficiently by bringing light but warm clothing, small toiletries, umbrellas, first aid kits, and waterproofing materials for electrical devices. Moreover, using debit or credit cards is still uncommon in rural areas. To cover your fundamental needs, carry a lot of cash.

3. Get To Know The Way Of Transport

Major aircraft and railroads connect most Northeastern states. Whereas other states only have road and airline connectivity, Assam and Nagaland have excellent train and air connections. In reality, few states offer a large selection of travel options.

Moreover, transportation is generally only available until dusk in states like Manipur, Tripura, and Arunachal Pradesh. Yet, all states have nighttime interstate travel options accessible. As a lone traveller, it is imperative that you thoroughly research each destination’s transportation options.

Look for government-run cabs or buses and reliable travel agencies to help you get around. You can enlist Tusk Travel assistance in this respect to help you navigate every step of your trip to Northeast India.

4. Research On Places To Stay

Finding lodging in the countryside can be a major pain, unlike urban places like Imphal, Shillong, Aizawl , Gangtok, Itanagar , and most cities in Assam in Northeastern states that have practically every alternative available.

This area had not been recently developed as a tourist destination; thus, many remote places were unaware of the buzz surrounding travellers. While finding hostels and inexpensive lodging can be difficult, homestays are a more accommodating choice for lone travellers.

5. Overcome Language Difficulties

The Northeast region is distinguished by its appearance, culture, and linguistic diversity, all of which coexist peacefully. You might be unaware of the various languages that the tribes and villages in this area speak.

Lighten up and grin a little more if you are travelling there alone. You’ll notice the friendly enchantment of the people as they share their love language with you. Do not let this discourage you; not many locals are fluent in Hindi or English.

Yet, smiles and kind actions can overcome any language barrier. You will hear Assamese, Manipuri, Nagamese, and other strange languages being spoken in the areas you go to. Good luck as you pick up some of them, travellers!

6. Go Local

Travelling to the northeast might be difficult if you want good internet. Yet, it is a great spot to meet people and relax in the presence of nature, so internet users shouldn’t be too concerned about slow internet connectivity. However, Google Maps might not be particularly helpful if you’re travelling because the best guides in each location are the locals.

The Bottom Line

The places listed above are all must-see locations in India since they are all less travelled, abundant in nature, and home to long-extinct ethnic people. A traveller may only remember for the rest of their lives the tourist sites they explored in these hill stations, the vibrant cultures they encountered, the cuisines they tasted, the gorgeous scenery they saw, and the clear mountain views.

Now is the time to embark on your adventure to North East India ! Start planning your trip, dive into forums, and explore the official tourism websites of the North East states for more information. And when you return, filled with stories and memories, share your experiences in the comments section. Your insights could inspire and guide future travellers on their solo adventures. Happy travels!

North East India – Discover More About It:

• Places in North East India to Visit in February
• North East India Destinations to See in March
• Trip to North-East India in April for Best Places
• Visit North East India’s Famous Destinations in November 2024
• Top 10 Destinations To See Stunning Sunrise & Sunsets North East India
• 9 Popular North East India Tourist Places in September 2024
• North East India Travel Places See in October 2024
• 10 Must-Try Dishes From Northeast India 
• 8 Gorgeous Homestays In North East India For A Taste Of Local Life
• Top 10 Thrilling Adventure Sports You Should Not Miss in Northeast India
• Hill Stations in North East India For An Exciting Getaway
• 10 Places In Northeast India To Enjoy The Best Of Snowfall
• Best Time to Visit North East India – Month-by-Month Guide
• 9 Most Famous Monasteries in North East India

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel is dedicated to delivering precise, genuine, and reliable travel guides through a dynamic team of writers, editors, and destination experts. We aim to provide comprehensive information in its simplest form, sharing insights to influence perspectives nationwide.

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The North East India

Know Everything About The North East India, Travel, Tour & Experience The Natural Beauty

Is it safe to travel to North East India?

Is it safe to travel to North East India? The short answer is Yes! It is completely safe to travel to North East India with basic common sense. It is as safe as Delhi, Mumbai, Goa or any other place for that matter. All those insurgency problems that media and others are citing as major problems have little to no problem at all if you follow common sense. I am not denying that there is no problem but such problems exist everywhere such as in Mumbai or Delhi, we call it as Gangs or Guns, anytime you may be a victim of them. In this post, we will discuss the general misconceptions and debunk each of them. Don’t forget to comment and share the post.

It is completely safe to travel to North East India for any tourist. Every place or region has certain demerits that doesn’t mean it is unsafe to travel there. For example, a tragic accident can happen to anyone anytime irrespective of the place. Below is a list of the biggest misconceptions about the Northeastern region of India when the question of “Is it safe to travel to North East India?” comes.

Biggest myths about safety while travelling to Northeast India.

I am not saying most of the people think in this way but there are still some who thinks in this way. So, make this a friendly note.

• North East India is an insurgency-hit region.

North Eastern people are violent.

North east is full of jungle and animals are everywhere..

• There are no roads in the North East.

Food taste of North East India is bad.

• It takes a lot of permissions to go to North-East India.
• Possibility of contracting the disease in North East India.

You can’t drink in North East India.

It is fair to say that people across India and the world have very little knowledge about the Northeastern India. Hence, it is very common to have some misconceptions about this region. It is also our, your duty to try to inform them as must as possible and show them the beauty of this region. Helping in such a way will help tremendously in answering the question of Is it safe to travel Northeast India.

North East India is an insurgency hit region.

Yes, there are hundreds of militant groups in the North-Eastern region of India. However, you will see none by travelling there. They are all being crawled back to the jungles. The only times you may get a smell of them is near Independence Day or Republic day just to show they are there. Sikkim, Tripura, Mizoram are completely insurgency free states. Other states have no major day to day life disturbance due to it. All you need to do is not to go in deep hills and mountains where no one goes.

25-35 years back there were major problems and even I used to hear some blasts two-three kilometres away from my home but now it is completely peaceful and you can travel and enjoy your trip and holidays. Sikkim hasn’t heard a single gunshot in the last 3-4 decades and is one of the most peace-loving states in India.

All you have to do is make sure there is no current protests or problems due to some specific internal problems which may arise from time to time before travelling North East India. Apart from the points I mentioned above, the question of is it safe to travel to North East India shouldn’t be a major concern for you while planning travelling to Northeast India.

Well, North Easterners can be as polite as any person in the world while some can be as violent as any crazy violent person in the world. You know what I mean, the vast majority of people are very humble and polite, they will often offer help in any case but out of the millions you will find some who are not so good just like you will find bad people anywhere in the world. In fact, you can ask anyone for help if you are having any problem and they will lend their help as much as possible.

Most of the North-Eastern people haven’t met a tourist or a foreigner in their life and they may be little hesitant to talk to but it doesn’t mean that they are rude. In most cases, they are eager to know details about your look and would be happy to help. Just follow some of the local customs rules if any and don’t break rules especially in religious places, military and protected areas. With this in mind, instead of worrying whether is it safe to travel to Northeast India or not, you should look forward to travelling Northeast India.

Watch the songs below and enjoy. They aren’t violent as many thinks.

It is true that North Eastern states enjoy thick and green forests everywhere. This is why it makes one of the most pristine and beautiful places to travel in India/World. But this doesn’t mean that animals will come and hunt you when you were taking a bath or a poop. Think about it, you were pooping and animal kills you, how embarrassing would it be for you? That’s why nature asked and made a pack with the precious animals in the NE India not to disturb human but we humans are having a hard time to keep up the same from our side. You can visit the Kaziranga National Park, Keibul Lamjao National Parks, etc. and enjoy the breathtaking nature and wildlife. You just follow the park rules and general instructions just like any other places.

Are you confused about the things to carry while travelling to Northeast India? I have written a detailed article with a list of things you must carry while travelling Northeast India .

20 Things You Must Carry While Traveling To North East India

A Manipur man took 17 years to restore a forest. Take a look at the video below. It is just one of the many examples.

There are no roads in North East.

Hmmm, I have to admit, the road conditions are not that good in most of North East India. Roads leading to the corner parts of any state are not in great shape but for tourists like you, most of the major tourist attraction places are reasonably connected. But, Tripura, Assam, Meghalaya have excellent road connectivity. Other states have good roads in almost all areas except some really remote areas and areas where frequent floods and landslides occur. If you are travelling on your own car or bike, just make sure that you have the idea and knowledge of driving in dirt and muddy roads. Sometimes half of your wheels may be covered in mud if you are going to a very remote place. Some people actually enjoy such kinds of rides. This is another beauty where you can choose and go for what you like.

It all depends on someone’s ability to test and enjoy other people’s food habits. May be North Easterners find other recipes not tasty. Almost all people are Non-veg except for some in Sikkim, Assam and Tripura. You can test and enjoy the freshness and different kind of foods in North East India. Every item is safe for you to try while travelling North East India. If you can’t handle smells, then avoid foods with special fermented items. I mean you can’t miss the momo from Sikkim, Pork from Nagaland, fish from Manipur (a bit of bone though).

It takes lot of permissions to go North East India.

As of now, you will need inner line permit (ILP) for Indians if you are travelling to Mizoram, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. It is no headache to get such a permit. You can even get permission from online also. Just fill-up the form, pay the required amount of fees and you will get it. Only Arunachal Pradesh is properly working. For foreigners, you will need a protected area permit if you are travelling to Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. This can be issued only by the Home Ministry from New Delhi For Arunachal Pradesh ILP, Click here. Nagaland ILP, Click here . For Mizoram ILP, Click here Other than this, you don’t need any other documents to visit there. In fact, you can even go Myanmar (Burma) from Manipur without any passport or permit to a certain limit. You can go Burma from Manipur’s border town of Morehprotected area permit with simple permission without passport up to 7-10 days.

Possibility of contracting disease in North East India.

You only need normal precautions just like any other places. For example, don’t drink waters from the tap especially foreigners. Make sure you are eating properly cooked and fresh foods. Don’t let those sneaky mosquitoes suck your precious blood. If you are going in trekking to a mountain range, chances are high that you will need to fill up your water bottles with waters from the hill. Do it when the local guide or locals use it for drinking. They will say this is safe for drinking and this is for washing hands. I don’t know about you but we used to drink waters directly from community pools and hill downstream after playing and feeling tired. We used to drink downstream waters directly while trekking to Koubru Ching in Manipur. In short, if you are a little bit cautious, there is no need to worry.

Seriously? Legally Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram (recently) are dry states which means you can’t sell and drink in these states. But Booz is available in all the states illegally. Arunachal Pradesh is one of cheapest state in alcohol prices in India. You can get a beer can for Rs. 50 which is less than $1. All you have to do is follow the general public instructions and a little bit cautious in the dry states. After a drunk party be a responsible citizen, that’s all you need to know.

Well, this is all I can think of now when someone asks if it is safe to travel in North East India. If you have anything questions or queries, comment down below, I will try to answer it and include in the post. Don’t forget to check out other posts.

When is the best time to visit to Northeast India?

If you are wondering when is the best time to visit to the Northeast India , then check out the link below where everything is explained in detailed for you and to help in your decision to when to visit the Northeastern part of India.

When Is The Best Time To Visit The North East India?

If you are specifically interested in travelling to Shillong , check out the link below.

Best Time & Month To Visit Shillong, Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

Choosing the best time to travel Northeast India will make you safer in terms of geographic advantage and it is a part of the broader question of Is it safe to travel to North East India?

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Highlights of the Seven Sisters: why Northeast India is the place to travel right now

Oct 10, 2019 • 9 min read

Of the countless pictures you’ve seen and travel tales you’ve heard of India , it’s unlikely many – if any – focused on its remote Northeast States . This triangular-shaped piece of land is wedged between China, Bangladesh, Bhutan and Myanmar, and consists of seven states, known collectively as the Seven Sisters. Long neglected by even the most intrepid of travellers because of their notoriously troubled past, the Sisters have slowly come of age, and may soon grow into India’s most sought-after travel destination.

Home to a kaleidoscope of cultures, religions and ethnicities, the region has endured a turbulent history (think tribal warfare, independence struggles and cross-border smuggling). However, much of the outright conflict has subsided – apart from the occasional peaceful protest – and, as a result, the Indian Government has recently relaxed most of the travel restrictions and permit requirements for foreigners, meaning the region’s pristine nature, diverse landscapes and unique tribal cultures are open to the world for the first time.

From Himalayan monasteries to rhino-filled national parks, here are seven of the highlights of India’s Northeast – just make sure you see them before everyone else does.

Loktak Lake, Manipur

Manipur was considered the most dangerous of the seven states as its fierce independence movement and forested hills favoured by smugglers prolonged the region’s instability. However, the locals will repeatedly assure you those days are long gone, and foreigners are welcomed with eager hospitality.

Loktak Lake, one of the largest inland bodies of water in India, is one of the most memorable highlights of the Northeast States. Just an hour from Manipur’s capital, Imphal, the landform is known as the ‘floating lake’ due to the presence of phumdis , large masses of vegetation that float on the lake’s surface. One of these buoyant islands is so big it’s been granted national park status, set up to protect the endangered sangai deer, which at one time was thought to be extinct. The park has a couple of viewing platforms where rangers will help you locate the deer through binoculars. Alternatively, it’s possible to spend time out on the water in wooden boats with local fishermen (many of whom live on the phumdis), who can provide insights into traditional fishing methods and details about the lake’s 100 species of birds.

It’s possible to stay in a village homestay on the lake run by the local ecotourism committee. Alternatively, there are also accommodation options in Moirang, the largest nearby town.

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is the last frontier and eastern most state of India, sharing borders with Tibet, Bhutan and Myanmar. It’s the most precarious of the Seven Sisters, due to the heavily militarised nature of the area and the ongoing border dispute between China and India. For this reason, it’s one of only two states in the region – the other being Sikkim – where a Protected Area Permit is still required for foreigners. However, it can be easily arranged in Guwahati or Kolkata from government offices.

Arunachal is characterised by an impressive mountainous region that rises to the Greater Himalayas. Tucked inside these snow-capped peaks between Bhutan and Tibet , is the town of Tawang. This little-visited spot is home to the second largest Buddhist monastery in the world, spectacularly set on the edge of a slope at 3000m elevation. The monastery dates back to around the mid-17th century and is where the sixth Dalai Lama was born. It’s now home to around 300 monks and a treasure trove of Tibetan Buddhist relics, including rare manuscripts and thangka cotton paintings.

The real highlight, aside from the incredible scenery surrounding the monastery, is to spend time mulling around the peaceful, white-washed grounds, which are most atmospheric at sunrise when the monks perform their morning prayers, or puja , to the sound of beating drums.

Majuli Island, Assam

Assam is the largest state in the region and perhaps the most well-known thanks to its production of its namesake tea. It’s lesser-known tourism marvel is Majuli, the world’s largest river island marooned in the mighty Brahmaputra River.

The island is home to some of the most important temples and satras (cultural centres) of the neo-Vaishnavite sect of Hinduism, which is native to Assam. More than just complexes for prayer, they are also used for traditional performing arts that includes elaborate and colourful masks which are handmade on the island. Majuli once had 65 of these satras, however, due to the slow erosion and seasonal flooding of the Brahmaputra River, the number has been reduced to just 22.

The large landmass is also home to the Mishing tribe, an indigenous community with roots in Mongolia who migrated to India in the 16th century. Their houses sitting high on stilts are traditionally made from bamboo and thatch, almost blending into the thick vegetation found on rural parts of the island. The community are extremely affable – don’t be surprised to find yourself being invited into a stilt-house for tea.

Konyak villages, Nagaland

The Seven Sisters are often referred to as tribal states, and, in this context, Nagaland is the region’s poster child. The Nagas is the collective term for around 20 tribes, but each has its own traditions and customs and occupies a different area of land. The largest of these tribes is the Konyaks, mostly situated in the north of the state, around the town of Mon.

The Konyaks are unique for their headhunting traditions. Not so long ago, territorial disputes in the area that is now the India-Myanmar border culminated in the practice of decapitating enemies and displaying their heads as trophies on door frames. These ruthless days are a thing of the past, but remnants of this time endure, most notably in the form of body art; ex-warriors – now in their twilight years – can still be distinguished by their tattooed faces and chests, a decorative practice used to honour their achievements in battle.

Although there are a couple of hotels in Mon where you can base yourself for village visits, a more immersive experience is to opt for a homestay with a Konyak family. The village of Longwa has a number of such accommodation options available, with hosts often doubling as guides. Staying in the village itself not only gives you more of a chance to meet some of the former headhunters, but also provides a window into everyday village life, as well as the opportunity to sample some memorable home-cooked meals, like smoked beef heart served with local red rice. 

Neermahal, Tripura

One of the smallest and least visited states in the country, Tripura is bordered on three sides by Bangladesh and to the north with Assam. Though it remains a relatively isolated state, it is connected to the country’s national railway network – a rare feature in the Northeast States. 

The state’s most picturesque attraction is Neermahal , which literally translates to water palace. The former royal fortress was built in the 1930s in the middle of the lake by the Maharaja of Tripura and is considered a unique blend of Muslim and Hindu architectural design. To reach it you need to take a wooden boat from the small dock, which is walking distance from the town of Melaghar.

The palace appears like something you might find on the opposite side of the country in Rajasthan , except the pure joy of visiting Neermahal is that you will likely have the place all to yourself. Although the rooms are mostly empty now, you are free to roam around the complex and admire the view of the lake from various vantage points. The palace is particularly striking at sunset, when the marble domes are splashed in a golden hue.

Gangtok, Sikkim

Sikkim is a former mountain kingdom, bordered by Bhutan, Tibet and Nepal , and features some of India’s most impressive mountains vistas and trekking opportunities. It’s the least populated state in the country and one-third of its area is covered by the Kanchenjunga National Park to the north.

And for all this natural splendour, it is Sikkim’s urban charms that steals the show. The state’s capital, Gangtok , is one of India’s most laid-back cities and is a joy to explore. The majority of the population have origins in Nepal and Tibet, and you will find typical Himalayan delights such as momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), yak wool shawls and thangka paintings in the open-air market in the city centre. You can explore Gangtok’s Buddhist culture further by visiting some of the city’s nearby monasteries such as Rumtek, which is the largest in Sikkim.

The state is extremely mountainous and the sprawl of Gangtok laps against the slopes of the surrounding hills. There are a few lookout points around town, the best of which is considered to be Tashi Viewpoint, where you can gaze at the impressive mountain backdrop of the city which, on a clear day, extends all the way to Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

The Seven Sisters are known for their vast natural landscapes, and the forest and floodplains of the Karizanga National Park are considered – remarkably – to be one of the last areas on the Indian subcontinent that is undisturbed by human settlement. Its place as a wildlife haven has been recognised for over a century, which has allowed tigers, elephants and one-horned rhinoceroses to flourish amongst the wetlands of the Brahmaputra River. It’s home to two-thirds of the world’s population of rhinos and sighting them grazing in the grass is highly likely, even on a short visit.

As with the more famed national parks in India, a jeep safari is the most common way to explore the park. The reserve is divided into five sections, with the well-maintained tracks of Kohora being the most popular and busy. Agoratoli is perhaps the best alternative, with much less traffic while retaining a high chance of animal sightings.

Some of the most famous photos of the park are of tourists on elephant-back safaris. Although the creatures are reputedly well cared for by rangers, in the interest of animal welfare it is highly recommended to explore the park on four wheels instead. There are numerous lodges ranging from high end resorts to budget camps on the outskirts of the park, which can arrange half-day safaris from their doorstep.

Getting around

The remoteness and somewhat isolation of the Northeast region of India does pose certain barriers to those wishing to explore its far corners. Tourist and transport infrastructure is fairly limited and often, not in great shape. However, there are significant improvements planned for the future, which will only make travel easier.

The capital of Assam, Guwahati , is the region’s major transport hub and you’ll likely find yourself revisiting multiple times for connections between places. For now, it’s home to the region’s only international airport and it’s connected by flight directly to seven countries, all of which are in Asia. Guwahati also has the region’s main interstate railway station with services to most other major cities in Northern India.

Besides Tripura and Assam, the rest of the Seven Sisters do not have an existing rail network and must be explored by either state government buses or private and shared jeeps. This can pose some obstacles to travel plans as the mountainous region and poor road conditions, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, make travelling between places long and arduous. However, jeeps are abundant, relatively well organised and will go virtually anywhere, so with some time and patience the rewards are boundless.

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• North East Trip: Explore The Seven Sisters, One Brother, And A Neighbor In 2024

26 Mar 2023

Encompassing the best of dense forests, ancient monasteries, snow-capped mountains, pristine valleys, glistening lakes, and cascading waterfalls, every bit of North East India feels like magic. Taking you one step closer to heaven, every person who’s a traveler by heart, must go on a North East trip at least once in their lifetime to unravel the secrets of North East India! Make sure to check out our guide to know more about these awesome destinations.

Feel at home at the cleanest villages in Asia, trek on the oldest root bridges, chill in the most beautiful hill stations, encounter the one-horned rhinoceros, explore the numerous monasteries, enjoy boating in one of the river islands, and much more. Whatever your reason may be, the fact remains intact that a major part of North East India still remains unexplored. It doesn’t matter whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, family, or your better half, a North East vacation is an experience which should definitely be included in every traveler’s bucket list.

If you’re expecting a safe North East trip during coronavirus, then the below discussed destinations will come in handy. Even during this time of pandemic, they are getting quite frequent visitors.

Table Of Content

•  States In North East India

Best Time To Visit North East India

North east india trip: places to visit, total states in north east india.

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Ever asked that question to yourself? We did too and it turns out, that the North East India comprises of seven sister states, i.e., Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and one brother state of Sikkim. Not just that, you’ll discover on your trip to North East India that the region also comprises of the North Eastern area of West Bengal which happens to be the famous Darjeeling.

Owing much to its stunning location wherein North-East India shares its borders with the neighbouring countries of Tibet, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, the whole region is dominated by hills and mountains to a large extent. Due to this, the climate in North East India generally remains cool while winters do get extremely cold.

Having said that, it is advised that travelling to North-East regions should be avoided in the rainy season from May to September-end. Hence, the best time to visit North East India is from the months of November to April, which also happens to be the peak season for travellers. The weather is at its best at this time, which also makes it perfect for heading out and witnessing the true charm of the states.

Must Read: 60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India

The famous northeast tourist attractions are a mix of nature, adventure, and romantic getaways. With picturesque views of the snow-bound mountains, these attractions are sought mostly by families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts as a holiday in Northeast India are sure to be a hit:

1. Darjeeling – Get Lost Amidst Stunning Mountains

Located on the foothills of the Himalayas, Darjeeling is the quaint, little, yet one of the famous hill stations in India . Much famed to have served as the summer getaway during the times of the British Raj, Darjeeling is known for its aromatic tea plantations, the famous toy train, and offers breathtaking views with Mount Kanchenjunga in the backdrop. If you’re a nature lover who loves a quaint vibe during a holiday, then is the place to be!

Must Experience: Enjoy a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway or the toy train Places To See:  Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and more. Things To Do: Cycling in Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary , Trek to the Tiger Hills, explore the Rock Garden, boating in Mirik, Tenzing Rock climbing, and more. Key Attractions:  Rock garden, Observatory hill viewpoint Famous Food:  Aloo dum, Thukpa, Momos, Churpee Best Time To Visit:  April to June

Sikkim-Gangtok-Darjeeling Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

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2. Sikkim – Fall In Love With The Mountains

Popularly known as the brother state in the North East states , travelers find it very easy to fall in love with the great mountainous kingdom of Sikkim . Home to the famous Pemayangtse Monastery and the highest motorable roads of Nathula Pass, Sikkim serves as a peaceful getaway for every traveler alike. No matter how long or short your trip is, this is one place that ought to be a part of your North East trip itinerary.

Must Experience: A bike trip via Nathula Pass – the highest motorable road at a height of 4,310 metres Capital City: Gangtok Places To See: Lake Tsomgo, Rumtek Monastery , Gurudongmar Lake, Zemu Glacier, Pemayangtse Monastery, and more. Things To Do: Backpacking through the Yumthang Valley of Flowers, explore the Singalila National Park, camping at Goecha La Pass, and more. Key Attractions:   Zuluch, Tsongmo Lake, Gangtok Famous Food:  Sikkim tea, Gundruk, Sael Roti Best Time To Visit:  Between October and mid-December

Suggested Read: 48 Places To Visit In Sikkim

Soul-Stirring Seven Sisters

Apart from the above, there are a total of seven sisters in the northeast that oozes eternal charm and beauty. Take a look below to know all about them and plan a magical North East India tour amidst nature with your loved ones:

3. Arunachal Pradesh – Mystic Views

Literally translating into the “land of dawn-lit mountains”, Arunachal Pradesh is the lesser known North East states which is yet to be explored to the fullest on an epic 5 days trip to North East India . Located in the North Eastern-most extreme of India, Arunachal Pradesh also happens to be the largest state of all seven sisters which is truly blessed naturally. While it may not be as famous as the other sisters, it is definitely worth a visit at least once in your life.

Must Experience: Explore the natural beauty of Tawang – the largest monastery in India, second to the world-largest Lhasa Monastery in Tibet, and the birthplace of Dalai Lama. Capital City: Itanagar Places To See: Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, Namdapha National Park, Dirang, Parasuram Kund, Daporijo, and more. Things To Do: Trek to Ziro, trek to Sella Pass, indulge in Ziro music festival, and more. Key Attractions:  Nuranang falls, Bhalukpong Famous Food:  Pika Pika, Chura Sabzi, Marua Best Time To Visit:  October to March

Suggested Read: 16 Beautiful Places To Visit In Mizoram

4. Assam – Treat Your Taste Buds

Rich in flora and fauna alike, Assam is one of the most famous North East states that is all about positive vibes and good feels. Famous for its vast tea plantations, and archeological sites, Assam is also home to one of the greatest UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Kaziranga National Park which is one of the best places to visit when traveling to North East . Be it pampering the wildlife lover in you or treating your taste buds to a soothing cup of chai, Assam will amaze you.

Must Experience: Encounter one-horned rhinoceros at Kaziranga National Park, and enjoy boating in Dawki River near the Indo-Bangladesh border. Capital City: Guwahati Places To See: Kamakhya Temple, Manas National Park, Assam State Zoo & Botanical Garden, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, and more. Things To Do: Brahmaputra river cruise, Wildlife safari at Manas National Park, experience the ecotourism of Majuli, shopping in Jorhat, and more. Key Attractions:  Majuli Island, Guwahati Planetarium Famous Food:  Duck Meat Curry, Aloo Pitika, Ou Tenga Best Time To Visit:  October to March

5. Manipur – Explore Natural Marvels In Abundance

Famous for being a multicultural society and offering natural marvels in abundance, Manipur is a little jewel in the heart of North East India. Popularly known as the land of festivals, Manipur is also eminent for its majestic hills, indigenous games, rich culture, handicrafts and handlooms, and martial arts. If you’re looking for a budget trip to North East India , this is one place you can definitely consider exploring.

Must Experience: Taste Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Pepper) – world’s hottest pepper, and shop at Khwairamband Bazaar – a local market with a matriarchal setting and run wholly and only by women Capital City: Imphal Places To See: War cemetery, Shri Govindajee Temple, Sendra Island, Keibul Lamjao National Park, and more. Things To Do: Boating in Loktak Lake, watch a great performance in the theatre, explore the ancient Andro village, chariot ride in Moreh near the border, and more. Key Attractions:  INA session, Kangla Fort, Loktak Lake Famous Food:  Paaknam, Chak Hao Kheer, Morok Metpa Best Time To Visit:  Between September to April

Suggested Read: 20 Perfect Reasons To Visit India

6. Meghalaya – Home To The Cleanest Village

True to its name, Meghalaya is indeed an abode of clouds, which gained much fame for being home to the cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong. Considered to be the Scotland of the East ever since the times of British Rule, Meghalaya is filled with natural attractions like that of living root bridge , cascading waterfalls, and some of the longest caves in Asia. Visiting this place is undoubtedly a must, especially with a kick-ass camera. Meghalaya is a must-visit place and should be included in your North East trip plan.

Must Experience: Explore Mawlynnong – the cleanest village in Asia and let the charm of living root bridge cast a magical spell on you. Capital City: Shillong Places To See: Laitlum Canyon, Double Decker Living Root Bridge in Cherrapunjee, Balpakram National Park, Umiam Lake, and more. Things To Do: Trekking on David Scott trail, rafting in Barapani Lake, kayaking on Kynshi River, camp on Khasi hills, and more. Key Attractions:  Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Famous Food:  Bamboo shoots, Jadoh, Jaintia Best Time To Visit:  April to June,

7. Mizoram  – Place Of Hilly People

Renowned to be the “land of the hill people”, Mizoram is not only a destination but a whole experience in itself. Featuring mighty mountains that are nestled in north-south ways and numerous narrow rivers, Mizoram offers countless opportunities for adventure enthusiasts to quench their wanderlust. Make sure you include this place in your North East trip itinerary for a mesmerizing holiday experience with your loved ones.

Must Experience: In case you visit Mizoram during the spring season, do take part in the Chapchar Kut Spring Festival which happens to be the oldest festival of the state Capital City: Aizawl Places To See: Murlen National Park, Dampa Tiger Reserve, Phawngpui Hills, Vantawng Falls, Luangmual Handicrafts Centre, and more. Things To Do: Visit the Palak Lake, enjoy mountain biking in the Hmuifang Hills, trekking in the Blue Mountain National Park, and more. Key Attractions:  Mizoram State Museum, Solomon Temple, Rih Dil Famous Food:  Chhum Han, Bamboo Shoot Fry, Misa Mach Poora Best Time To Visit:  November to March

Suggested Read: 31 Reasons Why You Should Never Visit Northeast India

8. Nagaland – Witness The Vibrant Views

Encompassing striking beauty, lush greenery, massive mountains, and quixotic valleys, Nagaland is one North Eastern state that never fails to bedazzle everyone. Housing some of the aboriginal Naga tribes, Nagaland also is famous for the most lively, vibrant, and colorful festivals of India , that celebrate the diverse culture and traditions of its tribes. Perfect for a good long 10 days trip to North East India along with its sister gems, this place would surely leave you in awe.

Must Experience: Usually held in December, it is a must for everyone to witness the joys, and colors of the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland Capital City: Kohima Places To See: The war cemetery, Kohima Museum, Tuphema Village, Kachari Ruins, Triple Falls, Veda Peak, and more. Things To Do: Trekking in Dzoukou valley, enjoy birdwatching in Khonoma, wildlife safari at Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary, hike the Japfu Peak, and more. Key Attractions:  Dimapur, Khonoma Village, view at Dzoukou valley Famous Food:  Zutho, Smoked Pork, Akini Chokibo,  Fish Best Time To Visit:  July to October

9. Tripura – Beautiful Haven For Art

A lesser-known paradise in the heart of North East, Tripura is yet to receive the attention that it deserves for housing some of the most artistic, and royal palaces, and enchanting temples. Having said that, Tripura is indeed a haven for art, architecture, and history buffs, and also a great place to visit on a trip to North-East India if you love exploring the lesser-known gems. With beauty that you may have never seen before, Tripura will surely take you by surprise.

Must Experience: Every traveler must visit the royal Ujjayanta Palace which takes one back into the historical past of Tripura Capital City: Agartala Places To See  Neermahal, Unakoti, Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary, Jagannath Bari, Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary, Tripura Government Museum, and more. Things To Do: Explore the Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary, trek to Jampui Hills, shop the famous bamboo and cane artefacts, boating in Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, and more. Key Attractions:  Tripurasundari Temple, Jampui Hill, Unakoti Famous Food:  Apong, Mui Borok Best Time To Visit:  April to July

Further, Read: Travel To These Buddhist Monasteries In India

Did you know of all these amazing places to visit and incredible things to do on a North-East trip? If your answer is a no, then you’re not alone in this. And as it is believed that it’s never too late, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey to discover a paradisical place by planning a trip to North East side of India. The trip will feel like nothing less than pure magic!

Frequently Asked Questions About North East Trip

What is the best time to visit North East India?

For a better experience, it is recommended to travel to North East India during the months from late October to March. The temperature is cooler and sunny which is quite favourable compared to the summer season.

Which is the most beautiful state in North East?

The most beautiful state in North East is Meghalaya. It is one of the popular tourist attractions and is best known for its food, sites, and festivals. If you are planning an unforgettable North East tour, then adding Meghalaya to your itinerary is a must.

How to plan a trip to northeast India?

While planning a trip to the northeast might seem like a task, it is not if you follow this handy guide. The first step to begin planning is checking the best time to visit the northeast and picking your holiday dates. Keeping the duration of your trip in mind, you can choose the places you wish to visit during your trip and prepare an itinerary for the same. With all that done, a pocket-friendly northeast package is all you have to book and you’re then set to head out!

Which is the best place for family travel in North East India?

There are two best places to visit in North East India with family, Gangtok and Darjeeling. You will witness the gorgeous views of the Himalayas, meadows, tea plantations, etc. If you are seeking a natural landscape and panoramic vistas on your family trip to North East India then these destinations are for you.

Which part of Sikkim is best to visit in December?

Yumthang Valley, nestled 3,600 meters above sea level and popularly known as the Valley of Flowers is among the best places to visit in Sikkim in December. On your trip to North East in December, you can plan a visit to discover the splendours of Sikkim with your group.

How many days are sufficient to visit Northeast India?

Depending upon your itinerary, if you are planning to explore states one by one then you will need 5 to 7 days to cover the destination and its major attractions but if you are planning a 1 week trip to North East India, then you can only discover the highlights rather then a proper excursion. An overall North East tour will take around 15 days or 2 weeks.

Is December a good time to visit North-East India?

Having a North East trip in December in India is the best option to pick. The major cities like Assam, Tripura, and Mizoram in the North East side, these cities are chill and comfy during the winter season.

What gift to buy from Darjeeling?

You can buy souvenirs like woolen carpets, jackets, and shawls from the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre. It is the best place to shop the quality stuff in Darjeeling.

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Can’t Find Eclipse Glasses? Here’s What to Do.

You can watch a projection of the eclipse using some common household items.

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By Katrina Miller

Follow our live updates on the total solar eclipse .

Reliable paper-framed glasses are by far the most popular option for safely watching the total solar eclipse on Monday. But they’ve gotten more difficult to find in some places ahead of the event.

If you’ve checked everywhere — your local planetarium, public library and even online — fear not: There is still a way to watch the eclipse safely, using items around the house. Here are a few options.

Use your hands

Palms up, position one hand over the other at a 90-degree angle. Open your fingers slightly in a waffle pattern, and allow sunlight to stream through the spaces onto the ground, or another surface. During the eclipse, you will see a projection of the moon obscuring the surface of the sun.

This method works with anything with holes, such as a straw hat, a strainer, a cheese grater or even a perforated spoon. You will also notice this effect when light from the partially eclipsed sun streams through leaves on a tree.

Set up a cardstock screen

For this option, you need a couple of white index cards or two sheets of cardstock paper. First, punch a small hole in the middle of one of the cards using a thumbtack or a pin.

Then, facing away from the sun, allow light to stream through this pinhole. Position the second card underneath to function as a screen. Adjust the spacing between the two cards to make the projection of the sun larger or smaller.

Make a box projector

If you’re up for a bit of crafting, you can make a more sophisticated pinhole projector . Start with a cardboard box — empty cereal boxes are often used, but you can use a larger box, too. You’ll also need scissors, white paper, tape, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack.

Cut the piece of paper to fit the inside bottom of the cardboard box to act as a screen. Use tape to hold it in place.

On the top of the box, cut two rectangular holes on either side. (The middle should be left intact — you can use tape to secure this if needed.)

Tape a piece of aluminum foil over one of the rectangular cutouts. Punch a tiny hole in the middle of the foil with the tack or pin. The other cutout will serve as a view hole.

With your back to the sun, position the foil side of the box over your shoulder, letting light stream through the pinhole. An image of the sun will project onto the screen at the bottom of the box, which you can see through the view hole. A bigger box will create a bigger image.

Enjoy the show through any of these makeshift pinholes. And remember, during totality, you can view the sun directly with your naked eye. But you should stop looking at the sun as soon as it reappears.

Katrina Miller is a science reporting fellow for The Times. She recently earned her Ph.D. in particle physics from the University of Chicago. More about Katrina Miller

New Zealand Government warns against travel to Gaza, Israel border regions

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The Government’s Safe Travel website has updated its warning on travelling to the Middle East, amid mounting concern about tensions between Israel and Iran .

Iran is threatening to attack Israel in response to the bombing of its consulate in Syria this month, which killed 16 people including senior Iranian army staff.

Israel has not claimed responsibility but has been widely blamed.

Safe Travel says people should not travel to the Israel-Lebanon or the Israel-Syria border regions, or the border between Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory of Gaza.

It says New Zealanders already in Gaza should leave as soon as it is safe to do so because the Government has little ability to provide assistance there.

The travel alerts

• Do not travel to the occupied Palestinian territory of Gaza (including the waters off Gaza) due to the unpredictable security situation, threat of kidnapping and potential for military operations (level 4 of 4). New Zealanders currently in Gaza are advised to depart as soon as it is safe to do so. The New Zealand Government has an extremely limited ability to provide assistance to New Zealand nationals in Gaza.
• Do not travel to Sheba’a Farms and Ghajjar or within 5km of the border with Lebanon (the “Blue Line”) due to the risk of rocket fire, militant activity and military operations (level 4 of 4).
• Do not travel to all parts of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights to the east of route 98, or to the border area with Syria, due to the possibility of rocket fire, militant activity and military operations (level 4 of 4).
• Do not travel to Israel’s border with Gaza due to civil unrest, the risk of rocket fire and military operations (level 4 of 4).
• Do not travel to the occupied Palestinian territory of the West Bank (not including East Jerusalem) due to the unpredictable security situation and the potential for violent civil unrest (level 4 of 4).

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Are injectable moisturisers good for your skin?

In all probability, you have heard about injectable moisturisers and the power it has to transform your skin. but should you get one.

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You’ve probably tried it all: creams, serums, oils, and everything in between to keep your skin looking supple and youthful. But if you feel like you’ve reached the brim of what topical products can do, you need to check out something a little deeper — quite literally.

What are injectable moisturisers

Things to carry when travelling to North East India

Must-have travel essentials for north east india: your ultimate packing guide.

• By North East Explorers
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North East India is a stunningly beautiful region that is home to a rich and diverse culture, breathtaking landscapes, and a unique way of life. From the snow-capped mountains of Arunachal Pradesh to the rolling hills of Meghalaya , there is something for everyone in this region. Different seasons in the North East offer very different experiences. For someone who loves greenery and doesn’t mind the rain, the monsoons in Meghalaya would be great while for someone who would like to see the transparent waters of the Umngkot river, the dry season would be better. In other words, the best time to visit the North East depends on what your interests are.

However, no matter which season you plan to visit and which part of North East India you wish to come to when traveling to North East India, it is important to be well-prepared, as the terrain can be challenging and the weather can be unpredictable.

In this blog post, we will discuss some essential things to carry when traveling to North East India.

Warm clothing and rain gear

• Comfortable shoes

Any particular (not-so-common) medicines

First aid kit, medicines for motion sickness, water bottle (so that you don’t have to buy packed water when on the move), camera and binoculars.

• Power bank and charger
• Enough cash, Inner line permits (where applicable), and identification documents
• Your liquor (if you are particular about your brand)

Depending on the season you are visiting, you will either have to bring your winter clothes while traveling to the northeast or you will have to bring your umbrella/ponchos. Sometimes, you have to bring both. For example, if you are visiting the North East during the monsoons, which is also one of the best times to visit northeast India , you will have to come prepared for rains and as you proceed to a one week tawang trip or a Meghalaya tour , you will have to put on your winter wear, almost as soon as you leave the plains.

If you are traveling during the winter though, you can drop the rain gear.

Comfortable Shoes

No matter where in the North East you are traveling, the scenery and the people are bound to get you on your feet to explore a bit. To be able to do that, you will need to be wearing comfortable shoes. And if you are planning to go on a trek to the double-decker living root bridges in Meghalaya , a comfortable pair of shoes are a must.

If you take any particular medicines other than generic, commonly found medicines and you are about to run out of the same, bring them with you. Don’t rely on picking them from here. You might or might not get it.

No matter where you are traveling, North East India or elsewhere, carrying a small first-aid kit with you is always a good thing.

Since most of the North East is hills and mountains, with beautiful but winding roads, if you are someone like me, whose stomach can’t bear the ups and downs of the mountains, when not driving, don’t forget to bring your motion sickness medicines.

North East India is a beautiful region but it’s also very ecologically fragile. We at North East Explorers, try to do our best in preserving this beauty as is. One of the ways we try to do this is, to request our guests, you , to minimize the use of disposable water bottles as much as possible.

All our homestays in North East India have RO filters where you can fill your water bottle. So, bring one.

Of course, there will be days when might have to  buy bottled water. But, we try to do the best we can, help us doing so 🙂 .

Except for some particular regions in the North East, you are almost sure to be surprised by nature’s bounties as you travel through the North East. Be it in the form of flora and fauna of north east India or just the jaw-dropping scenery. And while we always encourage people to stay away from the screen as much as possible, while on a holiday, taking some pictures to take back home, is only natural. After all, wouldn’t you want to take pictures with the one-horned rhino in the Kaziranga national park , an animal unique to this region? Or say, one of your exhausted but satisfied look on your face after reaching the double-decker living root bridges of Meghalaya , after a tiring trek? Also, not to mention, North East India is a photographer’s paradise, with stunning vistas, unique flora and fauna, and colorful cultures.

Powerbank and Chargers

In almost all north east tours we run, you will be heading to one or the other remote north east region. These regions are far-flung so quite understandably, the electricity and mobile coverage is spotty. If you want to make sure your devices don’t die due to a dead battery, carry your power banks.

Enough cash, permits, and Identification documents Thanks to the spotty network and power (at some places) in offbeat north east India , there’s always a possibility that the ATM(s) will be out of order. Due to the same reason, card payments are almost never an option. Google Pay/UPI works but what works best and is the most reliable is cash . When you are on a northeast tour with us, almost all your expenses are already taken care of so, you don’t really have to carry a lot of cash. Just for your personal expenses, flooding, and shopping mainly.

In case you are on a tour to Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland , or any other North Eastern state that requires an Inner Line Permit, we would have already given you that well in advance. Keep a couple of hard copies of the same while traveling.

Also, always keep your photo ID document with you, as a good practice.

Your Liquor

While almost all brands and types of liquor is available in the cities and big towns of North East India, it is not the case once you head deeper. So, if you are someone who is particular about his/her drink, carry your drink of choice with you, when you land 🙂

In conclusion, traveling to North East India can be an enriching and rewarding experience, but it is essential to be well-prepared for the terrain and climate of the region. By carrying these essential items, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip, and make the most of your time in this stunningly beautiful part of India .

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Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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