Discover the 25 best tourist places in Northeast India for summer. From Gangtok, Shillong, and Kaziranga to Cherrapunji and Tawang, explore hill stations, valleys, lakes, and monasteries.
Northeast India is one of the most stunning regions of the country, blessed with rolling hills, lush valleys, snow-capped mountains, and bubbling rivers. During summer, it becomes a paradise for travelers looking for pleasant weather, breathtaking landscapes, and adventure activities like trekking, camping, and river rafting.
From the misty hills of Sikkim to the vibrant valleys of Meghalaya, here are the 25 best tourist places to visit in Northeast India.
1. Gangtok, Sikkim
The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok, is a bustling hill station famous for its panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. Besides the northeast region, there are many beautiful places to visit in summer.
• Why visit in summer – May – June ger warm and pleasant, vibrant festivals of Saga Dawa, International flower festival, and Hee Bermiok festival
• Top attractions: Tashi Viewpoint, Enchey Monastery, Do Drul Chorten, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Gangtok Ropeway, and MG Marg.
• How to reach – Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, at 124 km, can hire or a taxi
• Activities – Zipline, walking on tyres, trekking, bouncy house, and boating
• Local food – Momos, Thupka, wonton, Gyathuk, thenthuk, chang, shah-phaley
• Summer tips– Drink a lot of water and plan your activity wisely
• Cultural insights– Must visit monasteries, traditional dance, and festivals
2. Shillong, Meghalaya
Nicknamed the “Abode of Clouds,” Shillong is a charming hill station known for waterfalls, pine-covered hills, and vibrant culture.
• Why visit in Summer – see beautiful waterfalls, go on fun hikes, and try local food
• Top attractions: Umiam Lake, Elephant Falls, Ward’s Lake, Shillong View Point, Nohkalikai Falls, and Don Bosco Museum.
• How to reach – Flying to Guwahati and then traveling to Shillong
• Activities – Boating, trekking, waterfall rappelling
• Local food – Jadoh, Doh Khlieh, Kyat, Tungrymbai
• Summer tips– The air is fresh and the sky is clear with occasional light showers
• Cultural insights–
3. Guwahati, Assam
Often called the gateway to Northeast India, Guwahati is a vibrant city on the banks of the Brahmaputra River.
• Why visit in summer– Fun festivals, outdoor parties, and yummy local foods
• Top attractions: Kamakhya Temple, Umananda Temple, Dipor Bil Lake, Assam State Zoo, and Peacock Island.
• How to reach – Lokpriya Gopinath International Airport, National Highway 27
• Activities – boating, wildlife tour, cruise sailing, shopping at fancy street
• Local food – Momos, phuchkas, rice flakes, khar, aloo pitika, jhal muri, Luchi
• Summer tip – use an umbrella to protect from a lot of heat and stickiness
• Cultural insight – Numerous festivals, art, and crafts that reflect the rich heritage of Assam
4. Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Kaziranga National Park is renowned worldwide for its endangered one-horned rhinoceroses.
• Why visit in summer – Open from October to May, wildlife safari
• Top attractions – One-Horned Rhinos, wild animals, and migratory birds
• How to reach – Jorhat Airport at 97 km away, then take a taxi or bus
• Activities – Elephant safari, jeep safari, trekking, tour of a tea estate
• Local food – Assamese food, Laksha, khar, tenga, and leima
• Summer tip – drink a lot of water to prevent dehydration due to heat and humidity
• Cultural insight – Ethnic tribes, unique traditions, festivals, and cuisines.
5. Cherrapunji, Meghalaya
One of the wettest places on Earth, Cherrapunji (or Sohra) is known for its living root bridges, waterfalls, and mysterious caves.• Why visit in summer – Highest rainfall creates vibrant waterfalls and greenery
• Top attractions – Rich culture, scenic landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, living root bridge
• How to reach – fly to Guwahati, at 150 km, then taxi or bus for 4-5 hours
• Activities – Caving, zip lining, root bridge trekking, canyoning, boating
• Local food – Pork momos, pork rice, Jadoh, Khasis
• Summer tip – use an umbrella to protect from from heat
• Cultural insight – Khasi culture, festivals- colours, dance, music, and communal feasting
6. Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Located at 3,048 meters, Tawang is home to the famous Tawang Monastery, one of the largest in India.
• Why visit in summer – Snow melt, peaceful, accessible, and incredibly photogenic
• Top attractions: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Bumla Pass, Madhuri Lake, and Nuranang Falls.
• How to reach – Fly to Guwahati (480 km) or Tezpur (320 km), then hire a cab or bus
• Activities – visit monasteries, high mountain passes, lakes, and trekking
• Local food – Momos, pasa, mithun, maura, monpa, Tibetan dishes
• Summer tip – Do trekking and river rafting
Cultural insight – Highly influenced by Tibetans and the Buddhist way of life
7. Pelling, Sikkim
A peaceful hill station, Pelling is known for its adventure activities like mountain biking and rock climbing, along with majestic views of Kanchenjunga.• Why visit in summer – cool climate, snow starts melting, gorgeous greenery
• Top attractions: Kanchenjunga Falls, Singshore Bridge, Rabdentse Ruins, and Pemayangtse Monastery
• How to reach – Only by road from NJP, Siliguri, Darjeeling, or Gangtok
• Activities – sightseeing, shopping, food, adventure, and visiting monasteries
• Local food – the local cuisine is a blend of Nepal, Tibet, and India
• Summer tip – best for sightseeing and adventure sports activities
• Cultural insight – Pelling Tourism Festival
8. Lachung, Sikkim
Nestled near the Tibetan border, Lachung is a quaint mountain village famous for its natural beauty and rhododendron-filled valleys.
• Why visit in summer – Dry, warm, and blooming rhododendron
Top attractions: Yumthang Valley, Lachung Monastery, Bhim Nala Falls, and Zero Point.
• How to reach – The only way to reach by road is from Gangtok
• Activities – trekking, excursion trip, visiting sanctuaries, meeting monks
• Local food – Thupka, Bhutia and Tibetan dishes, momos, Chinese
• Summer tip – the weather is very cold, pack warm woolen clothes
• Cultural insight – traditional Lachungapa houses made from stone and wood
9. Imphal, Manipur
The capital of Manipur, Imphal, is rich in history and culture. It is surrounded by lush green valleys and ancient temples.
• Why visit in summer – Ibudhou Thangjing temple festival in Moirang
• Top attractions: Kangla Fort, Ima Market (Asia’s largest women’s market), Shri Govindaji Temple, and Manipur State Museum.
• How to reach – Fly to Imphal (5 km), then take a bus or taxi.
• Activities – Visit Loktak Lake, Kangla fort, Polo Ground, Manipur State Museum
• Local food – Eromba, Chak-hao Khir, Indian, Chinese
• Summer tip – The summer is not so hot, you can enjoy the beauty of the plane.
• Cultural insight – Classical Manipuri dance, traditional music, and handloom textiles.
10. Kanchenjunga, Sikkim
The majestic Kanchenjunga Peak (8,586 m) is the pride of Sikkim and a paradise for trekkers.
• Why visit in summer – Stunning mountain view, pleasant temperature, blooming rhododendron
• Top attractions – trekking, breathtaking view, beautiful sunrise, golden peak• How to reach – Fly to Bagdogra, at 220 km from Gangtok
• Activities- Trekking, wildlife spotting, photography, bird watching, camping
• Local food – Sherpa stew, Thupka, Choila, Dhindo, and Gundruk.
• Summer tip – Heavy rainfall, better take an umbrella or raincoat
• Cultural insight – mosaic of ancient tradition, sacred belief, historical depth
11. Yumthang Valley, Sikkim
Lesser lesser-known heaven with local culture, sacred landscape• Why visit in summer – Pleasant temperature (14 °C to 20 °C), rhododendron blossom
• Top attractions: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Yumesamdong, and Mt. Brumkhangse.
• How to reach – Only by road from Gangtok, Bagdogra Airport 221 km
• Activities – trekking, camping, bird watching
• Local food – Himalayan food, momos, lentils, fish, and rice
• Summer tip – very cold, take woollen clothes
• Cultural insight – Lepcha tribes community, monasteries,
12. Agartala, Tripura
The capital city of Tripura, Agartala, is known for its royal palaces, temples, and vibrant handicrafts.
• Why visit in summer – nature walk, shopping, spas
• Top attractions: Ujjayanta Palace, Jagannath Temple, Heritage Park, and Tripura State Museum.
• How to reach – Fly to Maharaja Bir Bikram airport at 12 km
• Activities – Palaces, museums, religious sites, and shopping in the local market
• Local food – Mui Borok, tribal food, bamboo shoots, fermented fish, vegetables
• Summer tip – light cotton clothing is ideal during this month.
• Cultural insight – fusion of tribal tradition, royal heritage, and Bangladesh
13. Zero Point, Sikkim
Situated at 15,000 feet, Zero Point (Yume Samdong) is the last accessible civilian area before the Indo-China border. The snow-covered landscapes are breathtaking.• Why visit in summer – Mild temperature (10 oC t0 20 oC) and clear view
• Top attractions- Snow-clad mountains, perfect for photography, the last point of the road
• How to reach – Local taxi through Gangtok, Lachung, Yumthang Valley, 150 km
• Activities – walking up the trail, enjoying clean air, and wildlife
• Summer tip – the region is so cold during summer, take woolly clothes
14. Tezpur, Assam
Known as the “Cultural Capital of Assam,” Tezpur is a scenic city with ancient temples, parks, and hills.• Why visit in summer – ideal time for sightseeing, exploring the natural beauty, and celebrating the Bihu festival
• Top attractions – Boat ride on the Brahamaputra, visit the ancient temples, and Agnigarh hill
• How to reach – Fly to Tezpur airport
• Activities- Wildlife safaris, museums, tea garden tour, Bamuni Hills, temples
• Local food – bamboo biryani, Koloh chicken pulao, duck curry
• Summer tip – fairly and comfortably, drink of water
• Cultural insight – ancient ruins, festivals, music, and culinary traditions
• Cultural insight – ancient ruins, festivals, music, and culinary traditions
15. Nathula Pass, Sikkim
A historic Silk Route pass at 14,140 ft, Nathula connects India with Tibet. It remains a favorite among adventure seekers.• Why visit in summer – Opens in summer, charming ride, adventure, deceptive roads, and high altitude winds
• Top attractions – Baba Mandir, Tsomgo Lake, Indo-Chinese border
• How to reach – 54 km from Gangtok, Only SUV vehicles are allowed
• Activities – yak ride, meet border soldiers, experience mountains, and snow
• Local food – Maggi, local food
• Summer tip – low temperature (15 °C) and high elevation, pack warm clothing to protect against the brisk wind.
• Cultural insight – no population as such, remote area
16. Loktak Lake, Manipur
Famous for its floating islands called Phumdis, Loktak is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and home to the world’s only floating national park.
• Why visit in summer – Lush, green, and alive with local activity
• Top attractions – floating island, biodiversity, world’s only floating national park, Keibul Lamjao
• How to reach – Fly to Imphal, 48 km, then taxi or bus
• Activities – boating, kayaking, birdwatching, fishing, photography
• Local food – Manupuri cuisines, Fresh fish, local rice
• Summer tip – To prevent sunburn, wear a hat, shoes, and sunscreen
• Cultural insight – Mix of Korean, central Indian, and Northeast Indian
17. Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim
Snow-capped mountains surround Tsomgo (Changu) Lake, a glacial lake located at 12,000 feet. Yak rides and local tea stalls make the visit memorable.
• Why visit in summer – pleasant weather, reflects blooming rhododendrons, turquoise, emerald green water
• Top attractions – Glacier lake, rides on decorated yak, food and drinks kiosk, small Shiva temples
• How to reach – Only by road, 38 km from Gangtok
• Activities – enjoy breathtaking view, a deep sense of cultural heritage
• Local food – momos, thupka, Tibetan meal
• Summer tip – Any time it rains, a chilled atmosphere, take woolen cloths and a raincoat
18. Goecha La, Sikkim
A popular high-altitude trek, Goecha La offers stunning sunrise views of Kanchenjunga and nearby Himalayan peaks.
• Why visit in summer – Experience the Goecha trek, meadows, wildflowers, and woods in different colours
• Top attractions – trekking, view of Kanchenjunga
• How to reach – get Yuksom (50 km) in Sikkim from Siliguri
• Activities – trekking of 90 km for 10 to 12 days
• Local food – traditional food
• Summer tip – The nights are colder with 0 oC at the campsite, pack warm clothes
• Cultural insight – Not
19. Majuli Island, Assam
The world’s largest river island, Majuli is located in the Brahmaputra River. It is known for its Satras (Vaishnavite monasteries), culture, and natural beauty.
• Why visit in summer – the festival of Bohag Bihu
• Top attractions – the largest river island,
• How to reach- from Jorhat ferry ride
• Activities – Birdwatching, visiting monasteries, dancing
• Local food – bamboo chicken curry, daal, red rice, vegetables• Summer tip – wear light white clothes
• Cultural insight -Temples of Kamalabari Satra, Auniati Satra, Garmur Satra
20. Dibrugarh, Assam
Called the Tea City of India, Dibrugarh is surrounded by vast tea estates and serves as a gateway to Arunachal Pradesh.
• Why visit in summer – June, July, August, and September are summer months
• Top attractions – rafting, Jagannath temple, Bogibeel bridge, monuments
• How to reach – Fly directly
• Activities – visit Maijan, Anthropological museum, Radha Krishna mandir
• Local food – fish tenga, pitha, bamboo shoot pickle• Summer tip – wear cool clothes
• Cultural insight – Mix of tea culture, education, traditions, shopping, and nature
21. Gorichen Peak, Arunachal Pradesh
The highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh, Gorichen (6,858 m) is revered by locals and attracts trekkers and climbers.
• Located between Tawang and West Kameng district.
• It is famous for trekking and camping
•How to reach – fly to Tezpur in Assam, followed by a road to Tawang
22. Dimapur, Nagaland
The commercial hub of Nagaland, Dimapur is known for its markets, waterfalls, and archaeological ruins.
Why visit in summer – pleasant climate, Hornbill festival, Aoleng Ffestivals, film festivals
• Top attractions: Kachari Ruins, Nagaland Zoological Park, and Triple Falls
• How to reach- By road from Doboka or Guwahati
• Activities- visit the triple fall, Kachari ruins, the zoological park, and shopping• Local food – Naga cuisine, bamboo shoot, axone
• Summer tip – Frequent showers, do not forget an umbrella
• Cultural insight – Naga United villages, Chakhesang Festival, tribal culture
23. Kohima, Nagaland
The capital of Nagaland, Kohima, is famous for its WWII memorials and vibrant tribal culture.
• Why visit in summer – Sekrenyi Festival, Angami tribe festival, pleasant weather,
• Top attractions – Dzukou Valley, Kohima Museum, War Cemetery, Kohima Cathedral, and Naga Heritage Village.• How to reach – Fly directly
• Activities- Explore Green Village, hiking to Japfu peak, Kisama village, Shilloi Lake
• Local food – bamboo steamed fish, smoked pork, axone, Naga food• Summer tip – early summer is the best for the Kohima tour
• Cultural insight – Natural beauty, culture, history
24. Aizawl, Mizoram
A scenic capital city, Aizawl, is perched on ridges surrounded by rolling hills. It’s known for handicrafts, tribal culture, and stunning views. Mizoram also has many other beautiful places to visit.
• Why visit in summer – Mild and bearable, Kut festivals, Mizo cultural week
• Top attractions- Durtlang hill, Reiek village, Solomon’s temple, Vantawng falls
• How to reach- Fly directly• Activities – Shopping, nightlife,
• Local food – traditional Mizo food and the influence of the neighbouring state
• Summer tip – Good time to visit and avoid the crowd
Cultural insight – Blend of cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and traditional art
25. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
It is famous for its rice fields, pine hills, and the popular Ziro Music Festival.
• Why visit in summer – Vibrant beauty, tranquility of meadows, cultural heritage of the Apatani tribe
• Top attractions – Meghna Shiva temple, Kile Pakho, Tarin fish farm, Shiv Linga• How to reach- Fly to Jorhat at 98 km, then by road
• Activities – Ziro music festival, trekking, and local fruit winery• Local food – Rice and fish, pork, and vegetables• Summer tip – stay in cozy homestays, tent camps, and boutique cottages
• Cultural insight – Ancient Apatani Tribe culture and world-famous Ziro Music festival
Names and capitals of the North East states of India
| Name of the state | Name of the capital |
| Assam | Dispur |
| Arunachal Pradesh | Itanagar |
| Manipur | Imphal |
| Meghalaya | Shillong |
| Mizoram | Aizawl |
| Nagaland | Kohima |
| Sikkim | Gangtok |
| Tripura | Agartala |
Inner Line permit (IPL) for the North Eastern states
Travel to Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, and Mizoram requires an official document known as the Inner Line Permit. An IPL document is issued by the Government of India or the relevant regional/state authorities, which is necessary for non-natives of the northeastern states of India. It can be available at https://www.eipl.arunachal.gov.in or eilp.arunachal.gov.inmanipurilponline.mn.gov.in
Final Thoughts
Northeast India is truly a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Meghalaya, trekking in Sikkim, or experiencing tribal heritage in Nagaland, these 25 tourist places in Northeast India will make your summer vacation unforgettable.
FAQ
Q: Which states are called the seven sisters of India?
The north-eastern states are called the seven sisters of India, which include Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, and Mizoram
Q: Which state has the highest population in North East India?
Assam has the highest population among all the northeastern states of India
Q: Which is the largest state in North East India?
Arunachal Pradesh is the largest state in North East India
Q: Which is the largest city largest state in North East India?
Guwahati is the largest city largest state in North East India.
Q: For what seven sister state in India is known?
The seven sister states in India, located in the northeastern part of the country, are known for their rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and diverse ethnic communities.
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