Best Time to Visit North East India

Published on Dec 11, 2025

The undeniable charm of North East India cannot be expressed in plain words. It stays with you throughout, even after you leave. With plenty of deep forests, quiet villages, rolling hills, and friendly locals, the region makes you feel as if you have stepped into another world. Because the surroundings change so much from one state to another, several travellers wonder what the best time to visit North East India is. Travelling in the right season works to your advantage, as it helps you enjoy crystal-clear views and seamless travel. You can spend more time outdoors without worrying about rain or fog.

 

In this blog, we discuss the weather across the North East states of India and the seasons you must consider. Depending on when you plan your holiday to the “Land of the Seven Sisters”, as the region is fondly called, we will also explore places to visit in North East India.

Why Timing is Important in North East India

Different from other parts of the country, North East India experiences great changes in the season. Not only do the hills remain cool, but the plains also get warm. Some areas in North East India receive heavy monsoon rain every year. Choosing the best time to visit North East India can make a great difference between an enjoyable, peaceful trip and one filled with unwanted delays due to the weather.

 

The region has three main reasons, including:

• Winter (November to February)

• Summer (March to May)

• Monsoon (June to September)

Each of these seasons brings its own colour, travel possibilities, and mood.

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Winter: The Best Time to Visit North East India for Clear Skies and Outdoor Travel (November-February)

Winter is the best time to visit North East India, as believed by most travellers. If cool air, bright sunlight, and open mountain views are what you enjoy, look no further than exploring such a fabulous region. The weather remains pleasant across the North East states of India, which makes it ideal for enjoying nature walks, sightseeing spots, and local festivals.

What to Expect in Winter

• Clear skies and better visibility

• Comfortable daytime temperatures

• Perfect for road trips, trekking, and wildlife tours

Winters are also known for making the most of festivals. Tawang Festival in Arunachal Pradesh, Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, and Sangai Festival in Manipur happen between November and December. These celebrations will give you a close look at the culture, food, and traditions.

Some of the Best Places to Visit in North East India During Winter

• Arunachal Pradesh: Bomdila, Tawang, Ziro

• Meghalaya: Cherrapunji, Dawki, Mawlynnong, Shillong

• Assam: Kaziranga National Park, Majuli Island

• Nagaland: Kohima and nearby villages

• Manipur: Imphal, Loktak Lake

• Sikkim: Gangtok, Nathula, Ravangla

If you are looking to enjoy a trip filled with utmost comfort, sunshine, and stable weather, winter is undoubtedly the best time to visit North East India.

Summer: A Comfortable Escape into the Hills (March-May)

When it comes to exploring the North East states of India, summer is another great season. If you admire mild weather over chilly winds, look no further than visiting in summer. Different from other parts of the country, summers in the North East are soothing. Not only does the air feel crisp and rivers flow steadily, but the forests also look abundant.

What to Expect in Summer

• Moderate temperatures

• Longer daylight hours for sightseeing

• Green valleys and fresh landscapes

People with a fondness for nature and travelling in peace must consider the summer season to visit North East India. This season is also considered perfect for those who want to capture blooming flowers, mountain streams, and waterfalls.

Best Places to Visit in North East India During Summer

• Sikkim: Pelling, Lachung, Yumthang Valley

• Meghalaya: Jowai, Sohra, Mawsynram

• Arunachal Pradesh: Dirang, Pasighat

• Assam: Haflong, Tezpur

• Mizoram: Aizawl and its closeby viewpoints

If you are looking for a peaceful holiday with your loved ones, summer may be the best time to visit North East India.

Monsoon: Stunning But Unpredictable (June-September)

Monsoon brings a kind of beauty to North East India that cannot be stated in simple words. The hills appear bright green, the air feels cleaner, and waterfalls become stronger. However, this season brings challenges, including landslides, heavy rain, and roadblocks.

What to Expect in Monsoon

• Heavy rainfall in several areas

• Dense greenery and stunning beauty

• Slippery roads and travel delays

Because of the unexpected weather, the monsoon is not considered the best time to visit North East India for most travellers. But if you are fond of rain, peaceful locations, and photography, this season can make you experience magic.

Places That are Good in Monsoon

• Guwahati and nearby temples

• Aizawl city

• Shillong city areas

• Imphal valley

Planning to travel during the monsoon season must be flexible. If you focus on seamless travel and hassle-free movement, choosing summer or winter as the best time to visit North East India is a smart move.

Breakdown of Weather in North East States of India

All the states in the “Land of the Seven Sisters” have their own climate. The following is an easy guide that will let you plan your trip with ease:

1. Arunachal Pradesh

• Cold winters, enjoyable summers.

• Best visited from October to April.

2. Assam

• Warm summers, heavy monsoon rain.

• Best visited from November to April if you want to enjoy wildlife. 

3. Meghalaya

• Cool summers, heavy monsoons, mild winters.

• Best visited from November to May.

4. Nagaland 

• Soothing winters and summers.

• Best visited from October to May

5. Manipur

• Dry and cool winters, warm summers.

• Best visited from November to March.

6. Mizoram

• Comfortable summers, cool winters.

• Best visited from October to April. 

7. Tripura

• Warm climate with moderate winters.

• Best visited from October to March. 

8. Sikkim 

• Cool throughout the year.

• Best visited from October to June for most travellers.

This breakdown in the weather is what makes choosing the best time to visit North East India so crucial.

How to Choose the Best Time to Visit North East India 

Not every traveller has the same taste when it comes to travelling. Here is how you can decide:

Choose Winter if:

• You expect clear weather

• You like road festivals and outdoor activities

• You take pleasure in festivals

Choose Summer if:

• You like pleasant weather

• You prefer a small number of tourists

• You enjoy a green environment

Avoid the Monsoon if:

• You are looking to travel long distances by road

• You are visiting the hills

• You want regular weather

However, the monsoon still retains its charm if you want to enjoy peaceful surroundings and nature.

Final Thoughts

November to February is usually the best time to visit North East India. In winter, the weather remains clear, and views remain sharp. So, travelling across the North East states of India becomes easier. If mild weather and abundant scenery are what you prefer, summer is the best season to explore the states. The monsoon season, while stunning, is more relevant for travellers who can change plans due to rain.

 

You will find plenty of amazing places to visit in North East India. From mountain monasteries and tea gardens to peaceful lakes, travelling to the states in North East India is a great experience in itself.

 

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