Best Places to Visit in Northeast India

Photo of a man standing on a boat as a featured image for a post about the best places to visit in Northeast India

By: Sally Norton

Simply put, Northeast India contains everything a traveler could ask for. So if you’re looking for excitement, amusement, culture, or tradition, look no further than this location. As a first-time visitor to the northeastern regions, from the state of Assam to the state of Arunachal Pradesh, you’ll be awed and surprised to discover the region’s natural beauty. This region, however, has a few destinations that offer something unique. It’s because of their fauna, landscape, or culture, but each destination delivers a unique experience perfect for adventurers and people who appreciate stunning nature. However, all the choices available can make it challenging to choose what to visit, especially if you are short on time. That’s why we’ve consulted India’s travel experts and created a list of the best places to visit in Northeast India.

The most amazing places you have to visit in Northeast India

Before we reveal Northeast India’s treasures you must see, we feel it’s our duty to remind you to rent storage and ensure safety while away. After all, the last thing you want to find once you’re back from your trip is that some of your belongings are missing. Renting short-term storage while traveling is always a good idea, especially if your family and friends live far away or don’t have enough room in their homes to help you. But let us cut to the chase; here are the best places to visit during your stay in Northeast India.

#1 Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Our first choice is the majestic Kaziranga National Park in Assam, an Indian state known for tea and silk. The main attraction of Kaziranga National Park is a one-horned rhino. It’s an endangered species with only 3000 of them left in the world, 2000 of which live in this national park. It’s genuinely a thrill to spot this enormous beast, with its thick hide and horn protruding from its head, in its natural habitat!

One-horned rhino running towards a truck with people taking pictures riding on it

One-horned rhinos are star attractions at Kaziranga National Park in Assam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Additionally, Kaziranga National Park is home to numerous other mammals, birds, and reptiles, in addition to the rhinoceros. This list includes animals like the Royal Bengal Tiger and the pigmy hog, as well as swamp deer and elephant. The flora is just as impressive as the wildlife in capturing your attention. The Kaziranga National Park safari is essential to any trip to Assam. The best way to visit is between November and April.

#2 Kohima, Nagaland

In addition to being one of the most beautiful cities in India’s Northeast, Kohima is the capital of Nagaland. The Hornbill Festival, held each December in Kohima, draws tens of thousands of tourists. If you plan on visiting at that time of year, you shouldn’t miss it.

Kohima has several more attractions, including the Catholic Cathedral at Aradura Hill, World War II Cemetery, Nagaland State Museum, and Zoological Park. After exploring the sights, you and your travel companion(s) can embark on a hike through the Dzukou Valley, about 20 kilometers outside the city. On the other hand, Kohima is also great if you are more inclined towards leisure tours and want a break from your everyday life.

#3 Guwahati, Assam

In addition to being the region’s main city, Guwahati serves as a gateway to Northeast India. This city has a wide variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. The Kamakhya Temple, Fancy Bazaar, Regional Science Center, Assam State Zoo, and Accoland are just some of Guwahati’s most popular attractions.

Photo of Guwahati, the city in Northeast India that's one of the best places to visit

Guwahati is a lovely city in Assam that will instantly make you fall in love with it, so it must be one of the places to visit in Northeast India.

Visiting the Kamakhya Temple promises to be a spiritually enriching trip. Boats can take you to the Umananda Temple on the island of the Brahmaputra, another popular destination. You can also spend time with your loved ones at one of the city’s many gardens. Guwahati is one of those places to visit in Northeast India where you can never get bored no matter how many times you visit it.

#4 Pelling, Sikkim

Pelling is a famous tourist destination because it gives stunning views of the Khangchendzonga National Park and its surroundings. It’s also home to numerous tourist attractions such as Darap Cherny Village, Khecheopalri Lake, Khangchendzonga Waterfalls, and Sawaro Rock Garden. The Khangchendzonga Festival, which takes place in Pelling each year, features numerous exciting activities, including river rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking.

#5 Goecha La, Sikkim

The Goecha La, a pass in Northeast India, is the place to go if you’re searching for an adrenaline boost on your trip. It’s one of the top spots to visit in Sikkim because of the hiking trails it offers and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Located at the height of over 15,000 ft, this hiking trail is one of the best spots to go on a journey. A minimum of seven days and a total of 25 hours is required to complete the Goecha La trip. However, the view waiting for you is definitely worth the effort.

#5 Mawlynnong village, Meghalaya

This Meghalayan village in Northeast India has a well-deserved reputation as one of the cleanest on the continent. As a result, this lovely village is referred to as “God’s Own Garden.” Mawlynnong village is a must-see destination for tourists, especially nature lovers.

Photo of a man walking next to a traditional house in Mawlynnong village in Northeast India

Visiting Mawlynnong village is one of the best ways to have a truly unique and authentic experience.

In addition, you can learn about the Khasi people’s way of life in the state’s southern mountains. One of Meghalaya’s most recognizable and unique sights, the live root bridges, is located here. So if you want a truly authentic experience, this village must be on your list!

Which of these places in Northeast India will you put on your must-see list?

As you’ll be able to see, Northeast India is one of the most beautiful regions of the world, and it’s filled with lovely places you have to see during your visit. We hope some of the places to visit in Northeast India we’ve listed made it on your itinerary. But even if you have time for exploring, you’ll be happy to hear that there are many more beautiful places you should see. Reach out to travel pros; they’ll help you discover this part of the world from a whole new perspective. We guarantee you’ll fall in love with it and start planning your next visit before even going back home.