I am an Army Officer’s wife and just by the virtue of marriage I get to explore places that a normal person rarely does. I stayed in the remotest corner of Northeast India, Arunachal Pradesh not for 2 weeks or 2 months but for 2 long years. Enough time to sink into the place. I don’t write this blog as a researcher or a curious tourist but as an insider. I loved every bit of Northeast. Go explore Northeast don’t think much, just go with the flow.
Sheer ignorance of general public and lack of limelight (as seen in case of glamorous states like Kerala and Goa) has led to a lot of myths around Northeast. I take it upon myself to break these myths not by propaganda or advertisement but by facts. And, then leave it to you to decide. Just one thing, don’t miss out on the beauty of Northeast, simply because some uncle or cousin told you that it is so and so….
Perfect for those seeking to tread the road less travelled, the North East is a compelling holiday option. However, most of us just rubbish the thought with a, “I would love to go to the North East but it’s so far. Some other time, maybe.” This is one among the many widespread myths about the North East that dissuade the average traveller from going to this picturesque destination. And that is precisely why I decided to kick off this mission of busting some common myths about the North East.
Myth #1
The North East is too huge. I just have a week’s leave and it can’t be covered in 5 days.
Truth
True, the North East is vast, and so is Europe or Thailand for that matter. But you don’t visit every city in a continent or country in just a week, do you? Pick your cities wisely and then 5 days are just what you need to enjoy a delightful trip to the North East. You can cover Shillong, Kalimpong and Gangtok together or do a Darjeeling and Gangtok combo, or get cracking around Sikkim and Darjeeling. This is without compromising on the attractions in store. The trick is to chalk out a smart itinerary.
Myth # 2
North East is a remote area and has bad transportation facilities.
Truth
Now this statement is enough to ward off the adventurous spirit in you. However, the reality is in stark contrast. Look at the table and map below, and decide for yourself. This is pure data and not just my opinion.
I would recommend you travel to Kolkata from wherever you want to, and then take a flight to the North East to kick off your journey to this beautiful region.
P.S.: Even though rail connectivity is considerably good, it is quite time consuming. Go for it only if you have the luxury of a really long holiday.
Myth #3
North East is always drenched in rain.
Truth
If you have ever noticed the weather news on prominent news channels, including Doordarshan, you would understand that the above statement is indeed a myth. It does not always rain in the North East. But when it does, the raindrops lend a mesmerizing touch to the beauty of this place. The blissful chirps of the birds, the fresh scents of the wet earth and the brilliant green hues of the trees are only a few of the many wondrous by-products of the rains in the North East that bring you closer to Mother Nature.
North East enjoys clearly defined winters and summers, quite similar to rest of the country.
Some states of North East do experience moderate spells of rain even during the winter season. Nothing to worry, though!
If you want to play safe then October to February is the ideal time for you catch up with this place. The weather is plesant and everything is predictable. But, if the wanderer in you itches to explore the unexplored, muddle with a bit of unpredictability, and can do away with strict planning; North East in rainy season is calling you.
By the way, ever wondered why one never gets to know what’s happening beyond Assam. It seems as if the entire spread of Northeast India – Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Meghalya, Mizoram and Nagaland is non-existent for the rest of the country. Ever wondered why? If yes, then now is the time to get to know it better!
The Final Judgement
When it comes to a short holiday in India, people prefer only two places – Goa and Kerala. While both these places are undeniably and strikingly gorgeous but man, they are crowded and sometimes obscenely expensive! If you wish to treat your senses to the silent beauty of nature than a commercialized one, then North East is the ideal destination for you.
Watch this video and I am sure the traveller in you would have already taken off for the North East.
If you have more questions around the North East, please feel free to connect with me.
This post was originally written for MakeMy Trip Blog.
Have you been to Northeast or are still planning to? Share your views about Northeast tourism.
6 comments
Nice writing. Keep exploring more with your husband.
Thanks for the motivation Bijit. You seem to be from north east…which part?
Just came across your blog. Nice writing!
Will love to read some unknown stories of borders.
Thanks. Readers like you motivate me. I will write more stories
Nice Post .. keep writing 🙂
Thanks Taruna:) glad u liked. Have u been to northeast