| Northeast India |
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India's Northeast comprises the seven states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. It is connected to the rest of the country by a 'chicken neck'-like, narrow corridor between Bhutan and Bangladesh. Politically it is very much a part of India but historically and in many other ways it is an entity in its own right. It is a land of great ethnic diversity: more different tribes live here on a comparatively small area than anywhere else in Asia.
The Ahoms, hailing from Thailand in the 13th century established a kingdom here that managed to be undefeated or conquered for 600 years, until the advent of the British in India. These were Assams golden ages, when eighteen incursions by the powerful Mogul army of the Delhi Durbar were successfully repelled. The Northeast thus remained in splendid isolation, a powerful buffer between India, Tibet, China and Birma, yet also serving as a crucible for the various ethnic groups that entered this land and made it their home. Today's tribes of the Northeast trace there genes, language and culture back to South China, Tibet, Birma, Cambodia and other parts of Indo-China. With undulating hills and mountains dotted with tiny villages inhabited by the many different tribes, a journey through Arunachal Pradesh or Nagaland is like a journey through frozen time, experiencing traditions and cultures as they have existed for centuries.
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India's northeast is a land of striking contrasts. One could say, with slight exaggeration, that it is a showcase of all the landscapes of South-Asia and Southeast Asia, confined in an area only slightly bigger than the United Kingdom.
The Brahmaputra valley in Assam is a fertile alluvial plain, dominated and continually reshaped by one of the world's greatest and, as of now, untamed and un-channeled rivers. Much of the remainder is splendid hill country, mostly forested and including some of the highest parts of the magnificent Himalayas. Nature and wild life abound here - in fact the area is right in the middle of one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, and one of the most precious ones at that.
The one horned Indian rhinoceros has Kaziranga National Park (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site) as its main habitat, just as the barasingha (swamp deer) and the Asian wild buffalo. The greater majority of the total population of these species live here. The Hoolock Gibbon, the only ape species in India, is found in Assam, Arunachla Pradesh and Bhutan only. The same goes for endemic species such as the hispid hare, pigmy hog and Assames roof turtle. Manas National Park, on the border with Bhutan, boasts more endangered species than any other park in India. The botanical diversity of the northeast has not yet been fully established, but it comprises of at least 55% of all the plant species found in India. Among these are many rare orchids and medicinal plants, as well as many wild ancestors of commercial plants such as rice, banana, millet and cardamom.
Traveling through the northeast is still an adventure. Whether you choose to wind your way up the Himalayan foot hills of Arunachal Pradesh in a jeep, discovering one pristine valley after the other, each speckled with rustic bamboo houses; to trek through the pristine jungle of Namdapha National Park; to search for India's big five in Kaziranga National Park from the comfortable surroundings of Diphlu River Lodge; or float the uncharted Brahmaputra, true discovery is awaiting you.
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Assam spans the fertile plains of the mighty Brahmaputra valley, a melting pot of cultures, languages and religions. With lush forest covers, innumerable animals and birds, ancient archaeological site. A visit to Assam offers visitors a wide range of experiences. One can spot rhinos while riding a trained elephant in Kaziranga or cruise down the Brahmaputra River in luxury boats enjoying the vast expanse of this great river. The famous Shakti shrine of Kamakhya, situated on the Nilachal hills is a major religious centre for devout Tantra or Shakti worshippers across India. The world's largest River Island of Majuli on the Brahmaputra, with its famed Hindu monasteries and dancing monks offers visitors a unique experience of the richness of Assam's cultural traditions. Colourful festivals, age-old weaving traditions, folk music, different tribes, best teas in the world, scenic beauty, the attractions are many.
Jungle Travels India have been organizing many interesting tours around Assam and other parts of North east India since 1989. We introduce travelers to the many delights of Assam in a manner which is hassle free and which ensures maximum exposure to the culture and customs of this interesting part of India. We offer cruises on the Brahmaputra, comfortable lodge stay at Kaziranga and Manas N.P. and jeep tours to the remoter part of the state. Wildlife viewing (both by jeep and on elephant back), village walks, dance performances and visits to tea gardens are part and parcel of any of these trips, which can be tailor-made as per the clients wishes.
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The land of the dawn-lit mountains, Arunachal Pradesh is located in the utter northeast of India. Living in isolated splendour, this exciting new holiday destination shares its remote borderlines with Tibet (China), Myanmar and Bhutan. It occupies 84,000 sq. kms (32,300 sq. miles) and its capital is Itanagar. Arunachal Pradesh is blessed with lush green forests and deep river valleys. It is the virgin land of India with its abundant greenery and salubrious climate. Arunachal Pradesh is the abode of 27 different tribal communities which flaunt rich tribal cultures, each with its own, distinct language. Almost every major river valley is home to a different tribe, with a wealth of fascinating cultures and peoples living in a habitat that ranges from subtropical rain forests to alpine meadows and glacial terrain. A large part of this state also has a strong Buddhist presence with splendid relics of Buddhist art and architecture. Festivals are an integral part of tribal life in Arunachal Pradesh, thereby mirroring the cultural exuberances and artistry. The artistic acumen of the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh are furthered by their musical and dance bonanza as well as their exquisite crafts. Surrounded by huge mountains, dotted with many rivers, boasting of a rich variety of flora and fauna and a home to several tribes, this destination is worth a visit. Almost 80% of the state is covered in impenetrable subtropical and montane forests. And, remarkably, new speicies of plants and animals are discovered regularly.
Jungle Travels India is at the forefront of introducing this relatively unknown yet fascinating destination. We operate tour and treks to the remotest parts of Arunachal Pradesh, offering some of the most interesting traveling experiences in India. Trekking in Arunachal Pradesh not only satisfies the nature lovers and thrill seekers but also educates them about ancient traditions and customs of the tribes inhabiting the upper reaches of India's greenest state. Opportunities for bicycling, rafting and motorcycle tours abound.With its huge abundance of forests, ranging from subtropical to alpine range, Arunachal Pradesh is also a great destination for wildlife and birding enthusiasts and Jungle Travels India naturalists and guides take our guests to some of the most interesting nature tours in this state, such as Namdapha National Park and Eagle’s Nest Wildlife Sanctuary. For people interested to know more about ancient traditions and customs, we operate cultural tours to the Apatani tribe of Ziro and the biggest enclave of Tibetan Buddhism in India, Tawang Monastery, at the meeting point of Bhutan, Tibet and India. Besides the above, we cater to special interests such as motor cycling, bicycling, angling, and photography tours. |
The northeastern state of Nagaland shares its borders with Birma (Myanmar) and the Indian states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur. Most of the region of the state is mountainous. The highest peak is Mt. Saramati at 3840m, in Tuensang district. Three ranges of hills, the Patkai, Barail and Naga Range rise from the Brahmaputra Valley. Its people are as colourful as their woven attire. Weaving is a skill that has been handed down through generations and is one of their most renowned indigenous crafts. Nagaland is inhabited by 16 major tribes, which have their distinct festivals, language and dress. Primary among these are the Angami, Sema, Ao, Konyak and Rengma. Every Naga tribe has its own festivals and most of these festivals are connected with agricultural activities such as reaping, sowing and harvesting. Moastu festival is performed by Ao Naga in the month of May, after the sowing. The Ao Naga celebrate many other festivals, most of which are celebrated to mark the beginning and end of a particular agricultural activity. The other prominent festivals are Sekrenyi and Aoling. The Aoling Festival of the Konyak tribe in Mon district heralds spring. Tuluni is an important festival of the Sema Tribe. The Hornbill Festival is celebrated every year at Kohima from the 1st to 5th of Dec. During these festivals folk songs and traditional dances form an intrinsic part. Most dances recount the tale of the brave ancestors.
Kohima is the capital of Nagaland but Dimapur is the largest city and commercial centre of the state, well connected by air and rail. Dimapur was the capital of the ancient 13th-century Kachari kingdom. It has a famous World War II cemetery and an interesting anthropological museum. The Burra Basti in Kohima is a traditional village with old houses and ceremonial gateways.
Jungle Travels India organises cultural tours through various parts of Nagaland, introducing visitors to the customs and cultures of this predominantly tribal area. We also organise trekking and climbing tours to the Dzokou valley, which is replete with flowers from June to September and is a good place for rock climbing. Here, Jafpu Peak (3048m) is a rewarding trekking destination.
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Set in an oval valley amidst smoky blue hills is Manipur. Large forest areas sustain a diverse ecosystem here, in which some of the world's largest orchids are found. Its forests also shelter endangered mammals like the sangai (the elusive deer). Manipur is reputed for its woven fabrics and the state's martial arts are renowned for their poetic fluidity. Known as the land of Radha and Krishna, Manipur has contributed significantly to India's classical dance repertoire. Its recital based on the lyrical Ras Leela (mimicing the courtship of Radha and Krishna) is inspirational. The spring festival of Lai Haraoba is the best place to see all the folk dance of the state. Yaosang (Feb/March) is Manipur's biggest festival and festivities continue for five days. The delicious dishes of Manipur include kabok, a traditional cuisine, made of rice and iromba, a combination of fish, vegetables and bamboo shoots.
The state's capital Imphal is famous for its scenic beauty. The Khwairamband Bazaar or Ima Market, Shri Govindaji Temple, Langthabal's old palaces & temples, Waithou Lake, Kaina Hils, Tengnoupal, Moirang, Loktak Lake and |
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Sendra Island should not be missed. Rare orchids can be seen in the Khonghamp at the Orchidarium.
Jungle Travels India operates various different tours to Manipur, catering to different interests of guests, such as, cultural tours and birding or wildlife tours. |
Mizoram is the southernmost state of North East India, the land of the Blue Mountains. The Indian states of Manipur, Assam and Tripura bind the northern-end of this small province with Myanmar forming most of its eastern boundary and Bangladesh its southern and western boundaries. The evergreen ranges of Mizoram hills with blooms of exotic flora and dense bamboo jungles rise sharply from the plains of Assam in a north-south direction. These hills and plunging gorges are crisscrossed by gushing rivers and sparkling waterfalls. In sharp contrast to the dense jungles and steep hills, a shades of green-only quilt of lush paddy fields runs all the way from the centre of the state towards the Myanmar border. Oral tradition reveals that the Mizos migrated from their homeland in China about 3 centuries ago, in search of new pastures and settled in these hills. They share their culture, but not their Christian faith, with their brothers across the border in Birma.
Mizos are friendly and very hospitable. They have made a concerted effort to maintain the ancient cultural strains, resulting in reviving and bringing to the limelight some of the most vibrant ancient Mizo traditions, cultural heritage and colourful customs. Phawngpul is the highest peak of Mizoram (2360 m). The Dampa Wildlife Sanctuary is the best place to see gaur ('indian bison') and wild elephants. From the capital Aizwal interesting excursions can be made to places like Champhai, Phawngpui Peak and the Birmese border.
Jungle Travels India takes visitors through various parts of Mizoram and introduces them to the cultural traditions of this state. We also take visitors to participate in the traditional festival of Chapcher Kut, celebrated at the end of February when winter starts receding. The festival commemorates spring and the promise of a good harvest. Mizoram is also particularly rewarding for people interested in motor cycling and bicycling. |
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Meghalaya is a small state in northeastern India. The word "Meghalaya" literally means "The Abode of Clouds" in Sanskrit. The name aptly describes the climatic phenomenon that brings torrential rain to its hills and forests, these same hills and mountains which are responsible for this climatic experience as they force rain clouds coming in from the Bay of Bengal to move up - resulting in heavy rain. The Cherrapunjee – Mawsynram area in Meghalaya receives the highest annual rainfall in the world: at least 12000 mm per year. Shillong, the capital of Meghalaya is one of the most popular hill stations in India since the Raj era, when the English moved up there in droves to escape the heat and humidity of the plains during summer. The undulating hills, lakes, coniferous forests and the rolling fog reminded them of home, so much so that the British called this the "Scotland of the East". Meghalaya is predominantly inhabited by Khasi, Jaintia and Garo tribes. The scenic beauty of Shillong seduced and inspired many artists. Among them the great poet and Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, who created the celebrated ''Shillonger Chithi'' (Letters from Shillong) and more of his greatest works here.
The Nonghrem Dance Festival (November) is one of the most important Khasi festivals. The Jaintias petition the Gods for a successful harvest during the festival of Beh Deinkhlam. The Wangala Dance (November) is the harvest festival of the Garos. Dance and music are a integral part of all the festivities. Jadoh – a pork delicacy –is an all time favorite. Kyat, the local Brew made from rice, adds colour to all the festive occasions.
Jungle Travels India organises various tours to Meghalaya, enabling guests to enjoy the great scenic beauty as well as engage them in interesting activities. Tall waterfalls, deep caves, beautiful walks through lush green ravines, colourful festivals, winding roads, tiny villages on hills, panoramic views and ancient traditions: the attractions are many. Furthermore, for those who want to stay right in the middle of it all, Jungle Travels India is developing a new resort at Cherrapunjee that hopefully will open up by the end of 2012. |
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One of the little known areas of North East, Tripura is rich in terms of beautiful scenery, virgin forests and lush valleys, exquisite craft traditions and a colorful cultural-historical heritage. Tripura was ruled by the Manikya dynasty from the 14th century. The Manikyas, who belonged to the Indo- Mongolian group, ruled over this area independently even at the time when most parts of the Indian subcontinent were under British rule. The rulers of the state had a good relation with the British during that time and the later helped Tripura to protect itself from the Nawabs of Bengal to take over the state. After the independence of India, an agreement to merge Tripura with the Indian Union was signed by the Regent Maharani on September 9, 1947. Besides the many tribes inhabiting the state of Tripura, there are archaeological sites, palaces and religious sites of both Hindu and Buddhist tradition. The state capital of Argatala is home to many grand palaces, the nearby Udaipur has North East India's only lake palace.
Tripura is bordered by Bangladesh on its north, west and south. Assam and Mizoram border the eastern part of the state. Tripura's physical feature differs from the north to south. It is a land of high hills, hillocks, and interspersed with river valleys. On its north, it has four valleys that have been separated by hills with heights of about 1,000 meters. On its south, it has open forested land spread over a wide range of area. The climate of the state is hot in summers and cold in winters with the temperatures ranging from 35°C to 10°C. Tripura receives an average rainfall of 2,100 mm. Due to the sufficient and well-distributed rainfall; the state has an ideal composition of land mass and water that houses a large variety of flora and fauna here. A wide variety of plant and orchid species are found in the forests of Tripura. Sal (Shorea robusta) is an important product of the forests here.
Jungle Travels India organises cultural tours to Tripura covering all the major attractions. These include birding and wildlife tours to Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary, Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary and also to the great birding destination, Sepa hijala Wildlife Sanctuary. |
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A land of immense natural beauty, Sikkim is often included in the Northeast, though actually separated from it by Bhutan. It is smaller than any other of states described here, yet packed with an unbelievable cultural, biological and landscape diversity. There are many attractions of Sikkim, the journey itself is an enriching one, as after each turn on the winding roads, the scenery changes and the Himalaya presents itself with another one of its many grandeurs. Just the spectacular drive up the Teesta Gorge from Silguri to Gangtok is worth the trip.
Infused with ancient history and Buddhist mysticism, its mountains are a trekkers delight and its mighty rivers provide some of the world`s wildest spots for white water rafting. Its trekking trails lead to hidden lakes, up-close views of the third highest mountain in the world and ancient monasteries.
Sikkim is dotted with numerous Buddhist monasteries. Famous Rumtek Monastery, seat of the big and influential Tibetan Karmapa Order, is just outside Gangtok. People interested to learn more about the Buddhist traditions finds this place ideal. There are many traditional festivals that are celebrated in Sikkim. Cham dances, where lamas wearing colorful masks perform intriguing dances on the monastery compounds to drive away evil spirits, are held regularly. Losong, or Losar (Jan/Feb), is the Tibetan and Sikkimese New Year. Drukpa Tseshi (August) celebrates the preaching of the Four Noble Truths by the Buddha. Pang Lhabsol (Aug/Sept) commemorates its guardian deity, Kangchendjunga, believed to reside on the 8600 m high mountain with the same name.
Some of the more popular tourist sites in Sikkim are: The capital city of Gangtok , a sprawling settlement with great Himalayan scenery; Tsomgo Lake, a tranquil lake surrounded by frozen hillsides; a drive further up to Nathula Pass, which gives you a bird's eye view of Indo-China frontier. Pelling in the western district of Sikkim offers breathtaking views of the world's 3rd highest peak of Mount Kangchendjunga, the world's third highest peak. Pemyangtse Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, located on a hilltop at a height of 2080 m/6840 ft. Apart from it, there are many other monasteries: Sangachoeling Monastery, Dabdi Monastery, Tashiling Monastery and so on.
The Kanchenjunga Trek is one of the most popular treks in Sikkim. From Yuksam, the ancient capita of Sikkim, the trail leads to the alpine yak meadows of Dzongri (4020m) and onwards to 4940 m high Goecha La, where one has superb views of Mt Kanchenjunga. Return The final stop is at Samiti Lake.
Jungle Travels India organises a diverse range of activities in the state of Sikkim. From leisurely sightseeing trips to thrilling rafting rides, trekking holidays in the Sikkim Himalayas to tours to Buddhist destinations. Jungle Travels India guides ensure that all the guests get to know the local culture and customs. |
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