North East India travel guide
North East India is one of the most enchanting corners of the country—an untouched paradise filled with mist-covered hills, crystal-clear rivers, ancient tribal cultures, and vibrant festivals. For travellers wanting a mix of nature, culture, adventure, wildlife, and authentic local experiences, this region promises a journey like no other.
What makes North East India unique
The Northeast stands apart because of its magical landscapes—rolling tea gardens of Assam, deep gorges of Arunachal, floating lakes of Manipur, living root bridges of Meghalaya, and alpine valleys of Sikkim.
It’s home to more than 220 indigenous tribes, each preserving its own language, customs, textiles, and food traditions.
Why it’s the perfect travel region in 2025
With improved connectivity, eco-friendly tourism initiatives, and a boom in homestays, 2025 is the best time to explore North East India. Travellers can enjoy offbeat treks, community-led cultural experiences, wildlife safaris, river adventures, and rich culinary journeys—all in one trip.
Quick overview of culture, nature, tribes, and food
- Culture: Tribal heritage, vibrant textile traditions, bamboo crafts, folk music
- Nature: Waterfalls, caves, national parks, snow-capped mountains
- Tribes: Ao, Angami, Apatani, Mishing, Lepcha, Bodo, Khasi, and many more
- Food: Smoked pork, bamboo shoot dishes, thukpa, jadoh, fish stews, momos
Overview of the 8 States
Below is a crisp and vivid guide to the eight states that make Northeast India a traveller’s paradise.
Assam
Assam is the gateway to the Northeast and a land of lush tea gardens, ancient temples, and UNESCO wildlife reserves. Travellers adore its diverse landscapes—from the Brahmaputra islands to the thick forests of Kaziranga and Manas.
Famous attractions:
- Kaziranga National Park
- Majuli River Island
- Kamakhya Temple
- Sivasagar Ahom monuments
Why travellers love Assam: Easy connectivity, rich culture (Bihu), river cruises, and wildlife safaris.
Special experiences: Tea estate stays, Brahmaputra sunset cruises, tribal villages, and wildlife photography tours.
Explore more destinations of Assam, read our post: – Assam Travel Guide
Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal is India’s wildest and most beautiful frontier—filled with snow valleys, Buddhist monasteries, and remote tribal villages. It offers incredible trekking, dramatic landscapes, and untouched local cultures.
Famous attractions:
- Tawang Monastery
- Ziro Valley
- Mechuka
- Dong (India’s first sunrise point)
Why travellers love Arunachal: Adventure, spirituality, and pristine nature far from crowds.
Special experiences: Trekking routes, homestays with Apatani tribes, monastery tours, and river rafting.
You can also read our Arunachal Pradesh Itinerary for more details.
Meghalaya
Meghalaya is the land of clouds, lush green hills, and some of India’s most unique natural wonders—living root bridges, Asia’s cleanest river, and countless waterfalls.
Famous attractions:
- Cherrapunji
- Dawki (Umngot River)
- Shillong
- Laitlum Canyon
- Mawlynnong
Why travellers love Meghalaya: Ease of travel, stunning landscapes, adventure-friendly activities.
Special experiences: Caving in Sohra, trekking to Double Decker Root Bridge, kayaking in crystal-clear waters, café culture in Shillong.
For more such exciting travel destinations in Meghalaya, read our Meghalaya Guide
Nagaland
Nagaland is a cultural hotspot where centuries-old tribal traditions continue to thrive. It’s best known for the Hornbill Festival, rugged mountains, and warrior heritage.
Famous attractions:
- Kohima
- Dzukou Valley
- Longwa Village
- Mokokchung
Why travellers love Nagaland: Authentic tribal culture, colourful festivals, and vibrant food.
Special experiences: Village stays, trekking in Dzukou Valley, traditional bamboo cooking, and indigenous crafts.
If you are planning a trek in the North East, read our Dzukou Valley trek guide.
Manipur
Known as the “Jewel of India,” Manipur is famous for its floating lake, classical dance traditions, and scenic hills.
Famous attractions:
- Loktak Lake
- Keibul Lamjao National Park
- Imphal
- INA Museum
Why travellers love Manipur: Unique landscapes, calm lakes, warm people, and delicious food like Eromba.
Special experiences: Boat rides on floating phumdis, traditional performances, and heritage trails.
Mizoram
A peaceful, scenic state filled with rolling hills and vibrant tribal culture. Mizoram offers a perfect blend of nature and warm hospitality.
Famous attractions:
- Aizawl
- Reiek Peak
- Champhai vineyards
- Phawngpui (Blue Mountain)
Why travellers love Mizoram: Clean cities, friendly locals, offbeat experiences.
Special experiences: Hill treks, community stays, nature camps.
Tripura
Tripura is a hidden gem of the Northeast—known for its historic palaces, serene lakes, and forested landscapes.
Famous attractions:
- Ujjayanta Palace
- Neermahal
- Unakoti
- Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary
Why travellers love Tripura: Affordable travel, rich heritage, and peaceful landscapes.
Special experiences: Heritage walks, tribal handicraft villages, and food experiences.
Sikkim
Sikkim combines Himalayan beauty with adventure and spirituality. From monasteries to alpine lakes, it’s perfect for laid-back travellers and trekkers alike.
Famous attractions:
- Gangtok
- Tsomgo Lake
- Nathula Pass
- Yumthang Valley
- Yuksom
Why travellers love Sikkim: Eco-friendly tourism, delicious food, clean environments, and stunning mountain views.
Special experiences: High-altitude treks, monasteries, hot springs, farm stays.
Why North East India Is Trending in 2025
Rise in sustainable tourism
Travellers prefer eco-friendly destinations, and the Northeast is leading with community-run homestays, plastic-free zones, and nature-first initiatives.
Improved roads & airports
New routes like the Trans-Arunachal Highway and better flight connectivity (Dibrugarh, Imphal, Shillong) make travel smoother.
Homestay boom
Local families offer immersive experiences in Meghalaya, Arunachal, Nagaland, Assam, and Sikkim.
Community-based tourism
Trips now include village walks, weaving workshops, traditional cooking, and cultural storytelling.
New travel trends in 2025
- Wellness retreats in Sikkim
- Hiking circuits in Arunachal
- Offbeat tours in Nagaland and Mizoram
- River adventures in Assam
- Cultural immersion trips across tribal regions
Best Time to Visit North East India
The Northeast has varied climates, so planning with seasons helps.
Winter (November–February)
Best for:
- Snow valleys in Arunachal
- Festivals
- Wildlife safaris
- Clear mountain views
Summer (March–May)
Best for:
- Sightseeing in Meghalaya & Sikkim
- Trekking
- Road trips
Monsoon (June–September)
Best for:
- Lush greenery
- Waterfalls
But avoid heavy trekking and slippery routes.
Ideal months for activities
| Activity | Best Months |
| Trekking | Oct–Nov, Mar–May |
| Wildlife | Nov–Apr |
| Photography | Oct–Feb |
| Festival tours | Dec, Apr |
Ideal Travel Itineraries
10-Day North East India Itinerary
(Assam + Meghalaya + Arunachal)
Day 1–2: Guwahati & Kaziranga (Assam)
- Kamakhya Temple
- Brahmaputra cruise
- Jeep safari
From Day 3 to 5: Shillong, Cherrapunji (Meghalaya)
- Umiam Lake
- Laitlum Canyon
- Nohkalikai Falls
- Mawlynnong
- Dawki boating
6th to 10th Day: Tawang Circuit (Arunachal)
- Bhalukpong
- Dirang
- Sela Pass
- Tawang Monastery
- Nuranang Falls
- Bomdila return
Transport: Shared SUVs or private taxis
Stay: Homestays in Dirang, Cherrapunji, Tawang
15-Day North East Itinerary
(Culture + Nature + Wildlife + 1 Trek)
Assam (Day 1–4)
- Guwahati
- Majuli
- Sivasagar historical tour
Meghalaya (Day 5–7)
- Root bridges
- Waterfall circuit
- Café culture in Shillong
Nagaland (Day 8–11)
- Kohima
- Village visits (Khonoma)
- Dzukou Valley Trek
Manipur (Day 12–15)
- Loktak Lake
- Keibul Lamjao Sanctuary
- Imphal markets
Accommodation: Homestays + boutique lodges
Transport: Flights between Imphal and Guwahati if needed
21-Day North East Itinerary
(Deep exploration of all states)
1st Week
- Assam: Kaziranga & Majuli
- Arunachal: Tawang, Ziro Valley & Mechuka
2nd Week
- Assam: Guwahati
- Meghalaya: Cherrapunji + Jaintia Hills
- Nagaland: Mokokchung + Kohima
3rd Week
- Manipur: Loktak
- Mizoram: Aizawl
- Tripura: Agartala + Unakoti
- Sikkim: Gangtok + Tsomgo Lake
Optional add-ons:
- Sandakphu trek (Sikkim)
- Hornbill Festival (Nagaland)
- River rafting (Arunachal)
Buffer days: 2 extra days for weather delays.
Budget vs Luxury Travel in North East India
Budget Travel Costs (per day)
- Homestays: ₹800–₹1,200
- Food: ₹200–₹400
- Shared transport: ₹600–₹1,000
- Activities: ₹300–₹500
Luxury Travel Costs (per day)
- Boutique stays: ₹5,000–₹10,000
- Private SUV: ₹4,000–₹7,000
- Premium treks: ₹10,000+
- Helicopter ride (Sikkim): ₹3,000–₹5,000
Comparison Table
| Category | Budget (₹) | Mid-range (₹) | Luxury (₹) |
| Stay | 800–1,200 | 2,000–4,000 | 5,000–10,000 |
| Food | 200–400 | 500–900 | 1,000+ |
| Transport | 600–1,000 | 2,000–3,500 | 4,000–7,000 |
| Activities | 300–500 | 800–1,500 | 2,000–10,000 |
Best Festivals to Experience in North East India
Hornbill Festival – Nagaland
When: 1–10 December
Highlights: Tribal performances, food, crafts, sports, and a night carnival.
Bihu – Assam
When: January, April, October
Highlights: Folk dances, feasts, community celebrations.
Losar – Arunachal & Sikkim
When: February
Highlights: Buddhist rituals, masked dances, and prayers.
Wangala – Meghalaya
When: November
Highlights: 100-drum festival, Garo tribal celebrations.
Sangai Festival – Manipur
When: November
Highlights: Cultural shows, adventure sports, and food.
Kharchi Puja – Tripura
When: July
Highlights: Royal rituals, temple celebrations, processions.
Must-Try Food Across North East India
Assam
- Assamese Thali
- Masor Tenga (tangy fish)
- Pitha
Meghalaya
- Jadoh
- Dohneiiong
- Tungrymbai
Nagaland
- Smoked pork with bamboo shoot
- Axone dishes
- Sticky rice
Manipur
- Eromba
- Chamthong
- Singju salad
Tripura
- Mui Borok
- Bamboo shoot stew
Sikkim
- Momo
- Thukpa
- Kinema curry
Vegetarian options:
Thukpa, jadoh veg, bamboo shoot curry, local greens, rice cakes, squash stews.
How to Reach North East India
By Air: –
Major airports:
- Guwahati (largest)
- Imphal
- Dibrugarh
- Lilabari
- Bagdogra (for Sikkim)
By Train
Guwahati is well-connected to major Indian cities.
By Road
Well-connected via national highways and shared taxis.
Entry Permits (ILP)
Required for:
- Arunachal Pradesh (https://www.eilp.arunachal.gov.in/)
- Nagaland(https://ilp.nagaland.gov.in/)
- Manipur(https://manipurilponline.mn.gov.in/)
- Mizoram(https://ilp.mizoram.gov.in/)
Apply online in advance.
Essential Travel Tips for North East First Timers
- Transport: Shared taxis are common; book early in peak season.
- Connectivity: Patchy in remote areas; carry offline maps.
- Cash: ATMs are limited in villages; keep some cash handy.
- Clothing: Layered clothing; waterproof gear for Meghalaya.
- Food safety: Eat fresh, drink bottled water.
- Trekking: Hire guides, carry warm layers and good shoes.
- Respect culture: Ask before photographing tribal communities.
FAQs
1. Is North East India safe for solo travellers?
Yes, it’s one of India’s safest regions. Locals are warm, and crime rates are low.
2. Do I need permits?
ILP is required for Arunachal, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Manipur.
3. How many days are ideal?
10–21 days, depending on how many states you want to cover.
4. Is vegetarian food available?
Yes, especially in Sikkim, Assam, and Meghalaya.
5. When is the best time to visit North East India?
October to May is ideal with pleasant weather and clear skies.
6. Are homestays safe and comfortable?
Yes, most are family-run and provide clean, authentic local stays.
7. Can I rent bikes?
Available in Guwahati and Shillong; carry proper riding gear.
8. What is the best state for first-time visitors?
Meghalaya and Assam are the easiest and most beginner-friendly.
Conclusion
North East India is a world within a world—where ancient cultures blend with breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re dreaming of waterfalls in Meghalaya, alpine meadows in Arunachal, floating lakes in Manipur, tribal festivals in Nagaland, or the peaceful valleys of Sikkim, 2025 offers the perfect opportunity to experience it all.
Pack your bags, pick an itinerary, and let this enchanting region show you the magic of slow, meaningful travel.
