Where to go on summer vacation? Same place again and again, Darjeeling, Shimla, Manali – nothing outside? Now change the holiday destination! This time consider a visit in North East India. Northeast India is calling you for an extraordinary experience. Hills, valleys, sanctuaries, historical places, festivals – all in all a wonderful adventure. Visit this lovely place with family, the holidays spent here will be memorable. And the best thing is, almost everything here will be done according to your budget. So why the delay? Decide on your next vacation destination today. Northeast India is waiting to give you unique experiences.
Why Visit in North East India in summer?
- Outstanding Natural Beauty: Northeast India is famous for its outstanding natural beauty.
- Diverse Cultures: The region is inhabited by various tribal communities, who have their own unique culture and traditions.
- Affordable: Northeast India travel is much more affordable than other popular tourist destinations.
- Adventure Opportunities: It is a great place for adventure sports like trekking, river rafting, rock climbing.
- Tranquil Environment: This is an ideal place to spend your vacation in a peaceful environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
1. Shillong: The Gem of Meghalaya
The picture-perfect hill station of Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is also known as the ‘Scotland of India’. Shillong is a beautiful hill station located in Khasi Hills. The “Scotland of the East” for its rolling green hills, waterfalls and pleasant weather but to be honest, the sheer beauty of Shillong makes Scotland feel like the ‘Shillong of Europe’!
It is as if nature has given this small town its precious wealth and form. The mountains, the waterfalls, the forest, the weather – everything is amazing. Shillong is actually an ideal village with modern facilities in the lap of nature. Shillong Peak gives a wonderful view of the city. And if you go to Shillong, you must go to Cherrapunji to see the rain.
How to go Shillong?
- Shillong is well connected by air and road. The nearest airport is Umroi Airport about 35 km away. But there are many daily flights from Guwahati to Kolkata. From there it will take two and a half hours by road.
- Trains: There are total 10 trains running between Howrah and Shillong. Some of the major trains from Howrah to Shillong are Puri Kamakhya Express, Guwahati Express, Secunderabad Guwahati Express. Guwahati is well-connected and Shillong can be reached in 2 hours 45 minutes by government buses.
Where to stay in Shillong?
Accommodation in Shillong ranges from budget hotels to luxury resorts (from dormitories to four-star hotels).
Best time to visit Shillong
One of the best times to visit Shillong is from September to May, but consider visiting during the monsoons. The two months of heavy monsoons, July-August, are great for experiencing the monsoons up close. During the monsoons, the mountains and springs here regain full youth. He will see a wonderful nature.
Must-sees in Shillong:
- Shillong Peak: Offers panoramic views of the city.
- Ward’s Lake: A picturesque lake perfect for boating.
- Elephant Falls: A magnificent waterfall surrounded by greenery.
- Shillong Cathedral: A beautiful neo-gothic church.
- Lady Hydari Park: A sprawling park with botanical gardens.
- Don Bosco Museum: Has a collection of exhibits and artifacts on the history and culture of the Northeast.
- Thankcient Lake: A serene lake surrounded by pine trees.
- Shillong Police Museum: Displays the history of Meghalaya Police.
Have fun doing activities:
- Trekking: Take a look at the scenic trails around Shillong.
- Golf: Play a round at the Shillong Golf Course, one of the oldest golf courses in Asia.
- Shopping: Take a peek at Police Bazaar for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Water Sports: Enjoy boating and kayaking on Lake Ward.
- Caves: Explore the numerous caves around Shillong. Will remember for life.
- Festivals: Attend the vibrant Nankrem Dance Festival or the Shillong Autumn Festival.
You can try local cuisine:
- Taste Khasi cuisine, known for its use of pork, bamboo shoots and fermented fish.
- Don’t miss the momo, a popular dumpling dish.
2. Jampui Hills: The Eternal Spring Hills
The most popular rock town in the state of Tripura is Jampui Hills, which is located at an altitude of about 930 meters above sea level. Jampui Hill is called the ‘Hill of Eternal Spring‘ for its pleasant climate and mesmerizing scenery. Dense green forests, beautiful sunrise and sunset views, and the beauty of the natural gardens will mesmerize you.
Jampui Hill can visit various interesting places like Betlingchip, Chittagong Hill Tracts and Kanchanpur. Also, there are several other places of interest near Jampui Hills, such as Ujjayant Palace and Dhalai Ambasa Bazaar.
How to reach Jampui hill?
- Air: The easiest way to reach Jampui Hills is to fly to Agartala and then take a car.
- Train: The nearest railway station is Kumarghat/Pencharthal railway station, which is about 90 km from Bhangmun in Jampui Hills.
- Road: You can go to Kumarghat or Pencharthal from Agartala by train/bus and then travel by local transport for one hour and two hours respectively to reach this place.
You might like to do:
- You can also go to Jampui Hills from Agartala via Kanchanpur.
- You can indulge in trekking adventures to reach higher viewpoints in the mountain ranges, however, there are viewpoints at lower altitudes.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture a stunningly beautiful sunset.
Some useful tips:
- Every year in the month of November the Orange Festival is celebrated at Jampui Hills.
- Eden Tourist Lodge at Bhangmun Village is an ideal choice for an overnight stay in the Jampui Hills.
- If you want to experience the local culture up close, the local Mizo people also arrange for paying guests to stay in their homes.
- Camp under the open sky at night and sing with the Mizo people over a bonfire.
3. Tawang: The Pride of Arunachal
Are you looking for some refuge away from the harsh urban environment? If yes then Tawang is the right choice for you. Situated at an altitude of 3050 meters in the middle of the great Himalayas, Tawang is famous for its picturesque scenery, waterfalls and the station is also famous for its several Buddhist monasteries which attract a large number of tourists throughout the year. From the mesmerizing ranges of Goodpi to the ethereal Tawang Valley and Madhuri Lake, you’ll fall in love with the sights of Tawang. One cannot seem to leave this place without hiking the spectacular Gorichen Peak.
What to see in Tawang:
- Tawang Monastery: One of the largest Buddhist monasteries in the world.
- Yashwant Garh: A historical fort built during the Sino-Indian War of 1962.
- Jung Falls: A beautiful waterfall located near Tawang.
- Sathaltsar Lake: A sacred lake located near Tawang.
- Tawang War Memorial: Built to commemorate the martyred soldiers of the Sino-Indian War of 1962.
- Gurpi and Chong-Chugmi Mountains: Two picturesque mountain ranges located around Tawang.
- Tawang Chu River: A river flowing through the Tawang Valley.
- Tawang Valley: A picturesque valley located around the town of Tawang.
- Shyo Village: Visit this village to learn about the culture and lifestyle of the Monpa tribes.
Best time to visit Tawang:
The best time to visit Tawang is from March to October. During this time the weather is pleasant and various cultural and religious festivals are held.
How to get to Tawang:
- By Air: Guwahati Airport, at a distance of 480 km, is the nearest international airport to Tawang. It is well connected to all major cities of India including Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi. You can also catch a flight from Tezpur Airport, which is directly connected to Guwahati.
- By Road: If you want to opt for a road trip to Tawang, hire a cab from Tezpur or take bus services of Arunachal Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation.
- By Train: Rangapara Railway Station is the nearest station from Tawang. It is only 383 km from Tawang and is well connected to all major cities of Northeast India.
Also read: Top 15 places to travel in Jharkhand
4. Bhalukpong: Natural Resort of Arunachal
Bhalukpong is just 213 meters above sea level, just 56 km from Tezpur in Assam and is said to be the entry point of Arunachal Pradesh. The place is famous for the archaeological remains of King ‘Baluka‘, who was an ancient ruler of the region. Balukpong is also known as the land of tigers and orchids and serves as the gateway to popular destinations like Bomdila and Tawang. Tourist attractions include Pukka Tiger Sanctuary, Balukpong Fort and many more.
Bhalukpong : Attractions that cannot be missed.
Apart from being a nature lover’s paradise, Balukpong can offer you a complete experience with wildlife and a host of activities that appreciate its natural beauty and lesser-known environment. The Kameng River flowing through the surrounding forest makes the city more attractive. In Valukpong you will find the most facilities for hiking, trekking, camping and fishing.
- Pakui Wildlife Sanctuary which is spread over 860 square kilometers is home to exotic birds like tigers, elephants, barking deer and many more. Get there early so you don’t miss the dawn safari. It is 23 km from the city.
- TP Orchid Garden: Here you can see more than 2600 different types of orchid flowers. You can visit the orchid reserve while returning on the same day.
- Balukpong Fort: Also keep this historic fort on your travel list.
- Trekking: Gaining huge popularity among tourists. White water rafting is now fully operational. Hiking in this quite and quiet area will surely feel a calmness on the body.
What else to see nearby:
You can leave early morning for Bomdila, 100 km from Bhalukpong. Spend the whole day at Bomdila. Don’t forget to visit the Bamboo Crafts Center at Bomdila. Bombdila will take you whole day.
How to go to Bhalukpong:
- By Air: – Nearest working airport is Tezpur and Guwahati main airport 52 km from Bhalukpong.
- By Rail: – Nearest Railway Station is Rangapara. Bhalukpong is about 250 kms and 6 hours drive from Guwahati. Trains to Rangapara and Bhalukpong are available from both Tezpur and Guwahati.
- By Road: – Bhalukpong is 52 km from Tezpur. Two main highways, one connecting Jonaic with Dirac. Another highway connects Tawang with Tezpur in Assam. Each city has its own bus station and daily bus services are available. Private cars are also available.
5. Dzukou Valley: Greatest Tourist Place in Manipur-Nagaland
The Dzukou Valley, also known as the Kingdom of Clouds, is located at an altitude of about 2,500 meters above sea level on the border of Nagaland and Manipur in northeastern India. In winter, the temperature drops much lower than expected in such tropical states and Dzukou Valley is sometimes covered in white snow. A trek to the Japphu range and a camping experience at the peak of the valley will make your trip even more thrilling as in summer, the heavenly view will remain in your memory for a lifetime when the distant blue mountain peaks in the midst of bright green dunes will be in front of your eyes.
The best time to visit Dzukou Valley is from March to June.
Route to Dzukou Valley:
If you go to Dzukou from Manipur side, there are quite a lot of trekking trails that you can enjoy. But make sure you have the right equipment and a local guide who knows the way.
From Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, it is relatively easy to get to Dzukou Valley. The valley is accessible from two towns: Jakhama and Visvema. Jakhama is about 20 km from Kohima and Visvema is about 25 km from Kohima. The nearest railway station to Kohima is Dimapur. From there you can easily reach Kohima by bus.
How to get to Dzukou Valley
The method you should take depends on your fitness. The trek from Jakhama to Dzukou Valley is a little bumpy but takes less time. The trek from Visvema to Dzukou Valley is more gradual. The Visvema approach begins with an approximately 8 km motorable road. The road is gently sloping, and takes about 3 hours to walk. You can hire a taxi (around Rs.1500) from the main highway to the end of the motorable road.
Where to stay in Dzukou Valley
There is a common quality restroom overlooking the valley, housing two dorms. Dorm costs Rs. 50 per person, and private rooms are also available at Rs. 300 per room.
6. Pasighat: Land of the mighty Siang
Another beautiful hill town in Arunachal Pradesh is Pasighat. It is quite popular as one of the best hill stations in Northeast India. It has a distinct attraction not only for its picturesque natural beauty, but also for being one of the oldest cities in the state. Being located in the heart of Arunachal, it is easy to reach other places of interest in the state. Here you can enjoy the beautiful view of the green river valley at the lap of the mountain. Morning and afternoon walks in this cloud-covered city will fill your mind. A photographer’s paradise. The stunning beauty of the nearby Nuranang Falls will mesmerize you. It is an ideal place for a family vacation.
Major attractions in Pasighat:
- Beautiful mountain and green river valley view.
- A city floating in the clouds, ideal for a morning-evening stroll.
- Paradise for photographers.
- Nuranang Falls: A beautiful waterfall located near the town.
- Ering Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Don’t miss the river rafting.
What is the best time to visit Pasighat?
With its stunning natural beauty on the lap of the Siang River (Brahmaputra River), Pasighat is an untouched paradise and a year-round tourist destination. Pasighat has a tropical humid climate with summers, dry mild winters and heavy rainfall during monsoons. The best time to visit Pasighat is January to May and October when the temperature is dry and cool and there is not much rain.
How to reach Pasighat?
Located in the valley of Arunachal Pradesh, Pasighat is well connected to major cities in India by rail, road and air.
- By Air: Located 169 km from Pasighat, Dibrugarh Airport and Guwahati Airport are the nearest air bases. There are direct flights from Kolkata and other cities in India. After reaching the airport, you can hire a taxi, it will take about 4 hours to reach.
- By Road: There are frequent bus services with more than 20 routes from nearby cities like Guwahati, Itanagar, Dibrugarh and Lakhimpur to Pasighat. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi to travel to Pasighat or drive to the destination.
- By Train: The nearest railway station ‘Murkong Selek’ is 35 km from Pasighat. You have to take a bus to the destination or hire a taxi which will take you around 40 minutes to reach.
Where to Stay in Pasighat:
There are various types of accommodation in Pasighat, including hotels, resorts, guest houses and homestays. Depending on your budget and preferences you can choose the suitable accommodation.
Some essential tips:
- Check the weather forecast before going to Pasighat.
- Being a mountainous area, the weather here is cold, so be sure to bring warm clothes.
- Be respectful of local culture and customs.
Must try local food:
- One can enjoy adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, and camping.
- Pasighat offers much cheaper sightseeing than other popular hill stations. Accommodation, food and transportation are all relatively cheap here.