13 Best Places to Visit in North-East India in Summer Season

When the sweltering heat of the cities starts bothering us, we badly look for a retreat. Fortunately, India boasts spectacular travel destinations that can be complementary to one another to travel in the summer season. In this blog, we will tell you about a whole region in India which is home to a plethora of destinations that are perfect for summer vacations.

Welcome to Northeast India. A region, which is filled with natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventure. With its scenic landscapes, lush green forests, majestic mountains, serene lakes, and stunning waterfalls, Northeast India is a paradise for travellers seeking an escape from the scorching summer heat. In this blog you will get to know about the 13 best places in North-East India to explore during the summer season where you can expect ultimate peace and an unparalleled experience to cherish in later years. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or cultural aficionado, this list has something for everyone.

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13 Best Places in Northeast India to Visit in Summer

Popular Northeast India Tour Packages

• Assam & Arunachal Tour Package
• Best of Sikkim Tour Package
• Kaziranga Tour with Meghalaya
• Assam Sightseeing Tour
• Tawang Excursion Tour

Pelling, Sikkim

If you are bargaining for spending your summer break in a hill station other than the Shivalik or Western Ghats, head to Pelling, the popular hill station of Sikkim. One of the best summer holiday destinations in Northeast India, Pelling is around 10 km from Gyalshing, the district headquarter.

The most exciting part of travelling to Pelling is the unsurpassed views of Kanchenjunga at dawn when the valley remains silent and you get the golden opportunity to mingle with nature and be yourself. The famous Pemayangtse Monastery is just a kilometre away from Pelling where you can reach by trekking. There are short treks which can be joined for a rejuvenating nature walk passing through a serene environment and scenic backdrop.

Weather: The temperature of Pelling hardly goes beyond 25 degrees in summer, so you can easily choose this place as an option for a family trip to North-East India.

Activities to Do: Monastery tours, Exploring holy lakes, Trekking, Waterfall hikings and more.

Also Read: Top Tourist Places to Visit in Pelling

Mokokchung, Nagaland

You might have seen several tribal villages and communities in your lifetime, but Mokokchung district in Nagaland will introduce you to some unusual elements that you can’t find anywhere else in India. It takes around six hours to reach this place from Kohima, the capital of Nagaland. Although the entire community of this region follows Christianity, yet they have not given up their traditional practices; it is an amazing thing which you can explore when travelling in Mokokchung.

The small villages of this district are found on green hillocks and inhabited by friendly Ao Naga tribes. Longkhum is one such village where you can enjoy the best natural views during full bloom season when its narrow roads get filled with the colourful rhododendron. A small group of people follow the animist religion and they worship the deity called Longlanpa Tsungrem. Chuchuyimlang village is popular among the Nagas for several vibrant festivals such as Moatsu. The Moatsu Festival starts first May and continues till third May when the villagers of one particular area exchange gifts and build friendships with the villagers of the other region. Chuchuyimlang and Ungma villages are some other places of interest in Mokokchung.

Weather: The average temperature of Mokokchung does not exceed 22 degree celsius in summer.

Activities to Do: Village Tours, Learning about the tribes, Attending festivals, Trekking, Spotting animals in wildlife sanctuary, Enjoying tribal cuisine and more.

Also Read: Nagaland Complete Tourism Information

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

A multi-coloured canvas painted with the strokes of white-brown and green, Tawang is the land of the Monpas. Picturesque Buddhist Monasteries, sparkling lakes and cascading waterfalls deck this North-Eastern travel destination which looks nothing less than a slice of heaven. You can easily plan for a vacation as Tawang has enough to meet your expectations. Unlike other Indian cities you don’t have to wait in long queues to visit its monasteries like Taktsang Gompa or Tawang Monastery. You will get sufficient time to explore the rich collection of artefacts and Buddhist manuscripts. As your family will be with you, let them experience the beauty of Sela Pass which exhibits an unsurpassed view.

You might not witness snowfall in summer but the small lake at Tawang and the lofty mountains would make you fall in love with this place. If you are not with your kids and love to go adventurous then leaving all worries plan for Gorichen trek which is a moderate grade option for trekking in Arunachal Pradesh. For better sightseeing options explore the attractions like Jaswantgarh War Memorial, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, Urgelling Monastery and some more.

Weather: During summer season the temperature of Tawang does not exceed 21 degree Celsius. So, you can enjoy the season adequately.

Activities to Do: Monastery visits, Exploring the town, Trekking, Picnic, Visiting War Memorial, Lake Visits, Attending festivals, Waterfall hiking and more.

Ziro, Arunachal Pradesh

If you are travelling in summer to take a break from mundane lifestyle and looking for a less commercial yet mind refreshing tourist spot, Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh will be the best place. The flourishing paddy fields, gurgling rivulets and placid locale will amaze you and urge you to sit at the edge of a small hillock to feel one with nature. The long stretches of greenery that expand as far as you eyes can see and the pleasant weather would make you feel enchanted.

Go exploring the small villages of Apatani tribes who are very friendly. Observe their lifestyle minutely and you can see how the women of this tribe sport huge bamboo nose plugs.

For an authentic tribal village tour in the Northeast, you can explore the villages like Hong, Dutta, Bamin and Hija all of which are located within a distance of 10 km. If you want to feel more ethnic go for homestay options arranged by Ngunu Ziro. However, for hotels and other day to day necessities you can depend on Hapoli (New Ziro) which is around seven kilometres South to Ziro Valley.

Weather: April to June is the summer season in Ziro Valley when the temperature does not go beyond 30 degree Celsius.

Activities to Do: Exploring Apatani Villages, Attending festivals, Picnic, Visiting fish farms, Seek blessings at temples, Discovering flora and fauna in wildlife sanctuary, Trekking, Exploring local markets and more.

Also Read: Popular Tourist Destinations in Arunachal Pradesh

Dzukou Valley, Nagaland

Plan a trip to Dzukou Valley only if you and your dear ones are equally zealous and love to explore the most exclusive natural beauty with open eyes. Tucked away at an elevation of 2,438 metres, this valley is the dreamland of trekkers who cannot afford difficult grades.

This picturesque hill station of Nagaland earns the sobriquet of the “Valley of Flowers of the North-East” for getting carpeted with wild flowers in summer. Dzukou is located at the border of Manipur and Nagaland and trekking expeditions in this valley tend to be easy to moderate. The base camp of Dzukou Valley trek is on Viswema Village which further proceeds via a motorable route and a narrow moss-covered hilly route. Numerous low clusters of hillocks host wonderful natural caves and rock overhangs where you can go camping with groups.

Weather: The temperature of Dzukou Valley ranges from 16 degree Celsius to 31 degree.

Activities to Do: Trekking, Camping, Birdwatching, Photography, Nature Walks, Village tours and more.

Also Read: Top Tourist Destinations in Nagaland

Haflong, Assam

The only hill station of Assam, Haflong is dubbed as the “white ant hillock” and you will undoubtedly fall in love with it once you reach there. Located at a distance of 310 km from Guwahati, this quaint hill station revives you from inside as there is an absence of commercialisation and disturbing honks.

Less crowded and less advertised in comparison to other Indian hill stations, Haflong appears to be the best summer holiday destinations in Assam. The headquarter of North-Cachar District, this tourist spot bears a handful of historical buildings carrying the marks of the British colonial past and looks vibrant for the scenic vistas dotted with crystal clear mountain streams, small hillocks and the blend of lush greenery and dense vegetation of pineapple orchards. Instead of lying down in leisure out of love with this place, go exploring the attractions of Maibong or the mysterious Jatinga where birds from different corners of the globe gather to commit suicide.

Weather: The average temperature of Haflong in summer is 30 degree celsius.

Activities to Do: Trekking, Boating, Visiting Orchid Garden, Birdwatching, Museum Visits, Exploring Hill Market, Exploring Historical Sites, Attending Festivals and more.

Also Check Out: Complete Assam Travel & Tourism Information

Majuli, Assam

If Assam is the cultural hub of the Northeast then Majuli is its fulcrum; you will realise the logic behind this statement when you explore the hidden gems of this holy land with utmost care. Located at a distance of 200 km east to Guwahati, this river island can be accessed by ferry from Jorhat. Formed on the heart of mighty Brahmaputra, Majuli flaunts unparalleled scenic beauty speckled with wind-blown rice fields and water-bodies blooming with flowers.

The most significant element of tourism in Majuli is the Satras where the Satriya Vaishnav Religion is nourished by the Mohantas or priests. The rich collection of masks, dresses and jewelleries used in traditional dramas like Bhaona are worth watching. Most of these masks are handmade and represent some mythical characters.

Weather: The temperature of Majuli is comparatively higher in summer than the other places in the North-Eastern states. In summer it ranges between 19 degree and 34 degree elsius.

Activities to Do: Exploring the Satras, Visiting Majuli Island Museum, Boating, Exploring Pottery Village, Exploring Wildlife Sanctuary, Visiting tribal villages, Attending cultural programmes and more.

Also Read:  Popular Hill Stations in Assam

Shillong, Meghalaya

If you are expecting to enjoy your much-awaited summer holidays in North East India without compromising on the level of comfort and class then Shillong town should not escape your sight at any cost. The neat and clean roads meandering through the hills, salubrious weather and the free lifestyle of the locales would inspire you to be here for the second time.

Dubbed as the “Hollywood of North-East”, Shillong hosts lavish accommodation built on the edges of placid mountains and lakes. Beautiful pine trees and flower gardens dress this town as a newlywed bride and bewitch you for the picturesque position of the houses on the lap of the hills. For sightseeing in Shillong, Ward’s Lake, Shillong Peak, Elephant Falls, Laitlum Canyons, Lady Hydari Park, Shillong golf course, Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures are a few ideal spots. If you are ready to travel for a few kilometres more you can visit Nokrek National Park.

Weather: The average temperature of Shillong remains within 23 degree celsius. So, you can consider the weather of Shillong perfect to travel in this season.

Activities to Do: Lake Visits, Boating, Kayaking, Sightseeing, Trekking to Living Root Bridges, Attending Music Concerts, Forest Walks, Shopping and more.

Also Read: Top Tourist Destinations of Meghalaya

Cherrapunji, Meghalaya

If you want to walk amidst the clouds even in the sweltering heat of July, head this summer to Cherrapunji, one of the wettest places on earth. Around 58 km from Shillong, this amazing tourist spot has vivacious waterfalls, lush green meadows and delightful weather that make your sweet summer feel appropriate.

Officially known as Sohra, Cherrapunji has abundant camera-friendly landscapes which will be not less than a lifetime experience. Nohkalikai Falls is reckoned to be the tallest plunging waterfall in India. Some of the liveliest waterfalls in Meghalaya are Seven Sisters Falls, Dainthlen Waterfalls, Mawsmai Falls. To further extend your trip, you can end up exploring the sights of David Scott Memorial, Eco Park and Khasi Monoliths. If your family is enthusiastic enough and want to try something offbeat, go for caving in Krem Phyllut Cave or Krem Mawmluh Cave.

Weather: The average temperature of Cherrapunji does not exceed 23 degree Celsius in summer.

Activities to Do: Waterfall Hiking, Cave Exploring, Village Walks, Learning about the tribal cultures, Trekking, Enjoying local cuisines and more.

Also Read: Must Visit Waterfalls in Meghalaya

Tsomgo Lake, Sikkim

For touring North East India in summer season, Sikkim hardly has any other rivals. To verify this statement, you should explore the part of Tsomgo Lake which is tucked at an altitude of 3,780 metres above sea-level. Located at a distance of around 38 km from Gangtok, this lake exudes ethereal views for the surrounding mountain ranges of the Himalayas.

The best part of exploring this lake vicinity in the summer season is the unmatched vistas painted with blooming rhododendrons, primulas, blue and yellow poppies. If you are travelling in May, chances of witnessing snow are brighter as it remains frozen till mid June. The surrounding areas of this lake are inhabited by the red panda and several species of birds. You can also spot the exclusive brahminy duck but, do not forget to capture a few shots of them!

Weather: The temperature of Tsomgo Lake ranges between 20 degree and 22 degree Celsius from March to June. So, you can travel without any worry.

Activities to Do: Enjoying Scenic Beauty, Yak Rides, Trekking, Photography, Birdwatching, Snow Activities and more.

Also Read: Top Places to Visit in Summer in Sikkim

Kaziranga National Park, Assam

Kaziranga National Park, widely known as the “Land of Rhinos” is another perfect choice to explore in summer. If you are a wildlife enthusiast you would probably know that national parks in India remain open from October to June, so summer, from March to June is an ideal time to explore the wonderful flora and fauna of our country. Speaking of Kaziranga, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India. It is located in the Indian state of Assam and is known for its population of the one-horned Indian rhinoceros. The park is also home to other animals such as elephants, tigers, swamp deer, and wild water buffalo. It is also home to over 500 species of birds, including the endangered Bengal florican and the great Indian hornbill.

If you are not interested in wildlife, you can also visit this national park to explore its natural beauty. The park is situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra River and is surrounded by lush green forests and grasslands. It is divided into four ranges, each of which has its own unique features and wildlife. Moreover, if you are done with jeep and elephant safari trips, you can also visit some other places like Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, Karbi and Anglong Villages, Orchid and Diversity Park and the tea estates.

Weather: The temperature of Kaziranga ranges between 26 degree and 30 degree celsius from March to June. So you can travel with some precautions like wearing breathable clothes, keeping hydrated, etc.

Activities to Do: Jeep Safari, Elephant Safari, Bird Watching, Tea Gardens Visits, Local Villages Exploration, Attending cultural events and more.

Also Read: Top Things to Do in and around Kaziranga

Kohima, Nagaland

After Dzukou Valley and Mokokchung in Nagaland, Kohima, the capital of the state comes as a perfect choice for visiting in summer.  Kohima is a great destination to visit with family members and friends or solo, offering a blend of history, culture, nature, and adventure.

Kohima is known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. The city is surrounded by hills and mountains, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes. You can visit the famous Kohima War Cemetery, which is a tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. You can also visit the Naga Heritage Village, which showcases the culture and traditions of the Naga people. Apart from that, Kohima also offers trekking and hiking opportunities. You can also explore the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary, which is home to several rare species of flora and fauna.

Weather: The temperature of Kohima in summer ranges between 15 degree and 25 degree celsius to make it a perfect destination to visit.

Activities to Do: Trekking, Hiking, Zoo Visits, Attending Festivals, Village Walks and more.

Also Read: Popular Hill Stations to Visit in Nagaland

Gangtok, Sikkim

Gangtok in Sikkim is a destination which can be travelled any day, any season. Especially, in summer when the temperature in plains becomes a painful story. Gangtok is such a destination in the north east where you can easily reach and easily find options for accommodation and activities.

The cool, pleasant climate of Gangtok is perfect for exploring its natural beauty, from stunning waterfalls to serene lakes, from lush green forests to majestic mountains. Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque MG Marg, the main shopping and entertainment hub of the town, or visit the iconic Rumtek Monastery, a spiritual centre of Tibetan Buddhism. For adventure enthusiasts, Gangtok offers a plethora of outdoor activities like trekking, paragliding, and river rafting, among others. You can also indulge in local cuisine, which is a mix of Nepalese, Tibetan, and Indian flavours, and sample some of the finest tea in the world.

Weather: Temperature in Gangtok in summer ranges between 15 and 22 degree celsius. It’s a perfect spot to visit in summer.

Activities to Do: Trekking, Hiking, Waterfalls Visits, Monastery tours, Cable Car Ride, Food Walks, Visiting nearby villages and more.

Also Read: Best Places to Explore in Gangtok – Complete Travel Guide

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