North East India

Paradise on Earth: North East India

The land of magical India attracts tourists from all around the globe; and why wouldn’t it? Enclosed within the boundaries of India one will find snow-capped mountains, dreamy beaches, abundant greenery, major metropolitan cities, national parks and even a desert!  Moreover, all the states have their own special culture, cuisine and tradition. Incredible India indeed has plenty to offer to an avid traveller.

North East India and its Delights [photo credit: rajkumar1220 via photopin cc]

Few of India’s cities have been recognized as major tourist destinations and are thus, responsible for the influx of tourists. Sadly though, there are a lot more heavenly destinations which have not yet gained so much popularity. North East India continues to comprise few of the most enjoyable and beautiful destinations and is yet hardly visited. That is owing to the permit restrictions and ethnic violence. Recently though, the trend has been changing and the tourism has greatly expanded in these regions. North East India has so much to offer to all the nature lovers and offbeat travellers and sure enough, you’ll be headed there as soon as you finish reading this article!

Here’s all that you need to know about North East India, which is truly a paradise on earth.

Destinations in North East India

North East India comprises of seven adjoining states namely known as the seven sisters- Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura- and the individual state of Sikkim. The following information will surely help you plan the perfect holiday to these unexplored areas!

1. Assam– Assam is primarily known as the gateway to the seven sister states and is the most popular destination in the whole of North East India. The unhindered natural beauty, the plentiful tea plantations and friendly people are sure to make your trip to Assam a success. Lazing around in the flawless environment is sure to be a refreshing change. The capital city, Guwahati, poses a different experience as compared to the other remote and peaceful places in the state.

Famous Tea Plantations in Assam [photo credit: Akarsh Simha via photopin cc]

Must-Visit Places- Kaziranga National Park, Majuli, Haflong, Dibrugarh and Hajo.

2. Arunachal Pradesh-A place offering splendid beauty and joy, Arunachal Pradesh is a mix of natural wonders, sanctuaries and places of worship. Here, in the lap of natural beauty, one will feel rejuvenated and relaxed. As the tourism restrictions have reduced, the place is now open to be explored. Whether you desire eye pleasing views or a little adventure, this place is the one for you!

Unimaginable Beauty in Arunachal Pradesh [photo credit: goldentakin via photopin cc]

Must-Visit Places- Tawang, Roing, Itanagar, Ziro, Bomdila, Along and Anini.

3. Manipur– Often described as the Jewel of the East, Manipur is full of natural magnificence and splendour. Wooded hills, picturesque valleys, calming lakes and amusing falls create a mystical effect and leave the tourist astounded. Though this state has immense potential to be one of the greatest tourist destinations, it lacks an efficient tourism sector. Thankfully though, Manipur is slowly gaining popularity and it is best advised to visit this place before commercialization fully takes place!

Magical Land of Manipur [photo credit: ch_15march via photopin

Must-Visit Places- Loktak Lake, Imphal, Langthabal, Keibuk Lamjao National Park.

4. Meghalaya– Meghalaya is a state that has a large number of natural wonders and attractions; from peaks and caves to abundant lakes and falls it has it all. It also consists of living tree bridges and thus, makes the place look enchanted. Moreover, it houses the popular hill station- Shillong and the wettest place in India- Cherrapunji. As nobody wants a holiday to be dampened by excessive rain, one must plan the trip wisely. Meghalaya is thus sure to enthrall one and all!

The Double Living Tree Bridges in Meghalaya [photo credit: Preshit via photopin cc]

Must-Visit Places- Shillong, Cherrapunji, Caves in the Jaintia Hills, Mawphlang, Mawlynnong Village and Laitlum Canyons.

5. Mizoram– A picturesque landscape and an agreeable climate characterize the state of Mizoram. Festivals and celebrations make this place lively and enjoyable. The dense bamboo forests, gushing falls and the presence of a large variety of flora and fauna make Mizoram truly enjoyable. This exotic location presents exquisite natural beauty and the experience is indeed worth it!

Paranomic View of Mizoram [photo credit: flickr.com]

Must-Visit Places- Phawngui, Lungvandawt, Tadmil, Vantawang Falls and Dampa Sanctuary.

6. Nagaland– Essentially a tribal and untamed land, Nagaland is home to nearly sixteen major tribes. Thus, the speciality of this place remains the rawness of the places. The tribal people are often warm and friendly. Thus, they often attract and entertain a large number of tourists. Moreover, Nagaland is also known for its vibrant festivals such as the Hornbill festival.

Tribes in Nagaland [photo credit: flickr.com]

Must-Visit Places- Changtongya, Dzukou, Fakim Sanctuary, Japfu Peak and Meluri.

7. Tripura– Though Tripura is the second tiniest state in India, the attractions it offers are innumerable and tremendous. The influence of the European, Mughals and Buddhists makes this place unlike any other. The dense forests and mesmerising lakes turn this land into a paradise worth visiting. One must indulge in some bamboo product shopping, handloom weaving and pleasurable boat rides in tiny Tripura!

Exquisite Tripura [photo credit: flickr.com]

Must-Visit Places- Kamalasagar Lake, Ujjayanta Palace, Neermahal and Jampui Hill.

8. Sikkim– Sikkim was recognized as a part of the North East in the 1990s and since then it has continued to gain popularity as a tourist destination. This Himalayan state is complete with serene mountainous beauty, soothing views, admirable places and even the ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture. A trip to Sikkim is sure to calm and soothe your inner senses and offer you the perfect opportunity to learn and enjoy!

Heavenly Sikkim [photo credit: soumyajit pramanick via photopin cc]

Must-Visit Places- Rumtek Monastery, Yuksom-Dzongri Peak, Teesta River, Nathu La Pass, Gurudongmar Lake and Zemu Glacier.

Conclusively, one must visit North East India not only for the uncountable heavenly views, but also for the various adventures it offers. Each state teaches us something new. A trip to any of these places is sure to be a refreshing change from all the other holiday destinations in India. Beauty, culture, varied cuisines and enjoyable attractions undoubtedly sum up the entire North East India. The first chance you get, you must pack your bags and head out to relish these captivating places! So, have you decided your first stop on your delightful journey to the North East?