Call: +91 7384718607
Call: +91 7384718607
This year was crazy. It made our head spin with so many questions, ultimately making us wonder if this was the end of all our travels for a very long time. I remember shoving my bags deep inside a locker never to see them anytime soon. But hey, things are getting brighter again. Tourism in India is opening its doors slowly, and our very own Northeast India is not far behind.
If you’re planning a trip to Northeast India for the first time, I’ve answered some common questions that will help you plan your trip better.
8 Must-Knows Before You Plan a Trip to Northeast India
(1) Is Northeast India safe for tourists?
Without a doubt, it is completely safe. The people are helpful and generous. I have come across a few instances in Nagaland where the village people leave their roadside vegetable stalls unattended with the price put up on the stall along with a small box to put money. Besides that, each state has their own entry rules, so precautions must be taken seriously. Make sure to also stay updated to the states current situation. Due to its borders with China, Bangladesh and Myanmar, Northeast is a sensitive region having political issues.
(2) Is Northeast India suitable for all kind of travellers?
The northeast has plenty of resorts to unwind and places to explore, mountains to conquer, and exotic markets to discover. So, yes, it is suitable for all kinds of travellers and tourists. With the renovation of the national highway in the process, soon the travel up and down the hairpin roads will be enjoyable. Its calm and rejuvenating ambience, where you can inhale the fresh air, soak in the morning sun, and savour organic vegetables and fruits will make you want to buy a home and keep visiting when the city life gets to you.
(3) What is the best time to visit Northeast India?
Comprising 8 different regions, each state has its own climate and temperature. Most of the states are mountainous. Perhaps only Assam and Tripura occupy most of the plain area making these two states unbearable during summer months. It is best to avoid the northeast during summer and monsoon season. Winters in the northeast, November to March, are dry and peasant. You can experience temperatures below 10°C in the mountainous areas and between 20°C to 25°C in the plains.
(4) What are the best holiday destinations in Northeast India?
This can be debatable. I haven’t been to every corner of Northeast India, but I can tell you for sure that Assam, Meghalaya, and Sikkim are the most-loved destinations. Due to its easy access and some of the luxurious resorts, Northeast India makes an ideal getaway for honeymooners and adventurists.
But if you want to experience a rather unique, bizarre, and unexplored Northeast then states of Nagaland, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh are the best. PS. Do check with their government websites for unpredictable lockdown beforehand.
(5) What are some of the must-visit attractions in Northeast India?
Northeast India has an abundance of tourist attractions that it’s hard to pick a few, but here’s a list of things you can do in this beautiful, soulful, and adventurous region:
1. Explore unique Himalayan wildlife in the national parks of all 8 states
2. Trek/hike through tropical semi-evergreen, moist deciduous, and riverain forests and discover the incredible flora and fauna
3. Be a part of religious and cultural festivals such as the Hornbill Festival, Losar, Ambubachi Mela, and Bihu
4. Visit ancient-old monasteries and temples, each attached to an interesting myth
5. Stay at incredible homestays and interact with your local host family
(6) How are the accommodation facilities in Northeast India?
Major cities across the northeast have a handful of resorts and hotels that are equipped with the finest craftsmanship. You will either be awestruck by the traditional architectural approach or modernistic touch. You can find different kinds of accommodation ranging from low-cost hotels to an entire house just for yourself. For a unique experience, you can stay at a homestay or you can step into the wild and stay in luxurious villas and resorts amid wildlife sanctuaries.
(7) What is the best way to reach Northeast India?
You will find many airports and train stations around each state, but Guwahati in Assam has both an international airport and a railway junction. Many rail and flight connectivity is done from here. The roadways also cover major places with both private and government buses and cars.
(8) Do we require permits to visit Northeast India?
Yes, permits are required because some parts of the Northeast are sensitive as they share borders with neighbouring countries like Bhutan and China. Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for domestic tourists entering Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh, and both domestic and foreign tourists need ILP to enter parts of Sikkim. Protected Area Permit (PAP) / Restricted Area Permit (RAP) are mandatory for foreign tourists to enter the northernmost parts of Sikkim.
That’s a little bit of Northeast FAQ for you. Due to the ongoing coronavirus lockdown in many parts of the country, there are many precautions and tests that you’ll need to take before travelling. If you enjoy travel as much as I do, I doubt these tiny obstacles will stop you from taking a much-needed vacation. But make sure to stay safe and keep your face shielded in public places at all times.
