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Northeast India

Northeast India, also known as Northeastern India, is a treasure trove of captivating diversity, enriched with abundant natural resources, a vibrant history, and deep-rooted cultural traditions. It boasts untouched landscapes, breathtaking natural beauty, pleasant climate, rich biodiversity, rare wildlife, historical sites, and a unique blend of cultural and ethnic heritage.

The North-Eastern region of India consists of the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura and Sikkim. The first seven states are referred to as the “Seven Sisters of North-East India”, while Sikkim is referred to as the “little brother” of the seven sisters. This region shares international boundaries with Nepal, Bhutan, China, Myanmar and Bangladesh and is connected to the rest of India through a narrow strip of land between Bhutan and Bangladesh popularly known as the “Chicken Neck”. 

Northeast India has a rich history shaped by different indigenous cultures and powerful regional kingdoms such as  the Ahom dynasty ruled Assam for over 600 years and  the Tripuri (Manikya) dynasty in Tripura. It was also a vital link in trade routes connecting South and Southeast Asia. The region remained largely autonomous until British colonial expansion in the nineteenth century. After India’s independence, it became part of the Indian Union, though it has often witnessed movements for autonomy and ethnic identity. Despite these challenges, the region continues to preserve its distinct cultural heritage and traditions.

A Quick Facts About North India:-

Total States in Northeastern Region of India8
Total Union Territory in Northeastern Region of India0
Land Area in Northeastern Region of India262, 184 Sq. Kms
Largest State of Northeastern Region of India (in terms of Population)Assam
Largest State of Northeastern Region of India (in terms of Area)Arunachal Pradesh (covering 83, 743 Sq. Kms)
Largest City in Northeastern Region of IndiaGuwahati
Nagaland Foundation Day1st December, 1963
Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura Foundation Day21st January, 1972
Sikkim Foundation Day16th May, 1975
Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram Foundation Day20th February, 1987
Popular Places of Tourist Interest in Northeastern Region of IndiaNature, Spirituality, eco & rural, culture, Adventure and more

Tucked away amidst massive hills and opaque woods, northeast India is a culturally rich region and noted for its distinct and traditional lifestyle. The cuisine of Northeast India is varied, flavorful, and heavily influenced by tribal traditions. Rice serves as the staple, often accompanied by smoked or fermented meats, bamboo shoots, and a variety of green vegetables. Signature dishes from the region include Khar, Pitha, Fish Tenga, Sanpiau, Vawksa Rep, Axone, Eromba, Jadoh, and Zan. The cooking style typically uses minimal oil and spices, focusing instead on fresh, earthy, and natural flavors. The region also has unique folk dances and musical styles that are performed during festivals and occasions. Popular dances include the Bihu dance of Assam, Cheraw (bamboo dance) of Mizoram, Pung Cholom of Manipur, and Wangala dance of Meghalaya, often accompanied by traditional music using instruments like drums, flutes, and bamboo.

Furthermore, Northeast India’s art and craft are deeply rooted in its tribal traditions, featuring handwoven textiles, bamboo and cane products, pottery,  and intricate wood carvings. Each state has its unique styles, reflecting vibrant cultural identities and a close connection with nature. The architecture of the region features eco-friendly designs using bamboo, cane, and wood, well adapted to its hilly terrain and heavy rainfall. Traditional houses, often built on stilts, reflect the functional needs as well as cultural aesthetics of the diverse tribal communities.

The Northeast region of India is religiously and linguistically diverse, with Christianity is the dominant faith in Nagaland, Mizoram, and Meghalaya. Hinduism is widely practiced in Assam, Tripura, and parts of Manipur, while Buddhism is followed mainly in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, especially among Tibetan and Monpa communities. Many indigenous tribes also continue to practice their traditional animistic religions, worshipping nature and ancestral spirits. 

Over 200 languages are spoken in the region, the majority of which are Tibeto-Burman, Indo-Aryan, anand Austroasiatic families. Prominent languages include Assamese, Bodo, Meitei (Manipuri), Mizo, Khasi, and Nepali,  with numerous tribes speaking their own dialects.

The Northeast region of India provides a distinctive and enriching tourism experience with its untouched natural beauty, diverse cultures, and heartfelt hospitality.

Arunachal Pradesh is renowned  for its serene monasteries, while Assam stands out for its expansive tea gardens and the wildlife-rich Kaziranga National Park. Meghalaya captivates with its verdant landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and unique living root bridges, whereas Manipur is celebrated for its peaceful Loktak Lake and classical dance traditions. In addition, Sikkim offers a harmonious mix of Buddhist monasteries, snowy peaks, and organic farming, Tripura showcases royal architecture, historic temples, and scenic charm, and Nagaland is famed for its vibrant cultural festivals.

Tourists have a wide range of options for theme-based vacations in Northeastern India, such as cultural & heritage, wildlife & nature, eco & rural, spiritual, wellness and more. Each type of vacation shines best in a specific season. For example, Tea gardens, adventure activities like trekking and river rafting would be at their best during the summer season. Flora & fauna exploration, spiritual and wellness retreats would be at their best during the spring season. Cultural & heritage tours like attending major festivals, and exploring Kaziranga and Manas National Parks would be at their best during the winter season. 

Both Indian citizens and foreigners need permits to travel in some states of Northeast India. Specifically, Indian citizens are required to obtain Inner Line Permits (ILPs) for Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram. While, foreigners often require to obtain Protected Area Permits (PAPs) for Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. 

This magical land celebrates a wide array of vibrant fairs and festivals that reflect its ethnic diversity and deep-rooted traditions. Major festivities include Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival, Assam’s Bihu, Manipur’s Sangai Festival, Mizoram’s Chapchar Kut, and Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh’s Losar.

Northeast India has a major airport in Guwahati, Assam which serves as the main gateway for the northeastern states, connecting them to the rest of India and international destinations. Other notable airports of Northeast India are located in Imphal (Manipur), Shillong (Meghalaya), Dimapur (Nahgalan), Agartala (Tripura), and Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh). There are also helicopter services to Naharlagun and Aizwal. Trains connect the region’s major cities including Guwahati and Dibrugarh, to most of the major Indian cities. Trains are always a slower mode of transportation to Northeast India as the train tracks are not electrified. Delays are likely as a result. Additionally, national highways provide good road connectivity from West Bengal to major states and cities of the region. Travellers can easily reach their desired destinations through State-Run and Private buses and  local taxis/cabs. However, it is not advisable to drive personal vehicles due to security reasons.

 

Arunachal Pr.

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Assam

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Manipur

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Meghalaya

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Mizoram

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Nagaland

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Tripura

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Sikkim

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