The northeastern part of India has managed to surprise the crowd in many aspects, be it culture, diversity, or beauty. We bring to you some of the most interesting and lesser known facts about the northeast region, which also happens to be one of the best tourist places in Northeast India. So put on your reading glasses and get ready to knock your socks off!   

(1) Longwa Village in Nagaland, where you can be at two places at once 

Experience the joy of hopping borders without a visa. The village lies half in India and half in Myanmar; the international border actually passes through the village chief’s house. The chief known as the Angh rules over 70 villages and has 60 wives. Some people have their bedrooms in Myanmar and their kitchen in India. Visit this place to experience more mind-boggling facts. 

          Longwa village in Nagaland

(2) A ghost soldier guards the border in Sikkim

Would you believe if we say that the Indo-China border in the state of Sikkim is being guarded by a ghost soldier? Yes, you heard it right. Late sepoy Harbhajan Singh passed away on October 4 1964 while patrolling at Nathu La Pass. After his last rites, he visited his fellow soldier in dreams, saying that his watch on the border isn’t over yet and he would continue to serve the nation even after his death. After a while, the officials granted him special status and he was given a retirement when it was due and made a shrine in his memory. The shrine is now a major tourist attraction of Sikkim.

Harbajan Baba Mandir, Sikkim

(3) Mizoram has shops without shopkeepers

Ever heard of shops without shopkeepers? No, we are not talking about artificial intelligence or robot invasion. The shops located along the highway of Seling, Mizoram do not have shopkeepers. Based on the concept of trust, people can pick up whatever they need from the shop and put the amount in a deposit box that’s kept there.

Shop without shopkeepers in Seling, Mizoram

(4) Manipur has the world’s only female-run market 

The mother's market or “Ima Keithel” in Imphal is a one-of-a-kind market in India; maybe even the world. The market is run entirely by women. Along with being active in political discussions, the women also elect a president and secretaries for the Mother’s Market. The legacy of this market dates back to the 16th century. Historians say as Manipuri men were mostly fighting in wars with the Chinese and Burmese, Manipuri women shouldered the responsibility of supporting their families and this how the mother’s market came into existence. 

 Mother's market, Manipur 

(5) Assam is home to both the world’s largest and smallest river islands

Did you know that Assam is home to some of the biggest and smallest river Islands in the world? Majuli, the largest river island in the world, is situated right at the heart of Assam on the turbulent waters of the Brahmaputra River. Thanks to the Brahmaputra River, the river banks look beautiful with thick vegetation. Sitting at one of these banks, you will be able to enjoy stunning views of the setting sun and a fisherman rowing back his boat.

  Majuli River Island, Assam 

Also situated on the bank of might Brahmaputra is Umananda Island, the world smallest inhabited river island. As the story goes, lord Shiva created this island for his wife Parvati’s happiness because of which it attracts thousands of devotees even today. The island also inhabits golden langurs, one of the most endangered primate species, making it also one of the top tourist places in Northeast India. 

Umananda Island, Assam 

(6) Mawlynnong, Asia's Cleanest Village that also has a 100% literacy rate 

The proverb “cleanliness is next to godliness” has been taken quite seriously by the people of Mawlynnong. Also known as “God’s own Garden,” the Mawlynnong village is so clean that it was awarded the cleanest village in Asia by Discover India in 2003. In addition, the village is also noted worldwide for having a 100% literacy rate. If you're looking for a soothing vacation with a picturesque ambience, look no further! Mawlynnong village is easily one of the top tourist places in Northeast India that you can check out during your visit to Meghalaya. 

Mawlynnong village, Nagaland

Do you think we missed out on some other interesting facts? If yes, let us know in the comment section. We would love to include it! 

Also read: 15 family destinations to visit in Northeast India