Ten places to visit across the North East for a picturesque vacay

North East can be called the final frontier of the country for many reasons. The literal small passage to enter the seven-sister states and the sheer dominance of forests and mountains. Backpacking in the region can be a true adventure for the person looking for one

Mawlynnong

This is a village in Meghalaya that is famous for being dubbed the cleanest village in Asia. The place is especially popular among backpackers and nature lovers for its lush surroundings. The Church of the Epiphany is an attraction, adding to the numerous nature retreats scattered around. A stroll in and around the village is a must and end the day with a dip in the Byrdaw falls.

Gangtok

Gangtok is the probably the best if you make it your gateway to the North East. While staying, one can encounter many like-minded wanderers which can be helpful. Darjeeling, the beautiful hill station is also a stone's throw away.

Dzokou Valley

Tucked in a safe between the hilly borders of Nagaland and Manipur, Dzokou valley is unmatched, remote and distinct. Carpeted by the rare Dzokou Lily, this valley is straight out of a fairy tale. The trek may last a couple of days or more, where you will only encounter nature and a few fellow travellers, in the popular season.

Gurudongmar Lake

Situated in the absolute frontier region, the lake stands a few kilometers away from the Chinese border. Not much people know about the lake itself, so it makes up for a great off-beat destination to visit during the trip.

Tawang

Tawang is a town in Arunachal Pradesh, tucked in deep near the Bhutan border. The best time to visit is from April to October but if you are looking for snow and cold conditions, any time is spectacular.

Ziro Valley

Ziro is a quaint little town and an absolute must during a visit to Arunachal Pradesh. The paddy green fields with a backdrop of the mighty mountains are picture perfect in all angles. The famous Ziro music festival takes place in this town.

Majuli

Majuli is an island formed over the years due to the course changes made by the mighty Brahmaputra. The island is home to the Assamese neo-Vaishnavite culture, distinct in religious practices and philosophies. The island is brimmed with natural beauty and a haven for bird-watch enthusiasts.

Nohkalikai Falls

A trip to the North East is incomplete without a visit to one of the tallest plunge waterfalls in the country. It soars from a height of 1115 feet and is situated in one of the wettest places in the world- Cherrapunji. The fall is full of glory during and after the months of monsoon but manages to stay lively, thanks to the rain.

Shillong

The city is a temporary home to many tourists, who look to replenish and use the city as a base for further travel. The city is perfect for young travellers as it is rich in its own independent music scene and bustling nightclubs.

Kohima

The old colonial district is a well-suited pit stop for all the travelers and backpackers. The city boasts war memorials and other heritage sites worthy of a visit. Kohima is especially vibrant and electric, during the Christmas week and makes up for a wonderful vacation getaway.