North East
Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura are the seven states that make up the North East region of India. These states are known for their natural beauty, diverse culture, and unique traditions. Let’s explore Sikkim, one of the states in North East India.
Sikkim is a small state nestled in the eastern Himalayas and is often referred to as the “Land of Mystical Splendor.” It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and beautiful monasteries. Here are some of the key attractions in Sikkim:
1. Gangtok: The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok, is a vibrant and bustling city with a mix of traditional and modern influences. You can visit the Enchey Monastery, Rumtek Monastery (one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim), Do Drul Chorten, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. Enjoy a cable car ride to get panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
2. Tsomgo Lake: Located at an altitude of 3,753 meters, Tsomgo Lake is a glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake remains frozen during the winter months and offers a mesmerizing sight. You can also visit the nearby Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a shrine dedicated to an Indian army soldier.
3. Nathula Pass: Situated on the Indo-China border, Nathula Pass is a strategic mountain pass and a popular tourist attraction. It offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad mountains and is an important historical site. Note that special permits are required to visit Nathula Pass due to its proximity to the border.
4. Pelling: A picturesque town in West Sikkim, Pelling is known for its stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. You can visit the Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins (the ancient capital of Sikkim), and the Khecheopalri Lake, which is considered sacred by Buddhists and Hindus.
5. Yumthang Valley: Located in North Sikkim, Yumthang Valley is often referred to as the “Valley of Flowers.” It is famous for its colorful alpine flowers, hot springs, and breathtaking landscapes. The valley is also a popular starting point for treks to higher altitudes.
Apart from these, Sikkim offers various adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, paragliding, and mountain biking. The state also celebrates several festivals, including Losar, Saga Dawa, and the annual Gangtok Food and Culture Festival, providing visitors with a glimpse of its rich cultural heritage.
When planning a trip to North East India, it’s important to check the current travel regulations and guidelines, as they may vary. Additionally, ensure you have the necessary permits required for specific areas, especially those near the international borders.
Top Attractions in Noth East
Kaziranga National Park, Assam
This undisturbed acres long stretch of forests and marshlands is located in the heart of Assam and is visited by hordes of tourists every year and it is one of the famous places to visit in North East India. The notable one-horned Rhino is a major attraction in Kaziranga which is an endangered species in the world.
Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim
The winding roads which make a 37 km long journey from Gangtok to reach an altitude of 12,400 ft are ethereally beautiful and it is one of the best places to visit in North East India the lake at such an elevation flaunts its stillness in the most surreal settings of Himalayan peaks encircling it.
Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh
This monastery is located in Tawang, a mountain town situated at an elevation of 10,000 feet. Tawang Monastery is a significant monument in Arunachal Pradesh, popular as the birthplace of Dalai Lama and the largest Buddhist monastery in the entire country.
Nathula Pass, Sikkim
The old silk road that once used by merchants and traders is at an elevation of 14450 ft. above sea level on the Indo-Tibetan border. The temperature at Nathula is always freezing regardless of the season and the entire region is rich in Himalayan flora and fauna. It is one of the famous places to visit in North East India can be easily travelled from the capital city Gangtok.
Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Ziro Valley is the flat land amidst the sky jutted mountains with around five villages where the highest population is of the Apatani tribe. This tribe is friendly and Ziro serves as a perfect ground for celebrating the music fest every year. The verdant rice field, the in-line tribal huts, the vibrant and colourful attires and accessories of the Tribal people and it is one of the best places to visit in North East India.
Nohkalikai Falls, Meghalaya
It takes a plunge from a height of 1100 ft. and is known as the fourth highest waterfall in the world. It is just a 5 KM drive away from Cherrapunji and a short trekking trail to reach the ultramarine pool.
Gorichen Peak, Arunachal Pradesh
On your way from Bomdila to Tawang, you will enjoy the magnificent vistas of the Gorichen Peak. It is one of the toughest treks in the northeastern part of India as the peak is located at a height of 22,500 feet between Tawang and West Kameng districts.
Goechala, Sikkim
This is a ‘must-do’ trek in Sikkim and the fact that you encounter the big mountains of Himalayan range face-to-face keeps the trail flocked throughout the spring season. The Goechala trek enables trekkers to witness the magnanimous Himalayan summits, more than 14 in number.
Umiam Lake, Meghalaya
This man-made reservoir is situated 5 kilometres north of Shillong and is a mesmerizing spot which is one of the famous places to visit in North East India, that can be visited throughout the year. Spread over 222 square kilometres, it is surrounded by dense stretches of coniferous forests.
Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, Meghalaya
These are the wettest places in India and both are located within a distance of 16 km. However, Mawsynram is the wettest among both with a recorded annual rainfall of 11,872 millimetres, making Cherrapunji the second wettest place in India that receives an average annual rainfall of 11,777 millimetres and it is one of the best places to visit in North East India.
Siang River Rafting, Arunachal Pradesh
From moderate to difficult rapids, river Siang gives you the adventure to row your rafts in grade 3 and 4 level rapids and riffles. The river is wild and the rafts see huge drops with raging speed, thrilling the rafters to the core.
Mawlynnong Village, Meghalaya
It was acclaimed to be Asia’s cleanest village in 2003, this village is an excellent example of sustainable and eco-friendly living. Even the dustbins are made of Bamboo just like the sky tower which is around 85 ft.
Tripura Sundari Temple, Tripura
This old Hindu shrine is situated around 56 km from Agartala town and is said to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and it is one of the best tourist places in North East India. The outer upper edifice is a dome structure where the square type sanctum is worshipped, more like a typical Bengali hut.
Gangtok
This cloudy paradise is simply enticing, exuberant and the gateway to Northeast. Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and a trekking hub. The site of Mt. Kanchenjunga is cherished from Gangtok, and mountaineers who are on their expedition to climb the Eastern Himalayas make it a base town.
Kanchenjunga
Kanchenjunga is one of the famous peaks in the Himalayan belt and trekking to its base camp is equally an adventure. The Kanchenjunga base camp is located at an elevation of 28169 ft. above sea level.