travel itinerary for north east india

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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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The Seven Sister States - North East India Trip 

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Best time to visit, suitable for.

About This Itinerary

Northeast India is the easternmost region of India representing both a geographic and political administrative division of the country. It comprises eight states – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive guwahati.

Arrive at Guwahati airport, upon arrival meet our representative and proceed to visit Maa Kamakhya Temple. Later drive to Kaziranga . On reaching we check into the hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Kaziranga.

Kaziranga National Park

After breakfast today we will be going for a Jeep Safari in the Central zone of the Park for 2 hrs. Later return to the hotel and relax. After lunch visit Local market, Tea Garden and evening Orchid Park. Overnight stay in Kaziranga.

Kaziranga - Shillong

After breakfast and drive to Shillong. Enroute visiting the Umiam Lake or Barapani - is the biggest artificial lake in Meghalaya in the midst of sylvan hills adorned by Khasi pines & peerless beauty.Overnight stay in Shillong

Shillong – Dawki – Mawllynnong – Shillong

After breakfast we will drive towards Dawki (3 hrs) and visit the Indo-Bangla border and enjoy the boat ride at Umngot ride. Post lunch proceed to Mawlynnong village and also trek for 10 min to visit the Single Decker Living Root Bridge in Riwai village. Later proceed to Cherrapunjee and check into the hotel. Overnight at Shillong. MAWLYNNONG/MAWLYNNONG VILLAGE located in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, also referred as ‘God’s own garden’ has won the acclaim of being the cleanest village in Asia in 2003. The village known for its cleanliness is located around 90 kms from Shillong and is a community based ecotourism initiative. The community has made collective effort to maintain the ambience of a clean village. The village offers picturesque natural beauty, a trek to the Living Root Bridge at a neighboring village Riwai. The village also offers a sight of natural balancing rock, a strange natural phenomenon of a boulder balancing on another rock.

Shillong – Cherrapunjee - Shillong

After breakfast proceed towards to visit Elephant Falls and later drive to Cherrapunjee (2 hrs). On reaching visit Mawkdok Valley View Point, Seven Sister Falls, Nohkalikai Falls (the fourth highest falls in the world), Dainthlen Falls, Mawsmai LimeStone Cave, and Eco Park. Later return to the hotel and evening at leisure. Overnight stay at Shillong.

Shillong – Guwahati

After breakfast visit Don Bosco Museum and Cathedral Of Mary. Later after lunch drive to Guwahati (2 1?2 Hrs). On reaching visit Shankaradev Kalakshetra and Balaji Temple. Evening check into the hotel and relax. Overnight stay in Guwahati.

After breakfast if time permits visit Handloom & Handicraft Centre and drive to the airport.

Important Details

1.) Acknowledge Inner Line Permit of Northeast India 2.) Get Updates of the Constant Weather Change  

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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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How to spend 10 days in Northeast India

It’s a dream of every traveller to explore unexplored destinations. Gorgeous hills of Northeast India hide many unexplored places beneath it.  It is a calm and scenic getaway for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Hills of Northeastern terrain bring relaxation and peace of mind at the same time.  Pleasant waterfalls, scenic gorges, evergreen tea gardens, tall grasslands, Himalayan ranges touching the sky and tribal villages are some wonders of Northeast India. In this blog, you know about the best diy way to spend 10 days in Northeast India. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip to Northeast India, we hope our posts have given you some inspiration and useful tips for making the most of your journey.

Major destinations in Northeast India

When we think of visiting Northeast India the first thought which came to mind is the which are the best places to visit in Northeast India. Which route and travel circuit should I follow?  I am aware that eight states comprise of Northeast India.  Northeast is known as the land of seven sisters and one brother. It is a vast territory and takes more than a month to traverse through all the major attractions.

Finally, I decided to divide this region into 4 zones and plan the itinerary accordingly. On my first trip, I will visit, Assam – Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh in 10 days. On my second trip, I will visit Darjeeling and Sikkim. On my third trip, I will visit Kohima – Mizoram – Manipur and on my 4th trip in Northeast India, I will cover all the tribal villages in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.

Today I will write about my first trip to Northeast – How to spend 10 days in northeast India .

This time we plan our trip during Durga Puja vacation in the last week of October.  It’s the best time to visit Tawang and Kaziranga National Park . So we don’t want to miss an encounter with some giant mammals as well as the famous one-horned rhino.

Check Shillong Tawang Kaziranga tour for more details

Northeast India tour packages

The route followed in our 10 days Northeast India Tour plan

We follow the following route in our tour 

We start from Guwahati and spend the first day at Kaziranga. The next day we drive to Bomdila as shown in the map.

On the third day, we proceed to Tawang from Bomdila by following the route shown on the map.

On our last day, we returned to Guwahati from Dirang by following the below mentioned route via Kalaktang

Northeast India itinerary for 10 days

we followed the following 10 days northeast India itinerary so that we can spend our holiday in a relaxing way giving our attention and time in the best attractions we like to explore.

Day 1: Guwahati – Kaziranga

On our very fast day, we start from Guwahati early morning. Drive through the scenic NH 37 we reached Kaziranga at around 6 hrs. Kaziranga is a peaceful and calm place to spend some quality time amidst nature. Away from hustle and bustle, a tranquil and serene spot is waiting for you at Kaziranga. After reaching Kaziranga check in to a resort or a lodge and feel at one with nature. If you have time you can go for a Jeep safari in the dense forest.

Next day you can do early morning Elephant safari or Jeep safari in another range and bid adieu to the wonderful place and drive towards Bomdila. Check Kaziranga tour itinerary to know details about how to spend 2 days in Kaziranga National Park . 

Day 2: Bomdila

Bomdila is our next stop in our 10 days northeast India itinerary. Bomdila is the entry point of Buddhist predominant Arunachal. Marvel at the age-old monasteries adorned with bright and vibrant wall decorations. Surprise at the imposing Buddhist paintings drawn on the walls of the monasteries. Upper Gompa and Lower Gompa are two top monasteries worth a visit in Bomdila. Check-in at a hotel in Bomdila for the night and prepare for a long drive to Tawang next day.

Day 3: Tawang

On day 3 of our 10 days Northeast India tour, we will proceed to Tawang.  The best attractions are waiting for us enroute.  On our way, we visit Sela Lak e , Jaswant Garh war memorial and Nuranang Falls . Spend the night in a cosy hotel and relax after a long drive of 172 km.

Check an offbeat road trip to Tawang from Guwahati to read details about where to stay and what to do in Tawang.

Day 4: Tawang

Day four is the most exciting day of our journey. We visit Sangestar Tso Lake (Madhuri lake ) and all 3 stunning lakes of Tawang respectively Nagula Lake and Pangateng Tso Lake .  If you can collect permit to visit Bumla Pass then you can visit Bumla and Taktsang Gompa today.

Indulge your taste buds in Tawang and eat Tibetan dishes like Thukpa , Maggi and Pork or Chicken dishes along with a cup of butter tea .

How to visit Bumla pass

You need to hire a local taxi to visit Bumla pass and Madhuri Lake. You have to apply for permit one-day advance to visit Bumla.

What is the cost of a vehicle to visit Bumla pass

Generally, a local taxi will take Rs 5000 but if you want to visit Tak sung Gomapa on your trip this rate will increase slightly.

 Check top places to visit in Tawang to know details about all the top attractions in Tawang.

Day 5: Tawang – Dirang

On day 5 of our 10 days Northeast India tour, we visit Tawang Monastery , Tawang war memorial, Urgelling Monastery, Buddha Park and start travel to Dirang.

Dirang is another beautiful valley well decorated with flowing river Kameng (Jia Bharali) and lush hills which blend with skies in the top. It is also the home to some beautiful monasteries. It is the hub of age-old culture and traditions of Arunachal Pradesh.

Located on the top of a hill Dirang Dzong is a must-visit place near Dirang. It is also the starting point of several high altitudes treks. If you seek peace and solitude Sangti valley is another must-go destination just 15 km from Dirang valley.

Day 6: Dirang – Guwahati

Today is our last day in the land of rising sun Arunachal Pradesh. We returned to Guwahati via Kalaktang Highway and reached Guwahati in the evening.

On arrival relaxed in a hotel at Guwahati and gear up for another journey the following day.

Day 7: Guwahati – Cherrapunji

On day 7 of our 10 days Northeast India tour, we start our journey in a bit relaxing way. After having breakfast we pack our bag for another gorgeous destination amidst nature which is Cherrapunji. 

Cherrapunji is a thrilling place home to major waterfalls and caves in India. After 6 hrs of driving, we reached Cherrapunji. Today we relaxed in a heavenly resort in Cherrapunji and taste some mouth-watering Khasi ethnic food.

You may be interested in Planning a road trip in Meghalaya

Day 8: Cherrapunji

Today we explore Cherrapunji or Sohra. We start by visiting   Noh-Kalikai falls , Seven sisters falls , Mawsmai Cave , Awrah cave and Dainthlen waterfall . We spent the whole day enjoying waterfall hopping and relaxing in the gorgeous Eco-park and Thangkharang Park .

Read Monsoon in Meghalaya: What to see and do to know more about all the waterfalls and caves in Meghalaya.

Day 9: Dawki and Mawlynnong village

On day 9 of our 10 days Northeast India tour, we visit Dawki and indulge in some adventure activities and spend the night in the cleanest village in Asia the Mawlynnong village . If you are not into adventure then boating at Dawki river is the best choice for you. Apart from boating, you can enjoy angling, scuba diving, rafting and snorkelling in Shnongpdeng village near Dawki. Camping facility is also available on the bank of Umngot River for night stay.

Check Top 10 Thrilling Adventure Sports You Should Not Miss in Northeast India .

Day 10: Return to Guwahati

Today is our last day in Northeast India. Our thrilling 10 days in Northeast India tour conclude today.   It’s time to say goodbye to Meghalaya and return to Guwahati in the evening.

When to visit Northeast India

What is the best time to visit Northeast India is the question popping in your mind? You can visit North-East India at any time of the year. But its best to avoid monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and flood in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.

On the contrary, monsoon is the favorable season to visit Meghalaya. During monsoon waterfalls doted in every corner of Meghalaya looks precious with full volume water.

How to travel in Northeast India?

Guwahati is the most convenient and easy-accessible entry point for Northeast India tour. Railways and Airways connect major places in Assam and Guwahati with the rest of India.

Buses and shared taxis are available from point to point to travel around here. However, to indulge in a trip connecting all three sates Meghalaya, Arunachal and Assam its better to hire a private taxi from Guwahati. A private taxi will cost Rs 2000 – Rs 5000 per day basis depending on the place. Contact here to book a taxi for your Northeast India trip.

Like It! Pin It

This is a short itinerary of how to spend 10 days in Northeast India.   Since it is a hilly reason I would like to suggest you plan a relaxing holiday. With an exceptional array of places to visit there are a lot more to explore in Northeast India.

Related Read: Top 10 honeymoon destinations in Northeast India

Follow us to find more travel destinations you can uncover in Northeastern part of India.  If you want to know more about North-east or book a Northeast India tour like this write to us at [email protected].

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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.

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The Northeast Travel Guide

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The least explored, most mysterious and arguably the most beautiful region of India , the Northeast, known as the “Seven Sisters”, is connected to the rest of the country by a narrow stretch of land between Bhutan and Bangladesh, and was all but sealed off from the outside world until relatively recently. Arunachal Pradesh shares an extremely sensitive frontier with Chinese-occupied Tibet and, together with Nagaland , Manipur and Mizoram , a 1600km-long border with Myanmar.

Places to visit in Northeast India

Northeast india’s top cultural attractions, best time to visit northeast india, food and drink of northeast india, access, permits and tour operators.

Many insurgencies, caused by a vast ethnic diversity, have fractured the region since Independence, with tribal groups pushing for autonomy as well as fighting each other. A huge influx of Bangladeshis in the last decade and the displacement of many indigenous people has created further tension. Though there has been improvement in security in some areas, others remain disturbed with occasional clashes and armed conflict on the fringes. Permits are required for travel in certain regions, notably Arunachal Pradesh, while some other areas, such as the Manipur Hills and Nagaland’s eastern fringes, have open access but remain highly volatile. Tourists, however, are not a target of violence and the extraordinary diversity of peoples and spectacular landscapes make a visit to the region well worth the effort. One of the world’s wettest monsoon belts, the area also boasts an astounding array of flora and fauna, estimated to represent fifty percent of India’s entire biodiversity.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for India, created by local experts

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A Trek Through Ladakh's Markha Valley

Trek through the Markha Valley, taking in the jaw-dropping Himalayan landscape, camp in traditional mountain villages, and discover hilltop monasteries. This unique journey combines the culture of the Buddhist faith with the natural beauty of the mountains and the hustle and bustle of Delhi.

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The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Tailor-made trips for   India

Until the 1960s the region comprised just two states, the North East Frontier Agency – now Arunachal Pradesh – and Assam , but separatist pressures further divided it into the seven states, now officially joined by an eighth – Sikkim. Assam consists of the flat Brahmaputra valley. Its capital, Guwahati, has two of India’s most important ancient temples and is the gateway to the region, while an encounter with a one-horned rhino in the magnificent Kaziranga National Park is a highlight of any trip to the Northeast.

The other six states occupy the surrounding hills, and are quite distinct from the rest of India in landscape, climate and peoples. Meghalaya has beautiful lakes and includes the wettest places on earth, Cherrapunjee and Mawsynram. Its capital, Shillong, retains some of the colonial atmosphere from its days as east India’s summer capital. Majestic Arunachal Pradesh , one of India’s most remote states, is inhabited by a fascinating range of peoples, many of Tibetan origin. In the state’s northwestern corner, close to Bhutan, lies the Buddhist monastery of Tawang, in sight of the mountainous border with Tibet, while in the far northeast is the remote wilderness of Namdapha National Park. To the south, the lush mountains of Nagaland are home to fourteen distinctive tribal groups. Mizoram , in the Lushai Hills, is predominantly Christian and has one of the highest literacy rates in India.

Manipur is perhaps the most fractured of all the Northeast states and unsafe for travel off the beaten track, wracked by numerous insurgencies and inter-factional disputes. Tripura , on the other hand, with its long history of insurgency, is far more settled today, with plans for a major rail link and an improved road system; that said, you are still advised to exercise caution if travelling in the eastern hills. The people of Manipur are closely related to the neighbouring Burmese population. Tripura, bordered by Bangladesh on three sides (having been cut off from the Bangladeshi plains during the 1947 Partition), is distinctly Bengali to the west, while hill tribes make up the majority in the east.

Spot the rare one-horned rhino on a dawn jeep safari deep into the jungle where, with luck, you can see wild elephant or even tigers.

In India’s wettest state, entwined roots of the rubber tree form magnificent natural bridges, some centuries old, across waterways.

In a remote corner that was once Tibet, the largest Buddhist monastery in India maintains an ancient, unbroken tradition. The quiet chapel commemorating the sixth Dalai Lama lies close by.

A beautiful, remote wildlife park, bordering Burma, with habitat from steamy foothills up to the snow line, and home to a huge variety of wildlife including the Hoolock gibbon and elusive big cats.

An unmissable occasion and the highlight of the Northeast calendar, bringing together all the Naga tribes in their finery with music, dance and martial art displays.

Trek to a remote plateau of rolling green hills that is carpeted with flowers in the wet season.

Weather conditions are best from November to April, although the high-altitude areas of Arunachal, Meghalaya and Nagaland are extremely cold by December, and winter fog can disrupt road journeys. It rains heavily from May to the end of September, particularly in Meghalaya, but travel during this period has its own charm. In major cities such as Guwahati, Tezpur and Shillong, accommodation rates are not affected by the low season, but Kaziranga, Manas and the remote parts of Arunachal, Nagaland and Assam do offer off-season discounts.

Festivals in Northeast India

Religious festivals.

Manipur’s version of Holi is celebrated with the thabal chongba folk dance.

Konyak festival in the Mon region of Nagaland marking the arrival of spring.

The major festival of Assam, celebrated with singing, dancing and feasts in the villages, to mark the New Year and the onset of spring.

In spring before the new sowing season begins, this is the biggest harvest festival in Mizoram.

Celebrated by the Ao tribe in Nagaland after the sowing season.

The Apatanis of Ziro in Arunachal observe this agrarian festival in which animal sacrifices are common.

In Meghalaya, the Khasi tribe give thanks for the harvest over five days. Young men and women in traditional attire and heavy ornaments perform songs and dances at Smit, near Shillong.

Arunachal Pradesh festival of the Monpa people in Bomdila and Tawang, with colourful chaam (masked monastic dances) and religious ceremonies.

Music and cultural festivals

Four-day Central Arunachal outdoor music festival with apong (rice beer) and indie music, camping under the stars in the Ziro Valley.

This popular multiday urban music festival held its first Shillong edition in 2015 and is now slated to be an annual feature. Indian indie and global artists spanning genres of rock, funk, electro and more perform on various stages.

Held annually in Nagaland at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, this is among the Northeast’s largest occasion , showcasing the dance, music, food, games and intriguing culture of different local tribes.

Meat-based dishes, smoked, dried and pungent flavours, a liberal use of chilli and the distinct lack of typical Indian masala defines cuisine in the Northeast. The food is mostly mild, owing to the lack of spices that grow in the region, aside from some local herbs. Rice is a staple and the Tibetan momos and thukpa are ubiquitous. For drinks, salty yak-butter tea and local brews (known by various names including raksi , chang and apong ) made of millet, maize or rice are recommended to keep off the chill.

In Assam, try the xaag (leaf vegetables), fish tenga (a souring agent), pitika (a pungent vegetable mash) and khorika (meat on a skewer). Meghalaya tends to go heavy on the pork, with dishes such as doh neiiong (pork with black sesame seeds) and the staple jadoh (rice cooked in meat stock with pork). Meghalayan cooking also features liberal use of seasonal mustard leaves and mushrooms. At local markets in Arunachal you’ll find strings of churpi (fermented rock-hard yak’s cheese), lai patta (mustard spinach) and dried river fish. Churpa, popular in Arunachal kitchens, is a pungent cheese stew with meat and vegetables. Naga cuisine consists of smoked, dried meats, bamboo shoot, anishi (dry yam leaves) and akhuni (fermented soy bean); wild herbs are used as flavouring agents. The star, of course, is the bhut jolokia or the king chilli, among the hottest in the world. Thalis are common in Manipur, with side dishes such as singju (raw papaya and chickpea salad) and iromba (fish and veg chutney) accompanying rice and fish or meat curries.

Mizo cuisine is fairly bland, consisting of forest vegetables and smoked meats; bai (vegetable stew with dry soy bean) is a staple.

Fish is abundant in Tripura , and berma , a pungent fermented fish paste, is used as flavouring.

The Indian Government is currently investing to boost both local and international tourism to the region, and regulations have become quite relaxed. However, check the latest information with the Indian Embassy, Consulate, tourist office or visa agency before travelling. It is best to get permits while in India through a tour operator or by yourself in Guwahati.

Currently Arunachal Pradesh is the only one of the seven states that requires foreign visitors to obtain Restricted or Protected Area Permits (US$50 for a maximum of thirty days) prior to entry. Parties should theoretically consist of a minimum of two, accompanied by a travel agent, though in practice you can get away with saying the second person was “delayed”. Allow up to five working days to obtain the permit. Mizoram and Manipur currently only require registration on arrival at the entry point at the border. Indian nationals do require Inner Line Permits for Nagaland if travelling beyond Dimapur, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh prior to entry. Those Indians travelling to Mizoram by road will also need an ILP, but for those arriving by air, permits are issued on arrival. ILPs for Arunachal can be obtained online .

Make several photocopies of your passport and permits while travelling through the region. To obtain Inner Line Permits, Indian citizens should apply with two passport photographs to representatives of the state governments concerned. Applications should only take a day to process, and can be extended for up to six months in the relevant state capital. Passes are valid for the full period they are allocated for, no matter how many times you enter and exit a state.

Recommended tour operators

• Explore Nagaland Well-organized tour operator whose services range from arranging local guides to entire itineraries.
• Greener Pastures Experienced tour operator with fixed and tailor-made eco-friendly tours that focus on wildlife, tribes, Buddhism and trekking.
• The Holiday Scout Arunachal-based tour operator organising a range of excellent customised tours, from rural homestays to photography tours and women-only adventures.
• Himalayan Holidays They focus on western Arunachal and Tawang but have a good network throughout the Northeast and offer a number of treks.
• Jungle Travels India Offering wildlife and tailor-made tours, including luxury river cruises through its sister outfit, Assam Bengal Navigation .
• Purvi Discovery Upmarket operator that specializes in tea tours as well as wildlife, birding, golf, riding and tribal culture.

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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5 Days Northeast Itinerary – A Step Closer To Heaven

If you are looking for a perfect getaway with every flavour of tourism added in the right amount, then visiting northeast India can be a wise choice. Standing as home to the Seven Sister States with a unique range of attractions at every place, a trip to the Northeast will feel like living a dream. Right from the dense forests to ancient monasteries to snow-capped mountains to beautiful landscapes to breathtaking waterfalls, the Northeast has every element to make your trip super exciting and memorable. It consists of 8 states with amazing tourist destinations – Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh . To try out these amazing places, choose this 5 days Northeast itinerary which would help you explore the Northeast with having enough time to spend at each place.

5 Days Northeast itinerary

Here is everything about how your 5 days at northeast India will go. Your trip will start in Assam where you have your visit to the very famous Kaziranga National Park. Followed by that, you will be visiting Shillong , Cherrapunji and Guwahati on the rest of your days there. From sightseeing in Shillong to shopping in the streets of Guwahati, your getaway to the Northeast will be nothing short of amazing.

Some of the popular tourist attractions you will be visiting are Nohkalikai Falls , Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Arwah Cave, Shillong Peak, Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, and Kamakhya Temple. Whether you are looking for an exciting trip or a relaxing trip, the Northeast gives you the best. Read on to know more about this amazing package which would you tell you how exciting your 5 days at the Northeast will be:

Day-wise itinerary

So, here it goes:

Day 1 – Arrival into Assam

On the first day of the trip, you will land at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati. From the airport, take a cab and reach the hotel in Kaziranga. Complete all the check-in procedures and take good rest. And, in the second part of the day, you will start exploring Kaziranga. I am sure Jeep Safari in Kaziranga National Park would have crossed your mind when I mentioned Kaziranga. So, you will start your sightseeing by visiting this top attraction to enjoy the pure beauty of nature by opting for a jeep safari. Be prepared to spot the wildlife really close to your eyes and get stunned at almost every minute while you are there. The park stands as a beautiful home to elephants, one-horned rhinoceros, wild water buffaloes and swamp deers. After exploring the park, return to the hotel for a peaceful night stay.

Day 2 – Kaziranga to Shillong

On the next day, at early in the morning, be prepared for a thrilling elephant safari as a part of your Kaziranga tour. What is the tour all about? So, you will be exploring the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam on elephant’s back. Don’t you think it’s an experience of a lifetime? The elephant safari in Kaziranga National Park is the most loved activity of all and gets everyone excited in no time. After exploring, make your way back to the hotel and have your breakfast. Post which, complete all the check-out formalities and hire a cab to proceed to Shillong. The day is at leisure so you can just explore the nearby places.

Day 3 – An excursion to Cherrapunji from Shillong

On the 3rd day of the 5 days Northeast itinerary, you will be taking an excursion to Cherrapunji. Have your breakfast at the hotel in Shillong and hire a cab to reach Cherrapunji or you can call it the wettest place on Earth. And, in the second part of the day, you will visit Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, Mawsmai cave and Arwah cave.

Nohkalikai Falls:  Pristine waters falling from the height of 1115 feet, the Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India . Be ready for a jaw-dropping experience.

Seven Sisters Falls:  Gracefully located in the south of Mawsmai village is the Seven Sisters Falls, a breathtaking beauty.

Mawsmai Cave: The Mawsmai cave is one of the very famous attractions that you must visit in Cherrapunji. This is one place where the tourists flock all year round as it is one of the best caves in Meghalaya.

Arwah Cave:  If you are a nature lover, then you must visit Arwah Cave. Standing as home to a diverse variety of flora and fauna, this place is a must-visit.

Once you covered all the above places, head back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 4 – Sightseeing at Shillong

Have your breakfast and gear up for sightseeing at Shillong. Here, you will be exploring Shillong Peak, Umiam Lake and Elephant Falls.

Shillong Peak:  Visit this iconic attraction for witnessing some breathtaking views.

Umiam Lake:  A gorgeous man-made lake which is well known for its pleasant ambience is the Umiam Lake, a must-visit in Shillong.

Elephant Falls:   Elephant Falls is one of the top attractions to visit. This place is also referred to as ‘The Three Step Waterfall’ as you will see three different parts of falls there.

Post which, proceed to Guwahati and complete the check-in procedures.

Day 5 – Departure from Guwahati

On the final day of 5 days Northeast itinerary, pack your bags, have a delicious breakfast and complete all the check-out formalities. After that, hire a cab and head to the Kamakhya Temple, the last place on the itinerary. Get some blessings and reach the airport as your 5 days Northeast itinerary comes to an end.

Kamakhya Temple: It’s time for some blessings at the Kamakhya Temple. The highlight of the temple is that it has four chambers which were constructed between the 8th and the 17th century.

So, started imagining yourself being in the Northeast? With the perfect blend of awe-striking nature and thrilling wildlife experiences , the Northeast becomes one among the must-visit destinations for every traveller. So, what are you waiting for? Visit the website of Pickyourtrail and get some cool packages to the Northeast in India . Choose this 5 days Northeast itinerary and explore the best that this part of India has to offer.

Take that much-deserved break and explore the unexplored tourist places in the Northeast! Book your domestic or International tour packages through Pickyourtrail to enjoy a hassle-free vacation.

Preetha Manivelan

230 posts published., related itineraries.

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Inspiring green journeys to North East India

Thrown across the farthest reaches of India, obscured from the greater world by ageless forests and formidable mountain ranges, the Northeast States are one of Asia’s last great natural and anthropological sanctuaries. Sharing borders with Bhutan, Tibet, Nepal, Myanmar (Burma) and Bangladesh, these remote frontiers are a region of rugged beauty and a collision zone of ancient tribal cultures, rich wildlife, untouched landscapes and original peoples.

Endless freedom

The Northeast is divided between the fertile Brahmaputra plain, dry or wet jungles, high plateaus and Himalayan foothills. Outdoor activities such as trekking, rafting, kayaking and mountain biking are still pioneering here. Essentially naturalistic, rich in varied discoveries, unusual encounters and anthropological experiences, taking place in magnificent, often unspoilt landscapes. This Eastern Himalayas, formerly known as the “Indo-Burmese”, has been identified, along with Bhutan and southern Nepal, as a global biodiversity hotspot. Endowed with numerous national parks (2 of which are recognized by UNESCO) and wildlife sanctuaries, Northeast India is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers.

Travel itineraries by activity :

• Horse Riding

Rafting & Angling

Festivals of northeast india.

Explore our handcrafted itineraries

You can discover some of our 60+ example itineraries in Northeast India and around. You can browse them either by State (Menu : 7 sisters > State > Tours) or by a highlighted experience or activity (Thematics). These tours have been designed and developed based on our on-ground team’s real discoveries and expeditions in the northeastern states and beyond.

Here are a few examples (Slide right or left) :

In the ancient lands of the kingdom of Sikkim, at the crossroads of

In the ancient lands of the kingdom of Sikkim, at the crossroads of Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet, it is a unique human adventure that we offer you to live.

In the ancient lands of the kingdom of Sikkim, at the crossroads of Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet, it is a unique human adventure that we offer you to live. The welcoming inhabitants will

Spread from 1700 to 2400 m high, the wide-open landscape of the Ziro

Spread from 1700 to 2400 m high, the wide-open landscape of the Ziro Valley is an earthly paradise. Lush, pond filled open expanses of paddy and millet

Spread from 1700 to 2400 m high, the wide-open landscape of the Ziro Valley is an earthly paradise. Lush, pond filled open expanses of paddy and millet are dotted with hills covered

Tripura is one tiny state of India which has a diverse mixture of

Tripura is one tiny state of India which has a diverse mixture of culture in course of time. The name Tripura has many speculations but most popular is

Tripura is one tiny state of India which has a diverse mixture of culture in course of time. The name Tripura has many speculations but most popular is ‘tui’ (water) + ‘pra’ (near).

The Brahmaputra River (named as the Son of the Creator of the Cosmos,

The Brahmaputra River (named as the Son of the Creator of the Cosmos, in Hindu mythology) is one of the holiest rivers of the World! Possibly, the only

The Brahmaputra River (named as the Son of the Creator of the Cosmos, in Hindu mythology) is one of the holiest rivers of the World! Possibly, the only river of the world which is considered

Discover the Sundarbans National Park, which unfolds its authentic

Discover the Sundarbans National Park, which unfolds its authentic and magical landscapes for adventure-seeking travellers on a 5-day cruise. Between India

Discover the Sundarbans National Park, which unfolds its authentic and magical landscapes for adventure-seeking travellers on a 5-day cruise. Between India and Bangladesh, a UNESCO

Tailor-made itineraries

You already made your travel plan or you only have a rough idea about it .

Tell us here more about it and we will guide you through the travel planning and create bespoke tour proposals which are quoted around your requirements and budget. This gives you the freedom of visiting your choicest places and enables us to create the perfect holiday for you.

The customizer is easy to use and takes from 2 to 5 min to complete. Most questions are optional so you can skip them when you don’t know yet what to select at this stage :

Ask the travel expert

Not yet thinking about travel planning .

If you have any query about Northeast India or traveling here, we will be glad to answer them.

Why Travel with Eastern Routes ?

We created Eastern Routes to show the curious travelers the hidden jewels of Northeast India while contributing to preserve its natural beauty we felt in love with. Here are some reasons why we think you should trust us to shape your adventure :

As a local travel expert, we know the best places and timings

100% tailor-made travel experience

We are a local travel agency and contract directly with local drivers and accommodation owners

The 50+ Handcrafted showcased Itineraries are only the tip of the iceberg

Preserving the diversity of Cultures as well as the Natural environment is our ecotourism mission

Hassle-free formalities for Indian Visa and special permit for Arunachal Pradesh

The Green Team

Eco-entrepreneur, International Tourism MBA Laurige is a Nature, People and Birds lover.

Material & Graphic Designer Kriya is specialist of Northeastern Crafts.

Engineer-entrepreneur Alex traveled in 4 of the 7 sisters.

Raju is our main driver He has travelled every nook and corner of the 7 Sisters.

Survival Trainer He loves to share his gigantic knowledge and primitive skills.

What people says about our Services

Eastern Route organized my travel in Northeast India. Choices of places to visit, accommodation and driver were very good. I received a warm welcome from him and he really cared about my happiness and my satisfaction. I also feel that he knows this area of India very well, and that gives me the desire to come back and discover this area with his experience.

I can testify that the services of this young but seasoned outfitter are not only professionally top-notch, but mostly wise and eco-friendly: the staff and the owner/manager act in all situations with high standards of ethics, respect of the local communities and values, constant care of the environment or how to alleviate our impact, attention to detail and altogether the sincere love of the job well done. In particular, I recall the experiences of in-depth immersion within local homes and tribal villages of Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya and Assam: each time, when we parted, our hosts and ourselves were filled with the same sense of rich moments shared together, and a better understanding of our common humanity, which, for real travellers, rank as invaluable treasures.

If you're looking for a true adventure in one of the most exciting and untouched parts of India then get in touch with Laurige at Eastern Routes. Although i'm quite well travelled in some remote parts of the world, nothing prepared me for the remoteness and sheer experience of trekking in the upper Konyak region of Nagaland. The natural beauty, sense of adventure and overwhelming kindness and hospitality of these once feared headhunters resulted in probably the trip of my lifetime to date. This was down to Laurige's meticulous research, solid grasp of Hindi (he's French) and warm character that was able to open doors for us as we went along on our journey. if you're a seasoned traveller and are looking for a new frontier, look no further the NE India, a place we seldom notice, yet is full of secrets and surprises beyond our imaginations. After years of explorations, Eastern Routes have got the region covered with some fantastic tours and adventures .10/10.

We traveled twice with Eastern Routes, once in Meghalaya in 2017 and in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in 2018. We highly recommend their services, they are very professional, have a real expertise on North-East, and offer unique trips to remote places off the most traveled routes. We will definitely travel with Laurige and his team again! Looking forward our next trip with Eastern Routes 🙂

After travelling a little bit everywhere in India, came to us the idea of visiting two states : Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland. We asked Eastern Routes to organize our 12-days holidays from a program we made (Driver and hotel bookings). The main highlight was the good English of the driver, a big part of the trip success.

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Ultimate North East India Travel Guide and North East India itinerary

North East India is a region made up of eight very diverse states in the easternmost part of the country which, in many ways, are very distinct from the rest of India. After traveling for several months around North East India, here is our ultimate North East India travel guide and North East India itinerary, in which we collected all the information and experience gained during our travels in this part of the world!

If you’re thinking of traveling to North East India, we can only encourage you to go, as we truly believe that it is one of the world’s most diverse regions. Our North East India travel guide should have you covered with all the information you need!

Table of Contents

Where is North East India?

North East India is the easternmost part of India, an alcove which is almost completely separated from the rest of India (called ‘mainland India’ by Northeasterners) by Bangladesh and Nepal . North East India shares borders with Myanmar , Bangladesh, China (Tibet), Bhutan and Nepal.

Constituting North East India are the Seven Sisters (the states Assam , Meghalaya , Tripura , Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland , Manipur and Mizoram ) and Sikkim (affectionately referred to as the brother). Our North East India itinerary includes all of the Seven Sisters but not Sikkim, since it was too cold to visit when we were there, and as you may be aware, we don’t do cold very well (brrrrrr!!!).

Weather conditions aside, there are also several parts of Sikkim which foreigners are not allowed to visit, so we preferred spending more time in the other North Eastern states.

Why is North East India so special?

The states of North East India are geographically and culturally diverse, with different tribes inhabiting the regions, all of which feel like worlds apart from the people in mainland India. The states of North East India feel like another country altogether sometimes!

There are too many tribes in North East India (close to 150) to list them all separately in this North East India travel guide, ( though Wikipedia does a good job of it! ), however you should know that tribal communities usually have their own distinct culture, dress, heritage, cuisine and even language.

Not only are the Seven Sisters, wildly culturally intriguing, being home to some of the last remaining head hunters , but feature plenty of attractions, such as the world’s only floating park , the largest concentration of one-horned rhinos , ancient huge faces carved in the rock , and the world’s largest inhabited floating island , all set to keep visitors engrossed.

Indeed, we spent three months exploring the area and quickly came to realise that this period was far from enough, although our North East India itinerary did provide a comprehensive introduction of all the Seven Sister states, including many of the more prominent attractions!

North East India Travel Guide

How much time do i need to travel around north east india.

Honestly, as much as you have. Traveling around North East India is no piece of cake, and although distances might look short(ish), travel times are way longer than you would hope for, this due to the very poor road conditions in some areas. Our North East India itinerary will guide you to exactly where you should go to visit all the top attractions.

Do keep in mind that traveling around the area is also very uncomfortable (except perhaps for travel in Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya, since the road conditions are better there compared to the other states), and you might need longer breaks to recover from the actual commutes. There is very poor tourism infrastructure, and although attractions are plentiful, they might be out of the way and require long travel times and complex logistics to get to.

In this this North East India travel guide, we will show you exactly where to go and how to get there to maximise on making the most out of your travel time.

Should I travel independently or take a guided tour around North East India?

If you have the budget, we really recommend you use the services of a tour company, ideally hiring both a guide and a driver. There are parts of North East India which you simply cannot visit unless you have you have your own private vehicle.

We unequivocally recommend Holiday Scout for your travels in North East India if you would like to use a tour company. Although we traveled in many parts independently following our North East India itinerary, we used the services of Holiday Scout for the more difficult parts, especially in Arunachal Pradesh, and we were more than impressed with the quality of service and the genuine love for North East India, which Sange and his team have, and impart.

If, on the other hand, you choose to travel around North East India independently, as we show you in this North East India travel guide, we do advise you to at least use a driver and guides in some parts. Whilst traveling around Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura was quite plain-sailing, organizing transport in Arunachal, Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland was more laborious.

In some parts of the country, a guide can also provide you with insight about the area’s culture, traditions and history to understand it better. Indeed, our time in Ziro Valley would not have been the same without the services of our guide there. During our tour , he realized that there was an ongoing animist ritual in one of the local’s homes, and to our delight, proceeded to ask the owners whether we could observe the shaman conducting the ritual. Truly a memorable experience which we would never have had without his help.

Transportation in North East India

The sumo – all you need to know about it (and why you’ll hate it).

The main mode of transport in some of the states of North East India such as Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland is the “shared taxi” by way of the Sumo (Tata Sumo). This because most conventional vehicles are unsuitable for navigating the truly terrible, almost impassable roads in these states. A sumo is pretty much a Tata Sumo MPV that should, in design, hold about seven passengers and one driver, but is usually carrying double that.

Typically, in a shared sumo, four people are sitting in the middle and the back rows with one to two people next to the driver. However, we have been on rides on which five people are in the middle row and three people seated next to the driver. Never underestimate the packing talent of Indians! Safely assume that if there is room available, it will be filled, no questions asked!

Spend over ten hours in the same position on the terrible roads, and you’ll wonder why you’re in North East India at all. Until you stop for a pee break, with some fantastic view of the Himalayas that is, and you’re back to being fine with the North East for a few minutes until its time to get on the sumo again!

Nikki and I found seats 1 and 2 (next to the driver) to be the most comfortable and we would try to book those when available (you can specify seat numbers when booking). Still, the sumo in North East India is probably the most uncomfortable mode of transportation that we have ever experienced in all our travels. We would spend our evenings counting the different bruises on our bodies, sometimes after a 12-hour ride, with barely a possibility of changing a limb’s position, so much so that it becomes heavy and numb after a few hours.

Seats 5 and 6 in the middle row (driver side) are the second most comfortable seats. Seats 3 and 4 (middle row passenger side) are as comfortable as 5 and 6, but have the disadvantage of being next to the rear row gateway, and if you’re on these seats you will need to keep getting in and out of the vehicle every time someone wants to get to the back row. The seats on the back row are placed right on top of the wheel and are the least comfortable of all.

You will want to carry as light a day pack as possible when traveling by sumo since you will have to hold it on your lap (you may put it on the roof with your main pack if you wish, but there’s no guarantee that its contents will make it whole).

Toilet breaks (and the occasional food stop) do occur, and are roughly timed once every two to three hours of travel. In some instances, a fancy bush will have to do, on some occasions much preferable to the random eastern toilet.

Many a time, in the remote villages of Arunachal Pradesh, the only transport is in the form of a single sumo which runs once daily. We really advise you to buy tickets beforehand, days in advance if possible. Also, if you have the budget for it, you can buy more than a single seat so as to sit more comfortably, however be aware that this is the only means of transport for the locals too in some places, so be mindful of the fact that you are taking up space in what is perhaps the only vehicle running out of town that day! We suggest being conscious, and buying more than one seat only if this is available after all the locals have bought their seats.

If you decide to go on tour or hire a local driver with a private sumo, your commute will of course be way more comfortable. Although we show you how to travel independently in this North East India travel guide, there’s little doubt that North East India is one of those places where having a private vehicle makes everything a hundred times easier!

Vans (Mini Buses)

In the states where the general road infrastructure is decent, such as Assam and Meghalaya, shared vans do a pretty good of navigating the roads. Shared vans will include their destination on the windscreen and board people up along the route. They are typically not over-crowded and comfortable enough. This is the fastest way to travel longer routes, and it would be ideal to include as many vans as possible as means of transportation on your North East India itinerary.

As in the rest of India, buses run most of the routes, unless the road infrastructure is too bad. Small state buses run short routes, whilst other larger state buses with space for luggage cross state borders as well.

They are usually very affordable and pretty decent, though cleanliness may be an issue. State buses are marked – for eg. ASTC (Assam State Transport Corporation) in Assam, NST (Nagaland State Transport) in Nagaland and so on.

Tempos/Rickshaws

These little motorized vehicles can take 4-6 people and are very useful for short inter-city distances. They aren’t great if you are carrying luggage, but hiring the whole tempo will usually cost around RS 60 (about €0.75) depending on the distance, whilst a single seat will cost something like Rs 10 (about €0.15). If you choose the shared tempo option, you will be likely charged also for your pieces of luggage.

Oh, what can we say, good luck! Besides the abysmal safety record, scheduling seems to be subject to many conditions, more to do with the pilot’s mood rather than weather. Booking ahead is next to impossible and luggage restrictions can also be prohibitive for whoever, like us, has not mastered the art of light packing. On the flip side, a trip doesn’t break the bank and can be quite an experience, if you make it back to ground level to tell the story!

The different states have a central booking office usually situated in the state’s capital. The only means of connecting to these offices is by phone (forget internet and email), or preferably in person, during office hours, not too early or too late, in between lunch, toilet, coffee and cigarette breaks.

Internal Flights

A number of options servicing the state capitals exist, and are usually good value since they are serviced by low cost favorites such as IndiGO, AirAsia and Air India. Do keep in mind that the schedules are infrequent, though typically reliable. Check these schedules on Kiwi !

You may want to also refer to our transportation in Arunachal Pradesh section in this blog post .

Connectivity in North East India

Before traveling in North East India, we had decided to buy sim cards from as many providers as possible so as to ensure that we would be as well-connected when traveling in North East India, since we were waiting for some urgent news and needed data.

This meant securing a BSNL sim card too, most definitely the hardest to obtain (it took over a week, a bureaucratic mountain which complements the Himalaya range pretty well). Expect to be asked for several documents and confirmation from a host (among many other complications). By the time we arrived in North East India, we were carrying sim cards from Vodafone, BSNL, Jio and Airtel.

Although Jio provided the fastest data and good service in mainland India, at the time of our visit it was useless in some parts of the North East such as Arunachal Pradesh. It had the best service in Meghalaya and in some parts of Assam though. Airtel was probably the most consistent of all (and the only provider which worked in Longwa too), hardly ever losing connectivity, whilst Vodafone was good too (and the only provider which worked in Aalo). BSNL is pretty crappy everywhere, except for parts where it would be the only sim card with some service.

We strongly recommend getting your sim cards at the airport when you arrive in India. Getting it anywhere else can be a nightmare, unless you know locals who can help you and vouch for you. Providers seem to be very wary of selling sim cards to tourists, and few know what to do and which forms to fill up for tourists. Be prepared to provide copies of your passport and visa, together with a passport photo.

Data packages are incredibly cheap compared to Europe. A sim card with unlimited data (about 1 GB/day) for 84 days cost around Rs 700 (about €9), with cheaper packages depending on what you’re looking for. The price was probably hiked up too, so we believe they are actually cheaper, though considering all the drama involved in getting them, we weren’t about to argue about the price too, as long as they all worked well (which they did, in bursts).

Keep in mind that sim cards will require activation, which is not immediate, and usually takes well over the stipulated 24 hours!

Most of the sim cards are only valid for three months and cannot be topped up further, so you would need to go through the whole process to get a new sim, after expiry, if you need it for longer. It was all a little confusing at best – a couple of the sims did not expire when we expected them too!

Accommodation in North East India

Forget the luxury hotels. There’s no luxury in North East India, although some guest houses can be rather fancy. Further down in this North East India travel guide and North East India itinerary, we will suggest some accommodation options close to the main places to visit in North East India, however be aware that guesthouses may be rather basic especially in the remote villages.

Hot water is a blessing, especially in some places where it gets cold at night. Sometimes, hot water is provided in a bucket, heated in the kitchen with a large immersion heater. You will probably need to pay a little bit extra for it, but rest assured that you get your full money’s worth!

In the most remote areas, guesthouses will also provide breakfast and dinner if you warn them in advance, but be sure to do so – don’t expect them to just offer it to you.

Very few guesthouses or homestays provide wifi in North East India so don’t expect it! Accommodation in North East India is usually pricier than that in mainland India, mostly due to lack of options. A semi-decent room with a private bathroom in guesthouses or homestays can easily cost about Rs 1500 (about €19) in many places, although larger cities provide for more affordable options too.

Homestays are a great source of local experience, and they were most definitely our preferred accommodation type in North East India. This is where you get to experience traditional family life and all of our hosts were incredibly welcoming. Some of the best homestays are not listed on any website so contact Sange at The Holiday Scout who would be able to arrange some great accommodation options for you, or refer to our Places to Visit in North East India section, further down in this North East India travel guide, where we have listed some accommodation options.

Booking.com

Food in North East India

You’re probably wondering whether the food in North East India is similar to the heavy gravies of North India or the lighter, spicier South India food. Truth is, it’s absolutely nothing like the two major Indian cuisines.

The food in North East India is, first of all, specific to each state and tribe preparing it, and tends to be far more ‘dry’ when compared to mainland Indian cuisine. Fear not, thalis are popular in most of the Seven Sisters, with the Assamese thali and the Manipuri thali being our two regional favourites.

Most of the dishes in North East India are prepared without too much frying or addition of ghee and other fats, and hence are considered to be healthier than those found in mainland India. North East Indian cuisine also tends to lean quite heavily on meats and fish, and there are far less vegetarians in this part of India than there are in the rest of India. You can only guess why this region was Nikki’s preferred one!

In this North East India travel guide, we’re including a short summary of the typical food in North East India by state:

Arunachal Pradesh

Dumplings and noodles are very common in Arunachal Pradesh which borders China and Bhutan. Momos, thukpa and fried rice or noodles are found on every menu although once you go to different regions of Arunachal Pradesh, such as Ziro Valley, you will realise that other delicacies such as larvae and frogs are commonly eaten too.

Be sure to try the amazing yak cheese curry and Apong, a fermented alcoholic drink! Related:  Explore Arunachal Pradesh with our Itinerary

Nagas are reputed to eat ‘anything’ and indeed traditional Nagamese cuisine includes some exotic items not usually found in other North East Indian menus! A typical meal includes rice, fish and/or meat and vegetables, but be sure to ask about the meat, since dog is eaten quite regularly (and is rather tasty according to Michelle)! Silkworm and bee larvae are also eaten as snacks whilst bamboo shoots also feature in Nagamese dishes. Be sure to try the very tasty Anishi and Axone in Nagaland! Related: Meeting the Konyak Tribe in Nagaland

Many people, claim that Manipuri cuisine is the best in all of North East India and although we did not prefer it to the food in the other states, we agree that it is pretty good! The Manipuri locals love fish and different fish dishes will feature in a Manipuri thali accompanied by various vegetable and herb dishes. Related: Exploring Imphal and Loktak Lake in Manipur

We thought that Mizoram had one of the least exciting cuisines in North East India in that the dishes tend to be rather bland and boiled chicken is literally, just that. Vegetables are often boiled too although mustard oil, ginger and garlic are sometimes used. Related: Places to Visit in Mizoram – Day Trips from Aizawl

Permits for North East India

We have tried to include the latest information with regards to permits in this North East India travel guide, however be aware that the permit situations tends to change rapidly in this part of the world, so always refer to official sources for the latest information regarding permits.

Foreigners will be glad to know that permits are now only required for Arunachal Pradesh, whilst the other six states of the Seven Sisters can be entered permit-free (permits are required for some parts of Sikkim but we are not writing about Sikkim in this post).

Foreigners require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for visiting Arunachal Pradesh, which needs to be shown whenever it is requested, which is very often, i.e., at every hotel, homestay and guesthouse. Make sure to make multiple (spelt dozens of) copies prior to your visit. The PAP can conveniently be obtained via a tour agency such as The Holiday Scout. We have read that tourists sometimes manage to obtain it independently from Guwahati, but we also noted that it took several days to be processed, and we have not confirmed this ourselves, opting instead for the more reassuring process.

Indian nationals required an ILP (Inner Line Permit) for Nagaland, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh. More recently, Manipur has been added to that list, although at the time of writing, the ILP  requirement has not yet been fully implemented in Manipur. Indian citizens can sometimes apply online for the permits, but the permits are state-specific and each state issues separate requirements for applying for the ILP.

Festivals in North East India

In case we have not yet tempted you into visiting North East India, you should know that the festivals in North East India are absolutely spectacular. North East Indians love celebrating and this is clearly demonstrated in the sheer amount of festivals held all around the Seven Sisters.

We were in Nagaland specifically for the Hornbill Festival and planned our North East India itinerary around it, but we came across at least two other festivals by chance during our time in the North East. Worth mentioning are the very popular Ziro Music Festival in Arunachal Pradesh, held in September, and the Tawang Festival in the same state held in October. Losar in February is another very important festival in Arunachal!

Ambubachi Mela, held in Guwahati during the month of June is one of the most-attended festivals in Assam, whilst the Wangala Festival in Meghalaya during November, celebrates the harvest.

The Manipur Sangai Festival showcase Manipuri traditions and cultures and is named after its rare species of deer which we were so lucky to catch a glimpse of !

The Nagaland Hornbill Festival, held in December, is without a doubt one of the biggest festivals in the North East and one of our favourite experiences in India. Here’s all you need to know about the Hornbill festival!

Expenses for North East India Travel

North East India tends to be a more expensive destination than the rest of mainland India (bar for a few specific regions such as the Andaman Islands ), but not prohibitively so. There are fewer accommodation options in North East India with more expensive rooms. We totally recommend staying at homestays wherever possible, though again, these are not always the cheaper option.

Many of the roads in the North East are terrible, and transportation can be very slow, infrequent, very uncomfortable and surprisingly expensive (relatively speaking).

During our 84 days in North East India we spent Rs 3005/day for the both of us – that’s about €37/day for two people… or €18.50 each/day, including all accommodation, food, transport like buses, trains, sumos and even internal flights, entrance fees, and everything else. Although we were traveling on a budget, we made it a point to travel as much as we could and as far as we could, visiting as many sights and attractions as possible.

Of course, expenses can be reduced by using hosting apps such as couchsurfing, living with locals, sleeping in dorms, traveling more slowly, visiting less attractions and thus reducing entrance fees and other means, but that, quite frankly, is not our preferred style of traveling.

North East India Itinerary

If you want to visit all of the Seven Sisters, you need quite a bit of time, although we did notice quite a few domestic tourists trying to see a million sights in one day and moving on to a different state the following day. We really advise you to plan out your North East India itinerary carefully and spend enough time to enjoy each individual destination.

Most people could not believe that we spent three months in North East India. Many Indians told us that there’s no need to spend more than 2-3 weeks to see the Seven Sisters! Honestly, there’s so much to see and to do in North East India that you won’t get to experience in any other part of the country, that you will soon realise that no matter how much time you plan on staying there, its never enough.

We are including our North East India itinerary in this section of our North east India travel guide to help you plan out yours. We traveled through Arunachal Pradesh first, throughout the end of October till the end of November, since we were aware that it would be the coldest part and we didn’t want it to get any colder.

We really wanted to get to Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival by early December, so we visited Majuli Island and Kaziranga National Park in Assam before that. Nagaland was followed by Manipur, Mizoram for the Christmas period, then Tripura, and we left Meghalaya for January.

All the trips were done overland by bus, taxi, sumo and where available, by train, except for one flight from Aizawl in Mizoram to Agartala in Tripura.

Top Places to Visit in North East India by State

Here are the top places to visit in the Seven Sisters listed in the same order we visited them on our North East India itinerary. We have individual blog posts about each destination, but we’re including a short summary of why you should visit each place.

Arunachal Pradesh is packed with snow-capped mountains and valleys which makes travel within rather difficult. Nevertheless, it is in our opinion, the most beautiful and rewarding of the Seven Sisters, with its gorgeous vistas and Himalayan traditions.

Bomdila and Dirang

Our adventure in Arunachal Pradesh started in Guwahati from where we took a sumo to Bomdila and spent a few days around Bomdila and later Dirang. Note that these destinations are commonly regarded only as a stopover whilst commuting further north to Tawang. However, we were delighted to discover that Bomdila and Dirang were both charming towns which deserved more than a few hours.

Do put Bomdila and Dirang on your North East India itinerary – follow our complete post here

Where to stay in Guwahati – Hotel Monsoon Palace Where to stay in Bomdila – Lungta Residency (+91 3782 222 555) Where to stay in Dirang – Dirang Boutique Cottages

The gorgeous Tawang monastery is the draw here, but the breathtaking views to be had around the area especially when crossing the Sela Pass are just as alluring! We were in Tawang during the Tawang Festival which we found fascinating, especially since it was our first festival experience in North East India!

Read all about Tawang in our dedicated post!

Where to stay in Tawang – Tenzin Guesthouse (+91 37942 22893, but be aware that it’s a few km out of the town centre)

Ziro Valley

The Ziro Valley is one of the most beautiful and compelling destinations in Arunachal Pradesh, not only due to the gentle scenery in the area, but because of the fascinating traditions of the Apatani tribe living in Ziro. Be sure to include Ziro on your North East India itinerary, but be aware that it gets busy in September during the Ziro music festival!

Follow our post about our experiences in the Ziro Valley here.

Where to stay in Ziro Valley – Dogindo Homestay (+91 87299 02206)

Mechuka was, by far, the most spectacular destination of Arunachal Pradesh on our North East India itinerary and we are so glad that we made it all the way there! Although getting to Mechuka was pretty tough, we were rewarded with some of the best views and experiences!

Here’s how to get to Mechuka and what to expect there!

Where to stay in Mechuka – Grace Homestay (+91 94024 74078)

Assam is large and the most accessible of the Seven Sisters. We didn’t have time to explore a lot of it, but our time in Majuli and in Kaziranga was epic!

Kaziranga National Park

Kaziranga National Park is one of the most important attractions in Assam, mainly due to the high possibility of observing the greater one-horned rhinos in their natural habitat. Indeed, we saw several of them during our jeep safari!

Here’s exactly how to organize your trip to Kaziranga National Park independently.

Where to stay in Kaziranga National Park – Aranya Tourist Lodge (+91 99570 58746)

Majuli Island

The largest river island in the world is definitely worth including in your North East India Itinerary! We had a lovely time exploring the island by rented bicycles, and watching the slow-paced Assamese island life!

Here’s what to do on Majuli island!

Where to stay on Majuli Island – La Maison de Ananda (+91 99571 86356)

The land of the Nagas, home to some of the world’s remaining former headhunters should not be missed! Nagaland is a destination like no other and even if your priority is attending the Hornbill Festival, do take some time to explore some other parts of it to!

Nagaland’s very hilly capital will allow you to feel Nagaland’s vibe without it being too overwhelming. Kohima is also located a few km away from the village of Kisama where the Hornbill Festival takes place, and provides a good base from where to attend, especially seeing that a night carnival offering some rather intriguing dishes is held during festival days.

Here’s our full guide to the Nagaland Hornbill Festival

Where to stay In Kohima – IK Homestay, but be aware that it’s far from Kohima town centre.

Longwa Village

This is where you have to come if you’re curious to meet some of the world’s remaining (former) headhunters, a little similar (but not quite) to headhunters in West Timor in Indonesia and in the Cordillera area of the Philippines . Longwa village is really small, but it’s position, right on the border with Myanmar, makes for a unique tribal experience with the god-fearing, Christian, former headhunting, opium-friendly Konyak people.

Read our post about our experiences in Longwa village!

Where to stay in Longwa village – Traveller’s Inn (+91 98560 15152)

As foreign tourists, we were restricted with where we could travel within Manipur, but luckily, Loktak Lake was easy to access!

The capital of Manipur can be rather fascinating, home to a women’s market, and some really tasty food!

Loktak Lake

The jewel of Manipur, and one of the most beautiful destinations in North East India, felt like a dream come true. Taking a boat ride should be on your North East India bucket list, so be sure to include it on your itinerary!

Read about Imphal and the beauty of Loktak Lake and tips for visiting in our post!

Where to stay in Imphal – Phou-Oi-Bee Hotel (+91 76400 56789) Where to stay in Loktak Lake – Maipakchao Homestay (+91 98563 56993)

Mizoram was a difficult state for us to travel around. We were purposely there during Christmas time since we were aware that it would be celebrated in the Christian state, however this meant that most forms of transportation were halted. Nevertheless, we had an absolutely great time in this rarely-visited state.

We promise that the steep hike to the top is worth every effort! Reiek is not far from Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram and can be visited on a day trip. If you like pristine hilly views, put Mizoram on your North East India itinerary!

Largest Family

Did you know that the world’s largest family live in Mizoram? You can also go visit them and learn all about their very unique lifestyle in a village called Baktawng too!

Here’s what you need to know about some of the best day trips from Aizawl

Where to stay in Aizawl – Riah Run Homestay

The little princely state of Tripura was one the best surprises we had in North East India. We had no expectations about the state since we knew very little about it before we got there, but we were awed with Tripura’s intriguing and rich cultural heritage!

Udaipur, a town which couldn’t be more different to its more popular namesake in Rajasthan, is the starting point for visiting a number of fascinating temples, and makes for a great base from where to visit the gorgeous Neermahal Palace.

If mysterious rock carvings in a river canyon are your thing, do put Chabimura on your North East India itinerary! This obscure attraction showed just what an underrated destination Tripura is!

The archeological site of Unakoti is Tripura’s highlight and possibly North East India’s best-kept secret. Head over here if you want to get lost in a world of mezmerising rock carvings depicting gods and goddesses.

Read all about the tourist places in Tripura here.

Where to stay in Udaipur – Imperial Hotel (+91 90897 31730) Where to stay in Dharmanagar – Hotel RaatDin

Meghalaya was our final destination on our North East India itinerary and it certainly did not disappoint! Old traditions are kept alive in this accessible North Eastern state where a turquoise blue shimmering river makes for some popular boating.

Living Root Bridges in Cherrapunji

The dramatic root bridges found in Cerrapunji, built by the Khasi people are quite a sight to behold. We can assure you that the steep trek and c. 3000 steps to view the double-decker bridge is utterly worth the strain on your body, and if you have time, you should definitely spend a couple of extra days in Nongriat to explore the beautiful lush area of waterfalls and rock pools.

Umngot River in Dawki

Although, this is one of the most popular and hence, crowded attractions in North East India, we really recommend taking a short boat trip along the crystal-clear and impossibly blue waters of the Umngot river, which left us speechless.

Here’s our post are the top places to visit in Meghalaya.

Where to stay in Shillong – Hotel Oyo Shelter Inn Where to stay in Nongriat – Serene Homestay (+91 94778 70423)

We hope that you’ve found this North East India travel guide useful – we’ve really tried to include as much information as possible based on our wonderful experience in this utterly fascinating region!

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10 Comments

thanks for sharing this blog

You are most welcome!

Lily Shanker (TourGenie)

This was the best thing I read today 🙂 All the places were well described (short and sweet), and the pictures are beautiful! Northeast India is a very intriguing place and needs to be explored on a larger scale.

Thank you for your lovely comment! Indeed we feel that NorthEast India is absolutely breathtaking!

travelnortheastindia

Thanks for the blog about the ultimate northeast India travel guide and northeast India itinerary.

We’re glad that you found it useful! 🙂

Kamlesh Mehta

Wonderful narration! Got an idea. I’m planning a 30-40 day trip of NE India, most likely in my own vehicle and was looking for the right itinerary. Thank you very much and will connect for more info.

So glad that you found our guide helpful in planning your own trip!

Akansha Negi

Wonderful post! Images superb, This article is really helpful to plan North East trip, you share North East complete information.

Glad you find it helpful! 🙂

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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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How To Plan North East India Trip on Your Own!

I recently visited North East India for 10 days. From what I have experienced, I will leave you with below tips to plan your own itinerary:

????Handy Tips

First of all, read about different states & the different experiences that each of the seven sisters offers. Waterfalls & lakes in Meghalaya to famous wildlife sanctuary in Assam to monasteries in Arunachal Pradesh so on, every state is so diverse & different from each other

Once you know the state you want to visit, list down places you want to visit for sure. Give high importance to the season you will be visiting the state in. Also, ask yourself, “Is monsoon the right time to go this place?” There are certain places which will give you way better experience in monsoon but will be dry & dead during winter. You will find enough research material to close the decision

Apply for leave at work/school & book flight tickets to the nearest airport. I wanted to visit Meghalaya, but since there is no airport in Meghalaya, I landed at the Guwahati airport (capital of Assam) & started for Meghalaya. Flight tickets will be slightly expensive from Mumbai, especially if you take a direct flight. Connecting flights – Mumbai-Delhi-Guwahati or Mumbai-Kolkata-Guwahati are comparatively affordable. So you will have to do a little research on that too

Keep your itinerary realistic (read non-hectic) & give yourself breather time. If you really want to see North East at its best, you will have to stay like a local there. Hopping from one city to the other just to cover “touristy spots” will give you only superficial experience of the place

Continuing with point no. 4, hopping from one place to the other will involve long train/bus journeys which will eat up your vacation days. Only if you are out for a month, hopping makes sense. For a 10 day journey, a lot of city-hopping will only deplete your actual travel time

Once your itinerary is ready, re-look at it & keep some days unplanned. You will get a lot of recommendations from people you will meet on the go

???? Security Check

Keep an emergency bank balance ready for unplanned extra spends – There are a lot of places in North East where you may end up getting stuck. You might have to make last minute reservations at a particular place or you might have to pay extra to reach from one place to the other if you are unable to find any share cab/public transport. These are just examples. But you get the point

???? Don’t Blow It Up

Don’t expect hyper-activity. Most of places in North East will entice you with greenery, the best of scenic views & heavenly blue colored water. You can cycle around, sit in a tree-house with a hot cup of Assamese tea or swim in a crystal clear water. But don’t expect a lot of activity here. These will come a point when there literally nothing to do at a place. Remember the reason you chose a place & enjoy the beauty of stillness

????Some Kickass Stay Options

???? Location 1:

Guwahati – Oasis 2 hosted by Shaguphta

What did I like the most? Friendly host, home food!

???? Location 2:

Majuli – Lamaison De Ananda

What did I like the most? I just loved LOVED the raw vibe of this place, bamboo hut & full Asami feels!

???? Location 3: Shillong

I stayed at a lil' away from the main market which is Police Bazaar. You may wanna check out places near Police Bazaar for convenience.

All the buses leave from Police Bazaar & it will be convenient for you to stay near this place

???? Location 4:

Mawlynong – Jeffry’s Homestay

What did I like the most? This place is right next to where your bus/vehicle will leave you. It is super COZY & cheap

???? 10-Day-Itinerary

North east India is composed of seven sisters states. From Assam to Tripura to Agartala, it goes farther away from India towards the bordering countries. If you are in Meghalaya, you will be very close to Bangladesh. If you are in Assam, you will be very close to Bhutan border.

As per your choice of places to visit, shortlist which state you would want to visit. Ideally, cover only one state in one 10 day visit to get a richer experience of a place. I have come across a lot of people who will have two states in their itinerary, which is alright too as long as you have done your research & are well aware of places you want to visit.

✈️First Itinerary

Day 1: Guwahati

Day 2: Kaziranga

Day 3: Jorhat – Majuli (Largest river island)

Day 4: Majuli

Day 5: Guwahati – Shillong

Day 6: Shillong

Day 7: Mawlynong – Dawki

Day 8: Cherrapunji

Day 9: Cherrapunji (travel back to Shillong)

Day 10: Finally, Shillong to Guwahati

The problem with above itinerary is that it involves a lot of moving time. You will spend approximately 2-3 days only in train/bus, moving from one city to the other. For instance, travel time between Guwahati to Kaziranga is roughly 6-7 hours.

Again, returning back to Guwahati will consume another 6-7 hour, which combined is half a day.

Travel time back & fro Majuli – Largest river island is one complete day.

Also, you need to note that these places shut down completely after sunset. There is not much to see after 4-5PM.

So you see the problem?

Even when you are traveling for one city to the other, you need to make sure that you arrive at a new place way early in the morning so that you have whole of day to wander around.

Therefore, I worked on the itinerary & revised it to more days in Meghalaya. Here is my revised itinerary:

✈️Revised Itinerary

Day 1: Guwahati. Take overnight train for Jorhat

Day 2: Arrive at Jorhat. Ferry to Majuli. One complete day at Majuli

Day 3: Travel back to Guwahati. Overnight stay at Guwahati

Day 4: Guwahati to Shillong early morning taxi ride. One complete day at Shillong

Day 5: One complete day at Shillong

Day 6: Travel from Shillong to Mawlynong & Dawki

Day 7: Travel from Mawlynong to Cherrapunji. One complete day at Cherrapunji

Day 8: One complete day at Cherrapunji

Day 9: Any spontaneous plan

Day 10: Finally, travel back to Guwahati

Above itinerary is much more feasible & doable. There is less of moving time & more of exploring time. If you see day 2,4,5,8 involves close to no travel time. These days I will just be roaming around & checking out the place.

????Must See Things

Guwahati – Kaziranga National Park, Night Cruise over Brahmaputra river,

Majuli – Mask making workshop, Handweaving stalls. Also, cycling near the river point and in the woods

Shillong – Ward’s Garden, Museum, Watersports at Umami River, Golf Course, Elephant falls. Additionally, one can indulge in shopping at Police Bazaar and cafe hopping in the city to try the local cuisine

Cherrapunji – Mawsmai caves, waterfalls, double-decker bridge

Dawki – Snorkelling & boating on Umngot river, camping and night stay at Dawki, Bangladesh border

I tried to add almost all the information in one single blog post as I understand how taxing it can get to plan your north east trip. You can reach out to me on Instagram for any further query!

My Instagram Handle

Happy North East!

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Best Of North East India Tour

This amazing North East tour package takes you on a ride through some of the most beautiful and mystical lands of the country of India. Lying in the lap of the Himalayas, North East India is surely gifted with so many aspects of beauty that it has emerged out to be a dazzling and mesmerizing choice of a destination, and is a highly coveted place to go to. 

You can expect snow-covered mountains, green-clad hill slopes, waterfalls cascading down and shooting rainbows from them, tribes and tribal people going by their daily lives and living in perfect harmony with each other.

That is the lesson that the 7 sister states of North East India send out, to live in harmony with your surroundings. And to show you how exactly that happens, this North East package takes you on an amazing tour. The northeast is the home to some of the best and must visit places in India, and that is what you will be witnessing here.

About the Tour: 

Starting with your arrival in Guwahati, you will be taken to Shillong by our representative who will meet you at the airport itself. After your arrival, you are free to explore Shillong and feel why exactly this place is loved so much. The next day will be dedicated to a transfer to Cherrapunji, where you will see Dainthlen falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Nohsngithiang Falls, and Mawsmai Caves, alongside the Thangkharang Park, the post which you will return to Shillong, to spend unforgettable moments at the Shillong Peak.

And after a day of local sightseeing in Shillong, you will head to the Kaziranga National Park, to see Indian Elephants, Deer, and some of the rarest birds, all on a jeep safari. The tour then takes a turn towards Bhalukpong, only to head towards one of the most beautiful monasteries in the country in the hill station of Tawang. The best part about this monastery high up in the clouds is that it was the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama of Buddhism, is more than 400 years old and has still somehow retained all of its original charms. The next transfer will take you to the beautiful valley of Dirang, where you will be seeing Kiwi gardens, Sangti Valley, and the Zimthung viewpoint.

You will then leave to visit the Nameri National Park, which is the home to a variety of Flora and Fauna specific to this region. After having a ball of a time here, you will return back to Guwahati where you will spend an amazing day out visiting Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, State Museum and to Emporiums for ethnic local products, Maa Kamakhya Temple, Navagraha Temple, Shukleshwar Temple & Balaji Temple, before getting a final drop off to the airport after checking-out. From here, you will be taking your return flight, packed with a lot of memories and souvenirs collected from here on this North East tour package.

Day 1 - Arrival in Guwahati | Transfer to Shillong

After your arrival in Guwahati, our representative will meet you at the airport, and transfer you to Shillong.

The 100 km drive will take about 3 hours, post which you will check-in at the hotel.

Rest of the evening is for you to spend at leisure.

Overnight at hotel.

Day 2 - Trip to Cherrapunji

After breakfast this morning, you will be leaving to visit Cherrapunji, which is 56 km away. It is also the wettest place on earth.

You will be visiting the famous Dainthlen falls, Nohkalikai Falls, Nohsngithiang Falls, alongside the Mawsmai Caves and Thangkharang Park.

You will also be seeing the living root bridge.

A transfer will take you back to Shillong, where you will spend some time at the Shillong Peak.

Day 3 - Shillong Local Sightseeing

The day will be dedicated to exploring the beautiful Shillong.

You will see the Cathedral Church, Lady Hydari Park, the Orchidarium, Elephant Falls and the Golf course.

You will be going to the Shillong Peak after this to get a breathtaking view of the hill station.

Day 4 - Shillong to Kaziranga National Park

After breakfast, you will start on your way to reach the famous Kaziranga National Park, which is famous for being the home to the Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros.

Check-in here, and then spend the rest of the day at your leisure.

Overnight at Kaziranga.

Day 5 - A Day at Kaziranga National Park

You will be starting the day with an early morning Jeep Safari in the Park.

The main attraction here is to see the one-horned Rhino, but there are several other species of Flora and Fauna typical to this area that you will also be seeing on this day.

You will then return for breakfast and leave again for a Safari.

The evening will be for you to spend at your leisure.

Day 6 - Transfer to Bhalukpong

The day will go by in the transfer to Bhalukpong after breakfast.

Overnight at Hotel in Bhalukpong.

Day 7 - Bhalukpong to Tawang

After breakfast on this morning, you will leave for a little bit of local sightseeing, before leaving for Tawang.

Overnight at hotel in Tawang.

Day 8 - Tawang Monastery

After an early breakfast, we will be leaving to see the 400 year old Tawang Monastery.

As the monastery is at the highest point in the city, you will be getting a breathtaking view of the hill station.

Also on the day is a visit to the War Memorial of Tawang.

You can spend the rest of the day shopping and explore.

Day 9 - Tawang to Dirang

You will be driving in the morning to reach Dirang from Tawang.

The rest of the day if for you to spend at your leisure in Dirang.

Overnight at hotel in Dirang.

Day 10 - Dirang Valley

You will be spending this day in witnessing the majestic sight of Dirang.

The visits today would be to the Apple and Kiwi gardens, and the Sangti Valley.

This will be followed by a visit to the Zimthung View Point.

Day 11 - Dirang to Nameri National Park

In the morning, you will spend some time in Dirang and see some more of the local sights.

You will then be driving to reach the Nameri National Park.

Overnight at hotel in Nameri National Park.

Day 12 - Nameri National Park Sightseeing | Guwahati

After breakfast, you will be spending some time seeing the sights of Nameri National Park.

You will then be taking a transfer back to Guwahati.

Overnight at Hotel.

Day 13 - Local Sightseeing in Guwahati

After breakfast, you will be starting a day dedicated to local sightseeing in Guwahati.

You will be seeing amazing spots like Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra, State Museum and to Emporiums where you can buy a variety of ethnic local products.

You will also be seeing other famous sights of Guwahati including Maa Kamakhya Temple, Navagraha Temple, Shukleshwar Temple & Balaji Temple.

Day 14 - Check-out and Departure

After breakfast this morning, you will be transferred to the airport or railway station in Guwahati.

You can catch your return flight/train from here, bringing the experience to an end.

Other Inclusions

• All transport by a dedicated vehicle
• Accommodation on twin sharing basis for thirteen nights.
• Daily breakfast at hotel.
• Restricted Area Permit for entering into Arunachal Pradesh.
• English speaking accompanying tour guide throughout the tour.
• One nature walk and one river safari in Nameri National park with park entrances.
• One elephant safari and one jeep safari in Kaziranga National Park with park entrances
• All parking, toll charges, drivers allowances etc.

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Northeast India Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Northeast India. We've got 37 trips going to Northeast India, starting from just 4 days in length, and the longest tour is 17 days. The most popular month to go is November, which has the most tour departures.

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37 northeast india tour packages with 10 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

Meghalaya (A Budget Friendly Tour)

Everything went according to the agreed plan, so I have nothing to complain about. Sometimes the driving was too long for a single day, it would be nicer if the tour included moving to hotels closer to the destinations, which would allow for more time to visit other places. I went during March, which meant that waterfalls had minimum to no water, so if you are interested in that, I would suggest a different season. My suggestion to the tour operator would be to add tours for Meghalaya that include more physical activities, like the bamboo trek, which can appeal to younger people. Some of the activities were too simple and not really worth hours of driving. Thank you for organising my trip and answering all my queries!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mystic Trails of the Northeast: Temples, Tigers, and Tribes Expedition

• Sightseeing

Riverside Reverie: Guwahati, Kaziranga & Majuli Expedition

The Best of Northeast India

Great tour.Enjoyed every second of it. Hotels were great.Our driver and guides were amazing.Have no doubt in recommending this tour.

North East India 12 Days Tour

• In-depth Cultural
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Eastern Gems, Landscapes And Culture - An Assam Tour !!

North East India Monastic and Wildlife Tour

Eastern India Tour

Who Else Wants To Know The Mystery Behind 12 Days Assam Wildlife Tour Packages?

We waited for this trip for a long time. Actually we reserved this trip before pandemic and we were suppose to arrive 21st March 2020.But unfortunately we could not come and we were worried about our deposit.Hemender was ready to return our deposit but agreed on a mutual agreement to hold this tour in the future. It almost took 3 years to come and explore the wildlife of North East India.During the 3 Years, Hemender was in regular touch and keep remining that your deposit is safe as well as your Tour is on hold. After the tour, I was amazed to see tigers,wild dogs and other wild animals.I am really happy after this tour and certainly I would recommend about Hemender and his company.

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₹ 28,499/- ₹ 31,318/-

• 5nights 6days North East Tour

A North East Tour Package To The Abode Of Clouds Rated 4.2 /5 (based on 404 reviews) A North East Tour Package To The Abode Of Clouds

A North East Tour Package To The Abode Of Clouds 6 Days & 5 Nights

A distant view of a gorgeous waterfall in Shillong

The amazing Living Root Bridge in Cherrapunjee

Delight in the beauty of Elephant Falls

Visit the much revered Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati

Variety of colorful flora at Mawlynnong is a sight to behold

Hotel included in package:

• Shillong (3D)
• Cherrapunjee (1D)
• Guwahati (2D)

Starting from:

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Per Person on twin sharing

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TravelTriangle has served 3000 + travelers for Assam

Meghalaya, meaning the “abode of clouds” is a true paradise for nature lovers. This beautiful hill station is home to beautiful, mesmerizing sky, rolling, lush green hills and some really exotic species of orchids. The state is filled with hills, valleys, wonderful lakes, captivating waterfalls, mysterious dark caves, and sacred forests; there is no dearth of tourist places in Meghalaya. You can expect panoramic views, foggy hills, terraced slopes, cascading waterfalls, and serpentine rivers mesmerizing your thoughts. Wards Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Sweet Falls, the Butterfly Museum, Nohkalikai Falls, Mawsmai Cave, Thangkharang Park, Eco Park, Khoh Ramhah, Green Rock Ranch are some major tourist places in Meghalaya. Overall, this overwhelmingly beautiful, green and alive state makes for a perfect holiday destination for everyone and can be thoroughly enjoyed by all!

Shillong, the Rock capital of India, is the place to be if you really want to enjoy the richness of the state, starting from events, sightseeing, recreation, shopping, or unwinding oneself in a pub. The city has a character which can be felt only after exploring the city.

Among our North East India holiday packages , plenty of options are available for you and the most preferred one by the tourists is a trip to Meghalaya. Our North East India travel packages are completely affordable is the best for those who wish to explore North East India. This Meghalaya trip includes the journey to Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Guwahati.

Guwahati: Arrival

• Sightseeing

Other Benefits (On Arrival)

Arrive in Guwahati and get set for your journey to Shillong by road

At Guwahati airport/station, you will be received and greeted by our representative and from there your journey to Shillong starts which takes around 3 hours. On the way, you stop at spectacular Umiam Lake in Meghalaya which is beautifully encompassed by sylvan hills. After that, you reach Ward’s Lake in Shillong which is situated at the heart of Shillong. Hereafter you visit the Cathedral Catholic Church which is visited and respected by thousands of devotees. After this, you reach your hotel, check-in and spend the rest of your day at leisure.

Cherrapunji: home to one of the highest rainfalls

• Elephanta Waterfalls
• Mawsmai Caves

Enjoy the day surrounded by fresh air

Post breakfast, get ready for Cherrapunji, the place well known for one of the highest rainfalls in the world. Hereon you move to Elephanta falls which is also called three steps falls. After this, you visit the Mawkdok Valley, a very prominent sightseeing for tourists. Then comes Nohsngithiang falls, also called Seven sisters falls, as it presents the unity and shared values of the Seven States of North East India. Next comes Mawsmai cave, a major tourist attraction that leaves tourists spellbound. Last destination is Eco Park, which has hybrid and indigenous orchids.

Explore Mawlynnong Village

• Religious Tour

Welcome to Mawlynnon

Mawlynnong/Mawlynnong Village is located in the East Khasi Hills. This village also goes by the name ‘God’s own garden’ and the winner of the cleanest place in Asia. Move to the Living Root Bridge in the nearby village, Rawai. Next, we move to Dawki in the East Jaintia Hills which hosts Umngot River, one of the clearest rivers in India. You get to enjoy a boat ride in Dawki. To mark the perfect ending to the day, you visit the well-known Cathedral Catholic Church of Meghalaya.

Shillong: Sightseeing

Widen the sphere of your exploration

After having your breakfast, visit the Don Bosco Museum which promotes and protects the tribal culture of the people of North East India. Next is Lady Hydari Park, named after the wife of the first governor of Assam. Shillong peak is the next destination which is located in Upper Shillong. After some time, visit Laitlum Canyons. At last, hit Police Bazar for shopping.

Visit to temples and Cruise ride in the Brahmaputra River

• Maa Kamakhya Temple
• Umananda Temple
• Brahmaputra River

A spiritual experience in Guwahati

Once you are done with breakfast, leave early in the morning for Guwahati. Visit \Kamakhya Temple and Umananda Temple. Next is Alfresco Cruise Ride to give you an unforgettable experience in the Brahmaputra River. Return to hotel for night.

Tirupati Balaji Temple visit

• Tirupathi Balaji Temple

On the last day of your trip, after breakfast, visit the Tirupati Balaji Temple in Guwahati. Leave for Airport/Railway Station.

Note: Our agents will provide you these or similar hotels depending on availability

Cherrapunjee

Sa-i-mika resort

Sa-I-Mika Rd., Sohra, Cherrapunji , 793108

Days 1, 3, 4

The eee cee hotel

Khyndailad, Shillong 793001, India

Sai kripa inn

Maniram Dewan Road | Chandmari, Near Assam Tribune, Guwahati 781003, India

• pick and drop facility at the airport/station
• Vehicle for transfer and sightseeing
• Parking and toll charges
• Accommodation on twin sharing basis
• Driver’s allowance
• And GST and service tax included on the services provided by us.
• Air/train fare
• Personal expenses incurred on laundry-liquor-telephone balls-boating-other rides
• Fee for guide
• Entrance fee, any additional cost imposed due to any natural calamity
• Also the cost not included in “Inclusions”.

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FAQs for Assam

Is it safe to stay out till late in meghalaya.

Yes, you can roam the streets and market of Meghalaya late at night. Just follow the same precautions that you would follow at any other place.

When is the best time to visit Meghalaya?

Spring, summer, autumn and winter season is the best time to visit Meghalaya. Rainy season might be too wet but still awesome.

Can I change the hotels for this Meghalaya tour?

Yes, you can change your hotels but you need to inform the travel agent aware of your final decision about hotels as soon as possible.

What to pack for Meghalaya?

Ensure that you pack your winter clothing for the tour because Meghalaya is a hilly area due to which temperature here tends to drop at night. In addition to this, you can contact the travel agent for any query.

Would it be possible to extend this trip to Meghalaya?

Yes, you can extend your trip, but it is advised that you consult with travel agent about this in advance.

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10 Days in North India Itinerary: The Highlights

This itinerary for 10 days in North India is perfect for first-timers who want to see the highlights of the north. It covers some of India’s most famous landmarks like the Hawa Mahal , Mehrangarh Fort and, of course, the famous Taj Mahal .

India is an incredibly diverse country, and it would be impossible to see everything in 10 days (or even in a couple of years). Therefore, it can be a bit daunting to start planning a trip here. This itinerary, however, will give you an idea of what this country is all about with the time you have.

I travelled through India for a little over 8 months and am heading back there regularly. Six of these months were spent in the north of the country, and this itinerary is based on the highlights of my trip.

It’s good to know that the popular Golden Triangle Tourist Route is included in this itinerary. If you don’t have 10 days in North India (or would like to visit the south of India too), I’ve written a guide on how to do the Golden Triangle itinerary in 4 to 6 days .

10 Days in North India itinerary: The highlights

So, let’s dive right into it! Here’s the perfect travel itinerary for first-timers in the north of India.

Day 1: 🚍 Arrive in Delhi

Most people will start their journey in the north of India in Delhi, the lively capital. The Indira Gandhi International Airport is connected to most of the world’s major cities.

Even if you’re in India already, it’s easy to reach Delhi from nearly anywhere in the country. This can either be done by flight, train, bus or private transport.

Day 1 on this itinerary is all about arriving in Delhi. If you arrive earlier in the day, you can rest or start visiting this city already. If you arrive in the evening or at night, however, there will be time to explore what Delhi has to offer on day 2.

Unfortunately, Delhi is the scammer’s capital of India (I promise that not all of the country is like this), and I strongly advise reading my post about the most common tourist scams in Delhi to avoid getting scammed on your first day.

Day 2: Visit Delhi + Delhi to Jodhpur

It’s true that the capital of India doesn’t have the best reputation, BUT I do think it is worth spending 1 day in Delhi .

There are quite some impressive landmarks in this city (Humayun’s Tomb and the Lotus Temple are my personal favourites) and to be honest, Delhi isn’t nearly as bad as I was expecting after researching it online.

I have visited this city four times so far, and wrote a post about my personal experience here in the following guide: Is Delhi Safe? A Solo Female Traveller’s Perspective .

🛕 Highlights of Delhi

While you could easily spend a few weeks exploring everything that Delhi has to offer, 1 day here is enough to see the Indian capital’s highlights:

• Red Fort: This fort was once the residence of the Mughal Emperors. It was built in the 17th century and is famous for its huge fortification walls made of red sandstone.
• Jama Masjid: Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, Jama Masjid is one of the largest and most famous mosques in India.
• Humayun’s Tomb: This mausoleum was the first garden-tomb in the Indian subcontinent and it’s magnificent! It was built in Persian style in the 16th century and inspired the design of the Taj Mahal almost a century later.
• Lotus Temple: The Lotus Temple is one of the 13 major Baha’i temples in the world. This architectural marvel was built in 1986 and has won multiple architectural awards.

🚍 Delhi to Jodhpur

After visiting Delhi, it’s time to head to Rajasthan , India’s largest state.

Jodhpur, the first stop here is the furthest away from Delhi (around 600 km / 372 mi) and it can either be reached by taking the overnight train or by flying .

While taking the overnight train is the most adventurous and cheapest option, it is an 11-hour ride, while flying will only take 1,5 hours. So what you choose to do depends on your personal travel style and budget.

Check out my post about the budget you will need to travel in India to find out whether taking an overnight train or flying is the best option for you.

Day 3: Visit Jodhpur

No matter whether you’re heading here by overnight train or by flight, Jodhpur is the perfect introduction to Rajasthan.

This is India’s so-called Blue City , and it’s my favourite city in the state. If you’re into photography, you will LOVE the place!

Jodhpur is full of picturesque blue houses and it’s home to a magnificent fort with an incredible view over the city. It’s an amazing place to get lost in the little streets and observe the local life.

🛕 Highlights of Jodhpur

You will need at least one day to see the highlights of Jodhpur . There is no need to squeeze everything into day 3, though, as there will be more time to visit the city on the morning of day 4.

Jodhpur’s highlights are:

• Mehrangarh Fort: This is Jodhpur’s most famous landmark and one you cannot miss during a visit to this city. Mehrangarh Fort was built by Rajput ruler Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur, in the 15th century. Not only is the fort spectacular, but it also offers a beautiful view over the Blue City.
• Blue houses: My favourite thing to do in Jodhpur is to wander around the narrow streets and alleys in search of the city’s iconic blue houses. It’s good to know that not all of Jodhpur’s houses are blue , though, although blue is a recurrent theme.
• Pachetia Hill: This is the perfect place to head to for sunset! Pachetia Hill is a peaceful place that offers a beautiful view over Jodhpur’s blue houses. You will have to climb up some stairs to reach it, but the view is totally worth it.
• Sardar Market: Sardar Market is the heart of Jodhpur. This is a great place to observe daily life in the city. You will find plenty of merchants selling anything from fruits and vegetables to textiles here. Don’t forget to check out the nearby clock tower while you’re here.
• Toorji Ka Jhalra Stepwell: Rajasthan is famous for its beautiful stepwells and you can find one just 5 minutes from Sardar Market. The Toorji Ka Jhalra Stepwell (that’s a mouthful) was built in the 18th century, and back in the day, it was the city’s main drinking source during periods of drought.

Day 4: 🚍 Jodhpur to Udaipur

While there are no direct trains connecting these two cities, you can easily head from Jodhpur to Udaipur by bus or by private car .

How long it will take depends on your chosen way of transport. Buses take around 6 hours while a private car will take approximately 3,5 hours.

If you leave Jodhpur in the afternoon, you will have time to explore a little bit more of this city in the morning of this day.

Day 5: Visit Udaipur

Udaipur is often dubbed the “city of lakes” or the “Venice of the East”, and it’s argued to be one of the most romantic destinations in India .

This city is surrounded by the Aravalli hills, India’s oldest mountain range, and it’s home to floating palaces, magnificent architecture and breathtaking viewpoints.

🛕 Highlights of Udaipur

Although one day is enough to see Udaipur’s most spectacular sights, you could easily spend a couple of days here. Some of the sights you cannot miss are the following:

• City Palace: With its mix of Rajasthani and Mughal architectural styles, Udaipur’s City Palace is one of the most beautiful historical places in Rajasthan . This palace was built in the 16th century and it’s the largest royal complex in the state of Rajasthan.
• Lake Pichola: A visit to Udaipur is not complete without a boat ride on Lake Pichola. Don’t forget to stroll along the lake’s ghats (steps leading to the water) too while you’re here.
• Jagdish Temple: This is the city’s largest Hindu temple. It was completed in 1651 and it’s full of stunning details. Jagdish Temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu and you will find plenty of beautiful statues here.
• Karni Mata Ropeway: The Karni Mata Ropeway is a cable car that will take you to Macchala Hill, where you will find the Sri Karni Mata Temple. The reason to head to this hilltop, however, is the spectacular view it offers over Udaipur!

If you would like to see a traditional Rajasthani dance show , Udaipur is the perfect place to do so! The Dharohar Dance Show takes place at Lok Dharohar Haveli every evening at 7 p.m.  It’s good to buy a ticket in advance, though. You can either do this at Bagore Ki Haveli or online via the Dharohar Folk Dance website .

>> Related: The Perfect Itinerary for 2 Days in Udaipur

Day 6: 🚍 Udaipur to Pushkar

On day 6 of this itinerary for North India, it’s time to head to Pushkar. You can either hire a private car to take you all the way to this town or you can take the train to Ajmer, and then a bus or taxi to Pushkar from here.

The train from Udaipur to Ajmer takes about 5 hours, and it’s a 30-minute bus ride from Ajmer to Pushkar. Note that you will have to take a 5-minute rickshaw ride to reach the bus station first.

Taking a private car will take around 4 hours to get from Udaipur to Pushkar.

On this day, you can either opt to spend an extra morning in Udaipur or spend the afternoon in Pushkar. I would recommend spending the afternoon in Pushkar, though. This will give you more time to visit this town and head to Jaipur on day 7.

Day 7: Visit Pushkar + Pushkar to Jaipur

Pushkar is another one of my favourite places in Rajasthan. This is a tranquil town located by the holy Pushkar Lake and it’s one of the best cultural destinations in India .

Some of the best things to do in Pushkar are to learn more about Hinduism, dive deeper into Indian culture and observe the life of pilgrims by the ghats.

🛕 Highlights of Pushkar

Pushkar is a small town that can easily be visited in one day. You will find its highlights below:

• Brahma Temple: This is the only temple that’s dedicated to Brahma, the Hindu god of creation in the world. It’s a very important place for Hindu pilgrims and one that cannot be missed on a visit to Pushkar.
• Ghats: There are 52 bathing ghats surrounding the holy Pushkar Lake and I recommend visiting them all! One of my favourite things to do in this town was to circle the lake and watch the Hindu rituals by the ghats. If you come here in the evening, you can see the evening Aarti too, this is an important Hindu ceremony.
• Savitri Mata Temple: This temple is perched on top of a hill and you can either hike or take a ropeway to reach it. From here, you will have a breathtaking view of Pushkar and its surroundings.
• Other temples: It’s estimated that Pushkar is home to around 500 Hindu temples. So this is the perfect place to go temple-hopping. If you would like to visit a Sikh temple too, you can head to Gurudwara Sahib. It’s not far from Pushkar Lake and it’s stunning!
• Pushkar Bazar: I think Pushkar is one of the best places in Rajasthan to buy souvenirs fr o m India . You will still have to haggle, but it will be cheaper here compared to bigger cities like Delhi, Jodhpur and Jaipur.

🚍 Pushkar to Jaipur

After visiting Pushkar, it’s time to head to Jaipur, which is not very far from here. It takes about 2 hours to get from Pushkar to Jaipur by car , a little longer if you use public transportation.

If you want to take the train to Jaipur, you will have to head to Ajmer first (either by taxi or by bus ). This is a 30-minute drive, and the train from Pushkar to Jaipur takes approximately 2 hours.

Day 8: Visit Jaipur

Jaipur is India’s Pink City and it’s the capital of Rajasthan. This city is home to some of the most spectacular landmarks in India, from beautiful palaces to enormous forts.

It’s a place that cannot be missed on any itinerary for Rajasthan . You will be able to learn more about the history of the state here and if you’re an architecture-lover, Jaipur might just become your new favourite city!

🛕 Highlights of Jaipur

As this is the largest city in Rajasthan, there’s A LOT to see in Jaipur. You will find the places that cannot be missed below.

• Hawa Mahal: This beautiful palace is one of my favourite pieces of architecture in the world. It was built in 1799 with the purpose of providing royal women with a view of everyday life through the windows. Back in the day, royal women could not appear in public.
• City Palace: Built in 1727, this is the place where the Maharajas reigned until 1949. The City Palace of Jaipur is full of incredible details and there are some interesting museums at the complex too.
• Amer Fort: Amer Fort was built in the 16th century and it’s one of the most impressive landmarks in India. With its blend of Mughal and indigenous-styled architecture, this fort has countless impressive sights.
• Patrika Gate: This is one of Jaipur’s newest tourist attractions. The photogenic Patrika Gate was built in 2016. It’s the entrance to the biggest circular park in Asia – Jawahar Circle Garden. This gate is full of colourful murals that showcase Rajasthan’s architectural and cultural heritage.
• Jantar Mantar: If you’re interested in astronomy, Jantar Mantar is a site you cannot miss. You will find 19 astronomical instruments here, all dating back to the 18th century. This place is also home to the largest sundial in the world, the  Vrihat Samrat Yantra .

Day 9: Visit Jaipur + Jaipur to Agra

Spending another morning and part of the afternoon in Jaipur will allow you to see more of the Pink City’s highlights. Make sure to check out my itinerary for 2 days in Jaipur to make the most of your stay here.

🚍 Jaipur to Agra

After seeing a bit more of Jaipur, it’s time to head to Agra, home to the magnificent Taj Mahal.

Agra is a 5 to 6-hour train ride from Jaipur. If you decide to head here by private car , however, it will take you just around 4 hours.

Day 10: Visit Agra (Taj Mahal) + Agra to Delhi

An itinerary for the north of India would not be complete without a visit to the famous Taj Mahal , one of the 7 world wonders . This is, without a doubt, the most famous monument in India, which is why I saved it for the last day!

The Taj Mahal is an enormous mausoleum that was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife. This monument dates back to the 17th century, and it’s described as the jewel of Muslim art in India .

It’s good to know that the Taj Mahal is closed on Fridays and that the best time to visit it is early in the morning. Read my top tips for visiting the Taj Mahal if you want more information and tips about visiting this world wonder.

🛕 Highlights of Agra (besides the Taj Mahal)

There’s more to Agra than the Taj Mahal alone, but I will be bluntly honest with you: I don’t think Agra is a nice city and I haven’t met anyone who liked it, so far.

There is a but, though!

While Agra may not be the nicest place to explore the city and get lost in the streets, there are some interesting landmarks here apart from the Taj Mahal.

So if you don’t feel like ending your Indian adventure just yet, you can head to one (or more) of the following landmarks:

• Agra Fort: This fort was the main residence of the Mughal dynasty before the capital was moved to Delhi in the 17th century. It’s home to some impressive architecture and you will also have a beautiful view of the Taj Mahal from here.
• Baby Taj: The Tomb of I’timād-ud-Daulah is known as the “Baby Taj”. This beautiful mausoleum doesn’t get nearly as many visitors as the Taj Mahal, but it is worth visiting! The Baby Taj is full of stunning details that will make sure to amaze you.
• Mehtab Bagh: This is one of the last Mughal gardens in Agra. The garden itself is not very impressive but it does offer a magnificent view of the Taj Mahal.

🚍 Agra to Delhi

As this is the last day of this itinerary, it’s time to hop on the train or grab a taxi back to Delhi after visiting Agra.

If you take the train , it will be a 3 to 5-hour journey to Delhi, depending on the type of train and how many stops it makes. By private car , the ride should take a little less than 3 hours.

From Delhi, you can easily fly back home or head to your next destination.

10-day North India itinerary map

You will find a map of this itinerary for the north of India below. You can click on the pin to get a little more information about the place.

• Arrive in Delhi
• Visit Delhi + Head to Jodhpur
• Visit Jodhpur
• Jodhpur to Udaipur
• Visit Udaipur
• Udaipur to Pushkar
• Visit Pushkar + Head to Jaipur
• Visit Jaipur
• Visit Jaipur + Head to Agra
• Visit Agra + Head to Delhi

How to get around North India

You will find the best ways to get around India below, along with some tips on how to book transportation.

Getting from one city to another

• Public transportation: India has a good train network and there are plenty of buses too. Using public transportation is the cheapest way to get around the country, and it’s a fun experience at the same time! Do make sure to book your tickets in advance, especially if you’re taking the train, as train tickets tend to sell out quickly.
• Private car: The quickest and most comfortable way to get around India is by booking a private car. Although it will be more expensive, it will save you some time too.

I recommend using 12GoAsia to book your train or bus tickets. This is the only website I could find that accepts foreign credit cards, and it’s easy to use.

Getting around in cities

• Auto-rickshaw: You will find rickshaws nearly everywhere. This is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to get around cities. I would recommend using the Ola app to book a rickshaw. It works just like Uber and this way, you won’t have to haggle hard to get a fair price.
• Private car: A comfortable way of getting around is by private car. However, you might get stuck in traffic and it is more expensive than taking the rickshaw.
• Scooter: Although you can rent a scooter nearly everywhere, I would only recommend doing this if you’re confident enough to ride the scooter in chaotic Indian traffic.
• Bus: There are buses in most cities and they are super cheap, however, finding the right bus might be a bit difficult.

North India itinerary for 10 days: Final thoughts

And voila – this is the end of this itinerary for 10 days in North India. While this is a huge country and you could easily spend years travelling here, this itinerary will bring you to the country’s highlights.

It’s the perfect introduction to India for first-timers and will give you a pretty good understanding of what this country is all about.

Now all there’s left to do is pack your bags and enjoy! India is an incredible destination full of colours and travelling through this country is an experience you will remember for a lifetime.

Must-read posts to plan your trip to India:

• How to AVOID Getting Sick in India
• What to Wear in India: 5 Tips + Outfit Ideas
• The Cost of Travel in India
• 17 Things NOT to Do in India

India travel planning guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to India on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Agoda . 🛺 Download the  Ola app  to order a rickshaw. 🚃 Use 12GoAsia to book trains and buses in India. 💰 Get travel insurance via  Visitors Coverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 👘 Check out my  complete India packing list for females . 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa   to visit India.

Pin it for later: Did you find this 10-day North India itinerary helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Forecasts for cloudy skies cast shadow over North American solar eclipse

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Reporting by Steve Gorman in Los Angeles; Editing by Will Dunham

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Funding for space startups more than doubled in the first quarter as government spending remained robust setting the stage for the space economy to grow stronger, venture capital firm Space Capital said on Thursday.

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Total Solar Eclipse 2024 Highlights: darkness fell on millions in US, Mexico and Canada

A total solar eclipse will have millions of people gazing toward the heavens across a heavily populated area of North America as the moon completely blocks the sun for more than four minutes in some places.