Reasons Why You Need To Dump Other Places And Head To North-East States...

Previously known as the SEVEN SISTER'S, north-east India became richer with the addition of an eighth, Sikkim in 1975. Before joining India as its 22nd state, Sikkim was a small Himalayan monarchy. These beautiful North-Eastern states are mainly unexplored.

These states have their own unique history and culture, and for a traveller, the region is a repository of rare experiences. It’s fascinating that even many Indians from outside the north-east region know so less about these touristic place.

If you’ve travelled across India but have never visited the north-east,
Here are the reasons to do so :-

1. ECO-FRIENDLY DESTINATIONS :

Eco-friendly destinations For the conscious traveller, north-east India offers many eco-friendly destinations to choose from. There’s Khonoma in Nagaland where the villagers banded together to stop unchecked deforestation by outsiders. Mawlynnong in Meghalaya was awarded the cleanest village in Asia and where all guesthouses are constructed of bamboo. The Apatani tribe of Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh have developed their own unique sustainable methods of farming. Then there’s the breathtaking Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim. If you believe in the concept of green travel, then this is an absolutely unmissable destination.

2. SPIRITUAL AWAKENING :

Arunachal Pradesh, is the easternmost state of India. It is therefore called as the ‘Land of the rising sun’. The awe-inspiring natural landscapes of the state are dotted with several seminal Buddhist monasteries. The most important of them all is Tawang Monastery, founded in 1680. It also happens to be the largest monastery in India. When at Tawang, do indulge in some warm cups of coffee at the Dharma Coffee House and Library. Then there’s Urgelling Monastery which is the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama. These monasteries create a meditative atmosphere ideal for spiritual introspection. The sweeping views of snow-capped mountains is an additional luxury.

3. RICH HANDICRAFT HERITAGE :

North-east India is home to a large number of tribes and these tribes have a rich handicraft tradition of their own. Bamboo works, especially, are widespread in the region. Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura have some very skilled bamboo craftsmen who make beautiful screens, lamp stands, furniture and baskets among other things. Manipur is recognised for gold and gold plated jewellery, Assam and Meghalaya for their silk textiles and Sikkim for carpet weaving. Pottery is also a commonly practised craft in some of these states.

4. MEMORABLE ROADS :

This offbeat destination in India also has some great routes for an epic road trip. The winding roads, often rugged in many places, can pose a challenge to any driver. But that’s where all the adventure lies. Along the way, you’ll frequently come across pristine forests, rolling hills, national parks, gushing rivers, sprawling tea gardens, stunning waterfalls and many such natural grandeurs. Taking a road trip is truly one of the best ways to experience north-east India.

5. ZIRO MUSIC FESTIVAL :

North-east India is home to some of the best musicians in the country. However, most of them are very underrated. Western music, especially, is the source inspiration for most people in the region. Shillong, the capital town of Meghalaya, is also known as the Rock Music Capital of India. Legendary musician Lou Majaw hails from the state of Meghalaya, so does Soulmate, one of India’s best blues band. If you want to experience the brilliant music coming from north-east India, make sure to attend the "Ziro Music Festival" in Arunachal Pradesh, which is a highly sought-after musical fixture in the country.