Author: Joynel Vaz

Meghalaya is the land of emerald-colored waterfalls, stunning valleys, living root bridges, and the cleanest river and village in Asia. The name of the state stands true to its name as Meghalaya means “the abode of clouds” in Sanskrit. It is a 22,429 sq. km state consisting of 29.67 lakh people. There are a plethora of activities to do in this hilly state, therefore here’s our list of the best places to visit in Meghalaya and all that it has to offer.

Preferably, the best time to visit Meghalaya is during the summer season. The temperatures in this hilly state can fall to 21 degrees celsius (Low 70s F) in August and 8-10 degrees celsius in January (upper 40s F), therefore one who is fond of the winter or colder regions will find this destination perfect.

1. the living root bridges

If there’s one place you have to visit, it must be Cherrapunji, also known as the wettest place in the world. One can make the most of this experience by camping under or climbing the root bridges or even admiring the flora and fauna.  One of the greatest tourist attractions is the living root bridges, which are in close proximity to Cherrapunji. The longer the root bridges live for, the stronger and more studier they are. Some bridges have also grown over centuries, therefore they can support quite a few people.

2. NOHKALIKAI FALLS

In Meghalaya, there are multiple water bodies ranging from Nohkalikai Falls to Nohsngithiang Falls. However, all of them stand out from each other. Nohkalikai Falls located close to Cherrapunji is 335 meters, therefore being the tallest plunge waterfall in India. Nohsngithiang Falls belongs to one of the seven sister waterfalls. During the monsoon, its beauty amplifies and tourists could also witness rainbows over the water.

3. MAWSMAI CAVE

A lovely thick forest with chirping birds is the grand entrance to the cave. The Mawsmai Cave, a 150-meter long cave, is made of natural limestones. There’s no need for a guide since it’s easy to explore. This cave is located in Jaintia Hills.  You might need to squeeze and crawl in, certain parts but this cave exploration is a fantastic experience. The Mawsmai cave is accessibly and a fun and safe adventure activity, the cave is also famous for its fossils, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled out.

Find More Information: Uncover the Perfect Time to Visit India

4. Balpakram National Park

Another irresistible tourist attraction is the Balpakram National Park, which is home to the Red panda (one of the rarest animals that are currently endangered). One must make the effort to visit this park to click pictures and see these species.

5. Mawlynnong Village & Eco-park

Mawlynnong village is one of the most fascinating sites we have ever come across. It is the embodiment of cleanliness as plastic bags are banned, smoking is prohibited, and dustbins are made of bamboo, making this place extremely eco-friendly. The people not only clean their own houses but also sweep the roads, and plant trees.

Similarly, Eco-park, which was implemented by the government, is famous for its native orchards. The view from this park is simply surreal. These places help conserve the environment by promoting ecotourism and we would love to see it gain more attraction. This is perfect for nature lovers or anybody who is passionate about the environment.

6. Umiam Lake and ward lake

This man-made lake surrounded by dense forests is one of the most popular tourist spots. Apart from the picturesque views, one can indulge in water sports ranging from Kayaking, Yachting, boating to Canoeing. Unlike Umiam Lake, Ward’s Lake is an artificial lake that is 100 years old. This Lake which has a rich historical background also has bird sanctuaries and boating options too.

7. Shillong Viewpoint

The Shillong viewpoint provides a panoramic view of the city. Besides the view, one can visit local shops which sell souvenirs, food, and clothes. To get a closer look at the city, the binoculars help one to see the picturesque view. Make sure the sky is clear to see the spectacular view, therefore we suggest that one goes in the morning to avoid crowds and clouds.

A holiday in Meghalaya should definitely make it to your travel bucket list. The best places to visit in Meghalaya is a never-ending list, but these are definitely our favorites. Please get in touch with us if you have any queries regarding this magical place!

Mizoram, also known as the ‘land of hill people’ is a 21,081 sq. km state consisting of 11.2 lakh people. There are a plethora of activities to do in this state, therefore here’s our list of the best places to visit in Mizoram and all that it has to offer.

Best places to visit in Aizawl

Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram, can keep one occupied as there are several activities to take part in, therefore here are the best places to visit in Aizawl.

Reik Heritage Village

Although the trek duration is approximately an hour long, it’s worth the view from the top. One can see a birds-ey view of the mountains and rivers from the peak. Bring along snacks so you can stay for a prolonged time!

Read more: The adventures of Northeast India

Mizoram State Museum

This historical museum will satisfy those people who are keen to know more about Mizoram as it’s informative and provides information about the culture of Mizoram.

Tamdil Lake

Are you feeling overwhelmed with the current events in your life? This place allows people to introspect, take a break from the real world, and leave them in a state of tranquility. A more spontaneous option would be boating for adventurous people.

Durtlang Hills

This hill station provides a panoramic view of Aizawl and it is famous for its magnificent views.

Solomon’s Temple

With the help of its healing energies, one can recharge by praying or meditating in this sacred temple. One can also click pictures of the view in this well-maintained temple.

Vantawng Falls

Surrounded by a dense forest, this hidden gem is the highest waterfall in Mizoram. The view is spectacular and filled with serenity.

Best places to visit in Lunglei

Wildlife Sanctuaries

A fascinating tourist attraction in Mizoram is the Saza Wildlife Sanctuary as barking deer, leopards, rhesus monkeys and a large variety of birds are present. Another destination is the Thorangtlang Wildlife Sanctuary, which also has various animals like gaur, sambar, sloth bear, leaf monkey, wild boar, varieties of birds, and many more majestic animals.  These sanctuaries are perfect for nature and wildlife lovers.

Best places to visit in Champhai

Phawngpui Peak

Phawngpui Peak is the highest peak in Mizoram. The view from the peak is breathtaking so if you ever visit Champhai we suggest that you see the view with your own eyes, it will leave you in awe.

Preferably, the best time to visit Mizoram is during the months of November to March, as the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges from 11 to 30 degrees celsius.

A holiday in Mizoram should definitely make it to your travel bucket list. The best places to visit in Mizoram is a never-ending list, but these are definitely our favorites. Please get in touch with us if you have any queries regarding this magical place!

Northeast India is an entire region of culture, natural beauty and mystery. Whatever time of year you decide to visit the northeast, you’ll find that there are magical experiences to be had, and memories to be made.

Best time to visit

If you’re someone who wants to go during the tourist season, then the summer months of April, May and June are the ideal time to visit the northeast. The weather is mostly pleasant, but some lower-lying regions like Arunachal Pradesh can get pretty hot. Barring such regions, you’ll have clear skies, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Summer is a great time to visit places like the Kaziranga National Park, Tawang Monastery, Ziro Valley and Jaintia Hills. You can indulge in kayaking, boating, mountain biking and some awesome photographic jaunts at this time.

Now, if you’re looking for chilly weather and sporting your woollens, then it’s during wintertime that you should consider vacationing in the northeast. Winter months or ‘shoulder season’ in this part of the country start around the end of October and stretch all the way till March. But be warned, while some parts are bearably chilly and cosy, other parts of northeast India like Arunachal Pradesh can be bitingly cold.

But there are advantages to the frosty weather. You can slide across the icy Tsongmo Lake in Sikkim, which completely freezes over during the winter. In lower altitude regions like Mizoram and Tripura, the weather is nippy and ideal for some hill station getaways. Pack your woollies well, and be prepared for snowfall (especially in the higher-altitude parts of northeast India, between November and January). If you plan to travel to northeast India during winter, make sure you get to experience the Hornbill Festival at the beginning of December, which showcases the best of indigenous art, music, performances, foods and cultural heritage.

But if you are ready to get wet in the rain and experience some lush greenery, then plan your trip to the northeast during the monsoon season. From the end of June till September, you’ll find valley upon valley drenched and lush with greenery. The tropical climate indicates heavy rainfall, so this might affect public transport. There may be landslides, so commuting might be a struggle. But if you avoid areas prone to monsoon-related inconveniences, there are some lovely places to visit during this time, such as Elephant Fall in Shillong, Umiam Lake and Thangkharang Park in Meghalaya.

Related: Best Time to Travel to India

How to get there

• By Air: Various major cities in India have direct flights to the states of Assam, Manipur, Tripura and Nagaland. Guwahati is the only metropolitan city that provides access to the other cities in the northeast, for travellers from others of India and the world. Once you’ve landed at Guwahati, you can connect to Silchar, Dimapur, Agartala, Aizawl, Tezpur, Jorhat and Dibrugarh via road. There are some helicopter services available as well.
  
• By Train: There are various train services that run across the country. Which connects to many cities in northeast India. But it’s important to note that they are the slowest mode of transport for reaching any city in the northeast, owing to weather changes that may cause obstructions on the railway network.
• By Road: Travelling to the northeast by road is a popular option for the scenic routes that present themselves along the way. There are bus services that run to and from West Bengal to Guwahati. Once you reach Guwahati you can board an ASTC bus from Paltan Bazaar, which connects to other states in Northeast India. Alternatively, you can also travel via private buses, taxis and Volvos that run across the region.

Keep in mind

Travelling to and commuting in Northeast India is great if you keep certain things in mind:

• Hire an experienced driver while navigating the hilly terrains, sharp curves and potholes, and rainfall in Northeast India.
• Always travel with a guide or someone you know, never alone.
• Always carry an extra pair of clothes and socks with you, and a light scarf or jacket.
• Private cars or taxis are the most flexible mode of transport.
• Choose a reputed transport company.

Once you’ve picked your time of visit, you’ll find it easier to make an itinerary of places you’d like to travel to in Northeast India. No matter when you do go, the northeast opens its arms generously to all visitors and will enthral with its natural beauty.

To the northeast of India, lies a region unparalleled in beauty, cultural richness, vibrant colours and delicious cuisines, all waiting to be discovered and explored. Making a trip to Northeast India with your family is a wonderful vacation option, and with our information guide, you can certainly enjoy your vacation to the hilt.

Best time to visit Northeast India

If you’re someone who wants to go during the tourist season, then the summer months of April, May and June are the ideal time to visit the northeast. The weather is mostly pleasant, but some lower-lying regions like Arunachal Pradesh can get pretty hot. Barring such regions, you’ll have clear skies, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Now, if you’re looking for chilly weather and sporting your woollens, then it’s during wintertime that you should consider vacationing in the northeast. Winter months or ‘shoulder season’ in this part of the country start around the end of October and stretch all the way till March. But be warned, while some parts are bearably chilly and cosy, other parts of northeast India like Arunachal Pradesh can be bitingly cold. In lower altitude regions like Mizoram and Tripura, the weather is nippy and ideal for some hill station getaways. Pack your woollies well, and be prepared for snowfall (especially in the higher-altitude parts of northeast India, between November and January).

But if you are ready to get wet in the rain and experience some lush greenery, then plan your trip to the northeast during the monsoon season. From the end of June till September, you’ll find valley upon valley drenched and lush with greenery. The tropical climate indicates heavy rainfall, so this might affect public transport. There may be landslides, so commuting might be a struggle.

Also Read: Best Time to Visit and Experience India

Where to stay

While there are hotels and resorts in Guwahati that would cater well to finer tastes and travellers who like to vacation in comfort and style, the real fun is in having a more rustic and local experience. Choose from a variety of lodges and homestays all over the different states in Northeast India to get a real taste of this gorgeous region.

How to get there:

• By Air: Various major cities in India have direct flights to the states of Assam, Manipur, Tripura and Nagaland. Guwahati is the only metropolitan city that provides access to the other cities in the northeast, for travellers from others of India and the world. Once you’ve landed at Guwahati, you can connect to Silchar, Dimapur, Agartala, Aizawl, Tezpur, Jorhat and Dibrugarh via road. There are some helicopter services available as well.
• By Train: There are various train services that run across the country. Which connects to many cities in northeast India. But it’s important to note that they are the slowest mode of transport for reaching any city in the northeast, owing to weather changes that may cause obstructions on the railway network.
• By Road: Travelling to the northeast by road is a popular option for the scenic routes that present themselves along the way. There are bus services that run to and from West Bengal to Guwahati. Once you reach Guwahati you can board an ASTC bus from Paltan Bazaar, which connects to other states in Northeast India. Alternatively, you can also travel via private buses, taxis and Volvos that run across the region.

Places to visit

Umiam Lake, Shillong

Umiam Lake is a great place for families, especially children, with some fun activities like sailing, kayaking, speed boating, water-skiing and rowing. And while you’re drying off, you can also picnic by the lake, in lush meadows brimming with beautiful flowers all around. 

Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang Monastery or Tawang Gompa is considered the largest monastery in India, and the second-largest in Asia. It is the main hub of Buddhist practitioners and travellers in Arunachal Pradesh. It has beautiful architecture and artwork and is a great place for some solitude and spiritual introspection.

Tiger Hill, Darjeeling

Situated above Darjeeling’s highest railways station, Ghoom, Tiger Hill sits at an altitude of 8,500 ft. Hike up there on a clear day, and you are left in awe of the breathtaking view of the Himalayan Mountain Range, which looks even more majestic at sunrise. If you’re lucky, you could catch a glimpse of Kanchenjunga, and, even, Mount Everest.

Air force Museum, Shillong

Take your kids to a place of history and technological prowess, at the Air Force Museum in Shillong. Housing fighter planes, rocket bombers, life-sized and miniature models of different aircraft, uniforms, missiles and whatnot. It even houses the MI4 helicopter, which played an important role in the 1971 war.

Keep in mind

Travelling to and commuting in Northeast India is great if you keep certain things in mind:

• Hire an experienced driver while navigating the hilly terrains, sharp curves and potholes, and rainfall in Northeast India.
• Always travel with a guide or someone you know, never alone.
• Always carry an extra pair of clothes and socks with you, and a light scarf or jacket.
• Private cars or taxis are the most flexible mode of transport.
• Choose a reputed transport company.

A vacation through northeast India is like no other. With no dearth of culturally rich monuments, attractions and festivals, natural beauty, a deep reservoir of history and respect for their roots, the people and places of northeast India will take you on an unforgettable journey.

Explore Further: Top 20 Destinations in Northern India

Have you dreamed of a destination that offers crystal blue-green waters, beautiful white beaches, a plethora of marine life and water sports, umpteen outdoor activities and delicious cuisine? It’s time to visit the Andamans!

Best time to visit

Summer :

Summer in the Andamans begins in April and lasts till June, with warm but pleasant weather. This is the ideal time of the year for scuba diving, snorkelling, boat rides or trekking. 

Monsoon :

Now while water sports and underwater exploration may not be the highlight of this season, the monsoons are actually a beautiful thing to witness in the Andamans. The temperature drops to a comfortable chill and makes for great warm drinks and yummy hot snacks. This is a good time to visit for cosy, romantic getaways, and indoor fun with friends. 

Winter :

Tourist season oscillates between summer and winter, but winter is certainly more popular because of the pleasant and enjoyable weather. With temperatures ranging between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius, winters are considered to be the best time to visit the Andamans for the best of indoor and outdoor holiday fun.

Must Read: Holiday in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

When to book tickets:

Make sure you’re on top of your bookings when planning a trip to the Andamans. Of course, this involves determining whether you are travelling by yourself, with friends or family, and with or without children. Each travel dynamic has its own set of travel guidelines and planning timelines. Some useful tips, while booking is:

• Get mid-week tickets: Everybody is aiming for a long weekend getaway so flight tickets or hotel bookings are always going to be a struggle. Instead, opt for a mid-week booking, which is not only more likely to be available in more than one option, but will likely be lighter on your wallet as well. 
• Vacation Time for Kids: If you’re travelling with kids, then plan your trip around their school vacations. There are three primary vacation options, namely, the summer holidays, Christmas vacation around December-January, and a Diwali break around October and November. Choose your tickets in a way that give your kids a couple of days to get back into school mode before their vacation ends.
• Early Birds: Remember, if you book your trip early, it’s likely you will have more flight and hotel room options. It’s always good to plan ahead. If you have a certain number of days on leave, book in between those days, in case you need to adjust your booking one or two days back and forth.

  

What to do at different times of the year:

April to June: Summer is the best time for outdoor activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, boating and trekking. The Andamans offer many beaches, hiking trails and gorgeous diving spots. Laxmanpur Beach offers a secluded holiday experience, with beautiful views, that salty sea air, and some solitude for romantic holidayers and private groups. If you’re looking for more action, try Havelock Beach, known for a plethora of fun activities to choose from including diving, snorkelling, swimming, water sports, boating and more. 

July to September: A magical curtain of romance falls over the Andamans during the monsoon season. It’s a photographer’s paradise, with lush greenery and stunning views. And let’s not forget that this time of the year is perfect for travellers with tighter budgets. You can choose from a wide range of accommodation options during this time, without worrying about very expensive tariffs. Even though outdoor activities by the water and sand are limited, there’s still a lot you can do in the Andamans during the monsoon. You can take a long walk along the gorgeous Radhanagar Beach, or take a scenic drive through Andaman Trunk Road. On a sunnier day, you could go snorkelling at Bharatpur Beach, or visit the Kalapani Cellular Jail for an interesting stroll down India’s history, and then top the day off with some delicious seafood.

October to March: Winter offers the best indoor and outdoor fun for travellers in the Andamans. If you are into marine life and water sports, then you can totally avail yourself of the fun activities on numerous beaches. But if you want to go indoors and still enjoy the weather and views, there are many options available for this too. The Andamans boast some vibrant multi-coloured coral reefs at Jolly Buoy Island, which you can marvel at on a dive underwater. If you just want to relax on the beach and get a tan, stay above sea level and do that, too. There’s even parasailing, jet-skiing, and dolphin-spotting on the cards if it interests you. If you’re enthralled and curious about marine life, then there’s the Marina Park and Aquarium, which offers an unforgettable visual experience of the unique species of marine life prevalent here, including fishes, corals, crabs, sawfish, shellfish, lobsters, and guitarfish.

How to get there

Since the Andamans are islands, the two ways to get there are by sea or air. The airport is at Port Blair and is accessible by air from various major cities in India including Kolkata, Chennai and Visakhapatnam. If you want to travel by sea, you would have to sail from the ports of either Kolkata, Chennai and Visakhapatnam. The journey would take about 3 to 4 days.

Keep in mind

Some important tips that will ensure your vacation is fully enjoyable include: 

• Get a weather forecast for your period of stay in the Andamans before travelling there.
• Pre-book a local tour guide who speaks the local language as well as your preferred language, who can take you around.
• Always keep your luggage and travel documents locked and your IDs with you.
• Plan your trip in advance and save money.
• Observe the local dressing and social etiquettes, especially in the less commercial areas.

The Andamans are a paradisiacal vacation destination for good reason. Be it any time of the year, and you can rest assured you will have a holiday to remember. Every season has something special to offer and suits every kind of traveller. Choose your days, plan ahead, make your bookings and you’ll be on this magical island in no time!

Also Read: When is the Best Time to Visit India