Climate & Geography

North East India has a diverse climate ranging from tropical in the plains to alpine in the higher altitudes. The region experiences heavy monsoon rains between June and September, making it lush and green. The terrain is mountainous with valleys, forests, and rivers, offering ideal conditions for trekking and wildlife exploration.

History & Culture

North East India is a melting pot of cultures, influenced by indigenous tribes, Tibetan Buddhism, and colonial history. The region is home to many unique tribes, each with its distinct language, customs, and festivals. Its rich culture is reflected in art, music, dance, and vibrant festivals like Baisakhi, Losar, and Hornbill.

Festivals

Festivals in North East India are a blend of tribal traditions and religious practices. Major festivals include Baisakhi, Hornbill Festival in Nagaland and Bihu in Assam. These festivals offer visitors a deep dive into the region’s traditions, dances, music, and colourful celebrations.

Ambubachi Mela (Assam): This festival is held at the Kamakhya temple in Guwahati during June. It is associated with the fertility practices within this region.

Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival (Maipur): Celebrated on 15th February, this festival symbolises the beginning of the seed-sowing season and focuses on bringing the communities together.

Kharchi Puja (Tripura): Widely celebrated for ten days in July, this festival focuses on honouring Lord Shiva who commanded the worship of the 14 other deities.

Chapchar Kut (Mizoram): This festival marks the start of the spring season and is associated with bamboo-cutting ceremonies. It is celebrated in March after the conclusion of the Jhum operation.

Ziro Music Festival (Arunachal Pradesh): One of the most widely recognised eco-music festivals, the Ziro festival is held outdoors with almost 30 Indian different bands performing for three days during the colder months (September to October). It promotes sustainability and celebrates the cultural diversity of India.

Cuisine

North East Indian cuisine is flavourful and diverse, with each state offering unique dishes. Assam is known for its Masor Tenga (sour fish curry), Nagaland has spicy meats like smoked pork, while Meghalaya has Phan Tungtap (Red potatoes nixed with fermented dry fish). The region is also famous for rice-based dishes and fresh produce. Some of the dishes to try are

• Khar (Assam) - curry dish made of filtered banana ashes, raw papaya and pulses
• Sanpiau (Mizoram) - Popular soup snack with tangy fish sauce, powdered rice and various condiments
• Bamboo steamed fish (Nagaland) - This authentic dish is prepared by steaming fish, dried chillies and vegetables in a bamboo utensil.
• Nga Atoiba Thongba (Manipur) - A disintegrated curry made by cutting fish into small pieces and mashed with boiled potatoes, bay leaves, chillies and chives.
• Jadoh (Meghalaya) - An authentic dish of the Khasi tribe made up of pork, rice and various condiments, Very similar to the North Indian Biriyani.

Living Root Bridges, Meghalaya

A stunning example of natural engineering, the Living Root Bridges of Meghalaya are formed by guiding tree roots across streams over decades. Found in Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong, these bridges are strong, eco-friendly, and blend beautifully with the surrounding dense forests and waterfalls. The Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat is a major attraction for trekkers and nature lovers.

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park is famous for its one-horned rhinoceros and diverse wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and swamp deer. Spread across lush grasslands and wetlands, it offers exciting jeep and elephant safaris for visitors to witness nature up close. The park’s scenic beauty, with the Brahmaputra River flowing through it, makes it a paradise for wildlife lovers.

Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

Situated at 10,000 feet, Tawang Monastery is the largest Buddhist monastery in India. It houses a 28-foot golden Buddha statue and provides breathtaking views of the Tawang Valley. Rich in spiritual and cultural heritage, it is a place of peace and devotion, attracting both pilgrims and travelers seeking serenity. Nearby, Sela Pass and Pangang Teng Tso Lake add to the region’s stunning landscapes.

Loktak Lake, Manipur

Known as the "Floating Lake", Loktak is the largest freshwater lake in North East India. It is famous for its phumdis-floating islands of vegetation. The lake is home to Keibul Lamjao National Park, the world’s only floating national park, where visitors can spot the endangered Sangai deer. Loktak offers a tranquil retreat with stunning views and boat rides.

Dzukou Valley, Nagaland

A paradise for nature lovers and trekkers, Dzukou Valley is known for its rolling green hills and seasonal flowers, including the rare Dzukou Lily. The valley, located near Kohima, is breathtaking during the monsoon when vibrant flowers bloom across the meadows, creating a spectacular sight.

Umiam Lake, Meghalaya

Also known as Barapani, Umiam Lake is a vast reservoir surrounded by rolling hills. A favorite spot for boating, kayaking, and picnics, it provides a peaceful escape near Shillong. The lake’s scenic beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset, makes it a must-visit for travelers.

Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh

Home to the Apatani tribe, Ziro Valley is a beautiful blend of lush paddy fields, pine forests, and misty hills. It is known for the famous Ziro Music Festival, attracting music lovers from across the world. The valley offers a serene escape with rich tribal culture and scenic landscapes.

Majuli Island, Assam

The world’s largest river island, Majuli is a cultural and natural treasure of Assam. Surrounded by the Brahmaputra River, it is known for its Vaishnavite monasteries, traditional mask-making, and peaceful village life. Majuli is perfect for travelers seeking cultural immersion and scenic beauty.

Shillong Peak, Meghalaya

The highest point in Shillong, this peak offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills. It is an ideal spot for photography, sightseeing, and enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Meghalaya’s capital.

By Air: North East India is well-connected by air, with airports in Guwahati (Assam), Imphal (Manipur), and Agartala (Tripura). Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport is the main hub, with flights from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Flights are also available to other regional airports in the states.

By Road: National highways and state roads connect the region with other parts of India, and buses, taxis, and private cars are available for inter-state travel. Some areas like Tawang and Majuli require permits for travellers entering from Assam or Arunachal Pradesh.

By Train: Guwahati being the main railway junction makes it easy for travellers to reach Assam. Trains from, this region also connect major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai to the region. However, many remote areas like Tawang and parts of Nagaland do not have direct rail access, requiring road travel.