The rhyme quoted above gives a glimpse to the matchless beauty and enigmatic appeal of North East India. Belonging to the eastern Himalayan belt and Brahmaputra plains, this region is known for its extremities. This region covers the extreme eastern frontiers of India with China, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar. This extreme feature is also characterized by severe winters (Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim), monsoons (Meghalaya), summers (Assam), greenery (Nagaland), etc. Also, the extremities can be seen in a multiplicity of around 166 tribes and other natives, all coexisting beautifully in this natural Shangrila.
This extreme east region of India or a natural paradise is a mix of the seven sister states which are tribal in essence. They are Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura. Another phrase coined to illustrate the beauty and appeal of this enchanting destination is paradise unexplored.
This region till recent past was an unhindered and unexplored paradise. Not many tourists abroad knew about the illustrated bounties of this pristine region. But due to the extensive promotion by India Tourism, North East India has opened up its doors for tourists who want to experience the nature in its truest essence.
Tourists in order to discover the secrets of North East India must visit Assam, the gateway state famous worldwide as an abode for one horned rhinoceros which is also the state animal. Lined by mountains, this state offers tourists an incredible experience to visit two recognized world heritage sites of Manas and Kaziranga National Park that are famed as the natural home for Rhinos. Besides this, the state also hosts a staggering mix of other unique flora, fauna and birds. Assam is also serving its purpose of binding the eclectic culture prevalent in different north eastern states. The cultural center here is the largest cultural congregation of seven sister states.
The second destination in north east, Arunachal Pradesh is the land of the rising sun. This is the only state in India to see the sunrise first in the country. The state is known for its impressive alpine and bamboo trees, wide variety of flora, fauna and wildlife; making it a biodiversity hotspot. The thick evergreen forests, hillock terrain and rivers form a perfect base for various adventure activities. These include trekking, hiking, angling, boating and rafting. Bird watching is also a popular excursion in Arunachal Pradesh. Here at Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, tourists can spot more than 500 species of birds, including highly endangered White Winged Duck, Sclater, etc. Besides birds, the state is also known for its staggering number of orchids. Around 500 varieties of this exotic flower find its budding roots in Arunachal. The Buddhist essence at Tawang and Bomdila lend a serene aura to this remote northeastern state.
The third amongst the seven sister states is a glittering jewel of glory, Manipur. Characterized by the presence of beautiful hills and lakes, this mesmerizing state is a natural jewel in the northeast. In fact, the largest freshwater lake of northeast India, Loktak Lake is present in Manipur. Alongside the lake, the only floating park in the world, Keibul Lamjao National Park can be easily visited by tourists. This is probably the last natural habitat of Sangai, the dancing deer of the region. The Khongpat Orchidarium, spread over 200 acres is another popular attraction of Manipur, where 120 exotic varieties of orchids can be seen.
Meghalaya or the abode of clouds is named exactly on its climate. The prominent part of the year here witnesses heavy rains. In fact, two of the rainiest places on earth, Mawsynram and Cherrapunjee are located in the periphery of this cloudy state. The suspended living root bridges here also invite a lot of travellers here in this enchanting destination.
Mizoram, the fifth in the series is known for its equality. Here, tourists can find a rare phenomenon of no social classes and no discrimination of the sexes. Hospitality is considered to be of paramount importance here. The people of this hilly and picturesque state belong to Mongoloid race and are skillful with their hands. Due to their skilled artistry only, tourists can take back home creative hand crafted souvenirs. Fairs and festivals in Mizoram are always a treat to watch.
The sixth state, Nagaland hosts an array of 16 major tribes, each having its own elaborate costumes and customs emblazoned with ancestral motifs. The rich cultural showcase of Nagaland is replete with grand festivals, folklore music with the natural forested cover and hospitable Naga ethos.
Two thirds of Tripura, an erstwhile princely state is covered with forests, lakes and wildlife sanctuaries. Jampui Hill is a quaint hill station and holiday resort. A blend of architecture ranging from magnificent palaces to Buddhist and Hindu temples with rock cut carvings are a common sight here. The Mata Tripureswari Temple at Udaipur is the most often visited. The tribes of the state present a unique cultural heritage.
Sikkim is a newly included state in the northeast India, known for its panoramic perfection of the snow capped Himalayas, particularly Mt. Kanchendzonga, the third highest mountain in the world. Bedecked by the heady scent of floral meadows, organic farming, vibrant culture and joyous festivals, Sikkim is a surreal delight of the northeast. The state is also known for its collection 75 Buddhist monasteries or Gompas, dating back to the early 18th century.
The entire northeast India is a serene paradise bedecked with natural bounties. The region is a world in itself blessed with everything on its own; contributing to the rich heritage, natural and cultural fabric seven sister states. Incredible India is proud of the racial diversity here, and invites tourists from world over to witness the region so pure, pristine and pluralistic like northeast.