There are not many words that can truly describe a place like Northeast India. A picture is worth a million words and actually going there is an experience unlike any other. Here, you’ll discover a lot of places where you can rekindle with nature. So the next time you open a map, shift your head towards the northeastern part of India and visit these stunning locations.
Below is a compilation of 15 spots to visit in Northeast India if you are a nature lover
(1) Gurudongmar Lake - Sikkim
As stunning as it can be, Sikkim’s holiest destination Gurudongmar Lake is a place one must visit. This scenic place is located at an approximate 5486.4 m above sea level and is considered sacred for Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists. There is not much to do here except being enamoured by its pristine nature. It is believed that even during the harshest of winters, a portion of the lake does not freeze. The reason for this unusual phenomenon is that Guru Rimpoche, a legendary Buddhist mystic who introduced Tantric Buddhism to Tibet, had sanctified the lake.
How to Reach?
To reach Gurudongmar Lake, you have to book a taxi from Gangtok.
Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim
(2) Mawphanlur Natural Lake - Meghalaya
Mawphanlur is a picture-perfect destination away from the capital city Shillong. At a distance of approximately 85 km, this destination can act as a quiet hamlet for those who want to take a break from the city. Close to this solitary natural lake, you can also find a few accommodations. Although the infrastructure may lack luxury amenities, it provides a soulful stay.
How to Reach?
Get a taxi from either the airport or railway station in Guwahati, Assam, then continue your drive to Shillong. Further, hire a cab to Mawphanlur. The one-way journey will take around 2 hours.
Mawphanlur Natural Lake, Meghalaya
(3) Loktak Lake - Manipur
Loktak is the most famous and largest natural freshwater lake in India. What makes this lake a natural splendour is its floating marshy lands in the shape of rings. Loktak Lake is also home to the floating Keibul Lamjao National Park, which houses over 425 species of animals and over 100 species of birds and aquatic plants. Make sure to sign up for a boat ride amid the marshy floating rings - the experience is worth it.
How to Reach?
Imphal International Airport is located between the city centre and Loktak Lake. You can hire a taxi and visit the lake and the national park. It is merely an hour’s drive.
Loktak Lake, Manipur
(4) Shilloi Lake - Nagaland
It may be one of the least visited natural places in the whole of Nagaland but it is Nagaland’s largest natural lake. Shilloi Lake is situated in one of the eastern-most districts called Phek, which is home to the highest mountain that also borders India and Myanmar - Saramati Peak. Various folk legends surround this Shilloi Lake one being, a baby was found in the middle of the lake and there are spirits that protect the baby and the lake. To spend a day amid nature, the lake offers a blissful retreat. You can explore the wildlife with a minimum fee; boating activity is also available.
How to Reach?
The closest airport is Dimapur. You can get a taxi to Kohima and continue your travel to Shilloi Lake, which is 271 km.
Shilloi Lake, Nagaland
Krem Dam, Meghalaya
(6) Dzukou Valley - Nagaland and Manipur
This enchanting attraction is located between Nagaland and Manipur, creating a natural border between the two states. Dzukou Valley is a riveting spectacle one must come to explore. As you walk amid the dwarf bamboo shrubs you’ll experience a gentle breeze—it makes you feel like you are being hugged by nature. While visiting Dzukou Valley during the tourist season, it is advisable to get your own tents as the private rooms and dorm accommodations will be fully booked.
How to Reach?
If you are visiting via Nagaland, you can take a taxi from Dimapur Airport to Kohima; public transport is also available from the city centre. From Kohima, you can take a taxi to Dzukou Valley trekking point and carry on your journey on foot.