North East

The best time to visit Northeast India varies by region, but generally, the ideal period is from October to April. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect during these months:

1. October to March

• Weather: This period is characterized by pleasant and cool temperatures, ranging from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Activities: Perfect for exploring national parks, trekking, and enjoying the rich cultural festivals celebrated across the states.
• Festivals: This season also hosts various festivals, including Bihu in Assam and Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, showcasing the local culture and traditions.

2. April to June

• Weather: Temperatures begin to rise, reaching between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). This is a good time for those who enjoy warmer weather.
• Activities: Suitable for visiting lush green landscapes and enjoying local flora and fauna. However, be prepared for occasional rain as the region starts transitioning toward the monsoon.

3. Monsoon Season (July to September)

• Weather: Heavy rainfall occurs during this period, making travel challenging. Many roads may become inaccessible due to landslides and flooding.
• Activities: While the region is incredibly lush and vibrant, it’s generally not recommended for travel unless you are specifically looking for a monsoon experience and are prepared for the weather challenges.

Overall Recommendation

For the best experience, consider planning your trip to Northeast India between October and March. During these months, you can enjoy comfortable weather, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant local festivals, making your visit truly memorable!

Reaching Northeast India can be done through various modes of transportation, depending on your starting point and destination. Here’s a detailed overview of how to reach the region:

1. By Air

• Major Airports: Northeast India has several airports, with the main ones being:
  • Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (Guwahati, Assam) – serves as the primary gateway to the Northeast.
  • Bagdogra Airport (West Bengal) – often used for travelers heading to Sikkim and Darjeeling.
  • Other regional airports include Dimapur (Nagaland), Imphal (Manipur), Agartala (Tripura), and Silchar (Assam).
• Connections: Major airlines operate flights from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bagdogra to various destinations in the Northeast.

2. By Train

• Rail Network: The Indian Railways connects some parts of Northeast India, primarily through Assam. The major railway stations include:
  • Guwahati: The main railway station, well-connected to major cities in India.
  • New Jalpaiguri: Close to Sikkim and Darjeeling.
• Traveling to Other States: From Guwahati, you can find trains to other northeastern states, but connections may be limited.

3. By Road

• National and State Highways: The region has an extensive network of roads connecting various states. Popular routes include:
  • Guwahati to Shillong (approximately 100 km).
  • Guwahati to Manali (around 260 km).
• Bus Services: State-run and private bus services operate regularly between major towns and cities in the Northeast. Buses are available from Guwahati to places like Shillong, Tawang, Kaziranga, and Dimapur.

4. By Self-Drive or Taxi

• Self-Driving: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and explore the region at your own pace. Ensure to check road conditions, especially in hilly areas.
• Taxis: Local taxis are available for hire, and you can also arrange for a taxi service to travel between cities and attractions.

5. Adventure Travel

• Trekking and Biking: For the adventurous, some areas allow for trekking and biking routes, providing an offbeat way to reach remote locations.

Tips

• Check Accessibility: Some areas may require special permits for entry, especially in Arunachal Pradesh. Make sure to arrange these in advance.
• Local Transport: Once in the Northeast, local transport options include shared taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses for easy navigation between towns and attractions.

By utilizing these transportation options, you can easily access the beautiful and diverse states of Northeast India and enjoy its rich culture and stunning landscapes.

Northeast India is a captivating region known for its pristine natural beauty, diverse cultures, and unique landscapes. Here are some of the top places to visit in Northeast India:

1. Kaziranga National Park, Assam

• Overview: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses.
• Key Attractions: Wildlife safaris, spotting rhinos, tigers, elephants, and birds, and exploring the park’s rich biodiversity.

2. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

• Overview: A beautiful town known for its stunning monasteries, snow-clad mountains, and vibrant Tibetan culture.
• Key Attractions: Tawang Monastery (the second-largest in the world), Sela Pass, Tawang War Memorial, and Madhuri Lake.

3. Shillong, Meghalaya

• Overview: The capital of Meghalaya, often referred to as the "Scotland of the East," known for its rolling hills, pleasant weather, and vibrant music scene.
• Key Attractions: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Shillong Peak, Ward’s Lake, and Don Bosco Museum.

4. Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

• Overview: One of the wettest places on Earth, famous for its living root bridges, waterfalls, and lush landscapes.
• Key Attractions: Double Decker Living Root Bridge, Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, and Mawsmai Cave.

5. Majuli, Assam

• Overview: The world’s largest river island, situated on the Brahmaputra River, known for its vibrant culture, scenic beauty, and unique satras (Vaishnavite monasteries).
• Key Attractions: Satra temples, traditional Assamese culture, boat rides on the Brahmaputra, and migratory birdwatching.

6. Gangtok, Sikkim

• Overview: The capital city of Sikkim, offering stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga and a blend of modernity and traditional Tibetan culture.
• Key Attractions: Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek Monastery, Nathula Pass, MG Road, and Enchey Monastery.

7. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh

• Overview: A scenic valley known for its lush paddy fields, unique tribal culture, and the annual Ziro Music Festival.
• Key Attractions: Apatani tribal culture, pine hills, and the Ziro Music Festival.

8. Kohima, Nagaland

• Overview: The capital of Nagaland, known for its rich history, tribal heritage, and vibrant festivals.
• Key Attractions: Kohima War Cemetery, Kisama Heritage Village, and the famous Hornbill Festival.

9. Pelling, Sikkim

• Overview: A quaint town offering stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, ancient monasteries, and waterfalls.
• Key Attractions: Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Khecheopalri Lake, and Kanchenjunga Waterfalls.

10. Imphal, Manipur

• Overview: The capital of Manipur, known for its rich history, unique culture, and scenic beauty.
• Key Attractions: Loktak Lake, Kangla Fort, Ima Keithel (women’s market), and Shree Govindajee Temple.

Northeast India is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse experiences. Here are some top things to do while exploring this vibrant region:

1. Explore Scenic Landscapes

• Trekking: Discover stunning trekking trails in places like Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh, including the popular Goecha La Trek.
• Lakes and Waterfalls: Visit picturesque lakes like Umiam Lake in Meghalaya and Loktak Lake in Manipur. Don’t miss waterfalls like Nohkalikai Falls in Cherrapunji.

2. Experience Local Culture

• Tribal Villages: Visit traditional tribal villages in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh to learn about their unique customs and lifestyles.
• Festivals: Participate in vibrant local festivals such as Bihu in Assam, Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, and Losar in Sikkim.

3. Wildlife Safaris

• Kaziranga National Park: Embark on a safari to see the famous one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, and diverse wildlife.
• Manas National Park: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

4. Adventure Activities

• River Rafting: Experience thrilling white-water rafting in the Brahmaputra River or the Teesta River.
• Paragliding: Try paragliding in Sikkim for breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.

5. Visit Historical Sites

• Historic Forts and Monuments: Explore the rich history by visiting forts like Rang Ghar in Assam and Chakrasamvara Temple in Arunachal Pradesh.
• Colonial Heritage: Discover the colonial architecture in Shillong and Darjeeling.

6. Indulge in Local Cuisine

• Food Tours: Taste the local cuisine, which varies by state, including dishes like Assamese fish curry, Naga smoked meat, and Sikkimese momos.
• Street Food: Explore street food scenes in cities like Guwahati and Shillong.

7. Adventure Sports

• Mountain Biking: Ride through the scenic landscapes of Manipur or Sikkim.
• Camping: Set up camp in scenic locations, especially in areas like Pelling and Tawang.

8. Visit Tea Gardens

• Darjeeling and Assam: Tour the lush tea gardens, learn about tea production, and sample some of the best teas in the world.

9. Explore Spiritual Sites

• Buddhist Monasteries: Visit serene monasteries like Rumtek Monastery in Sikkim and Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh.
• Temples: Explore ancient temples, such as the Kamakhya Temple in Assam, known for its historical and spiritual significance.

10. Scenic Train Journeys

• Toy Train: Take a ride on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for breathtaking views of the Himalayas.