India’s rich culture and iconic landmarks attract thousands of visitors, but the country still has many hidden gems. Some lesser-explored areas offering fascinating experiences can be found in Northeast India. This region, located in the Eastern Himalayas, is often overshadowed by more popular destinations in India. However, the region boasts unspoiled nature and unique cultures. Here are eight wonderful things to experience in Northeast India.
1. The First Light of India
If you enjoy early morning walks, you may want to visit Dong in Arunachal Pradesh to see the first sunlight. Dong is a small village near the India-China border. The first sunlight shines down on this remote village before spreading across India. Imagine witnessing and being drenched in India’s first sunlight. Watching the sunrise can add a touch of serenity to your day, making you feel relaxed while awakening your senses.
2. A Tapestry of Tribes
Northeast India is overflowing with vibrant cultures and traditions. This region is home to over 200 ethnic tribes, making it the perfect destination for cultural explorations. These tribes boast unique traditions, languages, and customs. Explore the vibrant attires of each tribe, indulge in their unique rhythmic dances and festivals, and delve into their intriguing history.
3. Bridges That Grow on Their Own
Another wonderful experience in Northeast India is walking on the living root bridges, which look like something out of a fantasy movie. The “living root bridges” in Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong were creatively formed by the ingenious Khasi and Jaintia Meghalaya communities in Meghalaya. These communities used living rubber tree roots to form bridges. Their skilful technique of guiding the roots resulted in sturdy bridges in the lush forests.
4. An Island Like No Other
Visiting the world’s largest river island, Majuli will give you a serene escape. This destination is located in Assam and is formed by the Brahmaputra River. This area features lush landscapes and traditional bamboo homes. Majuli has a rich culture and spiritual heritage. Majuli is known for its Vaishnavite monasteries, or satras, some of which date back to the 16th century.
5. A Gastronomic Adventure
Travellers in Northeast India enjoy exploring the diverse cuisines. With so many tribes, you will be introduced to various foods with unique flavours. Some of the cuisines with rich flavours you will come upon are smoked meats like Nagaland’s smoked pork, fermented bamboo shoots, and Manipur’s Eromba. The region focuses on using organic ingredients from the forests. The region also caters to vegetarians, offering unique vegetarian meals and seasonal fruits.
6. The Floating Paradise
One of the most amazing sights to behold in Northeast India is Manipur’s Loktak Lake. This lake is a floating paradise where circular islands decorate the water’s surface. These islands are clusters of vegetation known as phumdis. This freshwater lake is where the world’s only floating national park, Keibul Lamjao National Park, is located. This region is home to the endangered Sangai deer, also known as the “dancing deer” due to its stunning gracefulness.
7. Nature’s Cleanest Village
Mawlynnong is renowned for its cleanliness. This region is often referred to as the cleanest village in Asia. The clean streets are a testament to the residents’ communal effort, resulting in sustainable waste management. The charming village is a must-see, offering a refreshing environment for relaxation.
8. A Sanctuary for Rare Wildlife
Nature enthusiasts will find Northeast India to be a haven. This region is renowned for its biodiversity. The region is home to rare wildlife that can be observed in lush forests and their diverse natural habitat. These extraordinary species include the one-horned rhinoceros in Assam and the red panda in Arunachal Pradesh. There are also golden langurs, pygmy hogs, and hoolock gibbons.
