12 Best Places to Visit in Northeast India in May

If you’re dreaming of mist-covered mountains, rhododendron-lined trails, and cultures untouched by time. Northeast India in May is where you’ll find it all. As summer scorches much of the Indian subcontinent. Northeast offers lush valleys, fresh rivers, cool weather, and low crowds. Whether you’re into trekking, cultural exploration, or slow travel in peaceful villages, this region is at its finest just before the monsoon arrives.

From the monasteries of Arunachal to the caves of Meghalaya, each of these destinations invites you to witness the Northeast in its most vibrant and alive form. Here are 12 handpicked places to visit in May—starting with the best of hills, lakes, and nature escapes.

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1. Ziro – Arunachal Pradesh

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Northeast India in May is Ziro, a tranquil valley cradled by pine-covered hills and endless rice fields. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and every corner feels like a painting. The cool breeze, open skies, and soothing green landscapes make Ziro a perfect escape from the summer heat. Whether you’re wandering through charming Apatani tribal villages or simply watching the clouds drift over the valley, Ziro offers peace and authenticity. It’s not just about sights—it’s a feeling. And if you love nature, there are trails and hidden viewpoints to explore.

Places To Visit In Ziro: Apatani Villages, Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Ziro Puto Hill
Things To Do In Ziro: Walk through rice fields, experience Apatani culture, trek forest trails
How To Reach Ziro: Nearest airport: Lilabari (Assam), Nearest railway station: Naharlagun; road connectivity from Itanagar

2. Tawang – Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang is one of those magical destinations where snow still clings to the peaks evenNortheast India in May, and prayer flags flutter in the crisp mountain wind. Nestled high in the Eastern Himalayas, this serene town is known for its spiritual energy, dramatic landscapes, and calm, cold air. It’s a place where you can sit in silence at the majestic monastery or take in jaw-dropping views from mountain passes like Sela and Bum La. The journey here is just as beautiful as the destination, with winding roads and frozen lakes adding to the charm.

Places To Visit In Tawang: Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Nuranang Falls, Tawang War Memorial
Things To Do In Tawang: Visit monasteries, explore high-altitude lakes, enjoy scenic drives
How To Reach Tawang: Nearest airport: Tezpur (Assam); then a 10–12 hour road journey via Dirang.

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3. Cherrapunjee – Meghalaya

If you love waterfalls, misty trails, and fresh mountain rain, Cherrapunjee (Sohra) is the place to be in May. The early monsoon arrives gently here, turning every hillside into a green canvas. You’ll find some of the world’s tallest waterfalls cascading from cloud-covered cliffs, and the famous living root bridges glistening in the rain. Despite being known for rainfall, the weather in May is mild, romantic, and perfect for walks through ancient forests.

Places To Visit In Cherrapunjee: Nohkalikai Falls, Arwah Caves, Mawsmai Caves, Double Decker Root Bridge
Things To Do In Cherrapunjee: Trek to living root bridges, explore caves, chase waterfalls
How To Reach Cherrapunjee: Nearest airport: Shillong, then a 2-hour scenic drive

4. Mawlynnong – Meghalaya

Often called the “Cleanest Village in Asia,” Mawlynnong is a quaint hamlet filled with blooming flowers, bamboo walkways, and panoramic views. In May, everything is fresh and alive, with gardens in full bloom and the air scented with rain-kissed earth. It’s a place that feels like a secret garden tucked away in the hills, where you can slow down and take in the simplicity of rural life. Don’t miss the skywalks and treehouses that offer views all the way to Bangladesh.

Places To Visit In Mawlynnong: Living Root Bridge, Balancing Rock, Sky View Tower
Things To Do In Mawlynnong: Walk through the village, enjoy local Khasi meals, view Bangladesh plains
How To Reach Mawlynnong: Nearest airport: Shillong; about 3 hours by road

5. Dawki & Shnongpdeng – Meghalaya

If you’ve ever dreamed of floating on water so clear it feels like air, Dawki in May is your window. Located on the border of India and Bangladesh, Dawki’s Umngot River is in its crystal-clear prime during early summer. Shnongpdeng, a nearby village, is perfect for camping, kayaking, cliff jumping, and stargazing by the riverside. It’s a paradise for water lovers and adventure seekers looking for peace with a thrill.

Places To Visit In Dawki: Umngot River, Dawki Bridge, Shnongpdeng Village
Things To Do In Dawki: Boating, ziplining, riverside camping, kayaking
How To Reach Dawki: Nearest airport: Shillong; about 3.5–4 hours by car

6. Majuli – Assam

Floating gently on the Brahmaputra, Majuli is the world’s largest river island and one of the most peaceful places Northeast India in May. The weather is calm and the landscape is beautifully green. Majuli isn’t just about nature—it’s a spiritual and cultural retreat, with ancient Satras (monasteries), traditional mask-making, and tribal life that feels untouched by time. You won’t find nightlife here—but you’ll find stories, sunsets, and soulful moments.

Places To Visit In Majuli: Kamalabari Satra, Samaguri Satra (mask making), Auniati Satra
Things To Do In Majuli: Explore by bicycle, visit monasteries, experience local art and craft
How To Reach Majuli: Nearest city: Jorhat; then a ferry from Nimati Ghat (about 1 hour)

7. Zuluk – Sikkim

Perched on the winding Old Silk Route in East Sikkim, Zuluk is a hidden gem that offers jaw-dropping views of the eastern Himalayas and the majestic Kanchenjunga range. In May, the skies are clear, and the hillsides are dotted with blooming rhododendrons. The famed zigzag roads, scenic army camps, and untouched mountain silence make this a truly offbeat and unforgettable destination.

Places To Visit In Zuluk: Thambi View Point, Lungthung, Nathang Valley, Gnathang Monastery
Things To Do In Zuluk: Drive the Silk Route, photography, experience high-altitude life
How To Reach Zuluk: Nearest airport: Pakyong or Bagdogra; permits required via Gangtok

8. Aizawl – Mizoram

The capital city of Mizoram, Aizawl, is a beautiful blend of rolling hills, colonial-era churches, and lively street markets. Northeast India in May, the climate is pleasantly cool and perfect for walks along ridge-top viewpoints. The city offers a unique cultural experience with its peaceful Mizo community, handwoven textiles, and breathtaking views from almost every corner.

Places To Visit In Aizawl: Durtlang Hills, Solomon’s Temple, Mizoram State Museum
Things To Do In Aizawl: Explore local markets, sample Mizo cuisine, visit nearby villages
How To Reach Aizawl: Nearest airport: Lengpui Airport (Aizawl); good road connections to Silchar

9. Dirang – Arunachal Pradesh

Dirang is a charming hill town often overshadowed by its neighbor, Tawang. But Northeast India May, Dirang shines with pleasant weather, misty hills, and peaceful monasteries. The views of the Dirang River and the gentle pace of life make it ideal for travelers looking for serenity before continuing higher into the Himalayas.

Places To Visit In Dirang: Dirang Dzong, Sangti Valley, Kalachakra Gompa
Things To Do In Dirang: Birdwatching, monastery visits, relax by the riverside
How To Reach Dirang: Accessible by road from Tezpur or Bomdila; en route to Tawang

10. Khonoma – Nagaland

Nestled in the hills near Kohima Nagaland, Khonoma is India’s first green village, where conservation meets cultural legacy. Known for its warrior history and eco-friendly practices, the village is covered in lush terraces and surrounded by forested hills. May is a lovely time to walk through the fields, meet Angami elders, and stay in heritage homes.

Places To Visit In Khonoma: Khonoma Nature Conservation Village, local fort ruins, terraced farms
Things To Do In Khonoma: Village walks, storytelling sessions, eco-tours
How To Reach Khonoma: Nearest airport: Dimapur; about 3 hours by road from Kohima

11. Sibsagar – Assam

For history buffs and lovers of quiet heritage towns, Sibsagar is a great May getaway. Once the capital of the Ahom dynasty, it’s filled with grand temples, ancient tanks (man-made lakes), and colonial architecture. The peaceful surroundings and historical richness make it perfect for a short cultural retreat.

Places To Visit In Sibsagar: Rang Ghar, Talatal Ghar, Sivasagar Tank, Shivadol Temple.
Things To Do In Sibsagar: Heritage walks, temple visits, learn about the Ahom kingdom.
How To Reach Sibsagar: Nearest airport: Jorhat; connected by train and road to Guwahati.

12. Pelling – Sikkim

With views of Kanchenjunga so close you feel. You could reach out and touch them, Pelling is a gem in West Sikkim. In May, the weather is crisp, rhododendrons still bloom in the higher reaches, and the mountain air is invigorating. It’s the perfect place for peaceful mornings, monastery visits, and exploring nature trails.

Places To Visit In Pelling: Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Sky Walk, Kanchenjunga Falls.
Things To Do In Pelling: Sunrise watching, monastery hopping, hiking through pine forests.
How To Reach Pelling: Nearest airport: Bagdogra; connected by road via Gangtok or Siliguri.

Conclusion

From the peaceful monasteries of Arunachal Pradesh to the living root bridges of Meghalaya. Charm of Northeast India in May lies in its raw, unspoiled beauty and soulful simplicity. With cool weather, light rains, and fewer crowds. This is one of the best times to connect with nature, culture, and yourself.

Whether you want to float on crystal-clear rivers, walk through cloud-kissed villages. Sit in silence on a mountain pass, these 17 places will leave you with stories you’ll want to tell forever.

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