‘North East India’ popularly known as ‘seven sisters state’ is a treasure trove for travellers, with lush green mountains, mystifying viewpoints, lavish tea estates and quirky tourist spots. This part of the subcontinent is extremely underrated but has a lot to offer for people looking for some peace of mind and to get away from the teeming city crowd.
Sikkim Darjeeling travel enthusiasts will definitely be encapsulated in North East India’s splendid rolling slopes of the mighty hills along with the unparalleled tranquillity and its rich ethnic diversity.
Here are some destinations in North East India which cannot be missed out on:
Pelling, Sikkim
Also known as the ‘jewel of Sikkim’, this small hill town of Pelling is nestled comfortably at an elevation of 2,150 metres. Set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, and surrounded by impressive and colourful plants Pelling is the ideal tourist spot for families and people looking for some peaceful time. Tourist spots include spiritual local monasteries, cascading waterfalls, shimmering lakes and compelling trekking routes. One can witness the Mighty Himalayas and the majestic Kanchenjunga closely from this impressive hill station which is home to the traditional North Eastern tribes.
Places to Visit in Pelling – Khecheopalri Lake, Kanchenjunga falls, Pemayangtse monastery, Rimbi falls, Darap village.
Bes Time to Visit – September to May
Shillong, Meghalaya
Popularly nicknamed as the ‘Scotland of East’ Shillong is home to some of the most picturesque and mesmerizing tourist spots in India overall. This city is slowly yet steadily attracting a huge number of tourists from not just other parts of India but across the globe as well. One can visit various intriguing canyons, colourful blossoming parks, impressive lakes and towering peaks, on their visit to Shillong. With the temperature remaining constantly cool throughout the year, Shillong is an oasis for people looking to beat the harsh heat.
Places to visit in Shillong – Elephant Falls, Umiam Lake, Don Bosco Museum, Phan Nonglait Park, Wards Lake.
Best time to visit – all year round
Kohima, Nagaland
This second largest city in the state of Nagaland was founded by the British’s in the year 1878. Currently, it is one of the most vibrant cultural North Eastern centres in India, with the organization of the unique Hornbill festival Kohima is not only a paradise for nature and adventure lovers but is also a haven for fashionistas. Still known for being one of the most offbeat travel locations Kohima has managed to stay close to its traditional roots. The primary occupation for the people of Kohima still remains agriculture and farming while their humbleness has started to attract a lot of tourism.
Places to Visit in Kohima – Kohima war cemetery, Nagaland state museum, Sakhrie Park, Naga heritage village.
Best time to Visit – October to May
Haflong, Assam
Haflong is the one and only hill station in Assam, which attracts a number of tourists from across the subcontinent and the map throughout the year. Haflong boasts of a rich cultural heritage which remains untouched. Often referred to as the White Ant Hillock Haflong consists of mesmerizing lakes where one can have some quality time with their family and enjoy a picnic, picturesque green rolling hills and numerous other viewpoint sites where you can witness the sheer grandness and purity of nature in all its forms and vigour. This tiny hill town is a prime and one of the pristine spots for getting away from the busy city life.
Places to visit in Haflong – Haflong hill, Jatinga, Maibong, Haflong Lake
Best Time to Visit – October to April
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
This enchanting valley town is located at an elevation of 3,048 metres and has always been inhabited by the Monpa people. This town is extremely religious in its Buddhist pursuits hence it is home to numerous calming and beautiful monasteries. Tawang is comfortably nestled on the lush green mountains and is increasingly becoming a safe haven for individuals looking for some adventure as well as for families looking to spend a memorable vacation. It is the perfect combination of rich tradition, a hub for Buddhist religion and of course, mesmerizing surroundings.
Places to visit in Tawang – Tawang monastery, Shonga – Tser Lake, Nuranang Waterfalls, Pankang Teng Tso Lake
Best Time to Visit – March to October
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