North East India is a land where the pristine still peaks through. In a country otherwise inundated with chaos and clutter, the North East region acts as a rejuvenating abode where people can discover an India unlike anything else. Together deemed the Eight Sisters, North East India consists of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.
Every state of the region has its unique history, culture, and language and is a rare repository of experiences for people. Connected to mainland India through the 22 kilometers wide and 60 kilometers long ‘Chicken’s Neck,’. North East remains comparatively isolated and untouched. Although, idealizing this isolation would be naïve and tone-deaf as the region suffers from several intrinsic issues, courtesy of it being geographically cut off from the central areas of India. However, there is no harm in romanticizing the region’s aesthetics and all the marvels that it has to offer to tourists and natives alike. Thus, if you are a travel enthusiast looking to explore the Northeast, we have compiled a list that will convince you to book your tickets at the earliest.
TOP NINE REASONS TO VISIT NORTH EAST INDIA THIS YEAR
1. Ethereal Natural Beauty:
There will not be a single person on the face of the earth who would not be mesmerized by the scenic beauty of North East India.
With fascinating sites like the Root Bridge in Meghalaya, Majuli in Assam, NeerMahal in Tripura, Dzukou Valley in Nagaland, and so forth, the region is an epicenter of other-worldly locations that seem too good to be true.
2. Lyrical Lakes:
Another element that adds to the charm of the natural beauty of North East India is the myriad of water bodies that abound the region. Of particular interest are the lakes that are sacred and all over the area. Loktak Lake in Manipur is the largest lake in the state. It is a freshwater floating lake , due to the mass of vegetation on the surface. Umiam River in Meghalaya is also such wonder. Likewise, Sangetsar Lake in Arunachal, and Chandubi Lake in Assam are marvels of the Universe that deserve to be appreciated and admired. Thus, if you are a ‘water baby,’ then the Northeast should be a must-visit in your travel itinerary.
3. Rare Gastronomic Experiences:
Northeastern cuisine is another reason why traveling to the region is worth it. The delicacies from the eight states have several demarcations and equal similarities. The use of spices is kept to a minimum, and instead, most of the food items are smoked or fermented. During his trip to Nagaland, Gordon Ramsay was taken aback by the uniqueness of the region’s food and could not believe that he was dining in India. Chef Ramsay was surprised by Northeastern gastronomes. So who are we not to be carried away. From aloo pitika and daal bhaat to bamboo shoots and smoked meat, the variety of cuisines that one can relish in the Northeast is unending.
4. Rare Wildlife:
Most importantly, The One-horned rhino is a crowned jewel of not only Assam but of entire India. By the year 1975, One-horned Rhinos were nearly extinct, with merely 600 of them remaining in the jungles of Assam and Nepal. But with concerted efforts, the number of One-horned Rhinos has now shot up to 3500, and the Assam government is taking stringent measures to curb poaching and hunting of this rare species. Visit the Northeast to get a glimpse of the majestic One-horned rhino in Kaziranga National Park. Likewise, you can also visit Nokrek National Park in Meghalaya to catch sight of rare animals and birds like red pandas, macaques, marbled cats, etc.
5. Eco-friendly Locations:
Ecotourism i pioneered in Northeast India to a great extent. There is a wide range of possibilities for eco-conscious travelers in the area. People in villages like Khonoma in Nagaland came together to resist unauthorized deforestation. A Meghalaya village called Mawlynnong is the cleanest village in Asia thanks to its bamboo-built guesthouses. This has additionally led to the Ziro Valley Apatani tribe developing their own sustainable farming practices. The Padma Shri winner Javed Payeng’s regenerated woodland. this is near the Majuli Sandbar, known as the “Moloi.”.
6. Tantalizing Teas:
Apart from the ‘rare gastronomic experiences,’ North East India is the hub of unique and delicious tea. Assam tea is a world-renowned variant whose demand is constantly soaring all around. Also known as the Tea Capital of India, the state’s tea gardens are a sight to the sore eyes and can replenish even the most tired of souls.
7. Spiritual Awakening:
The Buddist monasteries that abound Arunachal Pradesh are mesmerizing in their own right. The Tawang Monastery, founded in 1860, is an important site and the largest monastery in the country. The Dharma Coffee House and Library in Tawang is a great place to relax with a cup of hot coffee and take in the beautiful scenery. For all those looking for inner peace and quiet, the monasteries of Arunachal Pradesh are a must-visit.
8. Fascinating Festivals:
Northeast India is eponymous with its many festivals. Every state of the region has different significant festivals, which add to the diversity and value of the cultures. Dree celebrations and Losar festival are an extraordinary celebration in Arunachal Pradesh. Bihu and Ali Ai Ligang in Assam. Saga Dawa and Losoong in Sikkim. Matsu Mong in Nagaland, Anthurium in Mizoram, and so forth. Delicious food, lovely dances, and vibrant outfits are the highlights of the festivals.
9. Heritage of Handicrafts
Northeast India is a handicrafts hub. Being home to many diverse tribes, the region boasts of a rich tradition of handicrafts. Bamboo work is ubiquitous in the region. Assa, Mizoram, Manipur, Tripura, and Nagaland have skilled bamboo craftspersons who create phenomenal artistry. Likewise, the silk and brass work of Assam are equally fascinating. Sikkim is famous for carpet weaving. Manipur is famous for gold.
Therefore, if you have an eye for all things unique, visiting the Northeast is mandatory.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a million other reasons to visit the North East. But, the sheer beauty of the region, coupled with its warm and hospitable natives, is a sure-shot reason that should pull everyone to the region at least once in their lives.
Thank you!
Thank you!