You’ve probably heard of Assam and its tea estates. But, do you know about Meghalaya’s living root bridges and the Tawang monastery in Arunachal Pradesh? There’s a river here that’s so clean, you can see the rock bed 15 feet under water.

Largely unexplored, there’s plenty to see, hear, taste and do in the 7 sister states of North-East India. Today, north east India tour packages are highly sought after. Each of these 7 states, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Tripura, Nagaland, and Manipur are unique. Here’s a sneak peek.

Assam: The Gateway to the North East
Of the 7 states, Assam is the most accessible. Along with its tea plantations, it’s known for the mighty Brahmaputra river and the one-horned Indian rhinoceros. When you plan a rhinoceros safari in Kaziranga or Pobitora, you’re almost guaranteed a sighting. A safari in the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary in included in the Odyssey Brahmaputra river cruise package. You’ll also get a chance to see natural silk being manufactured. Don’t forget to sample the local rice beer!

Arunachal Pradesh and The Promise of Adventure
If you’re looking for adventure holidays in the north-east, book tickets for Arunachal Pradesh. It’s the largest of the 7 sisters, but also, one of the least explored. The challenge of virgin mountain peaks lures seasoned hikers. On the other hand, there’s the Tawang Monastery – one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Asia. Enroute to Tawang are Dirang’s hot water springs. Many believe the water here has curative powers.  Odyssey’s Mythical Arunachal tour also takes you to villages where you can try your hand at traditional paper making.

Mizoram’s Untouched Beauty
One look at Mizoram’s rolling hills and you’ll know why this state is called the land of blue mountains. Phawngpui Peak, Reiek and Champhai are hidden gems that are slowly finding their way onto north east India tour package itineraries. Given its easy availability, bamboo is deeply embedded in Mizo culture. You’ll see bamboo houses perched on the hill sides, bamboo cooking vessels and more. You can even taste tender bamboo shoots in traditional Mizo dishes.

The Misty Vistas of Meghalaya
To see Meghalaya’s true beauty, you need a pair of good shoes. Most places can be reached only with a trek. The living root bridges, Mawsmai caves and pristine Umgot river are unique experiences. Visiting the spic and span Mawlynnong Village as part of the Odyssey Magic of Meghalaya tour can be eye-opening! If you’re looking for Meghalaya’s nightlife scene, spend a weekend in Shillong. While you’re there, make sure you drop into the Wankhar Entomology Museum – a small yet thrilling private collection of mounted butterflies, beetles, moths and even a tarantula.

Culturally Vibrant Tripura
The smallest among the seven sisters, Tripura is a cultural reservoir. On one hand are ancient rock carvings of Unakoti while on the other are villages that keep the art of traditional handlooms and handicrafts alive. The Tripureshwari Matabari temple draws pilgrims from across the country. And then there’s the Rudrasagar lake - home to thousands of resident and migratory waterbirds and the beautiful Neermahal.

Nagaland and its Festive Spirit
Today Nagaland is best known for the Hornbill festival in December. This is a celebration of music, folk dances, art and of course, local food. Kohima marks the limit of the Japanese advance into the erstwhile British Indian territory during World War II. It’s no surprise that the Kohima heritage walk included in the Odyssey Nagaland Tour package is a hit with history buffs. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, browse through the local food market where baskets laden with greens sit beside honey bee larvae and an array of meats.

Manipur’s One-of-a-kind Adventures
Adventure holidays in Manipur offer experiences you’re unlikely to have anywhere else. At its heart is the Loktak Lake. This expansive fresh water lake is known not just for its size but its phumdis or floating islands. One of these is the Keibul Lamjao National Park. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Manipur’s dancing deer. The iconic women-run Ima market is another novel experience. And, if you’ve got a green thumb, you’ll find it hard to turn away from the Shirui Lily – this endangered flower grows only in Manipur’s Shirui Hills.

Booking North East India Tour Packages
Whether you’re an avid trekker or a cultural explorer the 7 sister states of the north-east promise magical experiences. Each state is worth a visit. Given the limited accessibility, these are holidays that should ideally be planned in advance. That’s where we come in.

At Odyssey, we offer curated itineraries and north east India tour packages for small groups. From accommodation to local sightseeing tours and guides, we’ll take care of all the arrangements. It’s the most stress-free way to enjoy a holiday!