North East India is a popular tourist hub attracting travelers from all over the world. The pictures of being in North East India are simply incredible. With its vast stretches of land and picturesque scenery, it is a truly wonderful place to behold. The views are mesmerizing for you to make special memories with your loved ones.
Likewise, North Eastern states hold exceptional circumstances for everyone to enjoy and adventure at. There are many fun-filled activities to try out in these states that you cannot miss out on. The rustic charm appeals to those travelers wanting to take them off beaten paths. Arunachal Pradesh, just bordering China, serves as the center for spirituality with a mix of age-old temples and historical sites.
List of the 10 Best Places for Adventure in North East India:
1. Ziro Valley
The Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh leaves you stunned for the travelers to carry back memorable experiences with them. Besides, the valley is also known for its three-day and night rock concert, held annually at the end of September.
It is that part of the North East, giving you genuine and pure bliss. Being a part of the music festival will provide you with the experience of a lifetime.
- Weather: Pleasant summers, cold winters, and moderate rainfall during monsoon.
- Label: Scenic Valley
- Tags: Valley, Scenic Beauty
- Timings: Year-round destination, but best visited from March to October.
- Time Required: 2-3 days
- Entry Fee: None
- Things to Do: Explore the local villages, hike in the pine-clad hills, visit Tarin Fish Farm.
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2. Jaintia Hills
Situated in the Himalayas ‘ heart, Jaintia Hills are full of limestone deposits, posing to be one of the fascinating places to visit in North East India. Secondly, the site hosts several caves to soothe your mind and get into the adventure spirit.
Entering the shelters will lead you to some long and shallow caves. It’s best to go trekking inside the caves in teams to get a memorable experience. The best time to visit the Jaintia Hills is from March to June.
- Weather: Mild and pleasant climate throughout the year.
- Label: Breathtaking Landscapes
- Tags: Hills, Natural Beauty
- Timings: Year-round destination, but best visited from October to April.
- Time Required: 2-3 days
- Entry Fee: None
- Things to Do: Explore the stunning landscapes, visit Krang Suri Falls, trek to the Nartiang Monoliths.
Read more – Best Honeymoon Destinations in North East India
3. Nathu La Pass
Trekking on the Nathu La Pass is one of the serene highlights in North East tourism. Further, the roads are dangerous with the roads twisted and turned at so many levels. During the trek time, you can witness the views that will etch in your hearts forever. Also, spot some beautiful lakes while on your way to Nathu La Pass. It is one of the famous tourist spots that you should definitely include in your itinerary.
Just rent a vehicle from Gangtok and take an experienced driver with you. Likewise, you will have to take a permit to reach Nathu La Pass. Plan your visit during summer while the temperatures go down unbearably during the winter months. During the winter months, take baby steps and don’t overdo anything.
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- Weather: Cold and snowy winters, cool summers, and heavy rainfall during monsoon.
- Label: High-altitude Pass
- Tags: Pass, Himalayas, Border Area
- Timings: Open for a limited period, generally from May to November.
- Time Required: 1-2 hours
- Entry Fee: Permit required for Indian tourists.
- Things to Do: Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, visit the border trading post.
Read more – 10 Best Places to visit in Sikkim
Read also about Northeast India:
- Historical Sites in Northeast India
- Things To Do in Tripura
- Explore Northeast India’s Culture
- Northeast India’s Best Resorts
- River Rafting Guide for Northeast India
- Northeast India’s Wildlife Parks
- Reasons to Visit Northeast India
4. Pelling
Pelling is a beautiful hill station in the foothills of Khangchendzonga. It offers not only exhilarating views but also poses important threats both in terms of spirituality. Besides, take turns to visit the 17th century Sanga Choling Monastery and indulge in some adventurous sports like walk tours and mountain terrain biking. It is the best place for peace and adventure seekers.
Pelling has located about 120 km from Gangtok. You can hire a taxi to reach Pelling directly from Gangtok.
- Weather: Cool and pleasant climate throughout the year.
- Label: Serene Hill Station
- Tags: Hill Station, Scenic Views
- Timings: Year-round destination, but best visited from March to May and October to November.
- Time Required: 2-3 days
- Entry Fee: None
- Things to Do: Visit Pemayangtse Monastery, trek to Khecheopalri Lake, enjoy views of Kanchenjunga.
Read more – The 10 Most Popular Tourist Attractions in Gangtok
Suggested itinerary – 4 Days Gangtok Tour Itinerary
5. Mawlynnong Village
If you search for a beautiful and dirt-free village, the Mawlynnong Village is an eco-friendly village where you can interact with the locals and learn about their culture. It has been tagged as Asia’s Cleanest Village in 2013. Add this place to your list when visiting Shillong. Reaching the village is very easy. Just take a cab from Shillong, and you will get it instantly.
Also, the Mawlynnong village is suitable to visit all through the year. You can even spend your night here to see the entire town.
- Weather: Pleasant climate throughout the year.
- Label: Asia’s Cleanest Village
- Tags: Village, Cleanliness, Eco-tourism
- Timings: Year-round destination, but best visited from September to May.
- Time Required: 1 day
- Entry Fee: None
- Things to Do: Explore the village, visit the living root bridge, experience the local Khasi culture.
Read more – List of Monasteries in Sikkim
6. Dawki
Dawki is the transparent water lake situated in Meghalaya with the waters so crystal clear that you can see beneath. Further, Dawki is a small town in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya known for its beautiful lake. Do a boat ride at the Umngot River, and you will be mesmerized beyond words.
But you will need an inner line permit to head towards Meghalaya. Just take a flight to Guwahati and then hire a cab to Dawki. Or you can even take a road trip from Guwahati to Shillong to reach Meghalaya. November is the best time to try out boating in Dawki.
- Weather: Pleasant climate throughout the year.
- Label: Crystal Clear River
- Tags: River, Natural Beauty
- Timings: Year-round destination, but best visited from October to May.
- Time Required: 1 day
- Entry Fee: None
- Things to Do: Enjoy boating in the crystal-clear waters of Umngot River, visit the Dawki Bridge.
Read more – Popular Hill Stations in Meghalaya
7. Dzongri Trek
A safari on the yak is as majestic and peaceful as the experience itself feels. Taking a yak safari is yet another adventurous thing to do in North East. You can also take pictures on yak back and carry back pleasing memories with you. Yuksom is the starting point of the trek. You can take the train to New Jalpaiguri Station and the rest part in a taxi or jeep.
The areas of Thangu and Dzongri are famous ideally for their yak safari. The place is explicitly beautiful. Also, you can do a yak safari around Tsomgo Lake.
- Weather: Cold and snowy winters, cool summers, and heavy rainfall during monsoon.
- Label: Trekking Paradise
- Tags: Trekking, Himalayas, Scenic Views
- Timings: Best visited from April to June and September to November.
- Time Required: 7-8 days (including travel)
- Entry Fee: None
- Things to Do: Trek through the beautiful landscapes of the Himalayas, camp at Dzongri.
Read more – Popular Hill Stations in Sikkim
8. Siang River
If you are looking for a challenging core adventure, Siang River is the right place to be in. Further, it is home to the Adi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. River rafting in the Siang River catches a significant attraction for travelers coming here. The rappelling is done in Grade III and Grade IV, making the experience so much worth it.
Dibrugarh is considered to be the starting point for the rafting session. Secondly, take a flight from Mohanbari airport. From Siang River, Dibrugarh is just a taxi ride away. The best time is early November when the tides are peaceful and surreal.
- Weather: Pleasant climate throughout the year.
- Label: Adventure River
- Tags: River, Adventure Sports
- Timings: Best visited from October to March.
- Time Required: 1-2 days
- Entry Fee: None
- Things to Do: Enjoy river rafting, angling, and other water sports, explore the surrounding natural beauty.
Read more – 10 Best Adventure Places in Himachal Pradesh
9. Gorichen Peak
The Gorichen Peak is situated around 6,500 meters above sea level. Further, it is a climbable peak to get a thrilling experience. The beauty of the scenes is worth it significantly when you will climb the entire mountain. The experience is worth imagining the moment you reach the top. It’s easy to take a taxi to Gorichen peak.
Go trekking during the summer months. Gorichen Peak is close to Taiwan, and there are many decent guest houses to stay there. While going to the summit, you will be staying in camps. You can try various adventurous activities like camping, trekking, etc.
- Weather: Cold and snowy winters, cool summers, and heavy rainfall during monsoon.
- Label: Majestic Peak
- Tags: Peak, Trekking, Himalayas
- Timings: Best visited from April to June and September to November.
- Time Required: 7-10 days (including travel)
- Entry Fee: None
- Things to Do: Trek to the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
Read more – 15 Best Places for Adventure in Rajasthan
10. Dampa Tiger Reserve
Spread over 550 km, The Dampa Tiger Reserve has sights of beautiful tigers that you can catch. Further, getting a sight of a tiger is so thrilling and inspiring in itself.
The royal looks of tigers in elegant ways are best experienced in the Dampa Tiger Reserve. Take a train directly to Silchar Railway station. You can reach the reserve through Mizoram State Transport buses or taxis.
- Weather: Tropical climate with hot and humid summers, and moderate winters.
- Label: Wildlife Sanctuary
- Tags: Wildlife, Sanctuary
- Timings: Best visited from November to March.
- Time Required: 1-2 days
- Entry Fee: None
- Things to Do: Spot tigers, leopards, elephants, and other wildlife, bird watching, nature walks.
Read more – 10 Best Places to See Tiger in India
These are some of the best places to try out some thrilling experiences in North East India. Do plan for a trip soon and you will enjoy it to the level best.
Read more – 20 Best Adventure Places in India
See North East itinerary starting from Popular Cities like Delhi and Mumbai:
- North East Packages From Delhi
- North East Packages From Mumbai
- North East Packages From Chennai
- North East Packages From Hyderabad
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best adventure destinations in North East India?
Some of the best adventure spots are Goechala Trek (Sikkim), Dzongri Trek (Sikkim), Sandakphu Trek (West Bengal), Druk Path Trek (Bhutan border), Barsey Rhododendron Trek (Sikkim), and Nongriat Trek (Meghalaya).
2. Which place is famous for trekking in North East India?
Goechala Trek in Sikkim is popular for trekking, offering stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Sandakphu Trek, the highest peak in West Bengal, is another favorite among trekkers.
3. Can beginners do trekking in North East India?
Yes, there are treks like Barsey Rhododendron Trek and Nongriat Trek (with its famous living root bridges) that are suitable for beginners. These treks are relatively easy and don’t require prior experience.
4. What adventure activities can be done in Meghalaya?
Meghalaya is known for caving, waterfall rappelling, and the Nongriat Trek, where you can explore the iconic double-decker living root bridge.
5. Where can I experience river rafting in North East India?
Arunachal Pradesh offers thrilling river rafting opportunities on the Brahmaputra River. The Siang River is another hotspot for rafting.
6. Which trek is best for mountain views in North East India?
The Sandakphu Trek offers breathtaking views of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga.
7. Are there any short treks in North East India?
Yes, the Barsey Rhododendron Trek is a short and scenic trek that takes 2-3 days, perfect for those looking for a quick adventure.
8. What is unique about the Nongriat Trek in Meghalaya?
The Nongriat Trek is known for its stunning living root bridges, especially the double-decker bridge, and lush green landscapes.
9. What adventure can I do in Sikkim?
Sikkim is perfect for trekking (like Goechala and Dzongri), paragliding, and mountain biking. It’s also a great spot for rock climbing and river rafting.
10. When is the best time to go trekking in North East India?
The best time for trekking in North East India is from March to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and visibility is clear.
11. Are permits required for adventure activities in North East India?
Yes, some regions like Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh require Inner Line Permits (ILPs). You should check with local authorities before your trip.
12. What should I pack for trekking in North East India?
Essential items include comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, a raincoat, a first aid kit, sunscreen, and sufficient water and snacks for the trek.
13. Can I go camping in North East India?
Yes, camping is a popular activity, especially during treks like Goechala and Dzongri in Sikkim. You can camp amidst scenic landscapes and enjoy nature.
14. Are there any adventure sports in North East India besides trekking?
Yes, you can try paragliding in Sikkim, caving in Meghalaya, river rafting in Arunachal Pradesh, and mountain biking in various hilly regions.
15. Is it safe to do adventure activities in North East India?
Yes, adventure activities are generally safe as long as you follow safety guidelines and go with experienced guides or operators. Always check weather conditions and travel advisories.
