North East India

Northeast India, the paradise of hills, mountains, lush green vegetation, and the region of the Mighty Brahmaputra is among the least explored regions in the country. Situated amidst the Eastern Himalaya, Patkai, the Brahmaputra and Barak valley plains, the beauty of the Northeastern states is unparalleled. The mesmerizing sceneries coupled with incredible things to explore, northeast is undoubtedly one of the promising holiday destinations.

Northeast India comprises all the sates in the easternmost region of India i.e., Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim. The first seven states are collectively known as the seven sisters. The region shares an international border of about 5,182 kilometers with several neighboring countries namely, Tibet Autonomous Region, China, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan.

The earliest settlers are believed to be from Southeast Asia, followed by Tibeto-Burmese from China and Indo-Aryans speakers from Gangetic Plains. In the early historical period, most of the present-day Northeast belonged to the Kamarupa Kingdom. The northeastern states were established during the British Raj in the 19th and early 20th centuries. After Independence, the Northeastern region consisted of Assam and the princely states of Manipur and Tripura. Subsequently, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram were formed out of the large territory of Assam.

The northeastern region has some of the Indian subcontinent's last surviving rainforests. The third highest mountain peak in the world Kangchenjunga lies in the Northeast. Northeast is home to the world’s largest and smallest river islands Majuli and Umananda, respectively. The state of Arunachal is home to India’s largest monastery. The longest bridge in India (Dhola-Sadiya Bridge) is located in India connecting Assam and Arunachal. Manipur is home to the only floating lake in the world. Muga Silk (Golden Silk) is exclusively produced in the state of Assam.

Northeast is blessed with a rich culture and heritage. All the states have unique cuisines of their own. The Satriya dance from Assam and the Manipuri dance are classified under classical dances of India. Besides these, all the states have their folk dances and music. Bihu, Saga Dawa, Losar, Anthurium, Moatsu Mong are some of the important festivals. The tribal heritage of the region is popular for the practice of hunting, land cultivation and indigenous crafts. Their rich culture is evident in traditional attires.

The best time to visit northeast is between October to Mid May. If you are visiting northeast, you should try to add the following to your to-do list. Meet the one-horned rhino in Kaziranga and head to the river island Majuli. A visit to the mesmerizing tea gardens of Assam is also a must. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Himalayas at Tawang and visit the largest Buddhist Monastery.

In Meghalaya, visit the tallest plunge waterfalls- Nohkalikai waterfalls, the cleanest village in Asia and the only living root bridge in the world. The state of Sikkim has a lot to offer like river rafting, trekking, Gurudongmar lake, Cable Car ride, a walk down history through the Nathu La Pass.