3 pristine honeymoon destinations in North-Eastern India

The tourism potential of North-Eastern India is generally ignored in our mainstream media- a big way. It’s only recently that travelers are getting to learn about the pure nature bliss that, North-East India can offer. Still the beauty of North-East is largely unknown to backpackers around the world. The reasons might range from – lack of infrastructure to the lack of media hype.

But if you are planning for a romantic honeymoon itinerary with your partner, then it doesn’t mean that you have to tread on the common paths of the other honeymooners who- in order to spend some lovely time together- mainly choose destinations like Kashmir or Himachal Pradesh or Goa, within India.

So this time instead of the common destinations, select North-East for your honeymoon. There are many places scattered throughout the precious 7-sisters of India that will offer mind-blowing beauty and make your special days all the more memorable.

1 Pelling

Pelling is a beautiful town surrounded by mountains of Kanchenjunga and is popular for its local culture and hospitality. Well connected by jeep and bus services from Siliguri and Gangtok, you may hire shared jeeps to Pelling- either from outside of Siliguri bus stand or near Gangtok Police stand, once you reach any of these two cities.

The main places of attraction in Pelling are- various monasteries like Pemayangste monastery and Sangachoeling monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, the exotic Darap Village to name a few.

Bird-watching, mount-biking, trekking, river rafting are some of the exciting things you can do together- if both of you love adventure.

The local Limbu tribes are very hospitable and arrange home-stay for tourists. It is a big part of Pelling’s eco-tourism program that boosts local economy. Other than that, you may choose your suitable stay among 80-90 hotels that are located in Pelling.

2 Yuksom

A virgin and serene village, Yuksom is like a fairy-land away from hustle and bustle of city life and a great place for honeymooning couple who – need some solace in their stay. Yuksom is also a popular trekking point so if both of you are an adventurous-duo, you can go for trekking routes like Tashding or Dzongri peak from here.

The nearest railway station to Yuksom is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) but due to the poorly –maintained road, it’s advisable not to travel the distance between NJP and Yuksom during night.

Apart from trekking, the tranquil beauty is the biggest attraction of Yuksom. The Khanchendzonga national park is near the village which is a house of exotic Himalayan flora and fauna. The splendor of this place will surely take your breath away.

There are only few hotels and a beautiful govt guest house in Yuksome, so do your homework on accommodation before visiting this place.

And don’t forget to taste the momo made from Yak cheese and the locally-brewed ‘bamboo’ drinks.

3 Ziro Valley

A small village that is roughly 150 KM away from Itanagar- the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro Valley is definitely a small wonder. A habitat for local Apatani tribes, Ziro Valley is strong contender in UNESCO’s world heritage site list. Another amazing fact about Ziro Valley is that- despite its remoteness, it has the largest number of schools in Arunachal Pradesh.

The nearest railway station-cum-airport to Ziro valley is Tezpur-Assam. From there, you can get shared taxis towards Ziro.

Ziro valley could be an ideal place for honeymoon if both of you like solitude. The green paddy fields, azure sky, and a rich heritage in biological biodiversity- full of exotic flora and fauna, Ziro Valley seems like a piece of unadulterated heaven on earth. Except that, visiting the holy and unique Sidheshvar Temple and observing the lifestyle and culture of Aptani tribes – are other two interesting things to do here.

February – October is the best time to visit this place. There are some lovely hotels in and around Ziro Valley like – Ziro Valley Resort, Hotel Blue Pine etc.

So don’t forget to include the above mentioned places when you will plan your future honeymoon destinations. North-East has many tricks up to its sleeves that may cast spells on you.