10 must-visit attractions in the north-east you cannot afford to not see

‘Abode of clouds’, is what Meghalaya translates to and its home to the world’s wettest place, Cherrapunji. The incessant rains Cherrapunji experiences has led to the formation on root bridges which are unique to this place. Set up a tent under these bridges and share an intimate-heart-to-heart with nature, surrounded by tropical flora and fauna that brings you the much needed break from the dust and noise of your city life.

You have seen such transparent lakes in Canada and New Zealand, but did you know that the Dawki is the Meghalaya can give a tough competition to any transparent water body anywhere in the world? Flowing through the West Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya, the Umngot or Dawki river is one of the cleanest river in the world and you can literally see the bed of the river with naked eyes. Taking a boat ride through this beauteous waterbody is a mesmerizing experience that lives with you forever.

Plan a trek through this major highlight in northern Sikkim and treat your eyes to picturesque beauty of nature one needs to witness to believe. Spend a moment of tranquility by the serene lakes that fall on the way of your trek through this ancient silk route. We have heard people say they can feel the mountains while they cut through these ranges, their voices reverberate through the deeps and the highs.

Tributary to the mighty Brahmaputra, Siang has the kind of ferocious beauty words fail to describe. The violent and unpredictable turns of this river play the perfect host to the dare-devils who love them some adventurous river rafting. Interested in angling and kayaking? Book your tickets to Arunachal Pradesh already.

Tripura is home to the only lake palace of north-east, Neermahal. Siting on an area of over 5 kilometer square, the royal palace displays the grandeur of the royals who once inhabited this grand palace. The erstwhile property of Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya was built in 1930 and is a fabulous historical spot for those interested in the tales of the years gone by. If you visit Neermahal don’t miss to see the light and sound show.

Spread across 550 square kilometers of land, this sanctuary in Mizoram is home to some of the most beautiful and majestic tigers, a sight of which will send chills down your spine. But again, that will stay as a memory throughout your life. The tigers in this reserve share their home with 10 more species of animals and countless birds. Always visit these the Dampa in months between November to March, and spot a tiger amidst the lush green avian fauna. Exciting!!!

The northeast, with its ample opportunities of river rafting, camping and trekking, is a paradise for the adventurous soul. Kanchenjunga is one such trek that every adventure enthusiast must attempt. Clearly the most famous peak of the Himalayan range, the Kanchenjunga has its base camp located at an altitude of 28169 feet above sea level. Few adjoining peaks you may want to visit are Ratong, Chandra, Frey and Kabru among others. March to May and September-October are the best times to head for the Himalayan peak.

Commonly known as Barapani is a man-made reservoir and a mesmerizing treat to the eyes. Stretched through 22 kilometer square area, the crystal blue lake sits amidst the dense coniferous forests, 17 kilometers from Shillong. The adjoining Khasi hills amplify the unparalleled beauty of the water body several folds and then some more. Best months to visit are October to May.

A significant range of buildings, popular as the birthplace of Dalai Lama, Tawang Monastery sits at an elevation of 3048 meters from the sea level. It is also the largest monastery in the country and the second largest in the world after Lhasa. You may visit this place between November to March, any day, though it stays closed on Wednesdays.

In the heart of Assam, stretched across acres of forests and marsh lands, lies the Kaziranga National Park – home to one of the most endangered species – the one-horned Rhino – which pulls far-off tourists to this state. And if wildlife interests you, then this sanctuary has more to offer than you can imagine. Spotting an elephants, a herd of deer, and wild buffaloes prove the safari to an exciting time spent at very reasonable costs.