Assam , Meghalaya, and Arunachal: Gems of Northeast India
- The northeastern region of India, encompassing Guwahati, Meghalaya, and Shillong, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and spiritual serenity. These destinations offer a unique blend of lush landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant traditions, making them a must-visit for travelers seeking to explore the enchanting charm of Northeast India.
Guwahati: The Gateway to Northeast India
Guwahati, the largest city in Assam and often referred to as the “Gateway to Northeast India,” is a bustling metropolis that seamlessly blends ancient heritage with modern urban life.
- Kamakhya Temple: One of the most revered Shakti Peethas in India, the Kamakhya Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya. Located atop the Nilachal Hill, the temple is an important pilgrimage site and offers panoramic views of the Brahmaputra River.
- Umananda Island: Also known as Peacock Island, Umananda is the smallest inhabited riverine island in the world. The Umananda Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated here and is accessible by a short ferry ride from the city.
- Assam State Museum: This museum provides a comprehensive insight into Assam’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing artifacts, sculptures, and manuscripts that reflect the region’s history and traditions.
- Brahmaputra River Cruise: A river cruise on the mighty Brahmaputra offers a unique perspective of Guwahati’s skyline and surrounding landscapes, especially during sunset.
Shillong: The Scotland of the East
Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya, is known for its picturesque landscapes, colonial-era charm, and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled in the Khasi Hills, Shillong offers a cool, pleasant climate and a range of attractions.
- Ward’s Lake: A beautiful artificial lake surrounded by lush gardens, Ward’s Lake is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride. The lake’s scenic beauty and serene ambiance make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
- Shillong Peak: The highest point in Shillong, Shillong Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surrounding hills. It is a popular spot for photography and provides a stunning vista of the sunset.
- Elephant Falls: Named for an elephant-shaped rock at its base, Elephant Falls is a three-tiered waterfall located just outside the city. The falls are surrounded by dense greenery, making it a picturesque and refreshing destination.
- Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures: This museum and cultural center is dedicated to the indigenous cultures of Northeast India. It offers a rich collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that highlight the region’s diverse ethnic heritage.
Meghalaya: Abode of Clouds and Natural Wonders
Meghalaya, aptly named the “Abode of Clouds,” is a state renowned for its dramatic landscapes, living root bridges, and pristine natural beauty. The state’s unique geographic features and vibrant cultural traditions make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
- Cherrapunji: Known for being one of the wettest places on Earth, Cherrapunji is famous for its lush greenery, numerous waterfalls, and living root bridges. The Nohkalikai Falls, one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in India, and the Mawsmai Cave, a limestone cave with stunning formations, are major attractions.
- Mawlynnong: Dubbed the “Cleanest Village in Asia,” Mawlynnong is a model of eco-tourism and sustainable living. The village’s cleanliness, scenic beauty, and the living root bridge nearby make it a unique destination.
- Dawki: Located on the border with Bangladesh, Dawki is famous for its crystal-clear Umngot River. A boat ride on the river provides an enchanting experience, as the water is so clear that the boats appear to be floating on air.
World Heritage Site: Kaziranga National Park.
The northeastern region of India, encompassing Kaziranga and Shillong, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and spiritual serenity. These destinations offer a unique blend of lush landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant traditions, making them a must-visit for travelers seeking to explore the enchanting charm of Northeast India.
- Kaziranga : Kaziranga National Park is one of the last areas in eastern India undisturbed by a human presence. It is inhabited by the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses, as well as many mammals, including tigers, elephants, panthers and bears, and thousands of birds.
- Tourists can take rides on elephants to move around the park or cruise in a boat on the Brahmaputra along the park
- Attractions of Kaziranga The actual attraction of Kaziranga National Park is its broad diversity of wildlife beauty. The chief riches trove of Kaziranga is vast One Horned Rhinoceros, but it is also house to other species of flora and fauna for instance elephants, wild Asiatic water buffaloes, swamp deer, hog deer, gaur, sambar, Indian Muntjac and many more. After it, Kaziranga with Tiger Reserve is also attracts Ganges Dolphin. Kaziranga National park is also familiar as a significant bird watching point by Birdlife.
- Places to spot within Kaziranga Most enjoyable seen in Kaziranga National Park is within tour able places are the whole Kaziranga Park with Jeep safari, Elephant safari. Kohora Chowk is also an important region in it. It is a bird tour place too.
-
Arunachal Pradesh : Land of the Dawn-lit-Mountains:
- Popularly known as ‘Land of the Dawn-lit-Mountains’, Arunachal Pradesh is India’s remotest state and the first Indian soil to greet the rising sun. Located on the northeastern tip of India with its borders touching Tibet, Bhutan and Burma (Myanmar), this beautiful land is endowed with dazzling array of flora and fauna that is sure to allure any tourist. More than 500 rare species of Orchids are found in the dense jungles of Arunachal Pradesh. The misty hills, sparkling rivers, gurgling waterfalls add charm to the beauty of this incredible land.
- Dirang – Pay homage at JaswantGarh Indo Chinese War Memorial, Stop by Tipi Orchidarium in Dirang for a unique experience
- Tawang – Explore the wonders of the magnificent town of Tawang.
- Bomdila – Review the adorable sights at Jung Falls.
