The North East region of India is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant traditions. Spanning across seven states – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura – this region is a paradise for tourists, adventure seekers, and nature lovers alike. However, the best time to visit North East is a topic of much debate, and it largely depends on the specific state and the activities one has planned. In this blog post, we will delve into the best time to visit North East, highlighting the pros and cons of each season, and providing valuable insights to help you plan your trip.
Weather and Climate
The North East region experiences a subtropical climate, with temperatures varying greatly across the states. The region can be broadly divided into three main seasons – summer, monsoon, and winter. Each season has its unique characteristics, which we will explore in detail below.
Summer (March to May)
Summer is the peak tourist season in North East, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The region experiences a dry and warm climate during this time, making it ideal for trekking, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The summer months are also a great time to visit the region’s famous tea gardens, such as the ones in Assam and Meghalaya.
However, summer is also the peak tourist season, which means that the region can get crowded, and accommodation prices may be higher. Additionally, the heat and humidity can be quite oppressive, especially in the plains.
Here are some of the best places to visit during summer in North East:
- Arunachal Pradesh: Tawang, Bomdila, and Dirang
- Assam: Kaziranga National Park, Guwahati, and Shillong
- Meghalaya: Cherrapunji, Mawsynram, and Shillong
- Nagaland: Kohima, Dimapur, and Mokokchung
Monsoon (June to September)
Monsoon is the wettest season in North East, with heavy rainfall and landslides common during this time. The region experiences a humid and warm climate, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. While the monsoon season can be challenging, it also brings a lush green landscape, making it a great time to visit the region’s famous waterfalls, such as the ones in Meghalaya and Nagaland.
However, the monsoon season can also be a challenging time to travel, with many roads and bridges getting washed away. Additionally, the region’s famous festivals and events are often disrupted during this time.
Here are some of the best places to visit during monsoon in North East:
- Meghalaya: Cherrapunji, Mawsynram, and Shillong
- Nagaland: Kohima, Dimapur, and Mokokchung
- Assam: Kaziranga National Park, Guwahati, and Shillong
- Arunachal Pradesh: Tawang, Bomdila, and Dirang
Winter (October to February)
Winter is the coolest season in North East, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The region experiences a dry and cool climate during this time, making it ideal for trekking, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The winter months are also a great time to visit the region’s famous festivals and events, such as the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland and the Cherry Blossom Festival in Arunachal Pradesh. (See Also: Best Time to Visit Cabo San Lucas Mexico? Perfect Vacation Spot)
However, winter can also be a challenging time to travel, with many roads and bridges getting closed due to snow and ice. Additionally, the region’s famous tea gardens may be closed during this time.
Here are some of the best places to visit during winter in North East:
- Nagaland: Kohima, Dimapur, and Mokokchung
- Arunachal Pradesh: Tawang, Bomdila, and Dirang
- Meghalaya: Cherrapunji, Mawsynram, and Shillong
- Assam: Kaziranga National Park, Guwahati, and Shillong
Best Time to Visit Specific States
Each state in North East has its unique characteristics and best time to visit. Here are some of the best times to visit specific states:
Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from September to November and from March to May. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the region’s famous festivals and events are in full swing.
Assam
Assam is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry. This is the best time to visit the region’s famous tea gardens and national parks, such as Kaziranga.
Meghalaya
Meghalaya is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry. This is the best time to visit the region’s famous waterfalls, caves, and living root bridges.
Nagaland
Nagaland is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry. This is the best time to visit the region’s famous festivals and events, such as the Hornbill Festival.
Mizoram
Mizoram is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry. This is the best time to visit the region’s famous waterfalls, caves, and living root bridges. (See Also: Is December a Good Time to Visit Nashville – A Holiday Haven)
Best Time to Visit Specific Places
Each place in North East has its unique characteristics and best time to visit. Here are some of the best times to visit specific places:
Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry. This is the best time to see the region’s famous one-horned rhinos and other wildlife.
Shillong
Shillong is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry. This is the best time to visit the region’s famous waterfalls, caves, and living root bridges.
Tawang
Tawang is best visited from September to November and from March to May, when the weather is pleasant. This is the best time to visit the region’s famous festivals and events.
Conclusion
The best time to visit North East depends on the specific state and the activities one has planned. While each season has its unique characteristics, the region is a year-round destination, and there is always something to see and do. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a culture vulture, North East has something to offer.
Recap
Here are the key points to remember:
- Summer is the peak tourist season in North East, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
- Monsoon is the wettest season in North East, with heavy rainfall and landslides common during this time.
- Winter is the coolest season in North East, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
- Arunachal Pradesh is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from September to November and from March to May.
- Assam is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry.
- Meghalaya is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry.
- Nagaland is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry.
- Mizoram is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry.
- Kaziranga National Park is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry.
- Shillong is best visited from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry.
- Tawang is best visited from September to November and from March to May, when the weather is pleasant.
FAQs
When is the best time to visit North East?
The best time to visit North East depends on the specific state and the activities one has planned. However, the region is a year-round destination, and there is always something to see and do.
What is the weather like in North East during summer?
Summer is the peak tourist season in North East, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The region experiences a dry and warm climate during this time, making it ideal for trekking, hiking, and other outdoor activities. (See Also: Hula Nature Reserve Best Time to Visit – Peak Season Insights)
What is the weather like in North East during monsoon?
Monsoon is the wettest season in North East, with heavy rainfall and landslides common during this time. The region experiences a humid and warm climate, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
What is the weather like in North East during winter?
Winter is the coolest season in North East, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The region experiences a dry and cool climate during this time, making it ideal for trekking, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
What are the best places to visit in North East during summer?
Some of the best places to visit in North East during summer are:
- Arunachal Pradesh: Tawang, Bomdila, and Dirang
- Assam: Kaziranga National Park, Guwahati, and Shillong
- Meghalaya: Cherrapunji, Mawsynram, and Shillong
- Nagaland: Kohima, Dimapur, and Mokokchung
What are the best places to visit in North East during monsoon?
Some of the best places to visit in North East during monsoon are:
- Meghalaya: Cherrapunji, Mawsynram, and Shillong
- Nagaland: Kohima, Dimapur, and Mokokchung
- Assam: Kaziranga National Park, Guwahati, and Shillong
- Arunachal Pradesh: Tawang, Bomdila, and Dirang
What are the best places to visit in North East during winter?
Some of the best places to visit in North East during winter are:
- Nagaland: Kohima, Dimapur, and Mokokchung
- Arunachal Pradesh: Tawang, Bomdila, and Dirang
- Meghalaya: Cherrapunji, Mawsynram, and Shillong
- Assam: Kaziranga National Park, Guwahati, and Shillong
