Well, everyone likes to travel and explore new places and cultures, isn’t it? Some like to travel to different cities, and some like exploring mountains, rivers, and nature. And by saying nature the first thing that comes into your mind is Jammu & Kashmir, Manali, Shimla, Munnar, etc. right!
These are undoubtedly some of the prettiest hill stations in India but these aren’t the only ones. As for someone who lives in the northeast, I can say with confidence that next time you plan on visiting a hill station or a place that is close to nature, visit Northeast India.
I know we are not as exposed to tourism as any other state but that only makes it a beautiful mystery, doesn’t it?
There are abundant places for exploring even for someone who lives there, and let’s take a short tour of these places, shall we?
Kaziranga National park (Assam):
Home to the one-horned rhino, the Kaziranga National park is spread over 430 square kilometers. Declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1985. Along with the iconic one-horned rhino, it is a breeding ground for a lot of other species. Also declared a tiger reserve in the year 2006 because of the increasing tiger population. Apart from Tiger, Kaziranga National park also serves as home to Hoolock Gibbon, Leopard, Sloth bear, swamp deer, and many more. This is one of the best places to visit in Assam.
Dima Hasao(Assam):
Also called North Cachar Hills, it is a majestic place with tranquil kilometers of nature. The translation of the name comes from the Dimasa language and means Dimasa hills. One of the popular attractions of Dima Hasao is Jatinga and the mass suicide of the birds there. It is home to various minor tribes, preserving the heritage and culture of Assam. This is one of the best places to visit during your stay in Assam.
Sivasagar(Assam):
Being the home of centuries-old civilization, it is of historical importance to Assam. Since it was the capital of the former rulers, the Ahoms, it had a major impact on the culture and heritage of Assam. Sivasagar is famous for Shiva Idol – the tallest Shiva temple in India, Vishnu and Durga maa temples. One of the largest man-made tanks including the Joysagar, Gaurisagar, and Rudrasagar, is located here. If you want to know and experience the heritage and culture of Ahoms, Sivasagar is the perfect destination for you.
Majuli Island(Assam):
The largest riverine island in the world, Majuli is one of the best places to visit in Assam. This place is considered a bird watcher’s paradise. It is spread over 452 square kilometers and stays mostly submerged during the monsoon season. The best time to visit Majuli is considered to be May. It is the most magnificent place to visit and any trip to Assam is considered incomplete without seeing Majuli.
Shillong(Meghalaya):
The capital city of Meghalaya is one of the prettiest and cleanest cities in the North-Eastern part of India. Also known as the Scotland of the East, Shillong is considered to be the gateway of Meghalaya. The forested hills, pleasant climate, and mesmerizing views attract a lot of tourists from around the globe. Shillong is one of the most magnificent hill stations in India.
Cherrapunji (Meghalaya):
Known as one of the wettest places on earth, Cherrapunji is one of the magnificent places in Meghalaya. The major attractions here are Seven sisters cave, Nohkalikai waterfalls, Living-root Bridge, and many more. As it is situated in a forest, it is a place for trekkers and hikers, and people who enjoy nature to its closest.
Mawlynnong Village (Meghalaya):
Mawlynnong is the cleanest village in Asia. It is one of the best places to spend your day. It is one of the simplest yet prettiest places in the entire North-East. Mawlynnong is a must-visit place if you are planning a tour to Meghalaya.
Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh):
I’m sure all of the hill station lovers have heard about Tawang. It is one of the majestic and mesmerizing destinations in the whole country. The Tawang Monastery is known in Tibetan as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse, which translates to “celestial paradise in a clear night”. It is the largest monastery in the country and the second-largest in the world. Apart from this, there are a lot of other places that you cannot afford to miss at all!. The best time to visit Tawang is from April to September.
Bomdila (Arunachal Pradesh):
Bomdila is one of the best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh if you wish to witness nature and peace firsthand. It is an amazing destination for scenic views and breathtaking moments. It is also the home of Sessa Orchid Sanctuary where more than 80 species of orchids are cultivated. It is a must-visit if you are visiting Arunachal Pradesh.
Sela Pass (Arunachal Pradesh):
The Sela Pass is the high-altitude mountain pass located in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Located at an elevation of 13,700 ft above ground level, it is one of the most stunning and magnificent destinations in the country. The blue Sela Lake is the main attraction for tourists visiting Arunachal Pradesh. The whole journey of Sela Pass is full of mountains which never ceases to amaze the tourists.
Mamit (Mizoram):
This is one of the best tourist attractions in the state. Mamit is a place for wildlife enthusiasts. Dampa Wildlife sanctuary in Mamit is one of the oldest wildlife sanctuaries in Mizoram. It is spread over 500 square kilometers on the west of Mizoram. If you want to be in the wild, Mamit is the place for you. It is one of the best and prettiest places to visit in Mizoram.
Falkawn Village (Mizoram):
If you want to know about Mizo culture, you must visit Falkawn village. It gives you a clear and proper picture of the Mizo tribe and their lifestyle. The village gives you an insight into the state of Mizoram and its culture and traditions. If you are into culture and history, Falkawn village is the best place for you to visit.
Phawngpui Peak (Mizoram):
It is the highest point in Mizoram and it attracts a lot of tourists who are into adventures. It is known as the home of the Mizo tribe’s Goddess. Phawngpui Peak is located south of Mizoram and is at a distance of 300 km and attracts a lot of tourists for its scenic views and adventuring experience. The best time to visit Phawngpui Peak is from November to April.
Kohima (Nagaland):
The capital city of Nagaland should be one of the must-visit places on the itinerary of your trip. It is a beautiful city located at 1500 ft. It is surrounded by mountains and valleys which makes it a perfect spot for trekking, hiking, camping, and much more adventuring stuff. Kohima is the home to the Angami tribe. It is one of the best places to visit on your trip to the Northeast.
Dzukou Valley (Nagaland):
If you are into trekking and camping, Dzukou Valley is the perfect destination for you. Located at an altitude of 2462 meters above sea level, Dzukou valley is considered one of the most beautiful and breathtaking places in the entire northeast. It is mostly visited by adventuring enthusiasts.
Khonoma Green Village (Nagaland):
Khonoma Green Village is a pleasant peaceful village that will give a feeling of serenity and harmony. The Angami tribes live in the village in huts made from natural resources. Living in this village is earned through agriculture, handlooms, and weaving. If you want to witness harmonious and peaceful living, visit Khonoma Green village.
Pfutsero (Nagaland):
It is one of the oldest towns in Nagaland as it rests at an altitude of 2133 ft. Glory Peak is one the best places to visit here. Cherry Blossoms can be seen blooming in this magnificent town in the months of March-April.
Yuksom (Sikkim):
One of the most popular places to visit in Sikkim, Yuksom is an old historic town bestowed with natural beauty and serenity. This place is perfect for someone who is looking to escape from the hustles of the city. The main tourist attractions here are Norbugang park, Goechala Trek, Dubdi Gompa- the oldest monastery, and many more. The best time to visit is from March-June and September-November.
Goechala (Sikkim):
Goechala is a mountain pass in Sikkim known for treks and hiking. If you are an adventure junkie, Goechala should be on top of your list. The pass is amazing to visit and one can view Mt. Kanchenjunga and many other peaks from there. It is, undoubtedly, one of the best places to visit in Sikkim.
Though these are some of the best places to visit or plan a holiday in the northeast, there are a lot of other beautiful places to visit here. So, which one of these places are you planning to visit?
Let me know in the comments!
