Northeast India consists of eight states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. Tourism in this area is based around the unique Himalayan landscape and culture distinct from the rest of India.

You may think of the Northeast as one large emerald – lush, glittering and green. However, peer closer and you’ll notice this gem has many facets – 8 to be precise. This glorious octet of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim come together to make the northeast region of India. Here, you’ll see some of the eco-friendliest travel locations, taste the unique flavours of bamboo and soybean twisting their way through the dishes, visit the lush Kaziranga National Park and sink into the spiritual energy of the most serene Buddhist monasteries.

Each state has its own charm, culture and traditions. You’re in for a surprise no matter where you visit. So, today, we’re going to lay these choices in front of you and then let you decide which state you’d like to sample. All we ask is that you surrender to the magic of Northeast Tourism and start planning your holiday here.

Arunachal Pradesh
Cuddled in the embrace of Bhutan, Tibet, Myanmar and India, Arunachal Pradesh is one of India’s best kept secrets. Experiencing Arunachal Pradesh is unique. For instance, Namdapha National Park will allow you to see the fire-drenched, silky fur of the shy Red Panda. Or, you can watch the giant flying squirrel soar at the Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary. Explore the tribal culture that springs from the Apatanis people in Talley valley. Feel the beat and rhythm throb through the quiet air of this state during the Ziro Music Festival. Let the wind that skates off the frozen Sela lake play with your hair. Visit the largest monastery – Tawang – in India. Leap into the froth of Kameng River when you go river rafting. This state is a gift – unwrap it.

Assam
Want to experience traveller’s paradise? Well, book your tickets to Assam. This state is generous, in all its goodness. Looking for rare species of wildlife? Assam has 18 wildlife sanctuaries for you to explore and discover. (Especially the rare one-horned rhino at Kaziranga National Park). Looking for a decent cup of tea? Well, there are acres and acres of lush tea estates that can lend a hand. Looking for unique cultural experiences? The festival of Bihu, folk dancing, local sports like tang-goote, kabbadi and bullfights, the food, the traditions and so much more will keep you spellbound. Hoping to indulge in some water sports? You have the massive Brahmaputra river at your disposal. Generosity is baked into the soil, here.

Manipur
If you waved a magic wand and wished for the perfect place, Manipur would be the result of that wish. This is a state, blessed with nature’s bounty. Spend a day wending your way around the lush woodlands at Senapati. Explore the pottery and handicrafts in the artistic village of Andro. Visit the famous Polo Ground, Palace of Kangle and the Manipur State Museum in Imphal. Start the day with a trek and end it with delicious tea at Ukhrul. All bird lovers must also make it a point to visit Tamenglong, where rare birds hide amidst the natural symphony of waterfalls, bubbling rivers and the flutter of leaves in the forest. Enjoy Manipuri festivities at Kakching – especially during the Haraoba Festival which is full of dances, theme park rides, garden parties and festive markets. You’ll always want more of Manipur.

Meghalaya
Where do the clouds go? To this beautiful state that bears their name and their beauty and their bounty. This green and grey paradise is home to beautiful Limestone caves in the Garo, Khasi and Jaintia Hills (these are some of the deepest caves in the country). Above the ground, adventure awaits. Trek, rock climb, camp across Meghalaya’s natural landscapes. At Umiam Lake, go water skiing, kayak or even sail serenely on a yacht. Explore the twisted, gnarly beauty of the thick root bridges at Nohwet. Take a peek into the wilder side of Meghalaya by visiting the Nokrek National Park or the Siju Bird Sanctuary. You may even discover seashell fossils at Balpakram National Park. Explore Shillong – the Scotland of the East – with its beautiful mix of stylish modernity, quaint charm and stunning natural beauty. Meghalaya isn’t cloud no. nine – it’s much, much better.

Mizoram
Breathe in, breathe out – can you feel that beautiful air caress your lungs and brush against your skin? If you can’t, then you need to visit Mizoram now. All that pure air blesses a land that is already rich with thick bamboo groves, lush forests, deep caves, glass-like lakes, trickling waterfalls and enchanting vineyards. Visit Phawngpui hills – also known as the ‘abode of the gods’ – with its rich spread of orchids, fragrant herbs and stunning views. Explore the Mizoram legends of love when you visit monuments like the Phulpui Grave of the Memorial of Chhingpui. See the mist drift away from the ribbon like Vantawang Falls. Listen to Nature and nothing else, when you visit the serene Palak Lake. Pick up the pace by mountain biking in Hmuifang Hill. Witness the beautiful dances of Cheraw, Chheihlam, Sarlamkai and more at the Chapchar Kut Spring Festival. This state is irresistible – you have been warned!

Nagaland
If god were given a canvas, he’d paint Nagaland in all its beauty. This scenic hill station is often referred to as the Switzerland of the East. Hills and mountains roll back, displaying their smooth green shimmer. Music, folk dance and cuisine combine to form the beautiful chaos known as the Hornbill Festival. Mist and nature combine to create a spectacular trek up Japfu Peak. History and solemnity lie heavy at the War Cemetery. Culture and charm take many forms at the Kohima Museum. Tigers, Langurs, Hornbills, Monitor Lizards, Pythons and Sloth Bears slip in and out of the trees at Intaki Wildlife Sanctuary. Art and craft jumble and tumble together at the famous Naga Bazaar in Kohima. Don’t just look at this painting – step into it and experience the artistic wonder of Nagaland.

Sikkim
The mountains stretch to the sky, connecting heaven and earth in Sikkim. Stand back in awe of the mighty Kanchenjunga – the third highest mountain in the world. Meditate in the solemn, worshipful wonder that is Rumtek Monastery. Let your gaze drift over the wealth of fauna and flora. Let the flavours of soft momos, silky thukpa and ripply wontons burst in your mouth. Sweep your eyes over the pristine streets of this unbelievably clean state. Find all the colours of the rainbow (and more) in the 600 different species of orchids, 150 types of gladioli, 46 varieties of rhododendrons, as well as roses, cacti, ferns, herbs and everything the mind can dream of. See the world and its wonder reflected in the mirror stillness of Gurudongmar and Chhangu lakes. It’s simple, you see – Sikkim is spectacular.

Tripura
There’s a little something for everyone at Tripura. Historical sights? Check. Elegant temples? Check. Wildlife reserves? Check. Arts, craft and culture? Check, check, check. Sink into this magical state. You’ll love experiences like the majestic palaces like Neer Mahal and Ujjayanta Palace, with their British and Roman architectural influences. To soothe that spiritual soul, visit the Tripura Sundari Temple, the Kamalasagar Temple and the Buddhist Monasteries. Trace the intricate carvings of Shiva cut into the Unakoti hills. Discover the wildlife that hides deep in the Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary, Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary and Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary. Stroll around the peaceful tea gardens of Tripura. Whatever you need, Tripura checks the box!