Discover the magic of North East tour packages – Explore India’s hidden gem
Posted on By Flying Squirrel Holidays
Looking for a destination that blends dramatic landscapes, untouched cultures, and soulful experiences? Welcome to North East India—a region tucked away in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas. With its lush valleys, ancient monasteries, tribal villages, and natural wonders, this part of India is an unexplored treasure. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a luxury traveler, or an adventure seeker, Northeast tour packages promise a journey like no other.
Discover the best destinations in North East India
Article summary
Planning a journey to Northeast India? This guide offers a curated list of top destinations, along with the best time to visit, how to reach, and highlights for each place. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, culture explorer, wildlife lover, or seeking peace in the hills, find your perfect match in the unexplored beauty of the Northeast.
Jump to Sections:
- Why choose a trip to North East India
- Best destination to visit in North East India
- Top North East tour package
- Travel tips for visiting North East India
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Quick reference guide – Northeast India at a glance
| Destination | Top Activities | Best Time to Visit | Difficulty Level |
| Gangtok, Sikkim | Monasteries, MG Marg, Lakes | March–June, September–December | Easy |
| Tawang, Arunachal | Monasteries, High Passes, Lakes | March–October | Moderate–High (altitude) |
| Shillong, Meghalaya | Lakes, Cafes, Music, Viewpoints | March–June, September–November | Easy |
| Cherrapunji & Mawlynnong | Waterfalls, Root Bridges, Rainforest walks | October–May | Moderate (some treks) |
| Kaziranga, Assam | Wildlife Safari, Orchid Park | November–April | Easy |
| Ziro Valley, Arunachal | Festivals, Tribal Culture, Nature Walks | March–October | Moderate |
| Majuli Island, Assam | Satras, Cultural Tours, Mask Making | October–April | Easy |
| Dzukou Valley, Nagaland | Trekking, Camping, Flowers | June–September (flowers), October–March | Moderate–High (trek) |
| Loktak Lake, Manipur | Boating, Wildlife, Floating Islands | November–March | Easy |
| North & West Sikkim | Lakes, Snow Valleys, Monasteries | March–June, October–December | Moderate–High (permit areas) |
| Mon, Nagaland | Tribal Culture, Village Tours, Festivals | October–April | Moderate |
| Dirang & Bomdila, Arunachal | Monasteries, Scenic Drives, Orchards | March–October | Easy–Moderate |
Why choose a trip to North East India
Planning a journey to North East India means choosing a travel experience that’s authentic, offbeat, and deeply enriching. Here’s why it deserves a top spot on your travel bucket list:
- Diverse and culturally rich: Explore eight unique states, each with its language, traditions, and festivals, ranging from tribal rituals in Nagaland to Buddhist heritage in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh.
- Untouched natural beauty: From snow-capped mountains and lush valleys to sparkling rivers and dense forests, the landscapes remain largely unexplored and unspoiled.
- Adventure at every turn: It is ideal for trekking, motorbiking, river rafting, caving, wildlife safaris, and high-altitude adventures.
- Perfect for slow and mindful travel: North East India embraces a slower pace—think forest bathing in Meghalaya, homestays in Ziro Valley, and tea garden walks in Assam.
- Immersive cultural experiences: Connect with indigenous communities, witness traditional dance forms, participate in local festivals, and learn about sustainable tribal lifestyles.
- Eco-friendly and sustainable tourism: The region is leading India’s push for responsible travel, with eco-tours, organic farms, and nature-focused stays.
- Less crowded, more personal: Unlike mainstream tourist destinations, North East India offers a serene, crowd-free environment ideal for introspective or romantic getaways.
- Great value tour packages: A wide range of North East India tour packages caters to all types of travelers—luxury, budget, solo, couples, or family groups.
Whether you’re an adventurer, a culture seeker, or someone looking to escape the chaos of city life, a trip to North East India offers a magical journey filled with discovery, serenity, and soul.
Best destinations to visit in North East India
From mist-draped mountains and ancient monasteries to tribal villages and crystal-clear rivers, North East India is a vibrant patchwork of landscapes, traditions, and experiences. Whether you’re planning a cultural retreat, an adventure escape, or a soul-searching journey, here are the most enchanting destinations to explore:
Gangtok, Sikkim
Why visit:
Perched at 5,410 ft, Gangtok is the gateway to Sikkim and a clean, organized hill town that perfectly blends modern charm with Buddhist heritage. It’s a launchpad for exploring Eastern and Northern Sikkim.
Best time to visit: March to June, September to December
Nearest airport: Pakyong Airport (approx. 31 km), Bagdogra Airport (approx. 124 km)
Nearest railway station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP), approx. 120 km
Top attractions:
- Tsomgo Lake: A glacial lake surrounded by rugged terrain
- MG Marg: A vehicle-free promenade with cafés, shops, and street music
- Rumtek Monastery: One of the most important monasteries in Tibetan Buddhism
- Nathula Pass: Indo-China border at over 14,000 ft
Perfect for: Families, honeymooners, culture seekers, luxury travelers
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Why visit:
Located at over 10,000 ft, Tawang is home to India’s largest monastery and offers panoramic Himalayan vistas. It is deeply spiritual, untouched, and holds immense cultural value.
Best time to visit: March to October
Nearest airport: Tezpur Airport (330 km) or Guwahati Airport (approx. 480 km)
Nearest railway station: Tezpur or Guwahati
Top attractions:
- Tawang Monastery: A 17th-century gompa housing over 400 monks
- Sela Pass: A snow-covered high-altitude pass offering spectacular views
- Bumla Pass: A high mountain pass on the Indo-China border
- P.T. Tso Lake: A tranquil glacial lake amid mountains
Perfect for: Spiritual travelers, motorbikers, offbeat explorers
Shillong, Meghalaya
Why visit:
Known as the “Scotland of the East,” Shillong offers a blend of colonial architecture, music culture, and natural beauty. It serves as a central base to explore the rest of Meghalaya.
Best Time to Visit: March to June, September to November
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport (Umroi), 30 km; Guwahati Airport (125 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati (approx. 100 km)
Top attractions:
- Umiam Lake: A serene reservoir ideal for kayaking and photography
- Laitlum Canyon: A dramatic gorge with sweeping views
- Don Bosco Museum: The largest cultural museum in the region
- Shillong Peak: Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills
Perfect for: Couples, families, solo travelers, photographers
Cherrapunji & Mawlynnong, Meghalaya
Why visit:
Cherrapunji is one of the wettest places on Earth, while Mawlynnong is Asia’s cleanest village. Together, they showcase Meghalaya’s raw natural beauty and eco-conscious community.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Nearest Airport: Shillong (78.6km) or Guwahati Airport (167 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati (145km)
Top attractions:
- Nohkalikai Falls: India’s tallest plunge waterfall
- Living Root Bridges: Natural bridges made from tangled roots over decades
- Mawsmai Caves: Limestone caves open for exploration
- Sky Walk in Mawlynnong: Panoramic views over Bangladesh border
Perfect for: Eco-travelers, nature lovers, offbeat wanderers
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Why visit:
This UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for housing the largest population of the one-horned rhinoceros and offers lush floodplains and wildlife diversity.
Best Time to Visit: November to April (park closed May–Oct)
Nearest Airport: Jorhat (96 km) or Guwahati (217 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Furkating (75 km) or Guwahati (164 km)
Top attractions:
- Jeep & Elephant safaris: Spot rhinos, elephants, tigers, and birds
- Orchid Park: A unique collection of orchids and tribal handicrafts
- Brahmaputra River cruise: Ideal for sunsets and birdwatching
Perfect for: Wildlife photographers, conservationists, families
Best time: November to April
Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Why visit:
A tranquil valley surrounded by pine-covered hills, home to the Apatani tribe known for their distinctive facial tattoos and sustainable farming.
Best Time to Visit: March to October (festival in Sept)
Nearest Airport: Lilabari Airport, Assam (approx. 100 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Naharlagun (approx. 90 km)
Top attractions:
- Ziro Music Festival: Indie music fest held amidst paddy fields
- Dree Festival: Celebrating agriculture and fertility
- Tribal villages: Experience authentic Apatani life
Perfect for: Music lovers, backpackers, cultural travelers
Majuli Island, Assam
Why visit:
The largest river island in the world, nestled in the Brahmaputra, known for its peaceful environment and neo-Vaishnavite culture.
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Nearest Airport: Jorhat (14 km from ferry point)
Nearest Railway Station: Jorhat Town (29.2km)
Top attractions:
- Satras: Unique monasteries that teach art, culture, and spirituality
- Mask making: Traditional art preserved by monks
- Sunset cruises and bamboo huts on stilts
Perfect for: Culture seekers, heritage travelers, solitude seekers
Dzukou Valley, Nagaland
Why visit:
Often referred to as the “Valley of Flowers of the East,” Dzukou bursts into color during monsoons and remains one of India’s least explored trekking gems.
Best Time to Visit: June to September (flowers) & October to March
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport (51.9km)
Nearest Railway Station: Dimapur (47.2km)
Top attractions:
- Valley Trek: Moderate trail with camping options
- Monsoon bloom: Seasonal wildflowers cover the valley floor
- Japfu Peak: Adds challenge and panoramic views to the trek
Perfect for: Trekkers, photographers, nature lovers
Loktak Lake, Manipur
Why visit:
A magical freshwater lake with phumdis (floating islands) and home to the endangered Sangai deer.
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Nearest Airport: Imphal Airport (50 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Dimapur(150km) (requires further travel to Imphal)
Top attractions:
- Keibul Lamjao National Park: World’s only floating wildlife sanctuary
- Fishermen villages: Unique lifestyle and fishing techniques
- Boating on phumdis: A surreal water-world experience
Perfect for: Eco-tourists, birdwatchers, romantic escapes
North & West Sikkim – Pelling, Lachen & Lachung
Why visit:
These regions are Sikkim’s alpine wonderlands with pristine lakes, dramatic landscapes, and sacred valleys.
Best Time to Visit: March to June & October to December
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra (199km)
Nearest Railway Station: NJP (192.3km)
Top attractions:
- Gurudongmar Lake: One of the world’s highest lakes
- Yumthang Valley & Zero Point: Carpeted with flowers and snow
- Pelling Skywalk: India’s first glass-bottom skywalk with monastery views
Perfect for: Adventurers, honeymooners, photography lovers
Mon, Nagaland
Why visit:
An ethnographic goldmine, Mon is home to the Konyak tribe—famed for their headhunting legacy and facial tattoos.
Best Time to Visit: April (festival) and October to March
Nearest Airport: Dibrugarh (Assam) (128 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Dibrugarh (114km)
Top attractions:
- Longwa Village: Spans the Indo-Myanmar border
- Tribal arts and crafts: Wood carvings, handwoven shawls
- Aoleang Festival: A celebration of harvest and Konyak identity
Perfect for: Cultural anthropologists, solo travelers, history buffs
Dirang & Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh
Why visit:
Quiet hill towns en route to Tawang that are rich in Himalayan beauty and Buddhist heritage.
Best Time to Visit: March to October
Nearest Airport: Guwahati (302km)
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati (298km)
Top attractions:
- Dirang Dzong: Ancient tribal fort
- Apple orchards & hot springs: Relaxing and scenic experiences
- Bomdila Monastery: Spiritual retreat with panoramic views
Perfect for: Road trippers, spiritual seekers, slow travelers
Can’t decide where to start your next North East adventure? We’ve got you.
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Top North East tour packages to consider: Suggested Itineraries
Combined North East India circuit (7-14 Days)
For first-timers looking to explore multiple states in the Northeast, a combined circuit tour is ideal. This 7-14 day itinerary covers 2-3 states, showcasing the region’s diversity.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Day 1-3: Gangtok & Pelling (Sikkim) – Explore monasteries, Yumthang Valley, and Tsomgo Lake.
- Day 4-6: Shillong & Cherrapunji (Meghalaya) – Visit Mawlynnong, Living Root Bridges, and waterfalls.
- Day 7-10: Tawang & Dirang (Arunachal Pradesh) – Explore the monasteries, Ziro Valley, and high mountain passes.
- Day 11-14: Kaziranga National Park & Majuli Island (Assam) – Wildlife safaris, boat rides, and cultural experiences.
Ideal for: First-timers, culture enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
Activities: Monastery tours, wildlife safaris, cultural exploration, and photography.
7-day highlights of North East India
Ideal for: First-time visitors, families, couples
Destinations: Gangtok → Pelling → Darjeeling
Itinerary Overview:
- Day 1: Arrive in Bagdogra / NJP → Transfer to Gangtok
- Day 2: Gangtok sightseeing – Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, MG Marg
- Day 3: Day trip to Nathula Pass (if open)
- Day 4: Transfer to Pelling – Rabdentse Ruins, Pemayangtse Monastery
- Day 5: Visit Skywalk, Khecheopalri Lake, waterfalls
- Day 6: Head to Darjeeling – Himalayan Toy Train ride, Mall Road
- Day 7: Visit Tiger Hill sunrise → Departure
10-day offbeat North East India tour
Ideal for: Nature lovers, offbeat explorers, eco-travelers
Destinations: Shillong → Mawlynnong → Dawki → Cherrapunji → Kaziranga → Majuli
Itinerary Overview:
- Day 1: Arrive in Guwahati → Transfer to Shillong
- Day 2: Shillong sightseeing – Umiam Lake, Laitlum Canyon
- Day 3: Day trip to Mawlynnong & Dawki River
- Day 4: Head to Cherrapunji – visit waterfalls, caves
- Day 5: Explore living root bridges, Mawsmai Caves
- Day 6: Transfer to Kaziranga National Park
- Day 7: Morning & evening jeep safari
- Day 8: Head to Jorhat → Ferry to Majuli Island
- Day 9: Explore Satras, traditional mask-making villages
- Day 10: Return to Guwahati for departure
14-day cultural and adventure tour of North East India
Ideal for: Explorers, culture lovers, spiritual seekers
Destinations: Tawang → Dirang → Bomdila → Sikkim → Assam
Itinerary Overview:
- Day 1: Arrive in Guwahati → Drive to Bhalukpong
- Day 2: Transfer to Dirang – hot springs, apple orchards
- Day 3: Drive to Tawang via Sela Pass
- Day 4: Explore Tawang Monastery, Bumla Pass
- Day 5: Return to Bomdila – monastery visit
- Day 6: Back to Guwahati → Fly to Bagdogra → Gangtok
- Day 7: Gangtok sightseeing – Rumtek Monastery, Enchey
- Day 8: Visit Tsomgo Lake & Nathula Pass
- Day 9: Transfer to North Sikkim – Lachen
- Day 10: Visit Gurudongmar Lake → Transfer to Lachung
- Day 11: Yumthang Valley & Zero Point
- Day 12: Back to Gangtok → Transfer to Assam
- Day 13: Explore Guwahati – Kamakhya Temple, Brahmaputra cruise
- Day 14: Departure
These North East India tour packages cover the best of nature, culture, and adventure, making them perfect for travelers with varying interests. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual retreat, a wildlife adventure, or an offbeat cultural journey, there’s a tour for everyone.
North East India is calling. Will you answer?
Travel tips for visiting North East India
Planning and documentation tips
- Get required permits: Inner Line Permits (ILPs) are mandatory for Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram. Foreign nationals will also require Protected Area Permits (PAP) for some regions.
- Book accommodations and transport in advance during peak seasons (October to April), especially for popular destinations like Kaziranga, Tawang, or Meghalaya.
- Plan buffer days in your itinerary. Weather disruptions due to landslides or fog are common in mountainous areas.
- Research local festivals and cultural events before your visit. Timing your trip around events like the Hornbill Festival or Ziro Music Festival adds great value to your experience.
Nature and eco-travel tips
- Bring eco-friendly travel gear such as reusable bottles, biodegradable soaps, and cloth bags.
- Choose eco-lodges and community-run homestays to support sustainable tourism.
- Dispose of waste properly, especially when visiting fragile ecosystems or sacred sites.
- Minimize noise in forests, riversides, and monasteries to preserve the serenity and natural soundscape.
Cultural and local etiquette tips
- Dress conservatively, particularly when visiting tribal regions or religious places.
- Ask for permission before photographing people, especially monks or locals in traditional attire.
- Remove shoes before entering temples and monasteries.
- Be mindful of local customs—many tribal communities have unique rules that must be respected.
Packing tips
- Pack layered clothing to adapt to varying temperatures, especially in higher altitudes.
- Carry rain protection like a poncho or waterproof jacket, especially if visiting Meghalaya or during monsoon months.
- Good hiking shoes are essential for treks and uneven terrains.
- Bring a first-aid kit, torch, and power bank, especially for offbeat or rural areas.
Health and safety tips
- Carry personal medication, particularly for altitude sickness, stomach issues, and cold-related illnesses.
- Drink only bottled or filtered water. Avoid consuming ice or tap water in roadside eateries.
- Avoid traveling alone at night in remote or unfamiliar areas.
- Acclimatize properly before visiting high-altitude places like Gurudongmar Lake or Zero Point.
Budget and money tips
- Withdraw cash before heading to remote destinations, as ATMs are often unavailable or unreliable.
- UPI payments are accepted in many towns, but always have backup cash on hand.
- Be flexible with your budget—some experiences may require last-minute adjustments.
Solo travel and offbeat travel tips
- Travel with a group or guide when exploring remote regions or going on treks.
- Offbeat destinations like Mechuka, Dzongu, and Longwa may require local contacts and permits.
- Inform someone of your travel route when heading to less-traveled locations or trekking trails.
- Choose reliable local operators with good reviews if you’re planning activities like biking or rafting.
Explore the Best of North East India With Us
A journey through North East India is not just about sightseeing—it’s about feeling. It’s the serenity of monasteries in the mountains, the drumbeats of tribal festivals, and the sight of untouched waterfalls after a winding trek. It’s where nature hums in every direction and cultures are preserved in their most authentic forms.
Whether you want a north-east Sikkim tour, an offbeat tribal trail, or a luxury retreat in the hills, north-east tour packages offer a transformative experience that stays with you long after the trip ends.
At Flying Squirrel Holidays, we craft travel that goes deeper—curated itineraries, local connections, and responsible tourism at heart. Whether you’re into culture, nature, or pure adventure, we’ve got the perfect North East India tour package for you.
Ready to go off the beaten path?
Call us at +91 33 40525777 / +91 833 697 8737
Email us at connect@flyingsquirrelholidays.com
FAQs
1. What are the best tour packages for North East India?
Some of the best North East India tour packages include:
- Sikkim and Darjeeling 7-Day Tour
- Meghalaya Nature and Culture Circuit (5 Days)
- Arunachal Tribal & Monastery Tour (10 Days)
- Assam and Kaziranga Wildlife Package (4 Days)
- 14-Day Grand North East Circuit covering Sikkim, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh
These can be customized based on your interests, budget, and travel duration.
2. Which is the best time to visit North East India?
The best time to visit North East India is between October to May:
- October to February – Ideal for festivals, winter treks, and clear mountain views.
- March to May – Perfect for blooming valleys, pleasant weather, and cultural trips. Avoid June–September if you want to skip the heavy monsoons.
3. How many days are enough for a North East India trip?
A minimum of 7–10 days is recommended to explore 1–2 states. For a more immersive experience covering multiple destinations, plan for 12–14 days. For shorter trips, you can focus on:
- 5 days – Meghalaya or Sikkim
- 7 days – Sikkim & Darjeeling / Meghalaya & Assam
- 10–14 days – Multi-state tour covering Sikkim, Assam, and Arunachal
4. Do I need a permit to travel to North East India?
Yes, Inner Line Permits (ILP) are required for Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram for Indian tourists.
Foreign nationals require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for Arunachal and special permissions for other areas. Permits are easy to obtain online or through tour operators.
5. How do I reach North East India?
The most common entry points are:
The most common entry points are:
- By Air: Guwahati Airport (Assam), Bagdogra (West Bengal), and Imphal (Manipur) are major hubs.
- By Train: Guwahati Railway Station is well-connected to major Indian cities.
- By Road: Shared taxis and buses run from Siliguri, Gangtok, Guwahati, and Shillong to nearby towns.
6. Is North East India safe for tourists?
Yes, North East India is generally very safe for solo travelers, families, and international tourists. The locals are friendly and helpful. Stick to known routes, respect local cultures, and check weather updates, especially in remote areas.
7. What are the top places to visit in North East India?
Must-visit destinations include:
- Sikkim – Gangtok, Pelling, Yumthang Valley
- Meghalaya – Shillong, Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong
- Arunachal Pradesh – Tawang, Ziro, Bomdila
- Assam – Kaziranga National Park, Majuli Island
- Nagaland – Dzukou Valley, Mon
- Manipur – Loktak Lake, Imphal
8. Can I customize my North East India tour package?
Absolutely. Most reputed travel companies offer customized North East tour packages based on your interests—be it culture, adventure, nature, or wellness. You can tailor the itinerary, duration, accommodation type, and pace.
9. What kind of accommodation is available in North East India?
You’ll find everything from luxury resorts and boutique stays to budget guesthouses, eco-lodges, and homestays. For authentic experiences, we recommend choosing community-run accommodations and sustainable homestays.
10. What are some unique experiences in North East India?
- Living root bridges in Meghalaya
- Tribal festivals like Hornbill and Ziro
- River island culture in Majuli
- Monastery stays in Sikkim and Arunachal
- Wildlife safaris in Kaziranga and Manas
- Camping in Dzukou Valley or treks to Zero Point
