There is something mystic and mysterious about the Northeastern states of India. There is music, there is good food, besides amazingly virgin views of the Himalayas, and of course, the unbelievably high number, and variety of flora and fauna. The Northeastern part of India is a region that comes alive during the winter season. The months from November to February are a time of cool temperatures and clear skies, making it an ideal destination for those who love winter travel.
There are plenty of reasons for every individual traveler who goes to the Northeast. checkout list of the best places to visit in the Northeast India in December and January.
Top 10 winter destinations in Northeast India
1. Tawang
Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is an alluring destination worth visiting in winter for its stunning beauty. The Tawang monastery is also one of the best places to the visit and the snow in the winter months shall make you want to visit the place again. The town gets medium to heavy snow and still, it is necessary that you take precautions before heading for this town.
Head off to the misty Sela Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, and stunning landscapes. During winter, Sela Pass transforms into a magical wonderland, with snow-covered roads and frozen waterfalls. It’s a sight to behold, and a photographer’s paradise! If you love snow and like snowfall, Tawang is the great place to enjoy snowfall during winter. Find best tour package to Tawang.
2. Sikkim
One of the must-visit places in Northeast India during winter is the state of Sikkim. The state is known for its stunning natural beauty, and during the winter months, the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes create a breathtaking winter wonderland. Sikkim is the best place to experience snow fall during winter.
Sikkim has places like Yumthang, Peling, and Lachung, and many others. This state in the Himalayan range gets snow in winter and this is one of the things that you shall find in majority of the state. Tsongmo lake and the Gurudongmar lake shall remain frozen and those who love the appeal of a frozen lake or snow-clad lake, shall visit this place during winter for the best time. However, cover yourself well during the trip.
Check our Sikkim tour packages to find the most suitable tour package for you.
3. Mayodia Pass – a heaven for snow lovers top winter destination in Northeast
The small town in the Upper Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh is Mayodia, which draws in scores of the people from across the country in winter. During winter, Mayodia is covered in a blanket of snow, creating a winter wonderland that is both beautiful and surreal. The town gets snow and tourists visit this village on the Indo-China border at the year-end or in January and embark on a trekking or biking expedition through the pass. Carry sufficient dry foods and woolens before you visit Mayodia.
4. Kaziranga National Park
Assam is on the world map for being a hub for natural resources. The forests, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries make the state worth the visit. As a World Heritage Site, Kaziranga National Park is also one of the noted spots for birding. Winter is the best time to see migratory birds and a large number of wild animals in Kaziranga and other national parks of Assam. Every tear Kaziranga opens on the starting of winter in October and closes again at the end of April.
5. Shillong – one of the best places to visit in winter in Northeast
The capital city of Meghalaya is Shillong, which is even otherwise a picturesque place to be at any time of the year. Besides being close and connecting point to places like Elephant Falls, or the Mawsmai caves, or even to neighboring towns and villages like Cherrapunji and Mawlynnong.
Shillong becomes more beautiful by itself in winter. The cherry blossom pink flowers by the rivers, lakes and even in the city shall make you check if you are in India or somewhere else. The Christian population here also makes sure that they celebrate Christmas grandly and so street corners shall have illuminated trees, and young children singing carols, just making the city a must-visit for the same.
Every year, in the hill station of Shillong in Meghalaya, visitors can witness the stunning beauty of these blooms at the Cherry Blossom Festival. The festival, which is usually held in November, celebrates the blooming of the cherry blossoms in Shillong’s Ward’s Lake area. The festival is a vibrant celebration of culture, music, food, and of course, the blossoms themselves.
Check our best Meghalaya tour packages to plan your trip in winter.
6. Cherrapunji
Cherrapunji is world famous for being the wettest place on earth. But this is also the place, which has many places worth visiting. Visit Cherrapunji in winter to get no such rains, and so travel and camp out in the open freely. Explore the waterfalls and the green mountain ranges here. The winter months, from November to February, are the best time to visit Cherrapunji if you’re looking for a peaceful and serene getaway. The cool, crisp air, and the misty landscapes create an ethereal atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind and relax.
So if you’re looking for a winter destination that’s off the beaten track and offers a unique and unforgettable experience, Cherrapunji should definitely be on your list. The misty landscapes, waterfalls, and caves create a tranquil and mystical atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.
7. Kohima
Nagaland is one of the states that is primarily on the Himalayan ranges and so in winter it becomes absolutely gorgeous. Check in to the pristine land Kohima and enjoy the Christmas and cultural extravaganza hornbill festival which is celebrated from 1st -10th December every year. The Hornbill festival draws in thousands of people from across the world then. Sees the Naga people getting ready for welcoming and hosting the Hornbill festival.
8. Mizoram
The other state in Northeast India, Mizoram has a few festivals and hence, becomes the biggest draw. Winter festivals like the Pawl Kut, and Christmas are very important events. There is a chill in the air, which shall make the stay in Mizoram worthwhile. The winter season in Mizoram, which spans from November to February, is characterized by cool temperatures and a pleasant climate, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and serene getaway.
Mizoram is also known for its unique culture and traditions, and during the winter months, visitors can participate in several festivals and events, such as the Chapchar Kut festival. The festival which is celebrated during March celebrates the arrival of spring, and features traditional dance and music performances, along with local delicacies such as bamboo shoots and smoked meat.
9. Darjeeling
The Northern part of West Bengal is this scenic tourist spot of Darjeeling. Darjeeling is a all time famous destination for tourists and the best time to visit this scenic hill station is during winter. IN winter months the mountains look ravishing and the view from the Tiger Hill or the toy-train ride around the Batasia Loop shall make you want to take a quick break to this hill station in the east. Darjeeling’s accessibility from Kolkata and elsewhere makes it a top destination for the wanderlust soul.
Check our top Sikkim Darjeeling tour packages to find a suitable tour package for you.
10. Dibru Saikhowa National Park
Dibru Saikhowa is one of the most famous National Parks in situated in Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam. The park is already a hub for several exotic animals and birds, is also one of the top spots in winter. In winter, migratory birds drop in and this also draws in hordes of tourists and birders. Ruddy Shelducks, and Bar headed geese flock in from distant lands and these are just the few of those who come to the grasslands of this National park area.
The entire Northeast India is full of places that are grand and gorgeous all through the year. They are hubs for wildlife and natural beauty, besides looking beautiful in winter. So this winter, head to the Northeast and enjoy your time, either sliding down the snow in the Gurudongmar Lake or driving through the Sela Pass.
