Northeast India is a region of seven states located in the northeastern corner of the country. The region is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and unique wildlife. Northeast India is a popular destination for adventure seekers, as the region offers a variety of activities such as trekking, rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, caving, and rock climbing.
Popular Adventure Activities in Northeast India
1. Trekking: Northeast India is home to some of the most beautiful trekking trails in the world. Popular trekking destinations include:
Tawang Monastery trek: This trek takes hikers to the Tawang Monastery, the largest monastery in India and one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in the world. The trek also offers stunning views of the Tawang Valley and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas.
Goechala Trek: This trek takes hikers to the Goechala Pass, which offers stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. The trek also passes through lush green forests and cascading waterfalls.
Dzükou Valley trek: This trek takes hikers to the Dzükou Valley, a beautiful valley known for its meadows, wildflowers, and waterfalls. The trek is also a great place to spot wildlife such as the red panda and the Himalayan tahr.
2. Rafting: Northeast India is home to some of the most challenging and exciting rivers in the world. Popular rafting destinations include:
Brahmaputra River: The Brahmaputra River is one of the longest rivers in India and is known for its whitewater rapids. Rafting on the Brahmaputra is an adrenaline-pumping experience and is perfect for experienced rafters.
Siang River: The Siang River is another challenging river in Northeast India. Rafting on the Siang River is a great way to experience the stunning scenery of the Arunachal Pradesh Valley.
Teesta River: The Teesta River is a popular rafting destination in Sikkim. The river offers a variety of rapids, making it suitable for rafters of all experience levels.
3. Kayaking: Northeast India is home to a variety of lakes and rivers that are perfect for kayaking. Popular kayaking destinations include:
Loktak Lake: Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is known for its floating islands. Kayaking on Loktak Lake is a great way to experience the unique ecosystem of the lake.
Umiam Lake: Umiam Lake is a beautiful lake located in Meghalaya. Kayaking on Umiam Lake is a great way to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Kaziranga National Park: Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the largest population of one-horned rhinos in the world. Kayaking on the rivers in Kaziranga National Park is a great way to spot wildlife such as rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes.
4. Mountain biking: Northeast India has a variety of mountain biking trails that offer stunning scenery and challenging terrain. Popular mountain biking destinations include:
Ziro Valley: The Ziro Valley is a beautiful valley in Arunachal Pradesh that is known for its rice terraces and traditional villages. Mountain biking in the Ziro Valley is a great way to experience the unique culture and scenery of the region.
Mawlynnong-Riwai Trail: The Mawlynnong-Riwai Trail is a challenging mountain biking trail in Meghalaya. The trail offers stunning views of the Khasi Hills and is a great place to spot wildlife such as the red panda and the Himalayan tahr.
Dzükou Valley: The Dzükou Valley is a great place to mountain bike due to its meadows and easy terrain. Mountain biking in the Dzükou Valley is a great way to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery.
5. Caving: Northeast India has several caves that are open to visitors. Popular caving destinations include:
Nongkhnum Island Cave: The Nongkhnum Island Cave is a beautiful cave located in Meghalaya. The cave is known for its stalagmites and stalactites.
Siju Cave: The Siju Cave is a challenging cave located in Arunachal Pradesh. The cave is known for its narrow passages and is a great place for experienced cavers.
6. Rock climbing: Northeast India has several rock climbing spots that offer challenging terrain and stunning views. Popular rock climbing destinations include:
Mawphlang Rock Walls: The Mawphlang Rock Walls are a popular rock climbing spot in Meghalaya. The walls offer a variety of routes for climbers of all experience levels.
Pelling Rocks: The Pelling Rocks are a popular rock climbing spot in Sikkim. The rocks offer challenging routes and stunning views of the Himalayas.
Other Adventure Activities
In addition to the activities listed above, Northeast India also offers a variety of other adventure activities such as:
1. Wildlife safaris: Northeast India is home to a variety of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries where visitors can spot animals such as the rhinoceros, tiger, elephant, and leopard. Popular wildlife safari destinations include:
Kaziranga National Park: Kaziranga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the largest population of one-horned rhinos in the world. The park also offers jeep safaris and elephant safaris.
Manas National Park: Manas National Park is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a variety of wildlife, including the tiger, elephant, and golden langur. The park offers jeep safaris and elephant safaris.
Kanchendzonga National Park: Kanchendzonga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. The park also offers jeep safaris and elephant safaris.
2. Paragliding and Hang Gliding: Northeast India has several paragliding and hang gliding spots that offer stunning views of the Himalayas. Popular paragliding and hang gliding destinations include:
Arunachal Pradesh: Seppa, Yezali, Dirang, and Mechuka are popular paragliding spots in Arunachal Pradesh. The spot offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar and Kangra Valley.
Maneybhanjang: Maneybhanjang, Gangtok, and Pelling are another popular paragliding and hang gliding spot in Sikkim. The spot offers stunning views of the Himalayas, including Mount Kanchenjunga.
Assam: Bodoland is another popular paragliding spot in Assam.
Nagaland: Dimapur is another best paragliding spots in Nagaland (northeast India).
3. Angling: Northeast India has several rivers and lakes that are perfect for angling. Popular angling destinations include:
Brahmaputra River: The Brahmaputra River is home to a variety of fish, including the mahseer, the goonch, and the golden mahseer.
Loktak Lake: Loktak Lake is home to a variety of fish, including the Indian catfish and the snakehead.
Umiam Lake: Umiam Lake is home to a variety of fish, including the rainbow trout and the brown trout.
Planning Your Adventure
When planning your adventure to Northeast India, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Northeast India is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is mild and sunny.
Getting there: The best way to get to Northeast India is by flying into one of the major airports in the region, such as Guwahati Airport in Assam or Imphal Airport in Manipur.
Getting around: The best way to get around Northeast India is by bus or taxi. However, it is important to note that the transportation system can be unreliable in some areas.
Accommodation: There are a variety of accommodation options available in Northeast India, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Permits: Some activities, such as trekking in certain national parks, require a permit. Be sure to check the requirements before you go.
Conclusion
Northeast India is an adventure seeker's paradise. With its stunning scenery, diverse culture, and unique wildlife, the region offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a challenging trek, an exhilarating rafting trip, or a wildlife safari, you are sure to find it in Northeast India.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips for planning your adventure to Northeast India:
Be prepared for the weather: The weather in Northeast India can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared for all weather conditions. Pack rain gear, sunscreen, and a hat.
Bring plenty of water and snacks: There may be times when you are not able to find water or food, so it is important to bring plenty with you.
Hire a guide: If you are planning on doing any activities such as trekking or rafting, it is highly recommended to hire a guide. Guides can help you with navigation, safety, and local knowledge.
Be respectful of the culture: Northeast India is home to a variety of different cultures and traditions. Be respectful of the local people and their customs.
I hope this guide has been helpful. If you have any questions about planning your adventure to Northeast India, please feel free to leave a comment below.