North East Tour & Travel Packages in India

North East India Tour Overview

The Seven Sister States, along with their "brother" state Sikkim, form the northeastern region of India sharing borders with four countries—Bhutan, China, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. This region spans the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim. The region is rich in cultural diversity with hundreds of tribes contributing to its unique identity. Often considered one of the remote and least explored parts of the country, jungles, rivers, mountains, and valleys make the North East a hidden treasure with endless opportunities for adventure activities.

North East India Visitor’s Insights

• Continent: Asia

• Country: India 

• Time-Zone: IST, GMT + 5:30

• Language: Hindi, English & local dialects

What currencies are accepted in North East, India?

The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the North East, especially at tourist sites.

States and Highlights of North East, India

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh, India's remotest state and the first to see the rising sun, is a largely unexplored region. It borders China, Bhutan, and Myanmar with Itanagar as its capital city. The state is known for snow-fed rivers, misty mountains, ancient monasteries, tropical rainforests, vibrant orchids, and the red panda.

Assam

Assam lies south of the eastern Himalayas along the Brahmaputra and Barak River valleys. Dispur is its capital and Guwahati is its largest city. Renowned for its historic sites, lush tea plantations, and national parks, Assam is famously home to the one-horned rhinoceros.

Manipur

Manipur or the “city of jewels” is in the southeastern corner of the Northeast with Imphal as its capital. Known for its enchanting landscapes and rich culture, Manipur stands out for its lakes, moats, hillocks and traditional dance and music.

Meghalaya

Meghalaya, known as the "abode of clouds," has gained popularity for its lush hills and sparkling waterfalls. Shillong, the capital, offers a blend of British architecture and hill station views. Boating on clear waters and unique living root bridges are well-known marvels of this state.

Mizoram

Mizoram, the southernmost state of Northeast India, has Aizawl as its capital and the largest city. Bordering Myanmar and Bangladesh, Mizoram is renowned for its hilly terrain and scenic rivers, with its highest peak rising above 6,561 feet (2,000 mt).

Nagaland

Nagaland, another mountainous state in Northeast India, shares its border with Myanmar. Known for its diverse tribal communities and vibrant festivals, the capital city of Kohima features World War II-era cemeteries and weaponry. Nagaland showcases a unique blend of urban life, ancient traditions, and stunning geographical diversity.

Tripura

Tripura is bordered on three sides by Bangladesh and is known for its cultural and religious heritage. The capital, Agartala, features the grand Ujjayanta Palace with Mughal-style gardens and the Gedu Mia Mosque highlighting Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.

Sikkim

Sikkim, a small yet captivating Himalayan state, offers breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. Gangtok, nestled against snow-capped mountains, is the capital city, combining modernity with tradition. Sikkim is where Khangchendzonga National Park is located, offering some of the best treks in North East India.

Major Attractions in North East India

Arunachal Pradesh 

• Ziro Valley: Ziro is a serene valley town known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultural heritage, and lively festivals. Located about 71 miles (115 km) from Itanagar, it draws visitors with its lush greenery, expansive rice fields, and misty hills.

• Tawang Monastery: The largest in India and one of Asia's oldest monasteries, Tawang Monastery stands at 10,000 feet (3,000 mt) offering stunning views of snowy mountains and coniferous forests. It is located 1.2 miles (2 km) from Tawang town, famed as the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama.

• Namdapha National Park: On the list to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Namdapha National Park and tiger reserve with Noa-Dihing River flowing through it, nurtures unique flora and fauna against the backdrop of snowy mountains.

Assam

• Kaziranga National Park: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park is home to the famous one-horned rhinoceros. Comprising wetlands, grasslands, forests, and hills, this sanctuary boasts diverse animal species and is the top attraction of any North East tour package.

• Majuli: A serene island on the Brahmaputra River, Majuli is known for its vibrant devotional dance performances and the Raas festival. A ferry ride across the river leads to lush rice fields and picturesque lakes with diverse birdlife.

• Haflong: Renowned for its migratory bird population and quaint landscapes, Haflong in Assam's Dima Hasao district has an unusual phenomenon of birds "committing suicide" in Jatinga Valley during moonless nights.

Manipur  

• Imphal: The capital city, Imphal,  has many landmarks including Kangla Fort, Manipur State Museum, Sirohi National Park, Keibul Lamjao National Park, and the Manipur Zoological Gardens.

• Loktak Lake: The largest freshwater lake in South Asia, Loktak Lake is renowned for its floating circular swamps that attract visitors.

• Khongjom War Memorial Complex: A monument commemorating the Anglo-Manipur War, the Khongjom War Memorial is located in Thoubal district.

Meghalaya  

Cherrapunji

One of the wettest places on Earth, Cherrapunji is known for its distinct attractions:

• Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest in India, flows from 1115 feet (340 mt) into the turquoise waters below.

• Seven Sisters Waterfall merges seven streams, creating a stunning sight during the monsoon season.

• Amongst the incredible living root bridges, the Double Decker Root Bridge in Nongriat village is the most famous. 

• Mawsmai Cave, the longest limestone cave you can fully explore on foot, offers a unique underground adventure. 

• The Umngot River in Dawki with its crystal-clear water reveals a rock bed beneath.

Mizoram 

• Phawngpui (Blue Mountain): The highest peak in the state with beautiful views of green landscapes.

• Vantawng Falls: The tallest waterfall, flows through dense forests.

• Tam Dil Lake: A peaceful spot for family picnics and boating.

• Reiek Tlang: A mountain offering great views of Aizawl and the surrounding hills.

Nagaland

• Dzukou Valley: Known for its rolling green hills and seasonal wildflowers.

• Kohima War Cemetery: Honoring soldiers from World War II.

• The Hornbill Festival in Kisama showcases the state's vibrant tribal culture.

• Mokokchung: A cultural hub for the Ao tribe with hills and streams.

• Japfu Peak: Ideal for panoramic views and challenging treks.

Tripura

• Ujjayanta Palace: A stunning royal residence in Agartala surrounded by Mughal gardens.

• Neermahal: The "Water Palace," in the middle of Rudrasagar Lake, highlights Hindu and Islamic architecture. 

• Unakoti: Boasting age-old rock carvings and sculptures. 

• Jampui Hills: The land of eternal springs is famous for its orange plantations.

Sikkim 

• Gangtok: The capital of Sikkim attracts tourists for its clean streets, vibrant markets, and Buddhist monasteries. After strolling along the busy MG Marg, check out the popular sites including Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri Falls, Tashi Viewpoint, Enchey Monastery, and Rumtek Monastery. The Teesta River is a top spot for whitewater rafting.

• Nathu La Pass: At 14,000 feet (4,267 mt), it is a high-altitude pass along the old Silk Route on the Indo-China border and a popular tourist destination in Sikkim. 

• Tsomgo Lake: A blue glacial lake at 12,310 feet (3,752 mt) lake amongst brown landscapes located on the way to Nathu La.

Best Time to Visit North East India

The best time to visit North East India is from March to June. This summer period offers blooming landscapes ideal for exploring trails, rivers, lakes and tea plantations. Early rainfall starting in March refreshes the scenery and offers a short window to see the fresh greenery. 

Avoid the peak monsoon from July as it can cause flooding. For winter activities and snow, visit Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim from November to March. Manipur and Nagaland are best from November to December, especially to catch the vibrant Hornbill Festival in Nagaland.

Essential Advice and Tips for North East India Tour

• Transportation is limited once you cross Assam and make your way to the border states.

• Always carry identification documents with you. 

• Network coverage can be limited in some areas, so plan accordingly. 

• For safety reasons, avoid exploring remote areas alone. 

• Due to unpredictable rains, make sure to pack rain gear.

• Visit during festivals for an enriching experience.

How much does it cost for the North East India Tour?

At AdventureTripr we offer affordable North East India travel tour packages. Our most popular package is a luxury North East India trip to Assam and Meghalaya starting at $2,000. Additionally, we offer North East trekking packages on request.

North East India Accommodation

The capital cities and towns in North East India offer a range of accommodation options from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, local (panchayat) guesthouses, and camping sites. For an authentic experience, consider staying in homestays.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question: How to reach North East India?

Answer: Guwahati in Assam is your main entry point to North East India. The city is connected by both road and train from Delhi and Kolkata. Kolkata offers direct flights to Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, and Tripura. You must travel by air, train, or road from Siliguri in West Bengal to enter Sikkim.

Question: What are the essential documents required for traveling to North East India?

Answer: You will need valid photo identification such as a passport or driver’s license. For border regions, special permits like the Inner Line Permit (ILP) or Protected Area Permit (PAP) may be required. Check the specific requirements for each state beforehand.

Question: Is North East India safe?

Answer: Yes, North East India is generally safe. However, it's important to stay updated on local conditions and avoid restricted areas. Opt for taking a North East tour package from a reputable tour operator.

Question: How do I communicate if I don’t speak the local languages?

Answer: English is commonly spoken in urban areas, but a translation app can be helpful. Locals are generally willing to help.

Question: What is the availability of ATMs and internet connectivity?

Answer: ATMs are available in major towns and cities, but connectivity might be limited in remote areas. Check in advance for internet services in the places you plan to visit.