Scenic view of North East India with green hills, blooming flowers, and clear blue skies during peak travel season

Best Time to Visit North East India

The best time to visit North East India is generally from March to June and September to December. These months offer pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing, adventure activities, and cultural experiences. With clear skies, lush green valleys, and vibrant festivals, the region becomes a paradise for travelers.

Whether you’re planning to explore Meghalaya’s living root bridges, go river rafting in Arunachal Pradesh, witness the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, or trek through the hills of Sikkim, choosing the right season is key to making the most of your trip.

Best Seasons to Visit North East India

1. March to June – Pleasant Spring and Summer

Scenic view of North East India with green hills, blooming flowers, and clear blue skies during peak travel season.
North East India offers breathtaking landscapes, vibrant festivals, and perfect weather between March–June and September–December.
  • Perfect for trekking in Sikkim, exploring Meghalaya waterfalls, and enjoying Kaziranga National Park in Assam.
  • Clear skies make it ideal for photography and road trips.
  • Adventure activities like kayaking, caving, and camping are at their best.
  • 🌟 Related: Meghalaya Adventure Activities

2. September to December – Post-Monsoon Charm

  • The valleys are lush after the rains, offering spectacular landscapes.
  • October to December is ideal for cultural exploration and attending major events like the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland.
  • Winter treks in Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim are popular.
  • 🌟 Related: North East India Trekking Packages

3. October to March – Cool and Dry for Sightseeing

  • The most comfortable weather for road trips and heritage tours.
  • Perfect time to visit Majuli Island in Assam, Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh, and Tawang Monastery.
  • 🌟 Related: Tawang Travel Packages

4. July to August – Monsoon Magic

  • Heavy rain transforms the region into a green paradise with full-flowing waterfalls.
  • Suitable for travelers seeking offbeat monsoon experiences.
  • Roads may face disruptions, so plan with flexibility.
  • 🌟 Related: Best Monsoon Treks in India

Top Activities to Do in North East India

1. Trekking in the Eastern Himalayas

  • Best Time: March–June & September–November
  • Popular treks like Dzükou Valley Trek (Nagaland) and Goechala Trek (Sikkim) offer breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, rhododendron blooms, and lush valleys.
  • Internal Link Example: Dzükou Valley Trek with Advenzone

2. River Rafting in Arunachal Pradesh & Sikkim

  • Best Time: March–June
  • The Siang and Teesta rivers are famous for thrilling white-water rafting, perfect for adventure seekers.

3. Wildlife Safaris in Kaziranga & Manas National Parks

  • Best Time: November–April
  • Spot the famous one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, elephants, and exotic bird species.
  • Internal Link Example: Kaziranga Wildlife Tour

4. Attend Vibrant Festivals

  • Hornbill Festival (Nagaland): December – Cultural extravaganza with dance, music, and food.
  • Ziro Music Festival (Arunachal Pradesh): September – An open-air music festival set in lush paddy fields.

5. Explore Majestic Waterfalls

  • Best Time: July–September (Monsoon)
  • Nohkalikai Falls, Seven Sisters Falls, and Elephant Falls in Meghalaya are at their most spectacular during the rains.

Festivals to Experience in North East India

Scenic view of North East India with green hills, blooming flowers, and clear blue skies during peak travel season.
North East India offers breathtaking landscapes, vibrant festivals, and perfect weather between March–June and September–December.
  • Hornbill Festival, Nagaland – December
  • Ziro Music Festival, Arunachal Pradesh – September
  • Wangala Festival, Meghalaya – November
  • Saga Dawa, Sikkim – May/June

Travel Tips

  • Book accommodations early during festival months.
  • Carry warm clothing if traveling in winter.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

FAQs – Best Time to Visit North East India

Q1. Which month is best to visit North East India?
A. March to June and September to December are considered the best months for pleasant weather and clear skies.

Q2. Can I visit North East India in monsoon?
A. Yes, but expect heavy rainfall and possible travel disruptions. However, the region is incredibly scenic during this time.

Q3. Is winter good for visiting North East India?
A. Yes, October to March offers cool, dry weather perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and attending festivals.

Q4. Which festivals should I not miss in North East India?
A. Hornbill Festival (Nagaland), Ziro Music Festival (Arunachal Pradesh), and Wangala Festival (Meghalaya) are must-visit events.