Himachal is all kinds of beautiful, don’t get me wrong. But there’s no denying that it has been overdone, especially for all of us living in the north. I have spent most of my summer vacations exploring Himachal myself, but on my visit to North Sikkim last year, I realised that the hidden gems of no must also be explored! So this summer, if you want to try something different, I would suggest heading to these hill-stations in the north-east instead.
Situated at a whopping 10,000 ft., Tawang is a breathtaking town that is located near the Indo-China border. This high-altitude hill-station is perfect to beat the heat this summer. Not only will it offer you sweeping views of rolling hills and valleys, but also offer an insight into Tibetan culture. The town was blessed by the fifth Dalai Lama, and became the town where the sixth Dalai Lama was born. Needless to say that the town is lined with places of religious and cultural significance.
Not to miss
Visit the Tawang Monastery, famed for being the second largest in the world. You must also drive to the stunning Sela Pass, a high-altitude pass that connects the state to the rest of the country. The pass is always covered covered in snow, so you can check that off your bucket list too!
How to reach
The most convenient and fastest way to reach Tawang is to take a flight to Tezpur Airport in Tezpur, Assam, from where you can head to Tawang in a car that will take about six hours to make you reach your destination.
Lachung is a tiny, picturesque town that is tucked quietly amid the mountains of North Sikkim. An essential stop if you’re travelling around the north, Lachung’s stunning landscape and winding roads are a delight for every traveller.
Not to miss
While you can spend your day by Lachung River, you must take a day trip to visit the majestic Yumthang Valley. The valley is about two hours away from Lachung and is home to unique species of flowers and numerous hot springs. You must also visit Yumesamdong or Zero Point which is the last motor-able road on that side of the border.
How to reach
The nearest airport to Lachung is Pakyong Aiport, Gangtok, located only 100km away. From Gangtok, you can hire a cab up till Lachung.
Known for being one of the wettest place on earth, owing to the high amount of rainfall that it receives, Cherrapunjee is a must-visit. Moreover, this place is home some of the tallest, highest and biggest waterfalls of the country. Head to Cherrapunjee and opt for a memorable waterfall hop.
Not to miss
Nohkalikai Falls is a must visit as it is the tallest plunging waterfall of Meghalaya. Other waterfalls you must visit are Rainbow Waterfalls, Seven Sisters Waterfalls and Kynrem Falls. You must also head to the nearby Nongriat to witness the double-decker root bridge.
How to reach
The nearest airport and railways station are located in Guwahati, from where you can board a bus or hire a cab to Cherrapunjee. This journey is 150 km and will take four hours to complete.
There's a paradise tucked away in the valleys of Manipur, surrounded by blue-green rolling hills, verdant fields and historic relics that add to it an undeniable rustic charm. This haven is called Imphal. The state's capital city is an ideal location if you're looking to head to a destination that is off the beaten path.
Not to miss
Witness culture, history and beauty at Kangla Fort that dates back to 33 AD. Take a stroll in India's only women-run market, Ima Keithel or take a boat ride in the mysterious Loktak Lake. Don't forget to try Manipur's scrumptious traditional food!
How to reach
You can fly directly to Imphal International Airport, Imphal!
If you want to travel to a destination that is different, and yet not so secluded that you can't shop or eat great food, then Gangtok is ideal for you. Sikkim's capital is not secluded, however, it will give you a wholesome experience of Tibetan culture. Gorge on traditional cuisines, visit different monasteries and enjoy sweeping views of Kachenjunga.
Not to miss
To get a feel of the city, take the ropeway ride that goes over Gangtok. Visit monasteries such as Rumtek, Phodong and Lingdum. Banjkhari Falls, located a little away from the city is Banjhakri Falls that is a major tourist attraction. You can also stroll around New Market and MG Market to shop for woollens, souvenirs and different types of teas.
How to reach
You can directly fly to Pakyong Airport in Gangtok.
So this summer, plan to visit northeast for a trip that is unique and memorable.
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