From Delhi to the Northeast: A guide to the scenic routes and must-visit stops

Imagine starting from Delhi’s busy streets and ending up in the placid landscapes of the North East part of India. The North East which is normally referred to as India’s secret gem has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty, cultural variety, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you are an enthusiastic traveller looking for adventure or a nomad searching for tranquillity, this journey has something for everyone.

So what makes it worth going on? Are they long scenic roads through dense forests and hills? Is it the charm of little towns and villages that have not changed for many years? Possibly none of these answers alone but rather their combination. In this blog, we will take you through the most picturesque routes and must-visit destinations between Delhi and the North East with suggestions on how to make your trip more fulfilling while remaining fun-filled.

Planning your journey: Key routes from Delhi to the Northeast

1. The grand route: Delhi to Guwahati

Delhi to Guwahati, the gateway to the Northeast, is a favoured route among travellers. This route spans over 2,000 kilometres with beautiful scenery accompanied by cultural experiences.

Route overview

From Delhi, you will pass through Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal before entering Assam. The road network is good making driving comfortable but due to its long distance, there must be proper plans made.

Must-visit stops

• Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: Varanasi is known as the spiritual capital of India where culture and ancient traditions are still part of everyday life. Make sure you experience Ganga Aarti at Dashashwamedh Ghat.
• Bodh Gaya, Bihar: A World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO, Bodh Gaya is the place where Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment. Tourists from all over the world visit this place because it houses Mahabodhi temple.
• Siliguri, West Bengal: Siliguri lies in the foothills of the Himalayas serving as an entrance to north-east India. You can take a diversion for a short visit to Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary or enjoy the green tea gardens.

Bodh Gaya | Credits: Canva

2. The lesser known route: Delhi to Shillong

For those seeking to take a more unconventional route, the one from Delhi to Shillong has an amalgamation of adventure and serenity. Though it is longer and more difficult to navigate, this path is ideal for individuals who want to explore less trodden paths.

Route overview

This path will take you through Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal before entering Meghalaya. The nearer you get towards the North East; the landscape becomes more beautiful with rolling hills, dense forests and mist-covered valleys.

Must-visit stops

• Ranchi, Jharkhand: Known for waterfalls and dense forests Ranchi can be taken as refreshing breaks en route. Among them are Dassam Falls and Hundru Falls which offer some coolness.
• Kurseong, West Bengal: A charming hill station close to Darjeeling, Kurseong is famous for its tea estates and scenic viewpoints. This provides a perfect silence break before going into Meghalaya.
• Cherrapunjee, Meghalaya: Just a short distance from Shillong are living root bridges Cherrapunji’s waterfalls are equally awesome. For nature lovers, trekking across its lush landscapes is unavoidable.

Cheerapunjee | Credits: Canva

3. The adventure route: Delhi to Arunachal Pradesh

A thrilling journey from Delhi to Arunachal Pradesh offers an adventurous route through rugged terrains and panoramic sights. This is the ideal path for those seeking excitement and those willing to drive on tough roads.

Route overview

Before reaching Assam, this route cuts across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal and then finally enters Arunachal Pradesh. The latter part of the road trip can be a bit difficult with winding paths through steep inclines but the prize is unmatched beauty.

Must-visit stops

• Darjeeling, West Bengal: Known for its tea estates and old-fashioned character, Darjeeling has some of the most picturesque landscapes in the world from where one can catch sight of Kanchenjunga Peak.
• Tezpur, Assam: Tezpur is a historical town located at the Brahmaputra river bank and noted for its ancient temples and natural beauty. Agnigarh Hill provides panoramic landscape views from all sides.
• Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh: Perched high in the Himalayas; Tawang is a sacred place due to its ancient monasteries surrounded by breathtaking scenery. For cultural and historical importance, you must see India's largest monastery known as Tawang Monastery.

Darjeeling | Credits: Canva

Places to visit in the Northeast

1. Nathula Pass, Sikkim

Nathula Pass, a popular tourist destination on the ancient Silk Road, stands at 14,450 ft. East of Gangtok and a few hours’ drive is Nathula Pass, with its great views where tourists can have a relaxed break from the busy city life. Call for taxi services to drive you down this road towards the pass which is also known as one of India’s scariest roads to view this hillside and also see the Chinese side of the border. Anytime you come here it won’t be surprising to see some snow in any season.

• Best time to visit: May to October
• Key attractions: Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, Staircase To Indo-China border, Tsomgo lake, and Mandakini waterfalls.
• Nearest airport: Bagdogra airport, Siliguri (180 km)
• Nearest railway station: New Jalpaiguri railway station (174 km)

Nathula Pass | Credits: Canva

2. Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh

The Tawang Monastery also referred to as the Golden Namgyal Lhatse Monastery, happens to be India’s biggest and second globally. Constructed at approximately 10,000 feet above sea level, the monastery has an amazing view of the entire Tawang River Valley. Inside you will find residential quarters for monks, a Buddhist cultural centre of study, schools, temples, a library and a printing press. To those who understand art's finer points well enough; Tawang Monastery is something that would change their world completely.

• Best time to visit: March to October
• Key attractions: Mandala wall murals, Buddhist Thangkas, Chitenpa’s footprint, and Buddha statue In Dukhang
• Nearest airport: Salonibari airport, Tezpur (319 km)
• Nearest railway station: Rangapara railway station (314 km)

Tawang | Credits: Canva

3. Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh

There are mountains which query the sky here, and also home to the Apatani tribe is Ziro Valley. Some of the most popular adventure spots in North East India are these valleys that have several trekking routes around them. Ziro Valley beckons not only for its beauty but also as a cultural tourism destination where one can have an idea about the local culture and tribal life. One of the largest annual music festivals in India takes place at this location.

• Best time to visit: March to October
• Key attractions: Tarin fish farm, Kile Pakho, Talley valley wildlife sanctuary, and Meghna cave temple.
• Nearest airport: Lilabari airport (116 km)
• Nearest railway station: Naharlagun railway station (89.5 km)

Ziro | Credits: Canva

4. Mawlynnong Village, Meghalaya

In India, Mawlynnong Village is one of the most exclusive villages. The village is famous for its cleanliness as well as its beauty. It’s a well-known tourist spot in the northeastern side of India which has been mainly visited by those who love to travel alone. Moreover, it also appeals to people who love trekking but that’s not all; there are other things you’ll want to see for yourself too.

• Best time to visit: June to September
• Key attractions: Living root bridges, Balancing rock, Byrdaw falls, Church of the Epiphany, and Rymben falls.
• Nearest airport: Shillong airport (101 km)
• Nearest railway station: Guwahati railway station (168 km)

Mawlynnong Village | Credits: Canva

5. Dibrugarh, Assam

The major town in Assam, Dibrugarh is also called the “tea city of India” and it is the biggest. It is an attractive spot to visit in Northeast India with its green fields, murmuring rivers, and diverse culture. There are many things you can do here such as hiking and having a picnic on Disang river banks, visiting temples or botanical gardens among others.

• Best time to visit: October to March
• Key attractions: Dinjoy Satra, Jokai botanical garden, Dehing Patkai wildlife sanctuary, and Joypur rainforest.
• Nearest airport: Dibrugarh airport (14 km)
• Nearest railway station: Dibrugarh railway station (3 km)

Dibrugarh | Credits: Canva

Conclusion

To say that travelling from Delhi to the Northeast is just a road trip would be an understatement; it is more like embarking on a tour of India’s diverse cultural and natural landscapes. For every track, there are different experiences ranging from Varanasi's spiritual heritage to Meghalaya's misty hills or Arunachal Pradesh's secluded beauty. Along these scenic routes, you will marvel at the mosaic of cultures, traditions and natural wonders.

Before this adventure begins, consider commencing it at The Hosteller Delhi for anything you might need. Located in the city centre, The Hosteller Delhi provides a comfortable and vibrant space for resting, planning as well as meeting fellow travellers. It has comfortable rooms with modern amenities that will make your stay perfect. Be it unwinding after exploring Delhi or preparing for long journey trips ahead; The Hosteller Delhi ensures you start on the right foot.

Thus, pack up your things, get fuel in your car and go have an experience that will be both haunting and thrilling at the same time. It is time to answer the call of Northeast India—starting right from The Hosteller Delhi.