Arunachal Pradesh – Tawang Monastery

It’s also known as the Orchid State of India, also it is one of the richest parts in India as it is completely covered with lush greenery in the form of forests and meadows. However, Arunachal Pradesh is largely popular for the presence of Tawang Monastery within its boundaries. Largest of them all in India, this 17th-century monastery is located atop a hill in the valley of Tawang river. With more than 50 private buildings and a huge library, Tawang Monastery showcases the vibrant culture and folklore of the state. So, what do you think of traveling to this beautiful wonder of Arunachal Pradesh this season?

Assam – Majuli Island

Majauli, the world’s largest river island nestles amidst the waters of Brahmaputra. It covers an area of 866 sq. kms. comprising of forest and beach, but is fastly shrinking due to erosion. The scenic island is also an important center of Vaishnava culture and renowned for its Satras or Vaishnava monasteries, which were the centers for Assamese culture and religion. Upper Majauli is inhabited by Mishing and Deori tribes, who are known for making exquisite handlooms, especially the Mirizen shawls and blankets. The biodiversity of the island attracts a large number of migratory birds. The island has been proposed as the 21st UNESCO Heritage site. MAjauli is 20 kms. from Jorhat and can be reached by ferry at Nemati Ghat at Jorhat. Jorhat is regarded as the Tea Capital of the world and is also an important cultural center of the State.

Manipur – Loktak Lake

Ever wondered if having a chance to stand on water?
Well, the unique Loktak Lake of Manipur can just give you that chance. The largest freshwater lake of North-eastern India, it is famous for the floating vegetation found on it of various forms. These floating mass of vegetation is locally known as Phumdis and appear like floating islands on water. The Loktak Lake has a tourist boating center too, where you can get an absolutely worth it boat ride experience. Not only a breezy ride on this pristine lake while watching the sun go down in the distant mountain a splendid feeling but then you can actually get down at one of these phumdis to experience how it feels like standing and walking on these floating mass of land. Buying a half an hour boat ride ticket one can drop into the humble abode of the fishermen families staying on these phumdis, who depend on this lake for their livelihood. The simplicity of their living and the smile on their faces makes one realize that contentment is the real wealth.

A distant, bird’s view of the lake can be seen from the Sendra resort located at a hilltop near this lake. You can enjoy the breathtaking view and calming breeze of the lake while sipping on some hot beverage and snacks at the Sendra cafe. Another attraction of the lake is the Keibul Lamjao National Park, located on its southern shore. It is home to the endangered brow-antlered deer also known as Sangai deer or dancing deer of Manipur.

One can get a glimpse of the deers through binocular from the distant watchtowers of this park. Keibul Lamjao is the only floating national park in the world, the sad fact though is not much initiative is being undertaken for the upkeep and promotion of tourism for this unique attraction.

Meghalaya – The Root Bridges

If there is any place in India which deserves to be called the green beauty, then it is, unarguably, Meghalaya. Home to the highest rainfall-receiving place, the state of Meghalaya is covered with green lawns, thick woods and towering hills, which are definitely incredible.

Cherrapunji (Sohra), the small hilly village 56 kms. from Shillong is the wettest place on earth and is one of the most visited tourist spots of North-Eastern India. It is quite interesting to note that Cherrapunji receives an average rainfall of40 inches annually, but it suffers from the water crisis. The scenic beauty of the region is enhanced by a number of gushing waterfalls. Other attractions are the festivals of Khasi tribals, oldest Theological College of the region (established in 1888), limestone caves, oranges, and honey.

Mawsynram, the picturesque village on a hill, about 3 kms. from Cherrapunji and55 kms. from Shillong is said to have broken the Cherrapunji’s record of the wettest place on earth for some time. However, in 2002 Cherrapunji received 12,262 m.m. of rainfall and regained its lost glory. Although the facts of Mawsyram receiving more rain have not been corroborated. The region teems with limestone caves with beautiful stalagmite and stalactite formations.

Mizoram – The Blue Mountain

Also known as Phawngpui, Blue Mountain, at an elevation of about 2157 m, is the highest peak of Lushai Hills and is home to rich flora and fauna. However, the major thing which makes it the wonder of Mizoram lies in its beautiful blue appearance at the time of dawn and dusk.

Nagaland – Dzukou Valley

If you think the valleys of Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir are the most beautiful ones, then you really need to catch a glimpse of Dzukou Valley, which is the invaluable wonder of Nagaland. It is characterized by green vegetation and seasonal flowers, which cover its entire expanse, and is famous for nurturing the beautiful flower, Dzukou Lily. How about getting yourself to this world of flower fields?

Tripura – Ujjayanta Palace

Even though Tripura has several other tourist places in the form of ancient monuments and religious sites, the beauty and significance of Ujjayanta Palace are still unmatchable. Built-in the year 1901, this majestic beauty served as a legal residence to the royal family of the Manikya dynasty. However, today, it is has been converted into a state museum which houses things related to the art, culture, and lifestyle of Northeast India in the past. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and settled on the banks of charming lakes, Ujjayanta Palace seems like a residence in heaven. From beautiful location to commendable architecture, each and every bit of this majestic building is worthy of attention.

Arunachal Pradesh

Marvelous Arunachal, the land of the dawn-lit-mountains is the first place to greet the golden sun blazes into our country. This nature’s treasure trove has over 60 percent of its the area covered with evergreen forests interspersed with rivers, streams, gorges, and snowy peaks. Arunachal Pradesh, a naturalist’s dream has an amazing assortment of fascinating flora and fauna. A visit to this once ‘Hidden Land’ is an out of the world experience, as one comes across breathtaking spectacular nature in all her pristine glory.

Itanagar, the charming capital of Arunachal Pradesh is said to be named after the historic Ita Fort, dating back to the 14-15 century and identified with Mayapur. It is actually a twin town – Naharlagun, the older and Itanagar, the new official capital town The elegant Raj Bhavan, the official residence of the Governor, along with the wood frame buildings rising up the slopes of a lush hill presents a picture-postcard setting.

Buddhist Temple: The beautiful yellow-roofed shrine on a hill affords a fine view of the town. The Tibetan influence on the architecture of the shrine is clearly visible.

Jawaharlal Nehru Museum: It exhibits archaeological relics from the Ita Fort. There is also a fine collection of arts and crafts, jewelry, textiles, and tribal headgears of Arunachal Pradesh.

Other places of interest are, Ganga (Gyakat Sinki) Lake, PoloPark, Handicrafts Centre, Zoo, etc.

Assam

Alluring Assam, the ‘Home of the son of Lord Brahma or Brahma- Putra” is a land of myths, mysteries, lores, and legends. This sentinel of northeast India is joined to the mainland by a narrow strip of land and noted for its ruins and monuments, colorful people and festivals. The state endowed with stunning scenic beauty is dominated by the mighty Brahmaputra River and is the largest producer of timber and tea in the country. Assam is also dotted with oils fields and it produces about one-sixth of India’s petroleum and natural gas.

Guwahati, the ‘Gateway to the North East sprawling along the banks of Brahmaputra is the main industrial, commercial and communication center of the region. It was an important religious and political nerve center of ancient Assam and was earlier known by the names of ‘Kamrupa’ and ‘Pragiyotishpura’ or ‘the city of eastern lights’. Today, this bustling business city is associated with various products like tea, oil, forest produce, and handlooms, etc.

Kamakhya Temple: The sacred shrine of Goddess Kali is the most important temple of Assam and the main attraction of Guwahati. The temple with bee-hive shaped shikaras is perched on the Nilachal hill and is a fine example of Assamese architecture. It is one of the three most important tantrik temples in India. According to mythological legends, the ‘yoni’ of Shakti, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati fell over here and thus it is also known as ‘Yoni Pith’.

Assam State Museum: It has a rich collection of archaeological and ethnographic artifacts like stone sculptures and bronzes etc, dating back to the 7th century.

Nabagraha Temple: The temple of the ‘Nine Planets’ at the Chitranchal hill is an ancient seat of astrology and astronomy. The lingam inside the shrine is surrounded by nine representations of the planets.

Umananda Temple: The Shiva temple is set on the Peacock Island in Brahmaputra river and can be reached by boat from Umananda Ghat.

Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalashetra: The cultural center is named after Sankaradeva, a 15th-century Vaishnavite saint. It preserves and promotes the cultural identity of the Assam.

Assam State Zoo: This well-maintained zoo has a rich variety of animal life. There’s an also a fine botanical garden.

Manipur

Magnificient Manipur, actually meaning a “jewelry land” is studded with lush hills, emerald green valleys, turquoise lakes, and deep dark woods. Lord Irwin described it as the “Switzerland of India” while Nehru called it the “jewel of India”. Manipur is also proud of its rich culture and heritage. It epitomizes beauty and grace through Manipuri, the world-famous dance form and the equally captivating tribal dance noted for their colorful costumes. The exquisite handlooms and handicrafts of the Stae demonstrate the artistic and creative outlook of the Manipuri’s. Manipur is are also known for their rich sports and martial traditions. It is believed that the sport of Polo originated here, as Songol Kangjei (Manipuri Polo). Mukna Kangjei (wrestling Hockey), Yubi Lakpir (Manipuri Rugby) are some of the other popular indigenous sports of Manipur.

Imphal, the beautiful capital city nestling in the heart of an oval valley is said to be founded in 3rd century B.C, making it one of the oldest state capitals of the country. This mini-metropolis is a fascinating blend of Indian and multiple ethnocultural traditions and is emerging as an important tourist destination of the region.

The Old Royal Palace: It lies in the center of the town and has relics of an old fortress and a palace.

Shree Govindji Temple: The sacred shrine near the Royal Palace is dedicated to Lord Krishna, as Govindji. It has twin golden domes, a paved courtyard, and a great assembly hall. The image of the principal deity is carved out of a jackfruit tree in response to a dream which Rajarshi Bhagyachandra had in the 18th century. The presiding deity is flanked by the shrines of Krishna, Balaram, and Jagannath. Spellbinding Ras Leela dance performances are held at the shrine on special occasions.

Khwairamband Bazar or IMA Market: The unique shopping mall is the largest exclusive women’s market. There are over 3000 Imas (mothers), who run the stalls located on either side of the road. It is an excellent place to buy exquisite handloom and
handicraft goods, as well as fresh fruits, vegetables, fish and other grocery items.

Shaeed Minar: This memorial pillar is located at the Bir Tikendrajit Park in the center of the town. It was built in the memory of the indomitable spirit of the Meitei and tribal martyrs who laid their lives while fighting the British in 1891.

War Cemeteries: The cemeteries commemorate the British and Indian soldiers who laid their lives during the WorldWar-II.

Manipur State Museum: It is located near the Polo Ground and has a good collection of art, archaeology, natural history, geology, textiles, costumes, etc.

Central Khonghampat Orchidarium: It sprawls over an area of 200 acres along with the NH 39 and treasures the spectacular wealth of Manipur orchids.

Manipur Zoological Gardens: The z00 at Iroishemba on the Imphal-Kangchup Road is famous for the endangered Sangai or brow-antlered deer.

Langthabal: The historic site on a hill overlooking the Manipur University teams with relics of a palace, ceremonial houses, and temples.

Meghalaya

Meghalaya, literally meaning the abode of clouds is one of the most beautiful states of India. This virtual fairyland of lush rolling hills reminiscent of the Scottish moors receives plentiful rain. Its innumerable streams meandering through the hilly tracts, cascading waterfalls, and placid lake are a sight to behold. Meghalaya is the land of Khasis, Jaintias and Garo tribals, who have still preserved their unique heritage and culture. The pristine beauty, salubrious climate and unique vegetation of Meghalaya make it a paradise for nature lovers and botanists.

Scenic Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya is perched at an altitude of 1496 meters and is one of the finest hill resorts of India. This ‘Scotland of the East came under the reigns of British, by an agreement in 1863? with Syiem (King) of Mylliem. In 1874, Shillong became the capital of Assam and remained so until the creation of Meghalaya state in 1972.

Ward’s Lake: The horseshoe-shaped lake set in the heart of the town with an arched bridge over it has facilities for boating. A walk around the lake is quite pleasant.

Botanical Garden: It lies near Ward’s lake and has a rich section of indigenous and exotic plants. There is also a mini-aviary with rare and colorful birds.

Lady Hydari Park: It is noted for its nurseries and horticultural wealth. There is also a mini Z00 cum deer park. The Crinoline Falls nearby cascade through its jungle path. At the foot of the falls is a well maintained swimming pool.

State Museum: It lies within the premises of the State Central Library and has a fine collection of artifacts of Meghalaya and the other North Eastern States.

Shillong Golf Course: This excellent 18 hole course finds mention in international Directories of Golf Courses of repute.

Churches: Shillong is studded with numerous churches reminding the colonial heritage of the town. The most beautiful of them is the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christian.

Bara Bazaar: It is the oldest and most important market of Meghalaya and is mainly run by women, providing an insight into the State’s tribal culture.

Bishop and Beadon Falls: The falls at Mawprem, plunge down from the same ridge into a deep valley, providing a spellbinding view.

Mizoram

Misty Mizoram, the land of the Blue Mountain or the Hill people’s Land is virtually under the cover of magnificent mountains and deep gorges. It perhaps the most peaceful state of India as the Mizo society is practically free from divisions on the basis of caste, creed, and sex. The mizo’s code of ethics is based on “Tlawmngaihna”, which means be kind, selfless, and hospitable to others. It is also the second-highest literature of India and is witnessing multidimensional development. Mizos, are also known for their numerous folk and community dances and are perhaps the finest choir singers in theNorth East. The nimble-fingered craftsmen create exquisite handicraft and handloom articles. The beautiful remote Stae is also noted for its rich wealth of flora and fauna.

Aizawal, the attractive capital town of Mizoram is set on a ridge at an altitude of 4,000 ft. above sea level, overlooking the lush green Tlawng River valley to its east, while to its north are the beautiful craggy hills of Durtlang. The Tropic of Cancer passes through this tranquil hill resort.

Mizoram State Museum: It is set in the center of the town and houses historical relics, ancient costumes, textiles, exquisite artifacts and traditional implements Another museum is located at the Macdonald’s hill.

Bora Bazar: This main shopping area of Aizawl provides glimpses of Mizo lifestyle. Mizos in their traditional costumes trade their wares and women weaving shaws can be seen at work, at the Weaving Centre’.

Mini Zoological Garden: The 200 at the Durtlang Hills is home to animals and birds found only in the hills of Mizoram. The Durtlang Hills affords a panoramic view of Aizawl and is a must-visit site for a breathtaking view of the hills, Other attractive sites are, the Assam Rifles Centre, Raj Bhawan, the Assembly, and Secretariat.

Nagaland

Nagaland, the beautiful and vibrant land of blue-hued mountains and emerald expanses is predominantly inhabited by the Naga tribals. The intriguing world of Nagas is soaked in ancient rituals and ceremonies, their passion for music, dance, and pageantry is legendary. They also have a rich tradition of arts and crafts. The lush jungles of the state are home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Nagaland is well suited for various adventure sports.

Kohima, this historical hill station nestles at a height of about 1,500 meters and is one of the prettiest places in the northeast. During World War two, the rampaging Japanese troops were halted here and forced to retreat.

War Cemetery: The memorial commemorates brave soldiers and warriors who laid their lives fighting the Japanese during World War Two. It is embellished by two tall crosses against the backdrop of seasonal roses and lush grasses.

Nagaland State Museum: It is housed in ancestral weaponry and provides an insight into the Naga culture, traditions, and history. The exquisitely carved gateposts, status pillars, statues, and Naga costumes, and jewelry are the main exhibits.

Catholic Cathedral: It is located at the Aradura hill and is one of the biggest cathedrals of the North-East and houses the biggest wooden cross in the country.

Zoological Park; Rare animals; birds and flora of Nagaland can be seen here. The main attraction is the endangered Blythe’s Tragopan pheasant and the golden langurs.

Kohima Village: It is said to be the second biggest village in entire Asia. According to a Naga legend, the present-day Kohima was founded here. At the entrance are exquisitely carved ceremonial gates, with the scimitar of horns of Mithun (Bos Frontalis), symbolizing bravery and valor.

Tripura

Tranquil Tripura tucked away in the extreme corner of the Northeastern states, amidst the river valleys of Myanmar and Bangladesh is endowed with amazing natural beauty and rich cultural-historical heritage. This ancient land of mysterious past has a unique tribal culture and fascinating folklore. The Rajmala chronicles of king Tripura and writings of other Mohammedan historians reflect the glorious past of the land. The state never came under British supervision and Maharaja’s successor ruled here till it acceded to the Indian Union on 15th October 1949.

Amazing Agartala, the capital of Tripura is set amidst scenic surroundings and is studded with a beautiful palace, lake, well laid out gardens and official buildings built in red brick. Maharaja Bir Bikram Singh built an airport over here in the 1930s.

Ujjayanta Palace: It is set in the heart of the town and was built by Maharaja Radha Kishore Manikya in 1901. The three-storeyed palaces resembling the Victoria Memorial of Kolkata is surrounded by beautiful Mughal inspired gardens. The places floodlit at night and is a sight to behold. It now houses the State Legislature.

Kunjaban Palace: The palace on the lush hillock was built in 1917 and is the official residence of the Governor of the State. In 1926, Rabindranath Tagore resided in the eastern apartment of the palace for some time and is said to have penned down many of his poems over here. The southern side of the palace known as Rabindra Kanan has been opened for public viewing.

Tripura Govt. Museum: It exhibits a fine collection of the archaeological finds of the region. The museum has 4 galleries – Archaeological, Sculpture, Painting, and Tribal Culture and has about 1645 artifacts.

Jagannath Temple: The 19th-century shrine is noted for its 4 storeyed shikhara or tower.

Purbasha: It showcases the traditional handicrafts of the region and is an excellent place to shop cane and bamboo handicrafts and handlooms.

Meet tribal people and learn about their unique way of life:

Remote North East India has been cut off from the rest of the world for ages and so it’s one of the rare places in the world where you can meet authentic tribal people who live a very different way of life even in this modern age. North East India is one of the most culturally diverse areas of the world.

It is home to over 200 tribes including unique, fascinating tribes like the opium smoking, headhunter tribes in Nagaland and the facially tattooed, sun and moon worshipping Apatani tribe in Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh.

One of the best ways to experience the vibrant and unique cultures of North East India’s intriguing tribal people is through one of the many amazing tribal festivals. Witnessing the riot of color, music and dance and even some sacrifices and unique rituals of a traditional tribal festival in North East India is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Don’t worry, they don’t practice headhunting anymore. But it’s a fascinating experience to meet the tribal people and find out about their way of life. It’s best to take a tour with a local guide if you want to be made to feel welcome and to really understand their way of life.

See rare and endangered wildlife:

Because the region is so unspoiled and unexplored North East India is a refuge to many rare and endangered animals. There are many fantastic UNESCO listed national parks where animal lovers can take safaris and witness exotic animals in their natural habitat.

Kaziranga National Park in Assam, one of the most famous is Kaziranga National Park in Assam where close up sightings of engaged one-horned rhinos are pretty much guaranteed (even the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited here on their India tour).

Manas Wildlife Sanctuary, also in Assam, is home to more endangered species than any other sanctuary in India.

Or visit Nokrek National Park in Meghalaya to look out for red pandas, tigers, elephants, rare breeds of macaques and marbled cats.

Tibetan culture (without visiting Tibet):

North East India is nestled up against the border of Tibet and parts of the mountainous state of Arunachal Pradesh actually used to be part of Tibet. Visit the remote Tawang region where colorful Tibetan prayer flags flutter over the peaceful valleys.

You will experience the enchanting, serene and colorful Tibetan culture and religion carrying on peacefully in the historic monasteries, prayer wheels, and stupas. Be sure to enjoy delicious and authentic Tibetan food like momos and thukpas.

Explore unspoiled nature and stunning scenery:

North East India is home to some of the most stunning, diverse and unspoiled scenery in India.

From the snow-capped peaks of the soaring Himalayan mountains to the grassy plains of Assam and the steamy forests and majestic waterfalls of Meghalaya – North East India showcases unspoiled nature at its finest!

Experience a totally different and hassle-free side to India:

If the horror stories of dirt, hassle, and chaos put you off visiting India at all then, exploring North East India offers you the chance to experience a totally different side to India. This region is just so different that sometimes I could hardly believe I was still in India – the scenery, the food, the people, the culture everything is different.

Even though a lack of infrastructure makes traveling here a little bumpy and slow-moving at times, I found North East India a welcome escape from other parts of India. The chaos and hassle that you get in the more touristy parts of India disappear in the North East. No one tried to cheat me or touch me or even sell me anything. The people of North-East India where some of the friendliest and most genuine people I’ve ever met on my travel.

Get off the beaten track:

North East India is still unexplored, authentic and blissfully untouristy. In this increasingly globalized world, it can be pretty hard to really ‘get off the beaten track’ nowadays.

North East India is still totally authentic:

As the region has only just started to open up to tourism, restrictions on travel and permit requirements are becoming more relaxed but the region remains blissfully untouched by tourism and unexplored.

In fact, some parts of the mountains in Arunachal Pradesh have not even been mapped! Yes, this means that traveling here can be a bit bumpy and there are no luxury hotels but if an adventure is what you’re after then North East India is the place to come! There aren’t many places in the world with blank spaces on the map. There aren’t many places where people have hardly any idea that the modern world exists, where creatures have yet to be named and mountains yet to be climbed.

But North East India is still totally off the beaten track. It’s an amazing feeling to go somewhere hardly anyone else has gone but you’ll need to go now before everyone else does!