Best Places to Go Backpacking North East India

The diverse cultures and ethnic groups of Northeast India can be traced back many centuries. Various autonomous kingdoms and chiefdoms once ruled these lands, often engaged in conflicts and alliances with each other. In the 19th century, the British began extending their influence and control over what was then called the Northeast Frontier. 

After India’s independence in 1947, these territories were integrated into the nation. Yet the remote mountain and forest landscape kept the region culturally distinct from the rest of India. Decades of insurgent movements have led to ongoing tensions, but peace accords in recent times have improved the security situation. 

Animist and tribal faiths blended with Hindu and Buddhist beliefs over the years to give each community its unique traditions and festivals. The food, handicrafts and music still strongly reflect the vibrant indigenous heritage of the Northeast.

Travelling within Northeast

Getting around the remote Northeast states requires some planning. Private transport is the best way to travel between locations. Shared taxis known as Sumos are widely available and offer a low-cost option to explore the region. They connect most major towns and charging fares is straightforward.

For independent travel, hiring a Sumo for a day cost around ₹1000 depending on the route. It gives flexibility to make stops along the way at places of interest. Public buses connect some cities but are infrequent. Trains exist but lack connections between states.

Domestic flights provide a faster alternative than road trips. The main airports are in Guwahati, Dimapur, Imphal and Agartala. Book in advance especially during peak seasons. Within cities, three-wheel auto rickshaws are widely available for short trips.

Accommodating local transport quirks takes patience but unveils fascinating sides of Northeast culture missed by most visitors. With proper planning, getting around the various states is accessible.

How to Get to The North of India

The most common way for international travellers to reach Northeast India is to fly into Guwahati. Located in the state of Assam, Guwahati is the major Gateway city to the region. Numerous domestic and international flights arrive here daily.

From Guwahati, travellers can make onward land connections to other Northeastern states. Public transport like buses and taxis provide affordable options to travel between cities and towns. Train routes inside the region are limited.

For Indian citizens, taking a train from major cities like New Delhi, Kolkata or Bengaluru is another approach to access the Northeast. These long-distance train journeys take over 30 hours depending on the station.

Flights within the Northeast also connect some states when time is a constraint. Local transport completes the last leg of the journey from airports. With proper advance planning, various modes of transportation are available to reach this captivating region.

Culture and Heritage 

The vibrant cultures and traditions of Northeast India set it apart from the rest of the country. Over 200 languages are spoken by various ethnic tribes, each with distinctive practices.

In Meghalaya, visitors encounter a matrilineal Khasi society where inheritance passes through females. Music and dance play large roles in festivities like harvest celebrations. Nagaland shows influence from Christianity through elaborate church architecture.

Manipur was once a royal kingdom and remnants exist in grand palaces. Meanwhile folk arts still depicting royal histories tell stories. Local cuisine also differs hugely—Nagaland pork delicacies contrast Assam’s spicy curries.

Intermingled Tibetan-Bhutanese heritage permeates Arunachal. Weaving, pottery, wood carvings exhibit craftsmanship handed down generations. Heritage trails provide insightful cultural experiences off the beaten path. Northeast India uncompromisingly preserves diversity in beliefs and traditions.

When to Go Backpacking North East India

The best months to visit Northeast India for comfortable weather are between October and May. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy downpours across most states, making travel difficult at times.

Summer temperatures are warm during April and May but less rainy. Winter months from November to February see pleasant conditions in the lower elevations though higher areas get cold requiring warm clothing.

March is generally dry with mild conditions throughout the region. Spring blooms arrive during this period allowing travellers to catch flowers in full bloom. Local festivals also occur more frequently from March to May.

While wildlife spotting opportunities peak during the dry months, landscape views remain scenic year-round. Flexibility is key as weather patterns vary locally; temperatures in the south differ from north. Avoiding monsoon ensures smoother sightseeing and transportation.

Tips for Backpacking North East India

Backpacking through Northeast India requires some planning to make the most of your trip. While the journey offers incredible natural scenery and cultural experiences, there are small things travellers can do to enhance their experience in the remote region.

• Book accommodation in advance during peak seasons as options are limited in rural areas.
• Carry extra cash as ATM coverage is uneven and many places don’t accept credit cards.
• Learn basic local phrases in major regional languages to communicate.
• Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Ask permission before taking photos of locals or ceremonies.
• Bargain food and transport prices but don’t insult sellers.
• Beware of monsoon conditions from June to September and have appropriate gear.
• Consult local guides for risky hiking trails or sensitive border areas.
• Register with your embassy in case of emergencies.

Conclusion 

Northeast India leaves visitors with memories of vivid festivals, winding hiking trails through rhododendron groves and a glimpse into unique matrilineal societies. Even as tourism grows steadily, its people uphold a welcoming spirit and the region protects ecological treasures in Kaziranga and living roots bridges. For those seeking off-grid adventure blended with cultural immersion, its scattered gemstones reward those who look beyond the guidebooks. We hope the tips and recommendations spark your curiosity to unearth Northeast India’s depths away from crowds and experience a different side of this special landscape and its warm communities. Happy travels!