Summary of Visiting North East India
- Discover tribal cultures and unique lifestyles.
- Spot rare and endangered wildlife in natural habitats.
- Experience Tibetan culture without crossing into Tibet.
- Enjoy stunning, unspoilt scenery and diverse landscapes.
- Encounter a different side of India—hassle-free and serene.
- Embark on adventures in an authentic and untouched destination.
India is one of the most exotic, fascinating, and captivating travel destinations in the world. While the Taj Mahal, the forts and palaces of Rajasthan, and the backwaters of Kerala are popular sights, very few travelers visit the remote tribal lands of North East India.
North East India is tucked away between Bangladesh, Tibet, Bhutan, and Myanmar, and is a world away from the chaos of Delhi and other tourist clichés typically associated with India.
Visit North East India
These diverse and beautiful, remote tribal lands are just beginning to open up to tourism and are home to some of the most intriguing tribal communities, rare wildlife, and stunning scenery in India.
Why You Should Visit North East India
The North East is still a relatively unexplored paradise for intrepid travelers. Consequently, its popularity is on the rise, transforming the region into India’s hottest new destination. Therefore, if you wish to witness this area, blissfully untouched by tourism, you’ll want to make your visit soon!
1. Meet Tribal People and Learn About Their Unique Way of Life
Remote North East India has remained isolated from the rest of the world for ages, making it one of the rare places you can encounter authentic tribal individuals who adhere to traditional lifestyles even in this modern age.
North East India boasts one of the most culturally diverse areas in the world, home to over 200 tribes, including fascinating groups like the opium-smoking, headhunter tribes in Nagaland and the facially tattooed, sun-and-moon-worshiping Apatani tribe in Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh.
One of the best ways to experience the vibrant and unique cultures of North East India is through attendance at one of its many remarkable tribal festivals. Witnessing the riot of color, music, dance, and even unique rituals at a traditional tribal festival in North East India will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.
Don’t worry; headhunting is no longer practiced. However, interacting with the tribal people and learning about their lifestyle is a fascinating experience. It’s advisable to take a tour with a local guide who can make you feel welcome and help you understand their way of life.
2. See Rare and Endangered Wildlife
The pristine and unexplored nature of North East India serves as a refuge for many rare and endangered animals. This region is home to fantastic UNESCO-listed national parks where wildlife enthusiasts can embark on safaris and observe exquisite animals in their natural habitats.
Kaziranga National Park in Assam
Kaziranga National Park in Assam is one of the most famous wildlife parks, where close-up sightings of one-horned rhinos are almost guaranteed (notably, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited this site during their India tour). Moreover, Manas Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam is home to more endangered species than any other sanctuary in India. Additionally, you can visit Nokrek National Park in Meghalaya to search for red pandas, tigers, elephants, rare breeds of macaques, and marbled cats.
3. Tibetan Culture (Without Visiting Tibet)
North East India borders Tibet, and parts of Arunachal Pradesh used to belong to Tibet. Visit the remote Tawang region, where colorful Tibetan prayer flags flutter across peaceful valleys. You will immerse yourself in enchanting, serene Tibetan culture, enjoying historic monasteries, prayer wheels, and stupas. Be sure to savor delicious and authentic Tibetan food such as momos and thukpas.
4. Explore Unspoiled Nature and Stunning Scenery
From snow-capped peaks of the soaring Himalayan mountains to the grassy plains of Assam and the lush forests and majestic waterfalls of Meghalaya, North East India showcases unspoiled nature at its finest. Therefore, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for exploration.
5. Experience a Totally Different and Hassle-Free Side to India
If stories of dirt and chaos deter you from visiting India, exploring North East India provides a chance to experience a peaceful and different side of the country. This region is so distinct that at times, it feels as though you’re not even in India. The scenery, food, people, and culture are all unique.
- This region is incredibly different, and it can be quite surprising to find such contrast while still in India.
See how to travel in India with these Train Travel Tips
Even though some infrastructure challenges can make travel here a bit slow and bumpy, I found North East India to be a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle prevalent in other parts of India. In the North East, chaos and hassle seem to have vanished. No one attempted to cheat, touch, or sell me anything, allowing for a much more pleasant experience.
The people of North East India are among the friendliest and most genuine individuals I’ve met on my travels, contributing to the warm atmosphere.
6. Get Off the Beaten Track
North East India remains an unexplored, authentic, and blissfully untouristy venture. In an increasingly globalized world, truly getting “off the beaten track” can be challenging.
North East India is Still Totally Authentic
As this region has only recently begun to open up to tourism, travel restrictions and permit requirements are becoming more relaxed; however, it remains blissfully untouched and unexplored. Some areas in the mountains of Arunachal Pradesh have yet to be mapped!
While travel can be bumpy and you may not find luxury hotels, if adventure is what you seek, North East India is undoubtedly the place to visit! There are few places left in the world with blank spaces on the map, where modern civilization has hardly made its mark, and North East India is one of them. It’s an exhilarating feeling to venture where very few others have gone. Thus, it’s essential to visit soon before it becomes more widely known!
Tips for Visiting North East India
- North East India consists of seven sister states—Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura.
- Each state presents a unique blend of culture, tribes, languages, food, and scenery that are perfect for intrepid explorers!
- States like Assam and Meghalaya have better infrastructure, making travel easier than in others.
- Some regions, such as Arunachal Pradesh, require special permits.
- Nagaland is mostly underdeveloped with limited public transport and tourist facilities, making independent travel challenging.
Nevertheless, North East India is an exceptional and unique destination worth the extra effort; after all, isn’t that the essence of “off the beaten track” travel?
To ease your trip planning, check out Tips for Traveling in North East India for more insights.
Travel Planning Resources
Looking to plan your next trip? Utilize resources that are trusted and recommended.
Find Your Flights: Start by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. This platform is known for offering the best deals.
Accommodation Options: For the best hotel prices, check out Booking.com for those in Europe and TripAdvisor for users elsewhere.
Apartment Rentals: Seek affordable apartment rentals through VRBO.
Travel Insurance: Always secure travel insurance. We recommend:
- Safety Wing – for occasional travelers.
- Medjet – for global air medical transport and travel security.
Activities and Excursions: For walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, and private guides, consider Get Your Guide.
Need additional assistance in planning your trip? Explore our Resources Page where we feature reliable companies to consider during your travels.
