With their undulating hills, verdant valleys, bubbling rivers, and captivating atmosphere, the Northeast states of India are well-liked by travelers from all over the world. The states are renowned for their rich cultural legacy. They are well-liked by travelers because of their hiking trails, parks where visitors may see wild creatures in their native environments, historic temples, and snow-capped mountain tops. Here are 10 of Northeast India’s most popular tourist destinations if you’re considering a trip to the home of the Seven Sisters.
1. Nathula Pass, Sikkim
Popular tourist destination Nathula Pass, standing at 14,450 feet, was formerly a part of the old Silk Road. Tourists can enjoy a much-needed respite from the bustle of the city at Nathula Pass, which is a few hours’ drive east of Gangtok. Take a taxi and head towards the pass, which is sometimes referred to as one of the scariest roads in India, to take in the scenery of this hillside and get a peek of the Chinese side of the border. There is always going to be snow in this place, no matter when you visit.
Best Time to Visit Nathula Pass: May to October
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri, Siliguri
2. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
The biggest number of Indian rhinoceroses is found in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park, with its thick forests, elephant-grass meadows, and swampy lagoons. The park, which has four pre-planned visitor circuits, is one of India’s most well-known hotspots for biodiversity. Every one of these circuits has a unique characteristic. Numerous additional animals and birds breed in this 430 square kilometer national park.
Best Time to Visit Kaziranga National Park: November to April
Safari Timings: 8:00 AM to 10.00 AM and 2.00 PM to 7:30 PM
Nearest Airport: Guwahati International Airport
3. Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim
Tsomgo Lake, often called Changu Lake, offers a surreal picture of untamed mountains. At 12,400 feet in altitude, the lake has a seasonal variation in appearance. The lakefront freezes solid in winter, but is blanketed with full-blown flowers in late May. This lake is connected to several myths and legends that hold significance for Buddhist monks and faith healers in Sikkim. A yak ride is an experience that tourists will never forget. You can even go on a yak ride on the frozen lake during the winter.
Best Time to Visit Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim: March to May, October to December
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri
4. Pelling, Sikkim
In Northeast India, Pelling is the second-most visited tourist destination. Visitors come here to observe the Khangchendzonga Peak, investigate bicycling and hiking routes, examine the monasteries more closely, or simply take in the picturesque surroundings of the town. Pelling also provides a variety of high-adrenaline activities. There are also cultural performances, traditional house tours, limbo storytelling sessions, birdwatching, fishing, hot stone baths, and forest walks to enjoy.
Best Time to Visit Pelling: September to May
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri
5. Gangtok, Sikkim
One of the most visited hill towns in Northeast India is the jovial city of Gangtok. Photographers, trekkers, and environment lovers are drawn to Gangtok because of its mist-covered mountains and verdant valleys. A vacation here calms the spirit, body, and mind. Even if you’re not a skilled climber, you can see the snow-capped Khangchendzonga Peak clearly by taking a stroll around Gangtok’s neighboring slopes. Perhaps it will even encourage you to take up mountaineering as a new pastime.
Best Time to Visit Gangtok: September to October and March to June
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri
6. Gorichen Peak, Arunachal Pradesh
Gorichen, the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh, is 22,500 feet high. The Peak, also known as Sa-Nga Phu, is frequently covered in ice and is sacred to the nearby Monpa tribe. The main draws for tourists are the hiking trails and camping areas that surround the Peak. Nurunang Falls, which are well-known, are only 25 miles away. Note that several of these trekking routes are meant for experienced hikers.
Best Time to Visit Gorichen: April to June and September to October
Ideal For: Trekking, mountaineering, and camping
Nearest Airport: Salonibari Airport, Tezpur
7. Dimapur, Nagaland
Nagaland major metropolis and economic hub, Dimapur, is proud of its tribal culture and legacy. Dimapur offers something for everyone, from the Triple Falls to the remains of Kachari to the woodlands that are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. It is the starting point for visits to other Himalayan locations and is one of the most popular tourist sites in Northeast India. It is during the Hornbill Festival that Dimapur comes alive.
Best Time to Visit Dimapur: October to June
Hornbill Festival: December
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Dimapur
8. Imphal, Manipur
Imphal, tucked away in the hills covered with forests, is a restorative haven, especially for those who live in busy cities. Imphal provides them with beautiful valleys and hills. In Northeast India, it’s a popular resort for honeymooners. Numerous historical monuments that highlight the diversity of the state’s cultures may be found here. You must try the state’s cuisine if you want to get the whole Imphal experience.
Best Time to Visit Imphal: September to April
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, Imphal
Nearest Railway Station: Dimapur
9. Guwahati, Assam
Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India seven sisters, strikes a balance between the natural beauty of the area and the contemporary amenities of a city. Assam’s largest city, Guwahati, is situated along the banks of the Brahmaputra River. This is the spot to be if you want a leisurely vacation. The city has a diverse nightlife as well. Being a part of the many festivals that Guwahati celebrates is a really unique experience.
Best Time to Visit Guwahati: October to March
Nearby Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati
10. Goechala, Sikkim
There are very few trekking paths that compare to Goechala. A glimpse of 14 Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Kanchenjunga, can be had on this 10- to 12-day trip. This is one of the most breathtaking treks you will ever go on, passing through the rhododendron forests of Phedang, the rushing Teesta River, the Paha Khola Bridge, and viburnum plantations. It is easy to see why this is one of Northeast India’s most popular tourist destinations.
Best Time to Visit Goechala: March to April
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport, Siliguri
Karan Gulati
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