15 Popular Trekking in North East India – Ultimate Guide 2026

The North East of India, a region of misty mountains, dense forests, and vibrant cultures, offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. For those with a spirit of adventure, it is a paradise waiting to be explored on foot. This part of the Himalayas remains relatively untouched, providing a raw and authentic experience that is hard to find elsewhere. The diverse terrain, ranging from gentle hills to challenging high-altitude passes, makes trekking in North East India an activity suitable for everyone, from absolute beginners to seasoned mountaineers.

This guide will walk you through 15 of the most popular treks in this enchanting region. We will cover everything you need to know, from the rhododendron-filled trails of Sikkim to the remote valleys of Arunachal Pradesh. Whether you are seeking solitude, cultural immersion, or a pure adrenaline rush, the experience of trekking in North East India promises unforgettable memories. Get ready to discover trails that lead you through ancient monasteries, tribal villages, and pristine natural beauty.

1. Goecha La Trek, Sikkim

The Goecha La trek is arguably the crown jewel of Sikkim trekking, offering grand views of the mighty Kanchenjunga. This trail takes you through vibrant rhododendron forests, lush meadows, and past serene lakes, making it a complete Himalayan adventure.

• Location: West Sikkim
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Ideal Duration: 9–11 days
• Best Season: April to May and September to November
• Maximum Altitude: 4,940 m (16,207 ft)

Key Highlights

• Spectacular sunrise views over the Kanchenjunga range.
• Walking alongside the pristine Samiti Lake.
• Trekking through the dense Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Trail Overview

The journey begins at Yuksom, the historical first capital of Sikkim. The path gradually ascends through forests of oak, pine, and magnolia. You will pass through scenic spots like Sachen, Tshoka, and Dzongri. The highlight for many is the Dzongri viewpoint, which offers a 180-degree panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks. The final push to Goecha La viewpoint is challenging but incredibly rewarding, as you stand face-to-face with the third-highest mountain in the world. This is a quintessential experience for anyone interested in high-altitude trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

The nearest airport is Pakyong (PKY) in Sikkim or Bagdogra (IXB) in West Bengal. The closest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP). From there, you can hire a taxi to reach Yuksom, which takes about 6–7 hours.

Permits and Safety

• A permit from the Sikkim government is mandatory. This can be arranged through a registered tour operator.
• Proper acclimatisation is crucial due to the high altitude.
• Always trek with a certified guide.

Also Read: Top 5 Hill Stations in South India You Must Visit in 2026

2. Sandakphu Phalut Trek, Sikkim/West Bengal Border

While a part of this trek lies in West Bengal, its gateway and cultural feel are deeply connected to the North East. It’s famous for offering views of four of the world’s five highest peaks: Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.

• Location: Darjeeling district, bordering Sikkim
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Ideal Duration: 6–7 days
• Best Season: March to May and October to December
• Maximum Altitude: 3,636 m (11,929 ft)

Key Highlights

• The “Sleeping Buddha” formation of the Kanchenjunga range.
• Views of Mount Everest on a clear day.
• Charming trail that passes through Nepal and India.

Trail Overview

The trek usually starts from Manebhanjan. The trail winds through forests of rhododendron and magnolia, which are in full bloom during spring. You will pass through small villages like Tumling, Kalipokhri, and Gorkhey, staying in quaint tea houses along the way. The summit of Sandakphu offers a surreal sunrise experience. From there, the trail extends to Phalut for even more expansive views before descending. This route is a great introduction to Himalayan trekking in North East India for those with a decent fitness level.

How to Reach

Reach New Jalpaiguri (NJP) by train or Bagdogra (IXB) by flight. From there, it’s a 4-hour drive to Manebhanjan.

Permits and Safety

• Permits are required for entering the Singalila National Park.
• Carry your ID proof, as you will cross the Indo-Nepal border multiple times.
• The trail is well-marked, but a guide is recommended.

3. Dzukou Valley Trek, Nagaland/Manipur Border

Known as the “Valley of Flowers of the North East,” Dzukou Valley is a paradise of rolling green hills and seasonal flowers. The Dzukou Lily, a rare flower, is found only here.

• Location: Border of Nagaland and Manipur
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Ideal Duration: 3–4 days
• Best Season: June to September (for flowers) and October to March (for clear views)
• Maximum Altitude: 2,452 m (8,045 ft)

Key Highlights

• The unique, undulating landscape of the valley floor.
• Blooming rhododendrons and lilies during the monsoon.
• Camping under a star-studded sky in the valley.

Trail Overview

There are two main routes to enter the valley: from Jakhama or Viswema in Nagaland. The trail from Viswema is easier, involving a vehicle ride followed by a 2-3 hour trek. The path from Jakhama is steeper but more scenic. Once you reach the valley rim, a gentle walk takes you down to the main valley floor where you can camp or stay in a basic guesthouse. Exploring the valley is a peaceful experience, making it a unique option for trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

The nearest airport and railway station are in Dimapur, Nagaland. From Dimapur, it’s a 3–4 hour drive to Kohima, which serves as the base for the trek.

Permits and Safety

• An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indian tourists entering Nagaland.
• The weather can change quickly; carry waterproof gear.
• It’s wise to hire a local guide from Kohima or the nearby villages.

Also Read: Top 20 Wildlife Sanctuary in India You Must Visit

4. Bailey Trail Trek, Arunachal Pradesh

This historic trail follows the path of British officers Bailey and Morshead, who explored this route in 1911. It connects the beautiful regions of Dirang and Tawang, offering stunning mountain views and cultural insights.

• Location: West Kameng and Tawang districts, Arunachal Pradesh
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Ideal Duration: 10–12 days
• Best Season: May to June and September to October
• Maximum Altitude: 4,900 m (16,076 ft)

Key Highlights

• Stunning views of Gorichen and Kangto peaks.
• Crossing the 4,550 m Tulung La pass.
• Exploring the Monpa culture and ancient monasteries.

Trail Overview

The trek starts from Dirang and passes through remote Monpa villages, dense coniferous forests, and high-altitude passes. The trail is challenging, involving long walking days and steep ascents. You will cross several rivers and camp in pristine alpine meadows. The journey culminates in Tawang, home to the famous Tawang Monastery. This expedition offers a deep dive into the raw beauty and culture of Arunachal, a special aspect of trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

The nearest major airport is in Guwahati, Assam. From Guwahati, you can travel by road to Dirang, which takes about 10–12 hours.

Permits and Safety

• A Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreigners or an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indians is mandatory.
• This is a remote trek, and you must go with a registered and experienced tour agency.
• A high level of fitness and prior trekking experience are required.

5. Beyul of Pemako Trek, Arunachal Pradesh

This is not just a trek; it is a pilgrimage to one of the most sacred “hidden lands” in Tibetan Buddhism. The journey to the heart of Pemako is a true wilderness expedition, meant for the most adventurous souls.

• Location: Upper Siang, Arunachal Pradesh
• Difficulty: Very Difficult
• Ideal Duration: 15–20 days
• Best Season: October to November
• Maximum Altitude: Approx. 4,500 m (14,763 ft)

Key Highlights

• Exploring a sacred hidden land of Tibetan Buddhism.
• Navigating through dense, untouched tropical forests.
• Witnessing the mighty Siang River (Brahmaputra) gorge.

Trail Overview

This is an exploratory trek that requires crossing treacherous terrain, dense jungles, and raging rivers. The trail is not well-defined, and you will rely heavily on the expertise of your local guides. The journey involves navigating through the land of the Adi tribe. This trek is the pinnacle of exploratory trekking in North East India, offering a profound connection with nature and spirituality.

How to Reach

Reach Dibrugarh or Pasighat in Assam/Arunachal by flight. From there, a long road journey takes you to the starting point of the trek near Tuting.

Permits and Safety

• Special permits are required, including PAP/ILP and potentially others from local authorities.
• This trek should only be attempted with a highly reputable and experienced expedition company.
• Excellent physical and mental fitness is non-negotiable.

Also Read: Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India – Updated List in 2025

6. Singalila Ridge Trek, Sikkim

Often confused with the Sandakphu trek due to the shared ridge, the Sikkim Singalila trek offers a different, more remote experience. It takes you deeper into the ridge from a Sikkimese entry point.

• Location: West Sikkim
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Ideal Duration: 8–10 days
• Best Season: April to May and October to November
• Maximum Altitude: 3,690 m (12,106 ft)

Key Highlights

• Uninterrupted views of the Kanchenjunga and Everest ranges.
• Walking through pristine forests of the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary.
• Fewer crowds compared to the West Bengal side.

Trail Overview

The trek usually starts from Uttarey in West Sikkim. The trail climbs through dense forests, offering a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. You will camp at scenic spots like Chewa Bhanjyang, Dhor, and Kalijhar. The ridge walk provides continuous panoramic views of the Himalayas. The journey combines natural beauty with the serene experience of trekking in North East India. It concludes in a village like Hee or Bermiok.

How to Reach

Fly into Pakyong (PKY) or Bagdogra (IXB) or take a train to NJP. Drive to Uttarey, which is about 6–7 hours from NJP.

Permits and Safety

• A trekking permit from Sikkim authorities is needed.
• The ridge is known for strong winds; be prepared with appropriate clothing.
• A local guide is essential for navigation and safety.

7. Namdapha Rainforest Trek, Arunachal Pradesh

Trek through one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. Namdapha National Park is unique as it has four big cat species (tiger, leopard, clouded leopard, and snow leopard) and is a haven for birdwatchers.

• Location: Changlang district, Arunachal Pradesh
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Ideal Duration: 7–9 days
• Best Season: November to March
• Maximum Altitude: Approx. 1,500 m (4,921 ft)

Key Highlights

• Experiencing a true tropical rainforest ecosystem.
• High chances of spotting rare wildlife, including the Hoolock Gibbon.
• Camping by the river and living a rustic life.

Trail Overview

The trek begins from Deban, inside the park. The trail is often muddy and involves multiple river crossings. You will walk through a dense canopy, listening to the sounds of the jungle. The route goes deep into the forest to places like Hornbill Camp, Firmbase, and beyond. This is not a high-altitude trek but a challenging jungle expedition, offering a different flavour of trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

The nearest airport is in Dibrugarh, Assam. From there, drive to Miao, the entry town for Namdapha. The journey takes about 4–5 hours.

Permits and Safety

• ILP/PAP is required for Arunachal Pradesh, plus a separate permit for the national park.
• Leeches are common, especially after rain. Carry leech socks and salt.
• The jungle is dense; never venture out without your guide.

8. Dzongri Trek, Sikkim

For those short on time but still wanting a taste of the Kanchenjunga magic, the Dzongri Trek is a perfect choice. It is essentially the first half of the Goecha La trek.

• Location: West Sikkim
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Ideal Duration: 5–6 days
• Best Season: March to June and September to November
• Maximum Altitude: 4,020 m (13,189 ft)

Key Highlights

• Stunning panoramic views from Dzongri Top.
• A short trek that offers a high-altitude experience.
• Passes through the beautiful village of Tshoka.

Trail Overview

Starting from Yuksom, the trail is the same as the Goecha La route. You ascend through lush forests to Tshoka, a charming Tibetan refugee settlement. From there, a steep climb takes you to Phedang and then to Dzongri. The main attraction is an early morning hike to Dzongri Top to witness a magnificent sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range. The trek then retraces its path back to Yuksom. For many, this is their first foray into trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

Same as Goecha La Trek: Reach Yuksom from NJP/Bagdogra.

Permits and Safety

• Sikkim trekking permit is mandatory and arranged by your operator.
• Acclimatisation is important even on this shorter trek.
• Stay hydrated and ascend slowly.

9. Mechuka Valley Trek, Arunachal Pradesh

Mechuka is known as the “Forbidden Valley” of Arunachal. This gentle trek takes you around the stunning valley, through serene villages and along the banks of the Siyom River.

• Location: Shi-Yomi district, Arunachal Pradesh
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ideal Duration: 4–5 days
• Best Season: October to March
• Maximum Altitude: 1,829 m (6,000 ft)

Key Highlights

• The surreal beauty of the Mechuka Valley with its grazing horses.
• Visiting the 400-year-old Samten Yongcha Monastery.
• Experiencing the culture of the Memba tribe.

Trail Overview

This is less of a trek and more of a series of long walks around the valley. You can base yourself in Mechuka town and take day hikes to nearby villages, the monastery, and the river banks. The terrain is mostly flat with gentle slopes. The main charm lies in the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning landscapes. It’s a great option for families and those new to trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

The nearest airport is in Pasighat. From there, it’s a long but scenic drive to Mechuka. Alternatively, fly to Dibrugarh and drive via Aalo.

Permits and Safety

• ILP/PAP is required to enter Arunachal Pradesh.
• The trails are easy to navigate, but a local guide can enhance the cultural experience.
• Respect local customs and traditions.

10. Thembang Trek, Arunachal Pradesh

This trek is a journey into a hidden heritage. Thembang is a fortified village nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status, and the trek explores the ancient routes used by the local Monpa community.

• Location: West Kameng, Arunachal Pradesh
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Ideal Duration: 6–7 days
• Best Season: October to April
• Maximum Altitude: 3,250 m (10,662 ft)

Key Highlights

• Staying in the ancient fortified village of Thembang.
• Walking through trails used by local shepherds.
• High chance of spotting the Red Panda in the surrounding forests.

Trail Overview

The trek starts from Thembang and takes you through other Monpa villages like Semnak and Lagam. The route passes through dense forests, rhododendron patches, and alpine pastures. It is a community-based tourism initiative, so you will stay in village homestays, offering a rich cultural exchange. This trek offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history, making it a fulfilling experience of trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

The nearest airport is in Guwahati. Drive to Bomdila or Dirang, and from there, proceed to Thembang.

Permits and Safety

• ILP/PAP is mandatory.
• The trek is organized by the local community; booking through them is the best way.
• The trails are moderate, but a guide is necessary.

Also Read: Top 8 Wildlife Sanctuary in Tripura You Must Visit

11. Phoktey Dara Trek, Sikkim

Phoktey Dara is a viewpoint on the Singalila Ridge that offers one of the best sunrise and sunset views, with Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga visible together. This is an offbeat and less crowded trail.

• Location: West Sikkim
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Ideal Duration: 4–5 days
• Best Season: March to May and October to December
• Maximum Altitude: 3,733 m (12,247 ft)

Key Highlights

• 360-degree views of the Everest and Kanchenjunga ranges.
• A quieter alternative to the Sandakphu trek.
• Traversing the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary.

Trail Overview

The trek starts from Uttarey village in West Sikkim. The path ascends through beautiful forests to reach the Singalila ridge. You will camp at Achaley or Thulo Dhap before making the final ascent to Phoktey Dara for the sunrise view. The relatively short duration and moderate difficulty make it accessible for many who wish to experience high-Himalayan views. It’s a hidden gem for trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

Reach NJP/Bagdogra and then drive to Uttarey, which takes about 6-7 hours.

Permits and Safety

• A trekking permit is required from Sikkim authorities.
• The ridge can be very cold and windy; carry warm layers.
• Trek with a local operator from Uttarey or Pelling.

12. Reiek Mountain Trek, Mizoram

Reiek Tlang (Mountain) is a popular one-day trek near Aizawl, Mizoram. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and the plains of Bangladesh on a clear day.

• Location: Near Aizawl, Mizoram
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ideal Duration: 1 day
• Best Season: September to May
• Maximum Altitude: 1,465 m (4,806 ft)

Key Highlights

• Stunning cliff-side views from the summit.
• A quick and accessible trek from the state capital.
• Exploring a model Mizo village at the base of the hill.

Trail Overview

The trek starts from Reiek village. The trail is a short but steep climb of about 1-2 hours through a lush, semi-evergreen forest. The path is well-maintained. The summit is a grassy knoll with a sheer cliff on one side, offering dramatic views. This is an ideal trek for those visiting Aizawl and looking for a short adventure. For those exploring Mizoram, this is an easy introduction to the joys of trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

Reiek is about 29 km from Aizawl. You can hire a taxi for a day trip. The nearest airport is in Aizawl (AJL).

Permits and Safety

• An ILP is required for Indian tourists to enter Mizoram.
• The trail is safe, but be careful near the cliff edges at the top.
• Carry water and snacks, as there are no shops on the trail.

13. Japfu Peak Trek, Nagaland

Home to the tallest rhododendron tree in the world, Japfu Peak is the second-highest peak in Nagaland. This challenging trek rewards you with incredible views of the Dzukou Valley and beyond.

• Location: Kohima district, Nagaland
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
• Ideal Duration: 2 days
• Best Season: October to May
• Maximum Altitude: 3,048 m (10,000 ft)

Key Highlights

• Standing on top of Nagaland’s second-highest peak.
• Seeing the giant rhododendron tree, which holds a Guinness World Record.
• Expansive views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Trail Overview

The trek starts from a point near the village of Kigwema. The first part is a steep climb through dense forests. Trekkers usually camp overnight at a base camp. The final ascent to the peak is challenging and involves some scrambling over rocks. The summit is a small, exposed area offering breathtaking 360-degree views. This is a must-do for serious trekkers exploring Nagaland and is an advanced option for trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

The base, Kigwema, is a short drive from Kohima. Reach Kohima from Dimapur airport/railway station.

Permits and Safety

• An ILP is needed to enter Nagaland.
• The final section to the summit is tricky; a guide is essential.
• The trail can be slippery after rain.

Also Read: Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuary in Nagaland You Must Visit

14. Unakoti Hills Trek, Tripura

This is more of a cultural and archaeological walk than a mountain trek. Unakoti is famous for its massive rock-cut carvings and stone images of Hindu deities, dating back centuries.

• Location: Unakoti district, Tripura
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ideal Duration: 1 day
• Best Season: October to April
• Maximum Altitude: Low altitude

Key Highlights

• Witnessing the incredible ancient rock carvings in a jungle setting.
• Learning about the legends and myths associated with the site.
• A gentle walk suitable for all ages.

Trail Overview

The site is a network of paths and stairs that lead you through the forest to different carvings. The central Shiva head, known as ‘Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava’, is about 30 feet high. You can spend a few hours exploring the different sculptures scattered around the hills. It is a unique blend of nature, art, and spirituality, and a very different experience compared to other options for trekking in North East India.

How to Reach

The nearest airport is in Agartala. Unakoti is about 178 km from Agartala and can be reached by road. The nearest railway station is Kumarghat.

Permits and Safety

• No special permits are required for Indian tourists in Tripura.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be climbing some stairs.
• Be mindful of the religious significance of the site.

15. Ziro Valley Treks, Arunachal Pradesh

Ziro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage nominee, is famous for its paddy-cum-pisciculture system and the Apatani tribe. The treks here are gentle walks through pine-clad hills and tribal villages.

• Location: Lower Subansiri district, Arunachal Pradesh
• Difficulty: Easy
• Ideal Duration: 2–3 days
• Best Season: March to October
• Maximum Altitude: 1,800 m (5,905 ft)

Key Highlights

• Interacting with the friendly Apatani people.
• Walking through the unique rice fields and bamboo groves.
• The vibrant Myoko and Dree festivals (check dates).

Trail Overview

The ‘trekking’ in Ziro is about exploring the valley on foot. You can take long walks from Old Ziro to Hong Village, considered one of the largest villages in Asia. Hikes up to the surrounding hills, like the one to Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, offer beautiful views of the entire plateau. These walks provide a deep cultural immersion, making the trekking in North East India experience here quite distinctive. It’s a journey into a living culture.

How to Reach

The nearest airport is at Hollongi (Itanagar). From Itanagar, it’s a 3-4 hour drive to Ziro. Alternatively, you can take a train to Naharlagun and drive from there.

Permits and Safety

• ILP/PAP is required for entry.
• The walks are easy, but a local guide is invaluable for cultural interaction and storytelling.
• Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially the elders.

Conclusion

The North East is a land of endless discovery. From the icy heights of Kanchenjunga to the lush rainforests of Namdapha, the region offers a trekking experience for every kind of adventurer. Each trail is not just a walk through nature but a journey into the heart of ancient cultures, unique traditions, and unparalleled hospitality. The experience of trekking in North East India is about more than just reaching a summit; it’s about the stories you gather, the people you meet, and the pristine landscapes that leave an indelible mark on your soul. These 15 treks are just a starting point to exploring this magnificent corner of the Himalayas.

Ready to plan your adventure? This guide is your perfect starting point. Save it for your reference, share it with your trekking buddies, and start planning your next great escape. For a detailed packing list tailored for Himalayan treks, subscribe to our newsletter and download our ultimate trekking checklist for free! Let the mountains of the North East call you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)