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.
