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An Exploration of Northeast India

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An Exploration of Northeast India

Written by

Rishabh Tiwari

30 Sept 2023

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It’s no secret that we are suckers for the outdoors and especially all things high and rocky. That very drive has given us a fairly good handle on the entire Himalayan belt north of the country with over 100 different adventures in our ever-growing portfolio that covers Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Kashmir and Ladakh. For our want to explore more of this magnificent range of mountains which houses the highest peaks in the world, we headed up north like usual and then turned a little to the east this time.

Did you know that close to THIRTY FIVE percent of the Indian Himalayan Range lies in the Seven Sister States (+ Sikkim) of Northeast India! That's a massive stretch of the biggest mountain range in the world to be left unexplored. We saw a great opportunity to seek out sources of a mix of adventure and culture in this very raw region full of hidden gems and we took it. Our exploration team spent 14 days travelling around these states to understand the region and bring back some key insights so we can take you on the journey of discovering this fairly unexplored part of the country with us – one small adventure at a time.

WHERE WE WENT

We went all across the Seven Sisters in search of the best trekking trails that were hidden in the dense jungles of Nagaland, in the foggy hills of Meghalaya, on the snow-covered mountains of Arunachal and everywhere in between.

WHY WE WENT THERE

Like everyone, we’d heard all about the mystical allure of Northeast India but had only visited pockets of it yet. We’ve had one eye towards the Northeastern Himalayas for a very long time and we finally decided to go full force into the exploration of this magical land in the summer of 2023.

We made this journey to the Northeastern end of the country with the mission to unlock as much of the 35 massive percentage of our favourite mountain range as possible to discover the distinct worlds that lie in each of its folds. The pull of the region was too strong for us to resist. We are also keen to further diversify our portfolio of adventures to cover as many regions as possible and Northeastern Himalayas were an obvious choice towards this goal.

(Read, Travel Guide For Northeast India)

Bunched up together on the other side of the Chicken’s Neck (aka the Siliguri Corridor), each state in the Northeastern region is so exquisitely unique in its offerings yet so similar in its allure and the warmth of its people. We were smitten as soon as we entered. From the marketplaces, to construction of life, kinds of houses, landscapes, festivals, way of life, transport, rivers, indigenous life, wildlife all of it. It is off the beaten path not only because it is fairly inaccessible but because it’s a world of its own – so vast and varied.

WHAT WE LEARNT

Exploring a new region is an un-glorious affair full of sweat, blisters and a mountain full of bills! Besides this precious lesson, we also learnt that every part of the Northeastern states is as splendid as it is believed to be. We visited the major cities of each of the states, indulged in some major touristy stuff, roamed the streets of the cities to feel the pulse of the place, spent hours at local markets, marveled at the murals, stuffed ourselves silly with local food and visited some tribal villages. We did do some bit of work as well – gathered loads of information from the various tourist centers and other government authorities, met up with hordes of tour operators to understand the scope of the region, and did a bit of research on the infrastructure to support outdoor adventure.

Some things that we learnt from this are that:

1. There is massive scope for outdoor adventure activities in Northeast. From small hikes to multi-day treks to climbing, spelunking and various kinds of water sports. The region is also rich in routes which can be developed as cycling trails.

(Read, Nine Best Places to Visit Northeast India in Summers)

2. No matter what you look for from a travel experience, Northeast is absolutely ready to deliver just that. Whether you are looking for cultural indulgence or great landscapes or an assortment of indigenous wildlife, adventure or if you are a sucker for some local taste, Northeast India has it all.

(Read, Who Should Travel to Northeast India)

3. The best way to travel within states is shared jeeps or a self-drive vehicle. An important thing to remember when travelling to these states is that the distances are huge and that the roads are not always the best. It is a bumpy ride!

4. Since 98% of the Northeastern boundaries are international, the culture within these 8 states is very unique because it borrows traditions and practices graciously from all its neighboring countries.

5. Seventy percent of the Northeastern landmass is hilly regions. With over 220 ethnic groups and close to 200 different languages, you are bound to be surprised by the distinctiveness of each pocket of this massive land.

(Read, Myths and Legends from Northeast India)

6. Northeast is a land of superlatives blessed not only with the best that nature has to offer but also some of the most progressive societies that humans have managed to design. From the cleanest village in Asia to a matriarchal society to the practice of some very unique economic practices, there is a lot of lessons to bring back from your visit here.

(Read, Northeast India: Interesting Facts)

In short, the Seven Sisters and one brother state are where we definitely want to be. This exploration was only the very beginning – we are going to continue on this quest for a very long time to come, for sure.

WHAT WE BROUGHT BACK

It was one hell of an exploration and we brought back some presents. It was a massive task to look for all that these states have to offer because IT.IS.A.LOT and we have barely only scratched the surface. However, we can assure you that we are not going to stop short of trying. Below are some fascinating places we have identified from our reccee of the region that we want to start you off with. This is only the beginning; we will be bringing more such gems and unique itineraries for you in due course of time so that we can together explore all that is enticing about this end of the country.

1. Danphebir La Trek, Sikkim

Danphebir La Trek is one of the most pristine and untouched trails in Sikkim that takes you close to the Indo-Nepal border thus presenting you with unparalleled views of both Mt. Everest and Kanchenjunga. Danphebir La, known as the Pass of the Pheasant, gives you panoramic views of the entire Sikkim valley with views stretching to as far as Nepal and Bhutan. The trek takes you across stunning forests, grasslands, steep climbs, tough ascents and descents, and a unique chance to camp next to 3 glacial lakes. The endpoint of the Danphebir La trek is the village of Yuksom which is the starting point of the famous Goecha La trek. Being a taxing trek with long hours of walk every day, the Danphebir La must be attempted by experienced trekkers with good physical fitness. The best months to do this trek is in the pre-monsoon months of April to mid-June and in the post-monsoon months of mid-September to November.

2. Dree River Trek, Arunachal Pradesh

Located deep in the mystical Mishimi hills of Arunachal Pradesh in the Dibang Valley, the Dree River Trek takes you along the course of the river with spellbinding scenery and impressive visuals of the state. This trek involves minimal climbing with no steep uphill or downhill trail. However one has to navigate bamboo thickets and swap so to which it is recommended to be decently fit. Walkthrough the dense forest which houses many exotic mammals, birds and insects is a paradise for any nature lover and wildlife enthusiast. With luxury to set up camps next to the river and witness the raw beauty of the trek, the Dree River Trek is best done between the months of October and April.

3. Dzukou Valley Trek, Nagaland

The Dzukou valley trek is one of the most beautiful treks in Nagaland. The entire trail of this trek is covered in lush green forests and plenty of water streams. The flora and fauna found on this trek are unmatched in their beauty and charm. Some of the most picturesque locations of Nagaland are found on this trek. The Dzukou valley trek is a unique trek which takes you through several habituated villages of Nagaland and gives you an opportunity to learn about the culture of the locals. This trek is especially good for those who want to gain some experience of trekking. Once you embark on this trek, it will have a special place in your heart forever.

4. Gorichen Trek - The Bailey Trail, Arunachal Pradesh

Gorichen Trek is one of the most arduous and stunning treks in the lovely state of Arunachal Pradesh, the land of the rising sun. Giving you unparalleled views of the Gorichen Peak, the trek is a testament to the epicness of the trail through dense forests, high passes, glacial lakes and the stunning Tse La range of peaks. Undoubtedly one of the most offbeat trails in the Himalayas, the Gorichen Trek is a legendary way to explore the a cherry onhe cake. The best time to the Gorichen Trek is in the pre-monsoon months of May-June and post-monsoon months of September-October.unparalleled beauty of the North East. The trek being taxing and reaching a maximum altitude of 4980 M, is meant only for experienced trekkers with prior trekking experience. The trek ends in the beautiful town of Tawang with its exceptional Tawang monastery that is definitely

5. Kishong Lake Trek, Sikkim

Kishong Lake is one of the holiest lakes of Sikkim steeped in the tradition of one of the oldest tribes in the world, the Lepcha Tribe of Sikkim. Situated at an altitude of 4500 meters, the Kishong Lake is flanked by mystical mountains in the north region of Sikkim which remains largely untouched and pristine. The trek takes you across traditional villages, their tribes, dense forests and steep terrain. Located near Gangtok, the Kishong lake trek is unlike anything you have ever experienced. The trek is meant for experienced trekkers with good physical fitness. The best time to do this trek are in the pre-monsoon months of April to June and in the post-monsoon months of September to November. The gorgeous Tholung monastery is one among the many highlights of this trek.

6. Seven Lakes Trek, Arunachal Pradesh

The Seven Lakes Trek is one of the best-kept secrets of Arunachal Pradesh that takes you to seven mystical high altitude lakes hidden deep in its fantastic valleys. Starting from lush green valleys the trek takes you to a maximum altitude of 4000 M to these lakes that are fed by glaciers all throughout the year. The trail involves steep ascents and descents which requires a good physical fitness and thus is meant for trekkers with prior trekking experience. Trekkers will embark on lush valleys, high mountains and breathtaking scenery all of which are centuries-old hunting routes of the local tribes. It can't get any more offbeat and rare and pure as the Seven Lakes trek. Truly a once in a lifetime chance to explore some of the Himalayas most lavish trails. The best time to do the trek is between October to April.

7. Talle Valley Trek, Arunachal Pradesh

Talle Valley Trek takes you to the picturesque Ziro Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, a UNESCO recognized site. Known as the land of ancient tribes, the trail winds through dense forests, lush green carpet, fern fields, mountains, river crossings this combing the cultural and traditional uniqueness of the North East. WIth diverse flora and vegetation, bamboo trees, and an awe-inspiring landscape, the Talle Valley Trek is a paradise for nature lover. Perfect for both beginners and experiened trekkers, the Talle Valley Trek is best done between the months of October to March. The highlight of the trek is the rainforests of Arunachal Pradesh with spectacular mountains flanking at a distance.

8. Tawang Bum La Pass Cycling Expedition, Arunachal Pradesh

The Guwahati - Tawang - Bum La Cycling Expedition begins from Bhalukpong on the Assam - Arunachal border and takes you through a tour of the western regions of Arunachal Pradesh. The first few days consist of gradual altitude gain through lush tropical and alpine forests along the Kameng river, a major tributary of the Brahmaputra. After crossing three passes - Nechiphu, Bomdila and the icy and treacherous Se La at 4200 m, you enter the Tawang region, home to the nomadic Monpa tribes with their unique culture and one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in India, populated with red pandas and snow leopards. From Tawang, we ride towards the Indo - China border on icy dirt roads passing dozens of alpine lakes to Bum La at 4600 m. This route also loosely follows the route taken by the Dalai Lama on his escape to India from Tibet and is also the site of the 1962 Sino - Indian war. With its blend of history, culture and a landscape that changes from tropical forests to harsh alpine terrain, this is the perfect way to explore the Western Arunachal region.