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Places to Visit in NorthEast for a Surreal Experience

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Northeast India is the easternmost region of India representing both a geographic and political administrative division of the country. It comprises 8 States namely, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. It boasts of places of beauty where nature flourishes in all its glory. Situated amidst the many hilltops and scenic valleys, the beautiful places to visit in North East India paint a picture that you need to see to believe. Moreover, the North East is a land like no other. With ample views to take home from the visit, it provides for a mesmerizing view at every nook and corner that you take. It is a land of the holy, the mighty, the believers and those who believe in raw adventure.

AMAZING FACTS ABOUT NORTHEAST INDIA, DID YOU KNOW THIS?

  • World’s wettest place is in Meghalaya
  • Mizoram’s Pukzing Cave is believed to be carved by a hairpin
  • At the Longwa village in Nagaland one can be at two places at once
  • Nagaland has the last surviving headhunter tribe
  • Nagaland holds the record of the world’s largest electric guitar ensemble
  • In Nagaland alone, there are 17 tribes and 36 languages
  • Sikkim wasn’t a part of India leave alone Northeast Region until 1975
  • In Sikkim, a ghost of a soldier guards the border
  • Tripura is home to the only floating Palace in Northeast
  • The population of all the Northeastern states is close to the population of Odisha
  • The corridor joining the rest of the mainland India with Northeast is called the Chicken’s Neck
  • Almost 70% of Northeast India’s terrains are covered by hills
  • Northeastern states of India are musically woke
  • Each tribe in Northeast India makes some of the best liquors in the country
  • Arunachal Pradesh is where the sun can be seen first in India
  • Assam has the largest and smallest river islands in the world
  • Centuries-old barter system can still be seen in practice at Jonbeel Mela, Assam
  • Golden/Muga silk is not produced anywhere else in the world other than Assam
  • The world’s largest weaving village is in Assam
  • Assam is the safe haven for One-horned Rhinos
  • Manipur is world’s only mothers-run market.
  • Meghalaya has the only matriarchal society of India

Do add these amazing places, to visit when travelling to North East, on a Northeast India package, to your list:

KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK

Wildlife Views

One of the best places to visit in North East India is the Kaziranga National Park. Declared an UNESCO Heritage Site, the National Park is home to the one horned rhinos which attract tourists from all over the world. Spotting a one-horned rhinoceros in its stomping yard, during your Northeast holiday tour package, is an experience that you can live to tell your grandchildren. It will be unlike any lore ever told. While you’re out and about in this scenic land, don’t forget to spot the various, other (approx35) species of mammals and hundreds of migratory birds, that fly down every season, for a unique wildlife experience!

Location: Kanchanjuri, Assam

How to reach: You can take a flight to Guwahati International Airport or Jorhat Airport, or just take a train to Furkating station. From here, the park is just a bus ride or taxi ride away.

Best time to visit: November, February, and April

ZIRO VALLEY

Still from Ziro Music Festival

The Ziro Valley is one of the best places to see in North East as it presents you with some memorable views that are going to be etched in your memory forever. The valley is most famous for its three day and night rock concert, which is held annually towards the end of September. Being a part of the event is a lifetime experience. A visit to this valley surely tops the list of best Northeast tourist places!


Location: ‎Lower Subansiri, ‎Arunachal Pradesh

Best time to visit: During the music festival in September.


How to reach: You can reach the valley by air, train, and even by road. While the nearest airport from Ziro is in Jorhat, Assam, which is 98 km from the valley, the railway station is in Naharlagun, which is 100 kms away.

NATHU LA PASS

Vivacious Nathu La

The name of the pass translates to “listening ears”. The trek to and on the Nathu La pass would be one of the major highlights of your travel to the North East, on your Northeast India holiday tour package, as it gives an invigorating feeling to every traveler who experiences it. During the trek, you are treated to views that remain ingrained in your memory for a lifetime, spotting some beautiful lakes on the way. This is one of the most popular tourist places in north east India that you ought to include to your itinerary.

Location: The border area of India (Sikkim) – China (Tibet Autonomous Region)

How to reach: Rent a sturdy vehicle like Innova, Bolero, and Scorpio in Gangtok with an experienced driver and drive all the way to Nathu La Pass. You’ll need to first acquire a permit from the authorities for the same.

Best time to visit: You should plan your visit during the summers, when the temperatures are at a bearable 15 degrees. In the winters, it falls down to -25 degrees.

Important Note: Do not rush into anything. The cold temperature and low oxygen levels make for a hostile environment. Move gradually and take baby steps if required.

SIANG RIVER – RIVER RAFTING

Rigorous Rafting Scenes

A tributary of the Brahmaputra River, it has inherited its ferocity from its mother as well. It serves as a home to the Adi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh and is the best place to visit in North East. River rafting in the Siang River is a major attraction for the adventure buffs, who like to travel on a budget tour and are likely to do so when on their budget Northeast adventure tour package. It is certainly one adventure that you should undertake with your friends.

Location: Arunachal Pradesh

How to reach: Dibrugarh is the starting point of the rafting session. Take a flight to Mohanbari Airport or the train to Dibrugarh railway station. From there, Dibrugarh is just a taxi ride away.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is during late October and early November when the tides are not too violent.

NURANANG FALLS

Sparkling Waterfalls

Also known as the Bong Bong falls, these are 100 meters in height. The serenity of this place is best enjoyed with someone by your side. So, if you’re planning a romantic trip to the North East, on your Northeast India honeymoon tour package, make sure you add this place to your itinerary. The falls are renowned for giving a feeling of serendipity to any couple that heads there. So, don’t miss out on one of the most charming places to visit in the north east for a honeymoon!

Location: Cona, Shannan, Arunachal Pradesh

How to reach: Take a flight to Guwahati Airport or a train to Tezpur Railway Station. From here, you will find many state-run (APSRTC) buses, private buses, and taxis going towards Nuranang Falls.

Best time to visit: February to November

DAWKI

Clear-Clean River Scenes

If you do not know about the transparent Dawki river in Meghalaya, chances are you have been living under a rock. Dawki is a town in the West Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya popularly known for the beauteous lake. Umngot River in Dawki is one of the cleanest rivers in the world so much so that you can clearly see the river bottom. Taking a boat ride one the Umngot River is one of the must do things in Dawki. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in north east India. Ensure that you obtain an inner line permit in Meghalaya, if you intend to visit this place.

Location: West Jaintia Hills district, Meghalaya, India

How to reach: Take a flight to Guwahati Airport and hire a cab to Dawki.

Best time to visit: November

LOKTAK LAKE

Bliss-Blessed Lake

Loktak Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in North East India and is famous for its small floating islands. It is also home to the world’s only floating National Park called Keibul Lamjao National Park. A nature lover’s haven, the place is great for birdwatching, clicking photographs and spotting the endangered Manipuri brow-antlered deer.

Location: Moirang, Manipur

How to reach: Imphal airport is 48 km away and one can hire a cab to the lake.

Best time to visit: October to March

GANGTOK

Greeny Gangtok

Gangtok is one of the most popular tourist places in Northeast India that is visited by honeymooners and adventure lovers alike, on their Northeast tour package. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a base to number of Himalayan treks. There are a number of must visit attractions in Gangtok that should be included in your itinerary like Baba Mandir, Nathu La, Gurudongmar Lake, etc. You can find many Gangtok tour packages from different companies for your hassle-free tours in Gangtok.

Location: Sikkim

How to reach: The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport that has frequent flights from Delhi and other cities.

Best time to visit: March-May and October-December are the two best periods to visit Gangtok given the weather situation.

PELLING

Appealing Pelling

Pelling is a beautiful hill station located in the foothills of Khangchendzonga. Not only it offers exhilarating views of the valley but also poses an important place in terms of spirituality. Visit the 17th-century Sanga Choling Monastery and indulge in activities like rock climbing, walking tours, and mountain terrain biking. It is a perfect place for both adventurous souls and peace seekers. It is also one of the best honeymoon destinations in north east India.

Location: West Sikkim

How to reach: Pelling is 120 km away from Gangtok. You can hire a taxi from the city to reach Pelling.

Best time to visit: September to May is the peak season to visit Pelling.

SINGALILA NATIONAL PARK

Wildlife Exploration

Located in the district of Darjeeling(Queen of Hill), Singalila National Park is home to a variety of flora and fauna and breathtaking mountainscapes. The park is located at a height of 7,000 m on the Singalila Ridge. This national park in India is famous for red pandas, wild boar, barking deer, and other wild animals. It is also famous for Wildlife jeep safari and trekking. The route of Sandakphu trek passes through the national park.

Location: Darjeeling, West Bengal

How to reach: Singalila national Park is just 13 km from Bagdogra Airport.

Best time to visit: March-May. The park is closed from June-September

NONGRIAT VILLAGE

Live Root Bridges

Nongriat Village is famous for the Double Decker living Roots Bridge, it is one of the most amazing places to visit in north east India. You will be amazed to see the natural entanglement of the roots with man-made enhancements, while on your Northeast India tour package. There is no other place like Double Decker living Roots Bridge.

Location: Nongriat Village, Cherrapunjee, India

How to reach: The village is 68 km from Shillong and can be reached either by car or local transport bus.

Best time to visit: Except monsoon, you can visit the bridge any time of the year
Famous for: Double Decker living roots bridge

The best time to visit Northeast India, on your Northeast India packages.
Regardless of the type or the category of the tour package, please note that there is nothing as a best month or time to visit this part of the country. North East India is wonderful the year-round. However, depending on the type of experience that you are looking for a trip to the Northeast could be planned accordingly as in if you’re looking for a respite from the heat, you visit during summers, and if you wish to witness nature at its best, you can plan your visit during the monsoon. Though, in general, November to May is the best period to visit North East India as the weather, during this period, is quite pleasant.

Happy Traveling!!

Top 11 Road Trip Destinations in India to hit off with your Bike this Season

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Bike Trip
Still from a bike trip

Do bold bike tours across long distances get the adrenaline pumping through your veins?
If you are an avid biker and have a biking group, or if not so, a companion who would accompany you to exciting lands on a bike, you must explore these places in India on your motorcycle. The thrill of biking is combined with exceptional landscape views and breathtaking beauty that the Indian subcontinent promises. Mountain biking is another big charm that holds the bikers interest. Some of these exotic locations are discussed below covering north to south of India that should not be missed. Look out for the top 11 road trip destinations to hit off with your bike this season.


1. Manali to Leh

This is one of the most popular destinations when you want to go for a bike tour. Leh-Ladakh regions are the dream location for all bikers. The breathtaking landscapes of Ladakh trip and the exciting passageways of Rohtang pass and Khardung pass will leave you with memorable experiences. It is approximate of 1360 km and the best season to take this expedition would be in the months of July, August, and September.

Waterlogged enroute Srinagar


2. Chennai to Munnar


For all those Chennai workaholics who really need a break after a worked out weekend can get slaying with this refreshing bike tour from Chennai to Munnar. It is a 10- hour long drive covering around 600 km, but the greenery in Munnar can trick you into staying there a night. A total recommendation for a short bike trip.

The scenic roadways to Munnar


3. Delhi – Jaipur- Ranthambore


This route is known as the golden triangle tour of India. It’s a bikers thrill to explore the mini bylanes of Chandni Chowk in Delhi and ride through the pink city of Jaipur exploring historic forts and monuments of Rajasthan. While Ranthambore has a rich wildlife park and known for its wildlife adventure. Bikers can have thrilling nature experiences up quite close and it can be a photographer’s heaven. It is an 8- day tour covering 464 km and counted upon as one of the best bike tours in the country.

Village scenes between Ranthambore


4. Sikkim- Darjeeling


Again, one of the most suitable destination for mountain biking, covering tiny hamlets and villager who are super friendly. This trip will refresh you with its pleasant winds and a breezy atmosphere. You may even spot tiny fields growing sweet potato or carrots. The best time to visit Darjeeling in its full beauty is in the month of October, just before the harsh winter sets off.

Mountain Biking in Sikkim

5. Ahmedabad to Rann of Kutch


This five- day tour of the Rann of Kutch on the west side of India is a very traditional and enriching biking experience. It is best advised to visit this region in the full moon period to get a breathtaking and spectacular view of the full moon over the Salt Lake. Do not forget to stay overnight in the Kutchi mud houses called “bhunga” It can leave you with starry midnight memories.

Bike decor amidst white salt at Kutch


6. Manali to Spiti Valley


One of the best mountain biking tours in the Himachal Pradesh valley. It is a 568 km stretch and filled with spectacular views of the Himalayan range. One of the attractions includes camping at the Chandratal lake. The most beautiful time to visit it would be from May to July.

Langza Village, Spiti


7. Mumbai to Pune


This most famous 93 km stretch is a second home to most Mumbaikars and Punekars. A totally recommended bike trip as the Mumbai- Pune expressway lies on the western ghats covering picturesque Lonavala. Just buy your stash of food and loads of ‘chikki’ and sit back and enjoy the long ride.

Pune-Lonavala Stretch


8. Bangalore to Bandipur Forest

This is a forest route stretching around 235 km and takes around 5 hours to cover. It is a beautiful highway trip with lush greenery to the Bandipur forest area. The developed road is lined with modern eating out options like McDonald’s as well as Café Coffee Day. Besides the common bike routes, this one is another small adventure beauty.

Bandipur Forest


9. Jaipur- Jodhpur- Jaisalmer

Coming on to this desert trip, it would be best to visit this place from November to February. It is a very long trip covering the forts and palaces across the desert region of Rajasthan in 1723 km. Be prepared for a very dry and hot climate and be ready with your tanning lotions, whereas biking in the winters would also be pleasant and much more bearable.

Desert Bike Trip


10. Gangtok to Lake Tsomgo


The North -Eastern region of India, with its exquisitely pristine landscapes, lies largely untravelled and unexplored. A road trip from Gangtok to lake Tsomgo, in Sikkim, is the best example of mountain biking. But, the mountainous trek will leave you asking for more with its adventure filed terrains. It is short and recommended road trip at 55 km long, to be taken in the winters.

Tsomgo Lake


11. Vishakhapatnam to Araku Valley


Lying in the southern region, this road stretch is a wonderful ride for bikers. The pristine beauty of the Bay of Bengal and the eastern ghats will leave you with a refreshing experience. It is 116 km long and recommended to visit between the months of March and October.
The must visit locations here are the Borra Caves and the Tatipudi reservoir. Biking in these regions can get pretty fun and it can be a totally different experience from other modes of transport. Biking allows you to visit nature quite closely and explore the surroundings at your own freedom.

Araku Valley


So what are you waiting for? Pick up a location for your bike tours and get set going on your Yamaha!

6 Must-do Adventure Sports in Sikkim

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Sikkim, a beautiful hill station in the lap of Mother Nature. Situated at high
altitude, famous among travellers seeking an escape from their daily mundane city life to the tranquillity and serenity of nature. It not only attracts family travellers, photographers and honeymoon couples because of its scenic beauty but also a lot of adventure seekers due to the thrill it holds in its wilderness.


While on your adventure trip to Sikkim, there are few must do adventures that you can’t think of missing. Especially the trekking in Sikkim has its own
charisma. While admiring the enchanting sites in Sikkim if you are an
adventure enthusiast you can also go for different adventures in the valley.

List of Treks to take in Sikkim

Few of the best treks belong to Sikkim. People from all over the world come to enjoy the thrill of trekking in Sikkim with lots of short and long route treks for both the amateur and experienced. Some of the most famous trek routes are:

1- Kanchenjunga Trek

Situated at an altitude of 8,586 m, the third highest peak in the world. This trek with a mind-boggling view of Mt Kanchenjunga is especially for the people who want to enjoy the trekking along with the camping. Kanchenjunga massifs outline a big cross that spans the boundaries of three countries Nepal, Tibet and India (Sikkim). The thrilling trek starts from Yuksom and then it continues towards Bakhim, Dzongri, Laxmi Pokhari, Bikhbari Chaurikhang and Rathong Glacier, Bikhbari and ends at Bakkhim.

Trek Route of Kanchenjunga

2- Green Lake Trek

One of the most popular treks of Sikkim with an amazing view of Himalayan peaks. The winding roads that lead to this captivating lake are surrounded by a large variety of rhododendrons a soothing & mesmerising view for the eyes. The trek is not that easy as you have to travel through rocky terrain and dense forests but the view that awaits is worth taking the risk.

Green Lake Trek

3- Sandakphu Trek

Go for Sandakphu Trek, situated at a height of 3,636 meters and get
a panoramic view of the world’s highest snowline. You will travel through the wilderness of Himalaya and get a chance to view the wildlife of Himalaya as you pass through the Singalila National Park.

View from Sandakphu Trek

Many other treks such as Dzongri Trek, Goecha La Trek etc are also famous. You can check our list of 55 treks in India.

Experience River Rafting in Teesta

If you love playing with the waves, this is the best adventure for you. The river Teesta which is one of the major rivers in Sikkim, also known as the lifeline of Sikkim. It provides you with the best rafting experience which carves out of flourishing Himalayas. Expert rafters are present, and they are always around. Also, two rafting options are available one is for swimmers and another one is for people who don’t know swimming, the plus point is the river is not very dangerous. Also check other water sports destinations in India.

River Rafting at Teesta

Cycling and Mountain Biking in Sikkim

Cycling in the wood and hills has its own mesmerising charm. One of the most gripping adventures in Sikkim that provides you with the best sightseeing experience. It gives you the chance to dive deep in the lap of nature. The most eco-friendly adventure that keeps you close to nature and takes you to the unmatched trails. It takes you through the craziest turns, curves, twists and firm run on the edges. Enjoy the twist and turns, roam around the towns, meet friendly locals and leave yourself lost in the amazing scenic beauty and enchanting views of snow-clad mountains. You can take the cycle from town or if you prefer you can go for the tour package that includes cycling excursion. Also, you can join the group cycling in Sikkim. 

Cycling Group

Enjoy Paragliding in Sikkim

Explore the nature and alluring scenic beauty of Sikkim from the top. It’s once in a lifetime of experience. Sikkim is beautiful, rich in flora with the river flowing along the lovely meadows. If you are an adventure seeker and want to take your trip to the next level then don’t miss this experience, the cold breeze touching your face and you are on the top witnessing the greenery all around. As far as you can see it is all green, surrounded by snow capped mountains, so don’t forget to testify the enchanting beauty of the town from the top. For an ultimate paragliding experience, be a part of the Annual Paragliding Festival, which falls in the months of October and November.

Gliding amidst mountains

Rock Climbing & Mountaineering in Sikkim

Rock climbing or mountaineering is not everyone’s cup of tea. It’s tough but for an adventure seeker who enjoys the thrill of mountain climbing and wants to climb the Himalaya, it’s a dream come true. With every step, you will enjoy the thrill of climbing. There are two types of climbing one in which ropes are available and you can hold them if you fall which is known as free climbing. Another one is, in which gears and ropes are provided for an easier route up with the help of equipment, known as aid climbing.

Still of Rock Climbing

Bungee Jumping at Singshore Bridge

If you are seeking the most thrilling adventure and not afraid of height then don’t miss the Bungee Jumping at Singshore Bridge. The highest bridge in Sikkim at a height of 198 m, it creates the perfect surroundings for Bungee jumping. The bridge connects two mountains and offers a perfect view of greenery. The experts are there to guide you if you are new to Bungee Jumping. This is one of the most hunted adventure sport in Sikkim.

Bungee Jumping

If you are planning a trip to Sikkim in order to experience some adventure,
then you won’t be disappointed. Trekking in Sikkim will give you a refreshing experience. The destination is known for its natural beauty and friendly hosting. It will always be one of your most memorable trip with lots of exciting and challenging sports. The adventure lovers can have the most exciting time here.

Bhawna Mohinani
Professional Travel Blogger and founder of The Ghumakkads. Bhawna Mohinani is graduate in Mass Communication & Postgraduate in Travel and Tourism Management.

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