Exploring new places and experiencing different cultures is one of the most rewarding experiences one can have. When it comes to India, there are numerous tourist destinations that are famous worldwide. However, there are some hidden gems in the North-Eastern part of India that are yet to be explored by many. This region is known for its scenic beauty, rich biodiversity, and unique culture. In this article, we will discuss some of the must-visit cities in North-East India that are sure to leave you spellbound.
Get ultimate traveler plannerImportance of Cities To Visit In North East India
North-East India is a region that is comprised of eight states, namely Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura. Each of these states has its own unique culture, language, and traditions, making it a fascinating region to explore. Moreover, the region is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, from the snow-capped mountains of Sikkim to the lush green valleys of Meghalaya. Visiting the cities in this region will give you an opportunity to experience the rich history, diverse culture, and natural beauty of India like never before.
1. Guwahati, Assam
Guwahati is the largest city in North-East India and is often referred to as the gateway to the region. The city is located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River and is known for its temples, wildlife sanctuaries, and tea plantations. The Kamakhya Temple, which is dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya, is one of the most famous temples in the city and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu mythology.
2. Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong is the capital city of Meghalaya and is known for its picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and caves. The city is situated at an altitude of 4,908 feet and is surrounded by pine forests, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, and Shillong Peak are some of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
3. Gangtok, Sikkim
Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim and is known for its Buddhist monasteries, Tibetan culture, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The city is situated at an altitude of 5,410 feet and is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts. The Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, and Nathula Pass are some of the must-visit places in Gangtok.
4. Kohima, Nagaland
Kohima is the capital city of Nagaland and is known for its vibrant culture, festivals, and history. The city played a significant role in World War II and is home to the Kohima War Cemetery, which is a memorial dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives during the war. The Dzukou Valley, which is located near Kohima, is a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers.
5. Imphal, Manipur
Imphal is the capital city of Manipur and is known for its ancient temples, palaces, and museums. The city is situated at an altitude of 2,564 feet and is surrounded by lush green hills and valleys. The Kangla Fort, Shree Govindajee Temple, and Manipur State Museum are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Imphal.
In conclusion, North-East India is a region that is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Visiting the cities in this region will give you an opportunity to experience the unique culture of each state and witness the breathtaking landscapes that the region has to offer. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the North-East of India.
Cities To Visit In North East India
North East India, also known as the Seven Sisters, is a region comprising seven states – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura. This lesser-explored region of India is a paradise for travelers who love off-beat destinations, rich biodiversity, and unique culture. In this article, we will explore the top cities to visit in North East India. (See Also: Best Cities To Visit In Northeast Usa)
1. Guwahati, Assam
Guwahati, the largest city in North East India, is often referred to as the gateway to the region. Located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, Guwahati is a bustling city with a mix of modernity and tradition. The city is home to several ancient temples, including the famous Kamakhya Temple, which is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India.
- Other attractions in Guwahati include the Assam State Zoo, Assam State Museum, and the Guwahati Planetarium.
- Guwahati is also a great base to explore other destinations in Assam, such as Kaziranga National Park and Majuli Island.
2. Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is known for its picturesque beauty and pleasant climate. Surrounded by pine forests and rolling hills, Shillong is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The city is also known for its vibrant music scene and is often referred to as the ‘Rock Capital of India’.
- Some of the top attractions in Shillong include the Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Lady Hydari Park, and the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures.
- Shillong is also a great base to explore other destinations in Meghalaya, such as Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, which are known for their heavy rainfall and living root bridges.
3. Kohima, Nagaland
Kohima, the capital city of Nagaland, is a hidden gem that is slowly gaining popularity among travelers. Located at an altitude of 1500 meters, Kohima offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The city is known for its rich culture and history, and is home to several tribes, each with its own unique customs and traditions.
- Some of the top attractions in Kohima include the Kohima War Cemetery, Catholic Cathedral, and the State Museum.
- Kohima is also a great base to explore other destinations in Nagaland, such as the Hornbill Festival, which is held in December and showcases the culture and traditions of the various tribes of Nagaland.
4. Imphal, Manipur
Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, is a city that is steeped in history and culture. The city is home to several ancient temples and monuments, including the Kangla Fort and the Shri Govindaji Temple. Imphal is also known for its scenic beauty, with several lakes and parks located within the city.
- Some of the top attractions in Imphal include the Ima Keithel, the largest women’s market in Asia, the INA Memorial, and the Red Hill Lighthouse.
- Imphal is also a great base to explore other destinations in Manipur, such as the Loktak Lake and the Keibul Lamjao National Park.
5. Agartala, Tripura
Agartala, the capital city of Tripura, is a city that is rich in culture and heritage. The city is home to several ancient temples and palaces, including the Ujjayanta Palace and the Tripura Sundari Temple. Agartala is also known for its scenic beauty, with several parks and gardens located within the city.
- Some of the top attractions in Agartala include the Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, the Neermahal Palace, and the Jagannath Temple.
- Agartala is also a great base to explore other destinations in Tripura, such as the Unakoti Hill and the Pilak.
6. Aizawl, Mizoram
Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram, is a city that is nestled in the hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The city is known for its vibrant culture and is home to several tribes, each with its own unique customs and traditions.
- Some of the top attractions in Aizawl include the Mizoram State Museum, the Durtlang Hills, and the Bara Bazar.
- Aizawl is also a great base to explore other destinations in Mizoram, such as the Vantawng Falls and the Champai District.
7. Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh
Itanagar, the capital city of Arunachal Pradesh, is a city that is steeped in history and culture. The city is home to several ancient temples and monuments, including the Ita Fort and the Ganga Lake. Itanagar is also known for its scenic beauty, with several parks and gardens located within the city. (See Also: Best Cities To Visit In Peru)
- Some of the top attractions in Itanagar include the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, the Polo Park, and the Gompa Temple.
- Itanagar is also a great base to explore other destinations in Arunachal Pradesh, such as the Tawang Monastery and the Ziro Valley.
North East India is a region that is rich in culture, heritage, and natural beauty. The cities in this region offer a unique experience that is unlike any other part of India. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore these hidden gems of India.
In conclusion, North East India is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich culture, and unique history, making it a must-visit destination for any avid traveler. From the stunning landscapes of Sikkim and Meghalaya to the historical monuments of Assam and Tripura, there is no shortage of incredible cities to explore in this vibrant region.
Throughout this article, we have discussed some of the top cities to visit in North East India, including Gangtok, Shillong, Kohima, and Imphal. Each of these destinations offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and exciting activities, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience.
In Gangtok, travelers can immerse themselves in the region’s rich Buddhist culture, visit breathtaking monasteries, and indulge in delicious local cuisine. Shillong, on the other hand, is known for its stunning waterfalls, lush green forests, and vibrant music scene, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and music enthusiasts alike.
Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s unique tribal culture and history. From the stunning Kohima War Cemetery to the bustling local markets, there is no shortage of incredible sights to see in this charming city.
Finally, Imphal, the capital of Manipur, is a city that is steeped in history and tradition. From the ancient Kangla Fort to the beautiful Imphal River, there is no shortage of incredible sights to see and experiences to be had in this fascinating city.
Overall, North East India is a region that is full of surprises and delights, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, there is something for everyone in this incredible region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cities to Visit in North East India
1. What are the must-visit cities in North East India?
Some of the must-visit cities in North East India include Guwahati, Shillong, Gangtok, Kohima, and Imphal. These cities offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance, making them ideal destinations for travelers. (See Also: Cities To Visit In Ohio)
2. What is the best time to visit North East India?
The best time to visit North East India is between October and April when the weather is pleasant and dry. During this time, you can enjoy outdoor activities, sightseeing, and explore the region’s scenic beauty without worrying about the monsoon rains.
3. How to reach North East India?
The easiest way to reach North East India is by air, with regular flights available to Guwahati, the region’s largest city. You can also reach North East India by train, with several trains connecting the region to major cities in India. Alternatively, you can travel by road, with well-maintained highways and scenic routes connecting the cities in the region.
4. What are the popular tourist attractions in North East India?
Some of the popular tourist attractions in North East India include the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, the Umiam Lake in Shillong, the Rumtek Monastery in Gangtok, the War Cemetery in Kohima, and the Kangla Fort in Imphal. These attractions offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
5. What are the local cuisines to try in North East India?
North East India is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Some of the local dishes to try include Thukpa, a noodle soup, Momos, steamed dumplings, Bamboo shoot curry, a fermented bamboo shoot dish, and King Chilli Chutney, a spicy condiment made from the world’s hottest chilli. These dishes are a must-try for food lovers looking to explore the region’s culinary delights.
