7 Best Trekking Places in North East India

North East India is the less explored part of the Himalayas. However, presently it is getting noticed by travel enthusiasts. This part of India is culturally rich, diverse, and presents a unique charm that everyone loves. If you want to experience the essence of both culture and nature, you must head to North East India.

Besides, here you can experience adventure too as North East India is full of several trekking destinations. To explore the best view you have to experience the hardest climb. But your hard work will be successful when you will explore the best view of nature. In this post, we will discuss the best trekking destinations in North East India.

List of the Top 7 Trekking Destinations in North East India:

1. Goechala Trek

It is one of the most beautiful and adventurous treks in Sikkim. Goechala trek offers the spectacular view of Pandim, Simvo, Kanchenjunga, and Kabru. This trek will take you close to the Eastern part of Mt. Kangchenjunga. Also, here you can visit the Rathong glacier. The trekking trail runs through moss-laden forests of chestnut, oak, pine, magnolia, rhododendron, and maple.

In these diverse forests, you can get a glimpse of several beautiful birds like Rufous-vented Yuhina, Silver-eared Mesia, Red-billed Leothrix, Fire-breasted Flowerpecker, etc. The entire view of this trek will surely mesmerize you.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November.
• Duration: 10-11 days.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging.
• Key Highlights: Stunning views of Kanchenjunga and other high Himalayan peaks, beautiful rhododendron forests, Samiti Lake, and the serene Thangsing meadows.
• Getting There: Start from Yuksom, which is accessible by road from Gangtok or NJP Railway Station. Nearest airport is Bagdogra.
• Accommodation: Camping along the trail; homestays available in Yuksom and nearby villages.
• Permits: Foreigners require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) from Gangtok.

2. Nongriat Trek

The Nongriat trek starts from the nearest village Tyrna. From this place, you have to climb 3500 steps to reach the village of Nongriat. Initially, you will feel tired. So, you can take a rest during the trek. But we assure once you reach the Nongriat village, you will be captivated by the breathtaking beauty. During the entire trek, you will feel like you are walking through the lap of nature.

Besides the warbling of the birds, streaming rivers everything will accompany you throughout the trek. Also, you can see the locals and their lives. Undoubtedly, the beauty of their journey will ease your trekking journey and push you a little forward every time with excitement.

Also Read: November Travel Guide to North East India

• Best Time to Visit: October to March.
• Duration: 2-3 days.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate (Steep steps and forest trails).
• Key Highlights: The famous Double Decker Living Root Bridge, dense forests, waterfalls (such as Rainbow Falls), and traditional Khasi villages.
• Getting There: The trek starts from Tyrna Village, which is a 2-3 hour drive from Shillong.
• Accommodation: Basic guesthouses and homestays in Nongriat Village.
• Permits: No permits required for Indian nationals; foreigners must register at the police checkpoint.

3. Sandakphu Trek

It is one of the most beautiful treks in the Eastern Himalayas. This trek offers an incredible view of Kanchenjunga and Everest. Sandakphu trek offers you the wild elemental grandeur of nature. As it is part of the Singalila Range, the trekking route passes through some of the most biodiverse temperate forests of the country. Sandakphu is the loftiest peak of the Singalila range that is a vantage point.

From this point, you can see the four highest peaks of the world that include Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and Lhotse. The eternal beauty of the rhododendrons, magnolias, primulas will surely mesmerize you. Also, the whole trekking trail contains 400 varieties of orchids, several mammals, and more than 250 birds.

• Best Time to Visit: October to December, and March to May.
• Duration: 6-7 days.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Key Highlights: Panoramic views of four of the world’s highest peaks (Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu), beautiful rhododendron blooms, and views of the Sleeping Buddha range.
• Getting There: Start from Manebhanjan, which is accessible from Darjeeling or Siliguri by road.
• Accommodation: Teahouses and trekkers’ huts along the trail.
• Permits: Indian nationals require no special permits; foreigners need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to trek the Singalila Ridge.

4. Dzongri Trek

It is one of the most popular treks in Sikkim. From Dzongri you can get close views of mt. Kangchenjunga, kabru, Mt. pandim, and Simvo. People who want to explore Kangchenjunga closely must attempt this trek. Dzongri trek offers you everything from excellent views of the meadows to the view of the incredible mountains. In every part of this trek, you will be captivated by the surrounding beauty. The trekking trail goes through moss-laden forests of pine, oak, maple, chestnut, rhododendron, and Magnolia.

These diverse forests will give you the opportunity for enjoying several beautiful birds like Rufous-vented Yuhina, Silver-eared Mesia, Red-billed Leothrix, Fire-breasted Flowerpecker, etc. On the way, you will cross small Tibetan hamlets at Tshoka and Bakhim. Ultimately the spectacular view of the Kangchenjunga will make your journey worth it. Also, read the package for 4 Nights 5 Days Dzukou Valley Trekking Tour Itinerary.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November.
• Duration: 5-6 days.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Key Highlights: Close-up views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Pandim, diverse landscapes ranging from dense forests to alpine meadows, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
• Getting There: The trek starts from Yuksom, accessible by road from Gangtok and NJP.
• Accommodation: Camping or stay in basic huts; guesthouses available at the starting point in Yuksom.
• Permits: Restricted Area Permit (RAP) required for all foreign nationals.

Discover the: charm of North East India in September

5. Druk Path Trek

It is a scenic high altitude trek between Thimpu and Paro that includes several glacial lakes. Druk Path trek offers you exceptional views of the Eastern Himalayas. Bhutan has several scenic treks to offer and the Druk Path trek is one of them. From the Paro valley, you will get the incredible views of Chomolhari, which is the most revered mountain in Bhutan.

The trekking trail passed through several passes. You can arrange en route camping beside the clear mountain lakes and visit the yak herders’ encampments. The splendid panorama of this place will surely mesmerize you. Also, you can explore the lesser-known peaks like Gangkar Puensum and Jitchu Drake.

• Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November.
• Duration: 5-6 days.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Key Highlights: Scenic trek between Paro and Thimphu, high mountain passes, alpine lakes, ancient dzongs, and rich cultural heritage.
• Getting There: Fly into Paro from Kolkata, or reach via road from Jaigaon-Phuentsholing border.
• Accommodation: Camping along the trail, with occasional stays in guesthouses in Paro and Thimphu.
• Permits: Bhutan entry permit required for Indian nationals; trekking permits organized through licensed tour operators.

6. Barsey Rhododendron Trek

In Sikkim, it is one of the most colorful treks that is set among the beautiful rhododendrons. Here you will get the best view of the Kanchenjunga range. Spring season is the best time to attempt this trek. This time the surrounding of rhododendrons gets more spectacular. Besides, the mesmerizing view of the Sikkim Himalayas will make you spellbound. All of the slopes are covered with color pallets of rich reds, yellows, and pinks. The air is filled with the fragrance of blooming rhododendrons.

During this trek, you can explore the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary in West Sikkim. In this sanctuary, you can see 13 different variants of rhododendrons. The entire slope is covered with Barbatum, Arboreum, Hodgson, Campanulatum, and Falconeri. The flowering season in this area attracts so many bird species. So, if you are a bird watcher, this trek will be perfect for you. Besides, the panoramic views of the Kangchenjunga offer a spectacular view of this trek.

• Best Time to Visit: April to May (Rhododendron blooming season).
• Duration: 3-4 days.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate.
• Key Highlights: Rhododendron Sanctuary with over 600 varieties of rhododendrons, panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range, and tranquil forest trails.
• Getting There: Start from Hilley, which is accessible by road from Jorethang or Geyzing.
• Accommodation: Trekkers’ huts or homestays at Hilley and Barsey.
• Permits: No permits required for Indian nationals; foreigners may need to register at local checkpoints.

Read also: Top Destinations in North East India for a November Adventure

7. Bailey Trek

If you are looking for a historic and offbeat trekking destination then Bailey trek will be the ideal option for you. The trekking trails pass through the virgin temperate and rhododendron forests. In the background, you can see the Eastern Himalayan peaks of Kangto and Gorichen.

The Bailey trail traces the historic route taken by Lt. Col. F. M. Bailey. He was commissioned to survey the Arunachal – Tibet border in the 19th century. However, this destination is a bit offbeat but to experience the natural beauty of this place you can surely attempt this trek.

• Best Time to Visit: October to April.
• Duration: 12-15 days.
• Difficulty Level: Challenging.
• Key Highlights: Follows the historic route established by Lt. Col. F. M. Bailey through unexplored valleys, traditional tribal villages, and remote mountain passes along the India-Tibet border.
• Getting There: The trek starts from Tawang, accessible by road from Tezpur, Assam (nearest airport and railway station).
• Accommodation: Homestays in villages and camps along the trail.
• Permits: Inner Line Permit (ILP) required for Indian nationals; Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreign nationals.

Check the package for 7 Nights 8 Days Assam and Arunachal Tour Itinerary.

Conclusion

These are the best trekking destinations in North East India. If you want to explore the beauty of Northeast India and experience some remarkable and adventurous activities, you must attempt these treks. Only make sure to avoid the rainy season as the trekking slopes become slippery, and it may cause accidents. So without thinking anymore, pack your bags and get ready to explore these excellent trekking destinations ASAP.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the best trekking places in North East India?

The best trekking places include Goechala Trek, Sandakphu Trek, Dzongri Trek, and Dzukou Valley Trek.

2. Which treks in North East India are the most scenic?

Goechala Trek in Sikkim, Sandakphu Trek in West Bengal, and Dzukou Valley Trek in Nagaland and Manipur offer stunning landscapes.

3. Are there trekking packages available for North East India?

Yes, many travel agencies offer trekking packages for North East India, covering popular trails like Goechala, Sandakphu, and Dzukou Valley.

4. What is the best trek in Sikkim?

The Goechala Trek is considered the best trek in Sikkim, providing breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga.

5. Which trek is suitable for beginners in North East India?

Dzukou Valley Trek is suitable for beginners, offering relatively easy trails with mesmerizing views of the valley.

6. What is the best time to trek in North East India?

The best time for trekking in North East India is March to May and October to December, depending on the specific region and weather.

7. What are some offbeat treks in North East India?

Offbeat treks include the Bailey Trail in Arunachal Pradesh and the Mechuka Trek, which offer a more secluded trekking experience.

8. Are there guided trekking tours available in North East India?

Yes, there are guided trekking tours for most popular treks like Sandakphu and Goechala, provided by local tour operators and agencies.

9. How difficult is the Goechala Trek in Sikkim?

The Goechala Trek is considered moderately difficult, suitable for trekkers with prior experience due to its high altitude and long distance.

10. What gear is necessary for trekking in North East India?

Essential trekking gear includes hiking boots, warm clothing, sleeping bags, trekking poles, and first aid kits, depending on the altitude and season.

11. Are there short treks available in North East India?

Yes, short treks like the Nongriat Trek in Meghalaya and the Trek to Living Root Bridges are perfect for a day or weekend trek.

12. Which trek offers views of Mount Kanchenjunga?

The Goechala Trek in Sikkim offers magnificent views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world.

13. Can I trek in the North East during the monsoon season?

It’s generally not recommended to trek during the monsoon (June-August) due to heavy rains and slippery trails, but treks in Meghalaya might still be feasible with caution.

14. What are some popular trekking trails in Arunachal Pradesh?

The Bailey Trail and Mechuka Trek are popular trekking trails in Arunachal Pradesh, offering challenging terrain and scenic views.

15. Do I need permits for trekking in North East India?

Yes, certain treks in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh may require permits, especially for regions near the borders. Always check with local authorities or tour operators for updated requirements.