Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Himalayas, the North East region of India is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and serene landscapes. From cascading waterfalls and verdant tea gardens to ancient monasteries and vibrant tribal cultures, the North East offers a unique blend of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, tranquility, and spiritual enlightenment. With North East tour packages, exploring this enchanting region becomes a journey of discovery and wonder. Here are nine unforgettable must-see attractions in the North East that promise to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression.
1. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the largest population of the endangered one-horned rhinoceros in the world. Spread across the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River, Kaziranga also boasts a rich biodiversity, including tigers, elephants, and wild water buffalo. Visitors can embark on thrilling jeep safaris and elephant rides to explore the park's lush forests, grasslands, and wetlands, offering glimpses of rare and majestic wildlife in their natural habitat.
2. Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh
Perched atop a hill overlooking the Tawang Valley, Tawang Monastery is the largest monastery in India and one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world. Founded in the 17th century by Lama Lodro Gyatso, the monastery is a masterpiece of Tibetan Buddhist architecture, with ornate frescoes, intricate wood carvings, and a massive golden Buddha statue. Visitors can explore the monastery's prayer halls, libraries, and courtyards, and soak in the serene atmosphere of this spiritual sanctuary.
3. Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is renowned as one of the wettest places on Earth, with lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic limestone caves. Highlights include the Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India, and the Mawsmai Cave, a natural wonder with illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. Visitors can also trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridges, marvels of indigenous engineering created by intertwining the roots of rubber trees.
4. Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is often referred to as the “Scotland of the East” for its picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and pleasant climate. Visitors can explore attractions such as Ward's Lake, a tranquil artificial lake surrounded by gardens and walking paths, and the Don Bosco Museum, showcasing the cultural heritage of the North East region. Shillong also serves as a gateway to nearby attractions such as Mawphlang Sacred Forest and Elephant Falls.
5. Gangtok, Sikkim
Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, is a charming hill station nestled amidst the Eastern Himalayas, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. Visitors can explore attractions such as Rumtek Monastery, a magnificent Tibetan Buddhist monastery known for its golden stupas and ancient murals, and Tsomgo Lake, a pristine glacial lake surrounded by alpine forests and prayer flags. Gangtok also serves as a base for trekking expeditions to places like Nathula Pass and Yuksom. For travelers seeking to explore the enchanting sights and experiences of Gangtok, Gangtok tour packages offer a convenient and immersive way to discover this picturesque destination.
- Majuli Island, Assam
Majuli Island, located in the Brahmaputra River, is the largest river island in the world and a unique cultural landscape inhabited by the Assamese Mishing tribe. Visitors can explore traditional Mishing villages, interact with locals, and witness age-old crafts such as pottery and handloom weaving. Majuli is also home to numerous Satras, or Vaishnavite monasteries, where visitors can attend religious ceremonies, dance performances, and workshops on traditional art forms.
7. Khonoma Village, Nagaland
Khonoma Village is a picturesque tribal village located in the hills of Nagaland, known for its rich biodiversity and community-based conservation efforts. Visitors can explore the village's terraced fields, stone monoliths, and traditional Naga houses, and learn about the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary, a pioneering conservation initiative aimed at protecting the region's wildlife and habitat. Khonoma also offers opportunities for trekking, birdwatching, and cultural exchanges with the local Angami tribe.
8. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Ziro Valley is a scenic valley located in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, renowned for its lush greenery, rice fields, and traditional Apatani villages. Visitors can explore attractions such as Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, and Meghna Cave Temple, a sacred cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Ziro also hosts the Ziro Music Festival, an annual celebration of music, art, and culture that attracts artists and music enthusiasts from around the world.
9. Laitlum Canyons, Meghalaya
Laitlum Canyons is a hidden gem nestled in the East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Visitors can trek through lush forests and rolling meadows to reach the edge of the canyons, where they can marvel at the sheer cliffs plunging into the depths below. Laitlum Canyons is a perfect destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Conclusion
Embark on a journey of discovery through the enchanting landscapes and vibrant cultures of the North East with North East tour packages. Whether exploring the pristine wilderness of Kaziranga National Park, immersing in the spiritual serenity of Tawang Monastery, or trekking through the picturesque valleys of Ziro and Gangtok, the North East promises an unforgettable adventure filled with wonder and awe. So, pack your bags, set out from Mumbai, and explore the unmissable attractions that await in this magical region of India.
