Northeast India, India Travel Guide

Discover Northeast India: A land of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unparalleled biodiversity. Experience the unique charm of this hidden gem.

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Northeast India

Northeast India is a treasure trove of natural beauty, vibrant cultures, and unique traditions. Comprising eight states, this region boasts lush green landscapes, majestic mountains, and pristine rivers. From the rolling hills of Meghalaya and the tea gardens of Assam to the serene monasteries of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, every corner of Northeast India offers something special. The region is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is home to numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. Kaziranga National Park in Assam is famous for its one-horned rhinoceroses, while Manas National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in activities like trekking, river rafting, and caving. The diverse flora and fauna make it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. Cultural diversity is another highlight of Northeast India. The region is inhabited by various ethnic groups, each with its own unique customs, traditions, and festivals. The Hornbill Festival in Nagaland and Bihu in Assam are celebrations that showcase the vibrant cultural tapestry of the region. The local cuisine, with its distinct flavors and ingredients, is a must-try for any visitor. Whether you're exploring the bustling markets of Imphal or the tranquil villages of Mizoram, Northeast India promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Northeast India.

Visit during the festivals to witness the cultural richness of the region.
Carry appropriate clothing as the weather can vary greatly across different states.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting tribal areas.
Try the local cuisine, but be mindful of the spice levels if you are not accustomed.
Ensure you have all necessary permits for restricted areas, especially in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim.

Top City Travel Guides in Northeast India

The cities of Northeast India, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Darjeeling

Gangtok

Shillong

Guwahati

Siliguri

Destinations in Northeast India

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Kaziranga National Park

Tawang

Explore Northeast India: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Northeast India

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Elephant Falls, Shillong

Experience the serene beauty and cascading charm of Elephant Falls, Shillong - a breathtaking natural gem in Meghalaya's lush landscape.

4.4

Umiam Lake Viewpoint

Experience the serene beauty of Umiam Lake Viewpoint, where lush hills meet tranquil waters in the heart of Meghalaya.

4.5

Kaziranga National Park

Explore the captivating biodiversity of Kaziranga National Park, home to the majestic one-horned rhinoceros and a variety of wildlife in Assam, India.

4.5

Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park

Discover the vibrant beauty of Kaziranga National Orchid and Biodiversity Park, home to over 500 species of orchids and a haven for biodiversity enthusiasts.

4.6

Best landmarks in Northeast India

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra

Explore Assam's vibrant culture and heritage at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, a premier cultural center in Guwahati.

4.4

Manas National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Assam, India, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

4.3

Kaziranga National Park

Explore Kaziranga National Park, home to the majestic one-horned rhinoceros, vibrant wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes in Assam, India.

4.5

Kangla Fort

Explore the historic Kangla Fort in Imphal, a cultural landmark that embodies the rich heritage and royal history of Manipur.

4.3

Best restaurants in Northeast India

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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Jiva Veg

Discover Jiva Veg: Your go-to vegetarian restaurant in Meghalaya offering diverse cuisines from breakfast to dinner.

4.4

Mising Kitchen

Experience authentic Assamese cuisine at Mising Kitchen in Guwahati—where tradition meets modern taste.

4.4

Gam's Delicacy Restaurant

Discover authentic Assamese flavors at Gam's Delicacy Restaurant in Guwahati - a delightful stop for food enthusiasts.

4.1

Terra Mayaa

Discover the vibrant flavors of India at Terra Mayaa - Guwahati's top restaurant and cocktail bar offering exquisite dining experiences.

4.2

Best bars in Northeast India

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Olive Garden Rooftop Restro Cum Bar

Experience the best of Indian, Italian, and Mexican cuisines at Olive Garden Rooftop Restro Cum Bar, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Terra Mayaa

Experience the vibrant nightlife and exquisite flavors of Guwahati at Terra Mayaa, a premier bar and restaurant.

4.2

DUNKIN OZA

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Dunkin Oza in Guwahati, where cocktails and craft beers meet a lively atmosphere.

4.0

Café Hendrix

Experience Guwahati's vibrant dining scene at Café Hendrix, where culinary delights meet live music in a cozy atmosphere.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Northeast India

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Best Nightclubs

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Crystal Discotheque

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Guwahati at Crystal Discotheque, a premier pub and night club offering electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.

3.7

The Evening Club

Experience Shillong's vibrant nightlife at The Evening Club, where good music, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.4

RETRO TOWN

Discover the vibrant nightlife, delectable cuisine, and energetic atmosphere at Retro Town, the ultimate night club experience in Guwahati.

3.9

THE ECHO Pub & Grill

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Guwahati at The Echo Pub & Grill, where delicious food and great music await you.

4.3

Best shops in Northeast India

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Decathlon Azara, Guwahati

Discover your athletic potential at Decathlon Azara in Guwahati, where quality sporting goods meet exceptional value and community engagement.

4.4

ROODRAKSH MALL

Explore Roodraksh Mall in Guwahati for a blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment, showcasing the best of Assam's vibrant culture.

4.2

Shoppers Stop

Explore Shoppers Stop in Guwahati for the latest trends in fashion, accessories, and lifestyle products, all in one stylish department store.

4.3

Sohum Shoppe

Experience the vibrant shopping culture at Sohum Shoppe, Guwahati’s premier destination for fashion and local crafts.

4.2

Explore Northeast India on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Northeast India, mapped for you.

Northeast India Essentials

Northeast India is accessible by air, rail, and road. The major airports in the region include Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam; Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala, Tripura; and Lengpui Airport in Aizawl, Mizoram. From these airports, you can take domestic flights to smaller airports in the region. For rail travel, major railway stations include Guwahati, New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal), and Dimapur (Nagaland). Road connectivity is also robust, with national highways connecting key cities and towns. Buses, shared taxis, and rental cars are available for inter-state and intra-state travel.
Within Northeast India, you can use various modes of transportation including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Public buses are the most economical option, although they can be crowded. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are widely available for shorter distances and are relatively inexpensive. For a more flexible travel experience, renting a car is a good option. Shared taxis are commonly used for travel between towns and villages. In some areas, particularly in hilly regions, you can also find two-wheeler rentals and bicycle rentals.
The official currency is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most urban areas, but in rural areas, cash is preferred. ATMs are available in larger towns and cities, but it is advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling to remote areas. Mobile payment options like Google Pay, Paytm, and PhonePe are increasingly accepted, especially in urban centers.
Northeast India is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas, especially after dark, and be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. Some areas, particularly near international borders, may have restricted access, so check for any travel advisories before your trip. High-crime areas specifically targeting tourists are rare, but it is always best to stay vigilant and informed about local conditions.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Major towns have hospitals and medical facilities, but remote areas may have limited healthcare options. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Pharmacies are available in most towns for over-the-counter medications. For any assistance, you can also contact your country's embassy or consulate in India.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural and religious areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' or a slight bow. Handshakes are also common in urban areas. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Northeast India like a local, visit local markets and try street food. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and eager to share their culture. Participate in local festivals for a unique cultural experience. When in Assam, try the traditional Assamese thali; in Nagaland, don't miss the Naga cuisine. For a unique adventure, explore the living root bridges in Meghalaya or take a boat ride in the Loktak Lake in Manipur. Always carry a reusable water bottle and fill it up at safe drinking water points to reduce plastic waste.

When is the best time to visit Northeast India?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Northeast India

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Northeast India. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloনমস্কাৰ
  [Nomoskar]
- Goodbyeবিদায়
  [Bidai]
- Yesহয়
  [Hoy]
- Noনহয়
  [Nohoy]
- Please/You're welcomeঅনুগ্ৰহ কৰি
  [Onugroho kori]
- Thank youধন্যবাদ
  [Dhonyobad]
- Excuse me/Sorryমাফ কৰক
  [Maf korok]
- How are you?আপুনি কেনে আছেন?
  [Apuni kene asen?]
- Fine. And you?ভাল। আৰু আপোনি?
  [Bhal. Aar apuni?]
- Do you speak English?আপুনি ইংৰাজী কথা কৈছে নেকি?
  [Apuni Ingraji kotha koise neki?]
- I don't understandমই বুজি নাপাওঁ
  [Moi buji napao]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseমই মেনু চাব বিচাৰোঁ, অনুগ্ৰহ কৰি
  [Moi menu chab bicharom, onugroho kori]
- I don't eat meatমই মাংস খাওঁ নে
  [Moi mangsho khaon ne]
- Cheers!চিয়াৰ্ছ!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseমই পইছা দিব বিচাৰোঁ, অনুগ্ৰহ কৰি
  [Moi poisha dib bicharom, onugroho kori]
- Help!সহায়!
  [Sohai!]
- Go away!চল যাও!
  [Chol jao!]
- Call the Police!পুলিশক ফোন কৰক!
  [Polishok phone korok!]
- Call a doctor!এখন ডাক্তৰক ফোন কৰক!
  [Ekhan doktorok phone korok!]
- I'm lostমই হেৰাই গ'লোঁ
  [Moi herai golo]
- I'm illমই অসুস্থ
  [Moi osustho]
- I'd like to buy...মই ... কিনিব বিচাৰোঁ
  [Moi ... kinib bicharom]
- I'm just lookingমই কেৱল চাওঁ
  [Moi kewal chaon]
- How much is it?এইটো কিমান মূল্য?
  [Eito kiman mullo?]
- That's too expensiveএইটো অতি দামী
  [Eito oti dami]
- Can you lower the price?আপুনি মূল্য কম কৰিব পাৰেনে?
  [Apuni mullo kom korib parene?]
- What time is it?এতিয়া কিমান বজাত?
  [Etiya kiman bajat?]
- It's one o'clockএটি বজাত
  [Eti bajat]
- Half past (10)দহটাৰ আধা
  [Dohotar adha]
- Morningপুৱা
  [Puwa]
- Afternoonঅপৰাহ্ন
  [Aporahno]
- Eveningসন্ধিয়া
  [Sondhya]
- Yesterdayগতকাল
  [Gotokal]
- Todayআজ
  [Aaj]
- Tomorrowকালি
  [Kali]
- 1১
  [1]
- 2২
  [2]
- 3৩
  [3]
- 4৪
  [4]
- 5৫
  [5]
- 6৬
  [6]
- 7৭
  [7]
- 8৮
  [8]
- 9৯
  [9]
- 10১০
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?এটা ... ক'ত?
  [Eta ... kot?]
- What's the address?ঠিকনাটো কি?
  [Thiknato ki?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?আপুনি মোক দেখুৱাব পাৰেনে (মানচিত্ৰত)?
  [Apuni mok dekhiyab parene (manchitrat)?]
- When's the next (bus)?পাছৰ (বাস) কেতিয়া?
  [Pasor (bas) ketiya?]
- A ticket (to ....)এখন টিকট (....লৈ)
  [Ekhan tiket (....loi)]

History of Northeast India

The Ahom Kingdom, established in 1228 by Sukaphaa, a Tai prince from present-day Myanmar, dominated the Brahmaputra Valley in Assam for nearly six centuries. Known for their unique administrative system and military prowess, the Ahoms repelled several Mughal invasions, most notably in the Battle of Saraighat in 1671. Their legacy includes the construction of grand architectural marvels like the Talatal Ghar and Rang Ghar.
The arrival of the British in the early 19th century marked a significant turning point for Northeast India. The discovery of tea plants in Assam led to the establishment of vast tea plantations, transforming the region's economy. The British built infrastructure, including railways and roads, to facilitate tea export, but their exploitative practices also led to social unrest and resistance movements.
During World War II, Northeast India became a crucial battleground in the fight against Japanese forces. The Battle of Imphal, fought between March and July 1944, was a decisive Allied victory that halted Japanese advancements into India. The battle was one of the bloodiest in the Southeast Asian theatre and played a pivotal role in the eventual defeat of Japan.
The Naga Hills district, initially part of Assam, became a hotspot for insurgency after India gained independence in 1947. The region's desire for independence led to the formation of the Naga National Council and subsequent armed resistance. The conflict resulted in the creation of Nagaland as a separate state in 1963, but insurgency issues persisted, leading to ongoing peace negotiations.
The demand for a separate state for the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes gained momentum in the 1960s. This resulted in the formation of Meghalaya on January 21, 1972. The state's rich cultural tapestry includes traditional festivals like Nongkrem Dance and Wangala, reflecting the diverse heritage of its indigenous communities.
The Mizo National Front (MNF) uprising in the 1960s was a significant event in the history of Mizoram. The insurgency, driven by demands for independence, led to widespread conflict and military intervention. The signing of the Mizoram Peace Accord in 1986 brought an end to the violence, paving the way for Mizoram to become a full-fledged state of India.
Northeast India is home to a myriad of indigenous tribes, each with its own unique culture, language, and traditions. The region celebrates an array of vibrant festivals such as Bihu in Assam, Hornbill in Nagaland, and Losar in Arunachal Pradesh. Traditional crafts, music, and dance forms are integral to the cultural identity of these tribes, with handloom weaving and bamboo crafts being particularly noteworthy.