This time, uncover the wild beauty of Northeast India and isolate yourself from the rest of the crowds
Digital Desk: Are you tired of the travel lists that feature Shillong and Tawang or even Kaziranga? This time, uncover the wild beauty of Northeast India and isolate yourself from the rest of the crowds.
With surreal cliff villages in Meghalaya to unexplored valleys in Arunachal Pradesh, we have selected five offbeat destinations that are untouched and beautiful in every sense of the word. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a sucker for sunrises or mountain adventures, these destinations will help soothe your mind and refresh your soul. This is not a standard travel guide. This is a travel key to the ‘crazy cool’ side of Northeast India.
Here are the top 5summer destinations to explore in Northeast India:-
1. Dima Hasao, Assam
Replace the heat with misty hills, pine forests, and hidden waterfalls in Dima Hasao- Assam's sole hill district and an entire hidden gem. Situated in the hills of southern Assam, this secret gem is entirely pine forests, misty sunsets, and alternative charm. Haflong, Assam's only hill station, covered with serene lakes and dreamy landscapes.Jatinga introduces a touch of mystery with its fabled bird phenomenon and forest walks, while Maibang and Samparidisa uncover ancient ruins and tribal culture.
Trek to Hajong Lake, a secluded alpine treasure concealed in the hills. Or follow waterfalls like Panimoor Falls, where the Kopili River thunders down rocky ledges, sheathed in heavy forest. Summer brings monsoon-fed cascades to life and they are ideal picnic and picture stops.
What really makes this journey a soulful one is the ride along the scenic Barak Valley - one of India's most stunning train journeys. Imagine curving through tunnels, traversing bridges high in the sky, and seeing the Barak River snaking through miles and miles of green valleys.
2. Mawphanlur, Meghalaya
Mawphanlur, nestled in Meghalaya's West Khasi Hills, is a shadowy, hideaway, where clouds kiss the hills and time takes a pause. It is known as the “Land of Seven Lakes” with clean waters and greenery. With rolling meadows, lakes reflecting the skies, and cool summer breezes, it's an ideal announcement for anyone seeking blissful beauty. it offers kayaking in calm waters, lovely treks to Mawthadraishan Peak, and sunrises that bring golden hues to the hills: perfect for a lazy picnic, stargazing, or none other than laying on the grass and letting nature do the talking.
While other nearby attractions like Kyllang Rock-a large red granite dome where fantastic views mesmerize and Nongkhnum Island-Asia's second-largest riverine island, further enhance the joy of traveling to Mawphanlur. Accommodation is basic, food is homey, and the ambience is incomparable. Mawphanlur is not a mere stopover, it’s a soul rejuvenation paradise.
3. Dong Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
At the far-eastern corner of Arunachal Pradesh is Dong Valley, a rugged, mystical world where the first light of day falls on Indian land. To reach it is to trek in the early hours under the star-studded sky but the experience is one that's never forgotten. As morning sun rises over the Eastern Himalayas and bathes the valley in golden light, you'll be standing in awed silence, knowing you're among the very first in the nation to witness a new morning.
Covered with misty hills, Dong is inhabited by the hospitable Monpa people and possesses a unique, unspoiled quietness. Just close by is Walong, the base camp- where the Walong War Memorial tells tales of valor from the 1962 Indo-China war. Beyond that, you can explore the natural hot springs of Kibithu, or stroll along the crystal clear Lohit River, shimmering like turquoise ribbon through the valleys.
Dong is not only about being first- it's about feeling small in the best way possible. It is wild, quiet, and soul-stirring.
4. Phek, Nagaland
Away from the beaten path of tourists, Phek is where Nagaland unwinds and reveals its gentler, untamed side. The Chakhesang tribe inhabits this peaceful district in the southeast, which is all rolling hills, dense forests, and generations-old stories.
At its center is Shilloi Lake (Dzüdürün Lake), a foot-shaped natural lake shrouded in legend and misty hills. The locals refer to it as sacred, and standing at its still waters, it is easy to believe. Within a short drive, the town of Pfutsero- Nagaland's highest point- provides cool mountain air and dreamlike views from Glory Peak, particularly at dawn's early light.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the trek to Kapamüdzü Peak promises panoramic hillscapes and almost no crowds. Village stays in places like Khezakenoma add a deeper layer to the journey, with warm hosts, wood-carved homes, and traditional Chakhesang meals.
Phek isn’t flashy- it’s real, rooted, and endlessly peaceful. A summer escape for those who travel slow and seek stories.
5. Zuluk, East Sikkim
Hidden in East Sikkim at 10,000 ft, Zuluk is a remote mountain village with a big view- and one of the most thrilling roads one can ever drive. This place feels like a secret kept by the Himalayas. The legendary 32-hairpin bend route wraps the mountains and each turn, a jaw-dropping glimpse of the Kanchenjunga and the vast, silent Himalayan ranges.
Once, it was a fragment of the old Silk Route; now, Zuluk has remained unchanged and unharmed. It breathes pure air, sports a vivid sky, and maintains an inspiring hush. At best, summer here means bright landscapes, wildflower blooms, cozy home stays with hot tea and their warmer stories.Don't miss the sunrise at Thambi View Point, and make a detour to the blue Kupup Lake.Wander around the wind-swept grasslands of Nathang Valley. Each stop is like a dream scene.
Zuluk is not a place-it's the road, the wind, the silence, and the excitement of being somewhere very unique.
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