Northeast India is more than just a simple destination; it's an unaltered world with astonishing views waiting to be discovered. It is completely untouched by modern tourism.
Travelling to Northeast India, a traveller can encounter the country’s most adventurous and pristine places. If you're looking for an alternative to the boring places everybody talks about after their holidays, and you want a quirky escape from your everyday lifestyle, consider these destinations as a getaway. Sounds intriguing, right? Plan a personalized Northeast Tour Packages to have a diversion.
These places in Northeast India offer the travellers magnificent scenery, vivid tribal cultures, and ancient stories. Northeast India consists of seven states, together called the Seven Sisters, and they are - Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura – along with Sikkim.
The Seven Sisters states give you the enchanting mix of past, culture, and ethereal natural beauty.
These reasons are enough to change your perspective and add to your ‘Places to Visit’ list. Northeastern states of India are adorned with lush tea gardens, hazy mountains, historic tribal traditions, and an abundant volume of wildlife. From markets with a high footfall to traditional villages to remote valleys untouched by modern tourism, every corner has its unique tales. If you are thinking of booking an affordable Northeast India Tour Packages consider Sharp Travels; that aims to give you the best holiday experience within your budget so that you can have a memorable holiday experience whose memories you will cherish for your entire lifetime.
Sharp Travels provides travellers with numerous Northeast holiday Packages. To know more, connect on Contact No.: (+91)9311282005, 9810129511, and/or E-mail: inquiry@sharpmail.in
Why You Should Visit Northeast India?
- 1. Visit the unexplored regions of India- The Northeastern regions of India aren’t explored as much as other places in India. Northeast India is the region that is less traveled by tourists; it has a beauty well settled of its own. Away from all the noise, these states offer amazing scenery with lush greenery, rich wildlife, and aromatic tea fields.
- 2. Abundant Cultural Diversity- Northeast India is a hub of different vibrant communities, each with its unique traditions, festivals, and food.
- 3. Most powerful Shaktipeeth- Kamakhya Temple is one of the oldest Shaktipeeths in India. This temple is dedicated to Devi Kamakhya, and it symbolises the divine feminine power with the shrine representing the Devi’s womb. People from all over the world gather here for various Devi fairs and festivals that take place throughout the year.
If you want to have a powerful and spiritual journey to Kamakhya Temple, book the Kamakhya Temple Tour Package at the best rates. - 4. Spectacular lush greenery- This region provides you with breathtaking scenery with overgrown plants and amazing waterfalls, from Meghalaya's serene hills to Assam's lush tea gardens. The region features some of India's most picturesque landscapes.
- 5. It offers astounding places- Travellers visiting Northeast India should explore-
- Shillong is famously known as ‘The Scotland of the East.’
- The double-decker living root bridge in Cherrapunji.
- Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can find the one-horned rhinoceros.
- A 400-year-old monastery in Tawang.
- Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is Khangchendzonga National Park.
Before planning your trip, here are some quick facts and best places in Northeast India.
Quick Facts About Northeast India
1. Arunachal Pradesh
- It is known as the Land of the Rising Sun, and is the largest state in Northeast India.
- Also known as the "Orchid State of India" it houses more than 500 species of orchids.
- This state is home to 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes.
2. Assam
- Assam is the home to the one-horned rhinoceros and the world's largest river island.
- Assam has the world’s largest inhabited river island, situated on the Brahmaputra River, called Majuli. It also holds the Guinness World Record for the smallest inhabited river island, Umananda.
- The state is the largest tea-producing state in India.
3. Manipur
- Known as the ‘Land of Jewels.’
- It has Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is the world’s only floating national park.
- Manipur is the birthplace of modern Polo. In Manipur, it is known as Sagol Kangjei.
4. Meghalaya
- This Northeast state and the meaning of its name is ‘Abode of clouds.’
- The state has the wettest region in the entire world, ‘Cherrapunji.’
- Meghalaya has the double-decker living root bridges. These bridges are created by the local tribes who intertwine the roots of rubber trees over centuries to span rivers and streams.
5. Mizoram
- Over 84% of Mizoram's geographic area is covered by dense forests.
- Mizoram’s name literally translates to ‘people living in the hills.’
- Has a high literacy rate of 91%.
6. Nagaland
- Nagaland is known as the ‘Land of Festivals.’
- Host the Hornbill Festival, which is known as the festival of festivals, is a huge 10-day cultural celebration in December.
7. Sikkim
- This state is the home to Mount Kanchenjunga, which is the third-highest mountain in the world and the highest in India.
- Sikkim is ranked as the second-largest producer of cardamom in the world.
8. Tripura
- Tripura has a royal legacy that spans over 2,000 years, ruled by the Manikya kings until the kingdom merged with the Indian Union in 1949.
- It connects to the rest of India via Assam and Mizoram in the northeast.
What are the Best Places to Visit in Northeast India?
From snow-covered mountains and peaceful monasteries to waterfalls, wildlife, and tribal culture, Northeast India offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, adventure, and unique experiences for every kind of traveller. Here are the top places to visit in Northeast India.
- Cherrapunji is famous for being one of the wettest places on earth, which provides the travellers with amazing waterfalls and the double-decker Living Root Bridges.
- Tawang is an astounding town that is situated near the Indo-China border. It has the massive 400-year-old Tawang Monastery. Looking for an easy and well-planned way to visit this place? This tour package, Scenic Tawang, can help.
- Mawlynnong is famous as Asia’s cleanest village, which offers an unaltered and eco-friendly-tourism experience.
- Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to two-thirds of the world's great one-horned rhinoceros population. To make your journey to this site more comfortable and organized, you can choose this Adventurous Assam Tour Package.
- Majuli is the world’s largest river island, on the Brahmaputra River, known and famous for its ancient monasteries, traditional mask-making, and vibrant festivals.
- Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim. It offers amazing views of Mount Kanchenjunga. It serves as a base to explore the scenic Tsomgo Lake and the high-altitude Nathula Pass. If you want to travel to Gangtok, check this package- 4N 5D Darjeeling & Gangtok Tour.
- Pelling has the most spectacular, unobstructed views of the Himalayas and ancient monasteries. Travellers who want to travel to Pelling can check out North East Delight with Pelling Package.
- Kohima is the capital of Nagaland. It is deeply historical (famous for the WWII cemetery) and is the epicenter of the grand cultural Hornbill Festival held every December. If you are planning a trip for the festival, this itinerary- Hornbill Festival of Nagaland can be a perfect choice.
- Dzüko Valley is often said to be a trekker’s paradise. This destination is famous for its vast, lush meadows that bloom with rare seasonal flowers. Here’s a package that lets you experience the destination comfortably- Dzüko Valley Tour Packages.
- A mesmerizing Ziro Valley known for its pine-covered hills, terraced rice fields, and the unique culture of the Apatani tribe.
- The capital city of Meghalaya is Shillong. It is known as the "Scotland of the East," which offers vibrant hills, a hazy climate, and a rich music scene. Make your trip to Shillong easier and more enjoyable with this travel package- Nature's Best Adventure.
Before planning your trip, here’s something important that a traveller should know.
What is the Best Time to Visit Northeast India?
Winter (November to February):
In winters travellers can experience the best time for festivals and wildlife.
The top places to visit in this time period are the Kaziranga National Park in Assam, and experience the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, during which the sounds of music, dance, and celebrations fill the air.
Spring (March to May):
To encounter the full-blooming flowers and pleasant weather, spring is the best time.
The valleys come alive during springs and transform into a colorful landscape. You can visit Sikkim's valleys and the lush grounds of Meghalaya.
Monsoon (June to September):
To have an off-season escapade, the monsoon is best for budget travellers and nature lovers.
The states get high rainfall during this time, which causes landslides. But in turn, the rains turn regions into sparkling green corridors, and the waterfalls are at their peak.
Considering all these points, the best time to visit Northeast India is from October to May.
How to Reach Northeast India?
| States | Nearest Airport | Nearest Train Sation | How to reach by roads |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assam | Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport in Guwahati. | Guwahati Railway Station | Assam has smooth highways and is well connected by buses and private cars from nearby Northeastern states and West Bengal. |
| Arunachal Pradesh | Donyi Polo Airport (Itanagar) | Naharlagun Railway Station near Itanagar | Most travellers reach Arunachal by road from Assam through scenic mountain highways by bus or car. |
| Meghalaya | Shillong Airport | Meghalaya has very limited railway connectivity, so Guwahati Railway Station is commonly used. | Shillong and other towns are easily reachable by buses, taxis, and private cars from Guwahati. |
| Manipur | Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal | Dimapur Railway Station in Nagaland is commonly used, after which travellers continue by road. | Manipur is connected by highways from Nagaland and Assam, with buses and shared taxis available. |
| Mizoram | Lengpui Airport near Aizawl | Sairang and Bairabi are developing railway connections for Mizoram. | Travellers can enter Mizoram by road from Assam through hilly but beautiful routes.. |
| Nagaland | Dimapur Airport | Dimapur Railway Station | Kohima and other towns are connected by highways from Assam through buses and taxis. |
| Tripura | Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala | Agartala Railway Station | Tripura can be reached by buses and cars from Assam and nearby Northeastern states. |
| Sikkim | Pakyong Airport | New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station | Gangtok and other areas are well connected by mountain roads from Siliguri and Darjeeling by buses and private cars. |
Moving ahead, let’s talk about the things to do in Northeast India.
What are the Foods to Eat in Northeast India?
| States | Foods |
|---|---|
| Assam | Don’t miss trying Masor Tenga which is a light and tangy fish curry, very popular in Assamese homes. Make sure to try the traditional rice cakes called Pitha. One local favourite is Khar, a unique Assamese dish made with raw papaya and alkaline water. |
| Arunachal Pradesh | A must-try dish is Thukpa, a comforting noodle soup with vegetables or meat. A cheese prepared from yak milk with vegetables. Indulge in Chura Sabji. Try the traditional Bamboo Shoot Curry. These are the dishes flavored with fermented bamboo shoots. |
| Meghalaya | Enjoy a plate of Dohneiiong, which is pork curry prepared with black sesame seeds. Food lovers must try the fermented soybean dish with local spices, called Tungrymbai. Pukhlein is a sweet rice flour snack, crispy and delicious. Add this dish to your food list. The local cuisine offers a spicy soup made with dried fish, called Nakham Bitchi. |
| Manipur | Make sure to taste Eromba, a dish made with mashed vegetables with fermented fish and chilies. Don’t miss trying this spicy and crunchy Manipuri salad, called Singju. Sample the famous Chamthong. It is a healthy vegetable stew also called Kangshoi. |
| Mizoram | The local cuisine offers the smoked pork dish loved in Mizoram, known as Vawksa Rep. A popular delicacy here is Chhangban. It is a sticky rice cake often served during festivals. |
| Nagaland | One of the best culinary experiences here is the Naga-style rice porridge with vegetables and meat. It is called Galho. While travelling to Nagaland, add Anishi to your food list. This dish is made from dried colocasia leaves. One local favourite is the Dry Meat Chutney. It is a spicy chutney prepared with dried meat and chilies. |
| Tripura | Add this dish Chakhwi, it is made with bamboo shoots and pork. One of the best culinary experiences here is Mosdeng Serma, it is a spicy tomato chutney with chilies. The local cuisine offers Gudok. It is a fermented fish curry with vegetables. The region is known for pork salad mixed with spices and herbs, called Wahan Mosdeng. |
| Sikkim | No trip to Sikkim is complete without tasting Momos. The most loved snack in Sikkim, served steamed or fried. Treat yourself to Sel Roti, it is a circular fried traditional rice bread. Experience the authentic flavours of Gundruk. It is fermented leafy vegetable dish popular in Himalayan cuisine. |
What are the Best Restaurants in Northeast India?
Northeast India is home to some amazing restaurants where you can enjoy local delicacies, traditional recipes, and unforgettable flavours. Here are some of them-
Guwahati (Assam)
Khorikaa is located in Chandmari, which is one of the most famous spots for authentic Assamese and tribal cuisine. Gams Delicacy is in Christian Basti, it is famous for its Assamese thalis, offering a wide array of local meat and vegetable preparations.
The Square is located inside the Novotel on GS Road. This spot is ideal for a high-end, multi-cuisine, and fine-dining experience.
Shillong (Meghalaya)
Trattoria is located in Police Bazar, it’s the go-to place for authentic local Khasi food. City Hut Family Dhaba is in Police Bazar. This is a popular, family-friendly restaurant. Ukiyo is in the city; this restaurant offers Pan-Asian food.
Heritage Naga Kitchen (Dibrugarh, Nagaland) is highly rated for its authentic, fiery Naga fare. Nimtho (Gangtok, Sikkim) is known for serving traditional Sikkimese, Nepali, and Tibetan delicacies.
What are the Best Places for Shopping in Northeast India?
| State & City | Best Shopping Places | What You Can Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Guwahati, Assam | Fancy Bazaar | Assamese silk (Pat & Muga), Mekhela Chador, bamboo and cane crafts, brass and bell-metal utensils |
| Paltan Bazaar | Assam tea, woolen shawls, handmade tribal jewelry | |
| State Emporiums (G.S. Road) | Authentic Assamese silk, handcrafted souvenirs | |
| Shillong, Meghalaya | Police Bazaar | Winter wear, Khasi traditional outfits, bamboo décor, local spices |
| Bara Bazaar (Iewduh) | Indigenous handicrafts, dried fish, orange honey | |
| Gangtok, Sikkim | MG Marg | Sikkimese carpets, Thangka paintings, prayer flags, black cardamom |
| Lal Bazaar | Local handicrafts, Churpi (yak cheese), traditional Sikkimese cups | |
| Imphal, Manipur | Khwairamband Bazar (Ima Market) | Phanek sarongs, wooden crafts, pottery, cane products |
| Kohima, Nagaland | Kohima Local Market | Naga shawls, beadwork, warrior spears, Naga king chili |
| Tibetan Market | Winter wear, thrift clothing, imported accessories | |
| Aizawl, Mizoram | Bara Bazaar (Dawrpui) | Mizo Puan fabrics, bamboo and cane accessories, handmade baskets |
Popular Things to Buy Across Northeast India
- Textiles: Muga & Pat silk, Naga tribal shawls, Mizo Puan textiles
- Handicrafts: Bamboo baskets, lamps, furniture
- Art: Majuli masks, Sikkimese Thangka paintings
- Food & Consumables: Assam tea, Darjeeling tea, Bhut Jolokia products, local honey
To make your journey easier, here’s what you should know next.
How to plan a Northeast India trip?
Planning a trip to Northeast India becomes much easier when you decide your route, travel duration, budget, and the kind of experience you want to enjoy.
Northeast India provides every traveller with snow-covered mountains and peaceful monasteries, wildlife safaris, waterfalls, lakes, and vibrant tribal culture. If you are travelling to these states with family, friends, your partner, or even solo,you would require proper planning to help the travellers to cover the best destinations comfortably without thinking about every minute detail.
Travellers can choose from different options like Northeast India Tour Packages from Delhi, Mumbai, chennai, customizable Northeast Holiday Packages, a scenic Northeast India honeymoon trip, or a romantic Gangtok-Darjeeling honeymoon to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of the region. Most trips usually begin from Guwahati or Bagdogra, as these are the main gateways to the Northeast and provide easy access to states like Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Sikkim.
You can choose the ideal travel route, duration, and destinations. For your ease, here’s a simple Northeast India trip planning guide with suggested package routing options for different types of travellers.
How to plan a Northeast India Trip
| PACKAGE NAME | PRICE | DURATION | INCLUSIONS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Himalayan Queen Darjeeling Tour | Rs.8,599/PP | 3 Nights / 4 Days | Meals, Accommodation, Transfer, Sightseeing | |
| 4N 5D Darjeeling & Gangtok Tour | Rs. 12,500/PP | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Meals, Accommodation, Transfer, Sightseeing | |
| Gangtok & Pelling Tour Package | Rs. 12,500/PP | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Meals, Accommodation, Transfer, Sightseeing | |
| Mesmerizing Darjeeling & Gangtok Tour | Rs. 16,000/PP | 5 Nights / 6 Days | Meals, Accommodation, Transfer, Sightseeing | |
| North East Delight with Pelling | Rs.19,000/PP | 6 Nights / 7 Days | Meals, Accommodation, Transfer, Sightseeing | |
| North East Delight with Pelling | Rs.21,000/PP | 6 Nights / 7 Days | Meals, Accommodation, Transfer, Sightseeing |
Among all these experiences, Northeast India is also becoming one of the most loved destinations for couples. Its romantic hill stations, peaceful lakes, cozy weather, and stunning Himalayan views make it perfect for a memorable honeymoon break.
What are the Ideal Places for a Honeymoon in Northeast India?
Northeast India provides the traveller with hazy mountains and charming hill towns, to peaceful monasteries and scenic lakes. The honeymoon places in Northeast India offer couples the perfect mix of romance, natural beauty, and unforgettable travel experiences. Here are the places couples should visit in Northeast India.
Shillong & Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
Shillong is known as the "Scotland of the East"; it offers cozy cafes and pine-scented air. A short drive away, Cherrapunji has epic waterfalls and the delightful living root bridges. Couples should take a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of the Umngot River in Dawki for the ultimate romantic experience. Lovers wanting to have these destinations as their next best trip could choose the Best Of Meghalaya Tour.
Gangtok, Sikkim
Couples who love snow and captivating mountain views should visit Gangtok. Lovers should explore the vibrant local cafes and visit calm monasteries.
Couples seeking a perfect escape to the mountains could choose the Gangtok-Darjeeling honeymoon package, and one of the best packages from Sharp Travels to explore Gangtok is the Delightful Gangtok And Darjeeling Tour.
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is hidden deep in the Himalayas. This place is ideal for couples seeking privacy and astounding white-snowy landscapes. The 17th-century Tawang Monastery will add a touch of spiritual peace to your romantic retreat.
Kaziranga, Assam
Lovers who want to combine romance with adventure, you can! You can by staying in luxury lodges and taking jeep or elephant safaris through Kaziranga National Park. For a good getaway to Kaziranga, choose the Adventurous Assam Tour Package.
