MEGHALAYA, NAGALAND & MANIPUR
This is the mystical heart of Northeast India, a land of ancient tribal heritage and unparalleled natural beauty. It blends Meghalaya’s misty canyons with Nagaland’s vibrant culture and Manipur’s tranquil lakes.
Known for its living root bridges, warrior traditions, and world’s only floating national park, this region offers an adventurous journey into India’s most biodiverse and unspoiled landscapes.
Most Popular Attractions
Natural Wonders & Adventure Hubs
Dzüko Valley: A stunning, often mist-covered valley shared between Nagaland and Manipur, famous for its seasonal carpet of rare flowers.
Nohkalikai Falls: India’s tallest plunge waterfall, located near Cherrapunji, where the water dramatically drops into a serene blue-green pool.
Laitlum Canyon: A breathtaking viewpoint in Meghalaya offering panoramic views of deep, verdant valleys and dramatic cliffs.
Krem Liat Prah (Caves of Meghalaya): South Asia’s longest natural cave system, offering thrilling subterranean exploration of ancient limestone formations.
Japfü Peak: The second-highest peak in Nagaland, known for its challenging trekking routes and vast forests of blooming rhododendrons.
Shirui Kashung Peak: Located in Manipur, this peak is the exclusive habitat of the beautiful and rare Shirui Lily (Siroy Lily).
Cherrapunji (Sohra) & Mawsynram: Known collectively as two of the wettest places on earth, famous for their unique climate and misty landscapes.
Krang Suri Falls: A gorgeous, multi-tiered waterfall in Meghalaya, famed for its deep, luminous blue natural pool.
Lakes, Wildlife & Unique Ecosystems
Loktak Lake: The largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, famous for its unique circular floating islands called phumdis.
Keibul Lamjao National Park: The world’s only floating national park, which serves as the last natural habitat for the endangered brow-antlered deer, or Sangai.
Double Decker Living Root Bridge: A UNESCO World Heritage site and a marvel of bio-engineering in Meghalaya, woven by the Khasi people from rubber tree roots.
Mawlynnong Village: Known as “Asia’s Cleanest Village,” this community showcases an eco-friendly lifestyle and beautiful, manicured surroundings.
Dawki – Umngot River: Located on the border with Bangladesh, the river is famed for its crystal-clear water, where boats appear to float in the air.
Khonoma Green Village: A historically and ecologically significant village in Nagaland, known for its commitment to conservation and traditional forest management.
Balpakram National Park: A unique plateau in Meghalaya often compared to the Grand Canyon, known for its rich biodiversity and local legends.
Historical, Cultural & Tribal Centers
Kangla Fort: The ancient and historic capital of the Meitei kingdom in Imphal, Manipur, symbolizing the region’s royal heritage.
Ima Keithel (Mother’s Market): The world’s only all-women run marketplace, a powerful symbol of Manipuri culture and economic strength in Imphal.
Kohima War Cemetery: A poignant memorial in Nagaland dedicated to the Allied soldiers who lost their lives in the Battle of Kohima during World War II.
Kisama Heritage Village: The annual host of the spectacular Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, showcasing the cultural diversity and traditions of the Naga tribes.
Shillong Peak & City: The capital of Meghalaya, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills, and known as the “Scotland of the East.”
INA Memorial Complex, Moirang: A site of great historical importance in Manipur, where the Indian National Army (INA) first hoisted the Indian tricolor on Indian soil.
Mon & Longwa Village: Key areas in Nagaland to interact with the Konyak Naga tribe, traditionally known as the last headhunters.
Manipur State Museum: Located in Imphal, it houses a comprehensive collection of Manipuri culture, including historical artifacts, tribal costumes, and royal relics.
Shree Govindajee Temple: A major Vaishnavite religious center in Imphal, known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual significance.
Activities & Experiences
Trek to the Double Decker Living Root Bridge (Meghalaya): Embark on a challenging trek to Nongriat to witness the incredible bio-engineering marvel of bridges grown from the roots of rubber fig trees by the Khasi people.
Boating on Loktak Lake and Visit Keibul Lamjao National Park (Manipur): Experience the world’s only floating national park, home to the endangered Sangai (brow-antlered) or ‘dancing deer,’ and marvel at the unique circular floating islands called phumdis.
Attend the Hornbill Festival (Nagaland): If visiting in early December, immerse yourself in this ‘Festival of Festivals’ at Kisama Heritage Village, a grand showcase of the culture, dances, food, and traditions of the numerous Naga tribes.
Caving and Waterfall Exploration (Meghalaya): Explore the vast network of caves like Mawsmai Cave near Cherrapunji (Sohra) and witness the spectacular cascades of Nohkalikai Falls, the tallest plunge waterfall in India.
Explore Khonoma—India’s First Green Village (Nagaland): Visit this historic village of the Angami tribe, known for its fierce resistance against the British and its commitment to conservation and sustainable living.
Shop at Ima Keithel—The All-Women’s Market (Manipur): Wander through the bustling stalls of this unique marketplace in Imphal, run entirely by women, to find local produce, handlooms, and handicrafts.
Experience a Local Village Homestay (Across all states): Seek out authentic cultural immersion by staying with local families in villages like Mawlynnong (Meghalaya), Khonoma (Nagaland), or an island on Loktak Lake (Manipur).
Discover World War II History (Nagaland & Manipur): Pay homage at the Kohima War Cemetery (Nagaland) and the Imphal War Cemetery/INA Memorial Complex (Manipur), commemorating the crucial battles fought in the region.
River Activities in Dawki (Meghalaya): Enjoy a boat ride on the Umngot River near the India-Bangladesh border, famed for its incredibly clear, emerald green water.
Learn Naga Handloom and Shawl Weaving (Nagaland): Visit tribal villages like Mokokchung or Khonoma to see the traditional art of weaving, and purchase a distinctive, handcrafted Naga shawl (each tribe has its own unique design).
Trek the Dzukou Valley (Nagaland/Manipur border): Hike through this stunning valley, especially beautiful when the Dzukou Lily and other seasonal flowers are in bloom (peak monsoon/post-monsoon).
Taste Local Delicacies: Try unique regional cuisine like the Khasi meat and rice dish Jadoh (Meghalaya), smoked pork with bamboo shoot and fiery Naga King Chilli (Nagaland), and the traditional fish-based curry and vegetable preparations (Ooti) of Manipur.
Local Tips & Transport
Shared Taxis a nd Sumo Jeeps are King: Due to the hilly and often challenging terrain, the primary mode of inter-city and inter-town transport is shared Sumos (Jeeps) or minivans. They are affordable and efficient, but they often leave only when full.
Early Starts: Travel in the Northeast is best done early in the morning. Shared vehicles often stop running after 11 AM to 1 PM, and starting early is crucial to cover long distances before dark, especially as the sun sets early.
Comfort: Be prepared for long, winding, and sometimes bumpy journeys. Book a front seat (or an individual seat if offered) in the Sumo for maximum comfort and views.
Air and Rail Connectivity:
- Air: Imphal (Manipur) and Dimapur (Nagaland) have major airports. Shillong (Meghalaya) has a smaller airport, with Guwahati (Assam) serving as the main air hub for travelers to Meghalaya.
- Rail: Dimapur (Nagaland) is the nearest major railway station for both Nagaland and Manipur, while Guwahati (Assam) is the main railhead for Meghalaya. Direct rail connectivity within the hilly states is still developing.
Inner Line Permit (ILP) and Registration: While no longer strictly required for Indian citizens to enter Meghalaya or Mizoram, non-Indian residents, and sometimes Indian tourists, may need to register upon arrival in certain districts of Nagaland and Manipur. Always check the current ILP/Registration requirements before your trip, especially if you are a foreign national.
Respectful Interaction: The region is home to hundreds of distinct tribes and subtribes, each with its own language, dress, and customs. Always be respectful and polite, ask permission before photographing people, and avoid disrupting local life or sacred sites.
Culture of Hospitality: North-Eastern people are known for their warm hospitality. Choosing a local homestay is one of the best ways to experience the culture and cuisine authentically.
Food & Drink: The local diet is rice-centric, and dishes are typically simpler and less oily than in mainland India, using minimal spices but a lot of natural, pungent flavours from herbs, fermented bamboo shoots, and fermented soybeans (akhuni). Pork and other meats are very common, particularly in Nagaland.
Language: While English is widely understood in the state capitals and by younger generations (especially in Meghalaya), learning a few basic phrases in local languages like Khasi or Manipuri, or using Nagamese (a creole language based on Assamese) in Nagaland, will be greatly appreciated.
Dress Code: While casual wear is fine, modest clothing is advisable, particularly when visiting local markets, villages, or religious sites like temples and churches.
Connectivity: Expect limited cellular and internet connectivity in remote areas, particularly in Nagaland’s villages and Meghalaya’s deep valleys. Plan offline maps and communications accordingly.
Hidden Gems:
- Kongthong Village (Meghalaya): Known as the ‘Whistling Village,’ where every resident has a unique tune (jingrwai ïawbei) used as their name.
- Shiroi Lily (Manipur): Found only on the slopes of Shiroi Peak in Ukhrul, this rare, beautiful, cup-shaped lily blooms typically in May-June.
- Japfu Peak (Nagaland): Located near Kohima, this is an excellent spot for high-altitude trekking with panoramic views of the entire region.
- Mawlynnong (Meghalaya): Touted as ‘Asia’s Cleanest Village,’ a model for community-based ecotourism and cleanliness.
Top Restaurants
Naoba’s Chakhumang Restaurant [$5-$10] – A budget-friendly Imphal eatery famous for its authentic Manipuri cuisine, including a large, traditional thali (platter) experience.
Luxmi Kitchen [$5-$10] – A culinary icon in Imphal, renowned for its exceptional and authentic Manipuri thali, featuring over a dozen distinctive local dishes like Sana Thongba (spicy cottage cheese).
Hotel Imoinu [$5-$10] – Located in Imphal, this spot is highly recommended for embracing Imphal’s traditional flavors, particularly its local Manipuri fare.
Phunga Restaurant [$5-$10] – Located in Imphal, this restaurant is a symbol of Manipuri culture, with a fully authentic interior resembling a traditional house and a menu focusing on local dishes like Eromba and Singju.
Jadoh Restaurant [$5-$10] – Located in Shillong, a classic, affordable spot to try the Khasi staple Jadoh (pork and rice dish), served with traditional chutneys and sides.
Trattoria Restaurant [$5-$10] – A well-known and unpretentious eatery on Police Bazaar Road in Shillong, a local go-to for traditional Khasi cuisine and authentic flavors.
Chingtsoung Restaurant [$8-$15] – Located in Kohima, this restaurant is highly recommended for a traditional Ao Naga cuisine experience, featuring dishes like smoked pork and various flavorful chutneys.
The Divine Naga Kitchen [$10-$20] – A popular spot in Dimapur for authentic Naga cuisine, offering traditional flavors and preparations, often including smoked meats and fermented ingredients.
Manipuri Phunga Restaurant [$5-$10] – A consistently rated local Manipuri restaurant in Shillong, serving up authentic thalis and traditional flavors, popular among North Eastern students and residents.
Singju Imphal [$5-$10] – A local favorite in Imphal known for its delicious Singju (a traditional Manipuri salad) and other authentic regional dishes.
Sanghai Manipuri Rice Hotel [$5-$10] – A long-established and popular Manipuri restaurant in Guwahati (near the border/connecting area) that is highly favored by locals for its genuine Manipuri rice plates.
Luu Naga Restaurant [$10-$20] – A great place to experience the rich flavors of Naga cuisine in Dimapur, known for its focus on traditional methods and ingredients like Akhuni (fermented soybeans) and smoked pork.
Liza’s Place [$8-$15] – A highly-rated, simple eatery in Kohima, known for its authentic Naga thalis and a welcoming, non-touristy atmosphere, a true local gem.
Kongam Pukhri (Khasi Cuisine) [$8-$15] – An authentic place in Shillong known for its Khasi pork dishes and rice preparations, often praised for its consistency and local patronage.
Garo Delicacy [$8-$15] – An excellent option in Tura (Meghalaya) to experience authentic Garo tribal cuisine, which is distinct from Khasi food and centers around meats, fish, and alkaline preparations.
Forage [$10-$20] – A renowned real food restaurant in Imphal celebrated for its quality dishes that creatively blend Continental and local Manipuri cuisines in a pleasant ambiance.
Flavour Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located in Imphal, this spot offers a modern dining atmosphere with exceptional cuisine, serving signature dishes like thin-crust pizzas, but also incorporating local produce.
XL Restaurant [$10-$20] – A popular Imphal restaurant that blends local flavors with contemporary tastes in a modern yet cozy interior, appealing to a younger crowd.
Black Stone Grill [$15-$30] – Located in Shillong, this place offers a unique departure from local cuisine, specializing in Middle Eastern food with a modern grill concept, often using local ingredients.
You and I Cafe [$10-$20] – A good spot in Shillong for traditional Meghalayan food but with a slightly more modern, relaxed cafe vibe compared to the smaller local stalls.
The Ethnic Table [$15-$30] – A restaurant in Dimapur, often linked to the promotion of Naga cuisine, that champions local ingredients like axone and smoked pork by turning them into modern preparations like spice rubs and vinaigrettes.
Breathe [$10-$20] – A trendy cafe in Shillong, popular among the youth, known for its creative fusion menu that often includes a playful take on local ingredients alongside international cafe fare.
Imphal Kitchen [$10-$20] – A modern restaurant in Imphal serving a mix of Chinese, Indian, and local Manipuri dishes, offering a contemporary setting and diverse menu options.
Char-Koal Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located in Imphal, this restaurant is well-known for offering a wide variety of dishes in a cozy, modern setting, indicating a creative and broad culinary approach.
Mynt (at Vivanta Meghalaya) [$30-$50] – The all-day dining restaurant at Vivanta Shillong offers an upscale environment to indulge in tantalizing flavors from a wide array of cuisines, including local dishes presented with a refined touch.
Wink (at Vivanta Meghalaya) [$25-$45] – A chic rooftop bar and restaurant in Shillong with a modern, sophisticated atmosphere, celebrating hyperlocal produce in its food and carefully crafted libations.
Restaurant at Hotel Vivor, Kohima [$25-$40] – Considered one of the more upscale dining options in Kohima, offering a polished setting and a menu that often includes both Indian and continental fare, with local dishes at a higher price point.
The Eatery (at Lemon Tree Hotel, Dimapur) [$25-$40] – Offers a sophisticated, all-day dining experience with a menu that blends international cuisine with select regional and pan-Indian favorites in an elegant setting.
Laliguras Tea Stall / Local Tea Stalls [$3-$7] – Not a single restaurant, but the numerous, simple local stalls found across the region, especially in Meghalaya, offering tea, simple snacks, and sometimes local comfort food like Maggi or momos—a true taste of local life.
Seven Sisters [$8-$15] – A restaurant in Kohima or Dimapur specializing in the cuisines of all seven North Eastern states, offering a unique opportunity to try a diverse platter of regional food in one place.
Rongom Shaiyee (Garo Food Stall) [$5-$10] – Look for small, local stalls or ‘Hotels’ in Garo-dominated areas (Meghalaya) that serve authentic, simple Garo meals, often centered around rice, meat, and the use of katchi (alkaline substance).
Local Market Food Stalls (e.g., Iewduh, Shillong / Kohima Markets) [$3-$10] – The ultimate non-touristic experience. These stalls within the main local markets (particularly the fresh produce and meat sections) often serve the most authentic, no-frills local meals like Jadoh or simple boiled/smoked meat preparations.
The Heritage [$10-$20] – A popular, mid-range multi-cuisine restaurant in Shillong that also offers a good selection of North Eastern dishes, making it a good, reliable choice for groups with varied tastes.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Cloud 9: One of the most iconic and longest-running nightclubs/lounges in Shillong, situated on the rooftop of Hotel Center Point in Police Bazar. It offers a lively atmosphere, Pan-Asian food, and a curated selection of live bands and DJ performances, often with a fantastic view of the city.
Polo Irish Pub: Located near the Polo Grounds in Shillong, this pub offers a classic English bar look and is known for its wide selection of domestic and international spirits and bar snacks. It’s a great spot to “let down your hair and party the evening away.”
Klong Lounge Bar: Situated on the Laitumkhrah Main Road in Shillong, this classy joint is perfect for a relaxed evening with friends, offering a warm ambiance, light music, and a strong reputation for its great cocktails and a selection of foreign and domestic spirits.
The Cocktail Bar (Shillong): Ideal for a relaxed evening in Shillong after a day of exploration, this spot is known for its mellow atmosphere and is a great option for those looking to simply enjoy a quiet drink.
The Evening Club: A popular weekend spot in Shillong, particularly noted for hosting excellent live music events and serving drinks, making it a favorite for music lovers.
Mikado Lounge: Operating as a fine-dining restaurant during the week, this venue in Shillong transforms into a party hotspot on the weekends, featuring DJs and local musicians from across the Northeast.
Wink (Vivanta Meghalaya): This stylish hotel bar in the Police Bazar area of Shillong offers a sophisticated environment for drinks, including a curated bar menu with classic and signature cocktails.
The Lounge At Tripura Castle: Located within the heritage Tripura Castle in Cleve Colony, Shillong, this bar offers a regal and intimate atmosphere for enjoying premium drinks in a setting steeped in history.
8N8 Restaurant & Members Lounge: Found in Kohima, Nagaland, this spot is known for its diverse menu and inviting ambiance, offering a pleasant setting for enjoying drinks and a taste of local Naga flavors.
Dorsia Lounge: A premier lounge located on Thangmeiband Road in Imphal, Manipur, known for its vibrant nightlife, good music, and eclectic drink menu, making it a popular spot for socializing.
UNDERGROUND SPORTS LOUNGE: Situated in Imphal, Manipur, this lounge blends a sports theme with a lively nightlife experience, featuring flavorful cuisine, a variety of drinks, and often live music in a dynamic atmosphere.
THE HUB: Located in Imphal, Manipur, this venue functions as both a bar and café, offering a perfect blend of a relaxed café setting and a vibrant social space for drinks and conversation.
Blue Diamond Bar: A well-known bar situated in Lahorijan, near Dimapur, Nagaland, this local favorite offers a straightforward and lively atmosphere for drinks and is often a starting point for a night out.
Royal Bar (Imphal): Known for its focus on authentic Manipuri flavors in its food offerings, the bar section of this establishment in Imphal provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for traditional and modern drinks.
The Upstairs Lounge & Cafe: Offering a serene ambiance in Imphal, Manipur, this spot is a more laid-back retreat for travelers and locals to enjoy refreshing drinks and light snacks in a cozy setting.
Tango Restro Bar & Lounge: A part-bar, part-discotheque located in the O.B. Shopping Mall in Shillong’s Police Bazar. Tango is a primary nightlife hub, well-known for hosting live events, performances, and parties with a mix of commercial music.
Deja Vu: A happening nightclub in Shillong, popular with locals for its buzzing vibe, cool interiors, and being one of the go-to places for a Friday or weekend night out, sometimes featuring local musician performances.
Platinum: A perfect example of the buzzing nightlife in Shillong, this centrally located spot comes to life every evening as locals gather to party and dance.
Roku Restro Lounge & Bar: A lively lounge and bar on Demseiñ-Ïong in Shillong, which offers a strong nightlife experience, known for its good music and vibrant crowd, especially on weekends.
Genx Club: A popular nightclub in Imphal, Manipur, known for its high energy and being a central spot for party-goers to dance to contemporary music.
Juvenile Club Salam: A recognized nightclub in the Lamsang area of Imphal, Manipur, offering a destination for dancing and a lively night scene slightly outside the immediate city center.
Club Heaven: A major nightlife spot in Naharlagun, near Itanagar, which serves the tri-state area crowd. Club Heaven is known for being a vibrant venue with regular DJ nights and a dance-focused atmosphere.
Night Life Disco: A dedicated discotheque in the Demsei – Ong area of Shillong, which is a classic spot for dancing and a late-night party experience.
The Yeastern Civilization (TYC): Often referred to in local nightlife discussions, TYC is a popular spot in the Laitumkhrah area of Shillong, combining good food with a lively atmosphere and music, particularly active on weekends.
Hangout Lounge: Located in the NST Colony of Dimapur, Nagaland, this lounge often hosts lively events and attracts a crowd looking for a vibrant evening with music and drinks in Nagaland’s commercial center.