North East India, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and rich biodiversity, is a captivating region to explore. Each season offers a unique experience, so planning your visit around the weather and your interests is key. Here's a seasonal breakdown of the best time to visit:

Winter (October to February)

Best for: Pleasant weather, festivals, and adventure

Winter is one of the most popular times to visit North East India. The cool weather (5°C to 20°C) makes it ideal for exploring the region's hilly terrains, scenic valleys, and cultural festivals. Winter is perfect for trekking, wildlife safaris, and experiencing tribal festivals.

Highlights:

• Kaziranga National Park (Assam): Spot rhinoceroses, elephants, and tigers.
• Hornbill Festival (Nagaland): Held in December, it showcases the vibrant culture of the Naga tribes.
• Shillong, Meghalaya: Explore its colonial charm with pleasant temperatures.

Ideal for: Wildlife enthusiasts, culture lovers, and adventure seekers.

Spring (March to April)

Best for: Blooming flora, moderate weather, and outdoor activities

Spring transforms the North East into a paradise with flowers blooming, especially in places like Sikkim and Meghalaya. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The scenic beauty of tea gardens, rhododendron-filled valleys, and pristine lakes is at its peak during this season.

Highlights

• Dzükou Valley (Nagaland/Manipur): Famous for its blooming flowers, particularly the lily.
• Sikkim's Rhododendron Festival: Celebrating the region's vibrant flora.
• Tea Gardens of Assam: Visit the picturesque tea estates during harvest.

Ideal for: Nature lovers, hikers, and photographers.

Summer (May to June)

Best for: Escaping the heat, trekking, and hill stations

While the plains of India get hot, North East India's hills provide a cool retreat. Temperatures in the region remain comfortable, ranging from 15°C to 30°C, making it a great time to visit hill stations and go trekking in cooler climates.

Highlights:

• Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh): Known for its serene monasteries and snow-capped peaks.
• Shillong and Cherrapunji (Meghalaya): Enjoy the cool breeze and stunning waterfalls.
• Tsomgo Lake (Sikkim): A tranquil alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Ideal for: Travelers looking to escape the summer heat, and trekkers.

Monsoon (July to September)

Best for: Lush greenery, waterfalls, and budget travel

Monsoon in North East India brings heavy rainfall, especially in Meghalaya and Assam. The region becomes lush, with misty hills and gushing waterfalls. However, the rains can make travel difficult due to landslides and flooding in some areas. If you're an adventurous traveler who doesn't mind the rain, monsoon can offer a unique, offbeat experience.

Highlights:

• Cherrapunji and Mawsynram (Meghalaya): Known as the wettest places on Earth, they come alive with stunning waterfalls.
• Majuli Island (Assam): Visit before the river swells during the peak monsoon.
• Tea Gardens: Rain adds a magical touch to the lush plantations.

Ideal for: Budget travelers and those seeking solitude amidst nature.