Discovering the unexplored places: 13 tourist places in northeast India
Table of Contents
Introduction
Northeast India is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the pristine beauty of the Brahmaputra valley, the region is home to some of the country’s most stunning and unexplored destinations. It is a place where the past and the present come together in a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and warm hospitality. In this blog, we will take you on a journey through 13 tourist places in Northeast India that are a must-visit for any traveller looking for an authentic and unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, and get ready to explore the unexplored!
Why travel the seven sisters of India?
There are several reasons why someone should visit the northeastern states of India:
- Natural beauty:
The region is home to stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped mountains.
- Cultural diversity:
Northeast India is known for its diverse cultures, with over 200 ethnic groups living in the region. Each community has its own unique traditions, festivals, and customs.
- Adventure tourism:
The region offers a wide range of adventure activities, such as trekking, white-water rafting, rock climbing, and wildlife safaris.
- Delicious cuisine:
Northeast India is known for its delicious food, which is often spicy and uses a variety of herbs and ingredients unique to the region.
- Historical and spiritual significance:
The region is home to several ancient temples, monasteries, and historical sites, such as the Kamakhya Temple in Assam and the Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh.
Discovering the unexplored places: 13 tourist places in northeast India
1. Majuli Island, Assam
The Brahmaputra River in the Indian state of Assam contains Majuli, the largest river island in the world. River Subansiri in the north and River Brahmaputra in the south combine to form this island. Since the sixteenth century, it has been regarded as Assam’s cultural centre. Naghmar, the central village of Majuli Island, still hosts a number of events and festivals. Being free of pollution and surrounded by greenery on all sides, this location is a green travel choice.
How to reach?
To reach Majuli Island, Assam, you can fly to Jorhat Airport and then take a taxi or local bus to Nimatighat. From there, you can take a ferry to Majuli Island’s Kamalabari Ghat. You can book your ferry ticket in advance online or at the Nimatighat ferry terminal. From Kamalabari Ghat, you can take a local bus or taxi to your destination on the island.
2. Umananda Island, Assam
The tiniest river island, “Umananda,” is located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River as it passes through the Assamese city of Guwahati. Due to its architecture, the British gave the island the moniker Peacock Island.
Hindu mythology holds that Shiva built the island for the pleasure and happiness of his bride Parvati. The golden langur species resides on Umananda Island.
A 10-minute ferry journey from Umananda or Kachari Ghat, both close to Guwahati High court, would take you to the island. For the convenience of commuters, ferries run often.
How to reach?
To reach Umananda Island, Assam, you can fly to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati and then take a taxi or local bus to the Sukreswar Ghat. From there, you can take a ferry to Umananda Island, which is located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River.
3. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Ziro Valley is a picturesque valley located in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, India. It is known for its scenic beauty, rice fields, and the unique cultural heritage of the Apatani tribe. The valley is surrounded by mountains and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It is also a popular destination for trekking and camping enthusiasts.
How to reach?
The closest airport is about 280 kilometres from Ziro in Tezpur, Assam. Alternatively, you can go around 100 km by train to Naharlagun, where you can hire a taxi or board a bus to get to Ziro. Itanagar, located roughly 150 kilometres distant, is the closest large town. Road access to Ziro is available from Assam or the state highway leading to Arunachal Pradesh.
4. Namdapha National Park, Arunachal Pradesh
Namdapha National Park is the largest protected area in the Eastern Himalayas and one of the richest areas in biodiversity in the world. It is located in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India, and is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, clouded leopards, elephants, and the elusive snow leopard. The park also has a rich cultural heritage, with several indigenous communities residing within its boundaries. It is a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts and adventurers.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is in Dibrugarh, Assam, which is approximately 160 km away. From there, one can take a taxi or bus to reach the park. The nearest railway station is in Tinsukia, Assam, which is about 140 km away.
5. Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh
In the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, the town of Tawang is home to the famed Tawang Monastery. The largest monastery in India and the second-largest in the world, it was constructed in the 17th century. The monastery is renowned for its exquisite architecture, historic writings, and priceless relics, which include a Tibetan Kanjur manuscript that dates back 400 years. Both tourists and those looking for spiritual guidance frequent it.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is in Tezpur, Assam, which is approximately 317 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Tawang. The nearest railway station is in Bhalukpong, Assam, which is about 285 km away.
6. Dzukou Valley, Nagaland
An attractive valley called Dzukou Valley may be found between the Indian states of Nagaland and Manipur. It is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, spotless surroundings, and varied flora and wildlife, including the endangered Dzukou lily. The Dzukou Valley Trek, a well-known trekking trail that offers breathtaking views of the valley and the surrounding mountains, is located in the valley. It is a well-liked vacation for those who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, and adventure.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is in Dimapur, Nagaland, which is approximately 74 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or bus to the valley. The nearest railway station is in Dimapur as well.
7. Khonoma Village, Nagaland
An ancient village called Khonoma Village can be found in the Indian state of Nagaland. It is renowned for its extensive cultural legacy, traditional architecture, and conservation initiatives. The Angami Naga tribe calls the village home, and it is well-known for its distinctive customs and traditions, which in the past included headhunting. Khonoma is now an example of ecotourism and community-based conservation, including projects like community-owned woods and ecotourism programmes. For people curious about Nagaland’s culture and history, it is a must-visit location.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is in Dimapur, which is approximately 74 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kohima and then to Khonoma. The nearest railway station is also in Dimapur.
8. Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Mawlynnong is a picturesque village in the Meghalaya region of India’s East Khasi Hills. It is renowned for its pristine conditions, stunning scenery, and distinctive living root bridges. The community is regarded as one of the cleanest in Asia and has received numerous honours for cleanliness. Mawlynnong is a well-liked holiday spot for people who want to experience Meghalayan rural life and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is in Shillong, which is approximately 90 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mawlynnong. The nearest railway station is in Guwahati, Assam, which is about 170 km away.
9. Laitlum Canyons, Meghalaya
The breathtaking Laitlum Canyons is a natural landmark in Meghalaya, India. It is a stunning and tranquil location with breathtaking views of the nearby hills and valleys. Trekkers can descend to the canyon and discover the luxuriant vegetation and sparkling streams that run through it. A variety of unusual plant and animal species can be found in the area. For nature enthusiasts and explorers seeking a tranquil respite from the rush of city life, Laitlum Canyons is a must-visit location.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is in Shillong, which is approximately 25 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Laitlum. The nearest railway station is in Guwahati, Assam, which is about 120 km away.
10. Shillong Peak, Meghalaya
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, has Shillong Peak as its highest point. It provides sweeping views of the entire city and the hills in the area. The top is accessible by driving or by hiking up the challenging terrain. A viewpoint and observation tower that provides breathtaking countryside vistas is located at the top. Everyone visiting Shillong should go there; it is a well-liked location for visitors and residents.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is Shillong Airport, which is approximately 30 km away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the peak. The nearest railway station is in Guwahati, Assam, which is about 100 km away. Shillong can also be accessed by road.
11. Ukhrul, Manipur
Ukhrul is a district in the state of Manipur, India, located at an altitude of 1,849 meters above sea level. The district is known for its natural beauty, including rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling waterfalls. It is also home to several unique tribal communities, each with its own distinct culture and traditions. Ukhrul is a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the natural and cultural treasures of Manipur.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is Imphal International Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Ukhrul, which is around 80 km away. The journey takes approximately 3 hours.
12. Unakoti, Tripura
The Indian state of Tripura is home to the archaeological site known as Unakoti. It is the location of a collection of ancient rock carvings and sculptures that date from the seventh to the ninth centuries. Around 10,000 carvings of Hindu deities can be seen at the location, including a 30-foot-tall figure of Lord Shiva. Tourists and history buffs who want to learn more about Tripura’s rich cultural past frequently travel to Unakoti.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is Agartala Airport. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Unakoti, which is around 180 km away. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.
13. Dampa Tiger Reserve, Mizoram
The Indian state of Mizoram is home to the wildlife refuge known as the Dampa Tiger Reserve. Several rare and endangered animals, like tigers, leopards, clouded leopards, and Asian elephants, call it home. The sanctuary is a well-liked spot for birdwatchers because it is home to several rare bird species. The sanctuary can be toured on foot or by jeep safari by visitors. For those interested in wildlife and in seeing the beauty and richness of Mizoram’s natural heritage, Dampa Tiger Reserve is a must-visit location.
How to reach?
The nearest airport is Lengpui Airport in Aizawl. From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Dampa Tiger Reserve, which is around 130 km away. The journey takes approximately 4 hours.
Takeaway
Northeast India boasts some of the most stunning and unexplored destinations in the country. The region offers an unparalleled mix of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit for any traveller looking for an authentic and unforgettable experience.
FAQs
1. Which is the most beautiful city in northeast India?
Meghalaya’s Shillong sometimes referred to as the Scotland of the East, is one of Northeast India’s most popular travel destinations.
2. Which state is the no one tourist destination in India?
While it relies on individual likes and interests, identifying the top tourism state in India is challenging. Rajasthan, Kerala, Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Uttar Pradesh are some of the most popular tourist destinations in India.
3. Which are the seven sisters of India?
Before Sikkim was added to India’s North Eastern Region, the name “Seven Sister States” was used to refer to the neighbouring states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura.
4. Which is the biggest state in Northeast India?
The largest of Northeast India’s Seven Sister States is Arunachal Pradesh. There are 100 sub-tribes and 26 major Indian tribes in Arunachal Pradesh.
About The Author
Gulshan Bafna
Gulshan Bafna is one of the luxury travelers in India. He, along with his wife, has traveled to many exotic places that one could dream. With their travel journey, they bring us the best face of those places. He compiles all of his travel journeys to give the taste of traveling to his readers. In his writing, he jots down the best things to do in all those places that he has visited. Reading these would help one know better about the place. He is also a seeker who loves exploring and discovering new places and share his experiences with everyone.