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AI-MarcoPolo
01 Dec 2025
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Solo NE India Highlights

Solo Northeast India — 10 Places in 10 Days

Explore the majestic landscapes, rich cultures and unique ecosystems of India’s Northeast on a solo journey tailored for hikers and nature lovers. Begin with spiritual calm at Tawang Monastery, then wander the pine-clad terraces of Ziro Valley and seek wildlife at Kaziranga’s world-class safaris. Experience serene waters at Dawki’s Umngot River, witness thunderous beauty at Cherrapunji’s Nohkalikai viewpoint, and trek to the miraculous Living Root Bridges of Nongriat. Discover Majuli’s riverine culture and crafts, venture into the biodiverse wilderness of Namdapha from Miao, hike the floral meadows of Dzukou Valley, and finish with panoramic views from Shillong Peak. This flexible-budget itinerary emphasizes hiking, photography and immersive cultural encounters with vegetarian-friendly options along the way.

Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Tawang Monastery

    One of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India set against dramatic Himalayan scenery; offers rich cultural and spiritual experiences including prayer ceremonies, ancient murals and monastic life, plus panoramic views and trekking nearby.
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  • Trip Point Pin2

    Ziro Valley

    Renowned for its striking pine-covered landscapes and rice-terraced hills, Ziro is a cultural hub of the Apatani tribe with unique traditions, handicrafts and festivals; ideal for hiking, photography and experiencing rural Northeast India away from crowds.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Kaziranga National Park

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for the greatest population of the Indian one-horned rhinoceros; excellent wildlife safaris (jeep and elephant) provide opportunities to see rhinos, Asian elephants, wild water buffalo, swamp deer and diverse birdlife in a protected riverine ecosystem.
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  • Trip Point Pin4

    Umngot River (Dawki)

    Famed for its crystal-clear emerald waters where boats appear to float on air, Umngot River offers serene riverboat rides, spectacular photography opportunities and a peaceful riverside atmosphere ideal for nature lovers and solo travelers seeking calm and scenic beauty.
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  • Trip Point Pin5

    Cherrapunji (Nohkalikai Falls viewpoint)

    Home to one of India’s tallest plunge waterfalls, the Nohkalikai viewpoint provides dramatic cliff-top vistas of thunderous falls plunging into a deep green gorge — a must-see for awe-inspiring landscapes, monsoon scenery and short scenic walks.
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  • Trip Point Pin6

    Living Root Bridges (Nongriat)

    Unique bioengineered bridges crafted from the living roots of rubber trees by local Khasi communities; trekking to Nongriat through lush forest and waterfalls culminates in crossing ancient, living bridges — a one-of-a-kind ecological and cultural experience ideal for hikers and photographers.
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  • Trip Point Pin7

    Majuli Island

    The world’s largest river island and a cultural heart of Assamese neo-Vaishnavite traditions; Majuli offers immersive experiences of satras (monastic cultural centers), vibrant handloom and pottery crafts, tranquil riverine landscapes and birdwatching—perfect for slow, reflective exploration.
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  • Trip Point Pin8

    Namdapha National Park (Miao area)

    A remote, biodiverse wilderness in eastern Arunachal Pradesh renowned for rare mammals (clouded leopards, snow leopards reported historically, hoolock gibbons), dense tropical rainforests and pristine trekking routes; ideal for adventurous solo travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path wildlife and nature expeditions.
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  • Trip Point Pin9

    Dzukou Valley

    A high-altitude valley on the Nagaland–Manipur border famous for seasonal carpets of wildflowers (including the rare Dzukou lily), rolling green meadows, clear streams and panoramic trekking trails—offering peaceful alpine scenery and excellent hiking opportunities for nature lovers.
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  • Trip Point Pin10

    Shillong Peak

    The highest point around Shillong offering sweeping panoramic views of the city, surrounding hills and Umiam Lake; it's an easy visit for sunrise or sunset vistas, photography, short walks, and to appreciate the cool hill-climate and scenic outlooks that showcase Meghalaya’s misty landscapes.
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Restaurants

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    Cornerstone Café (Shillong)

    3.9

    Cornerstone Café (Shillong)

    Popular casual spot for continental and local vegetarian-friendly dishes, good coffee and relaxed ambience—great for breakfast or a light meal before exploring Shillong.
    3.9
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    D’Licious Veg Restaurant (Guwahati)

    4.5

    D’Licious Veg Restaurant (Guwahati)

    Vegetarian-friendly restaurant offering a variety of Indian and Indo-Chinese options—convenient and budget-friendly for travelers heading to Kaziranga or the rest of Assam.
    4.5
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    Café Ziro (Ziro Valley)

    4.4

    Café Ziro (Ziro Valley)

    Local café favored by visitors for simple, home-style vegetarian meals and snacks—good base for day hikes and meeting other travelers in Ziro.
    4.4
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    The Old Coffee House (Tawang)

    4.5

    The Old Coffee House (Tawang)

    A cozy spot near the monastery serving simple vegetarian fare and hot beverages—useful for warming up after temple visits and short treks around Tawang.
    4.5
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    Majuli Café (Majuli Island)

    4.8

    Majuli Café (Majuli Island)

    Community-run café offering traditional Assamese vegetarian dishes and snacks using local produce—ideal for experiencing Majuli’s culinary culture in a relaxed riverside setting.
    4.8
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Hotels

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    Tawang View Hotel (Tawang)

    3.7

    Tawang View Hotel (Tawang)

    Comfortable stay close to Tawang Monastery with panoramic Himalayan views and warm local hospitality—good base for cultural visits and nearby treks.
    3.7
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    Hotel Nariin (Ziro)

    4

    Hotel Nariin (Ziro)

    A popular mid-range option in Ziro offering cozy rooms and easy access to Ziro Valley viewpoints and village trails—convenient for exploring Apatani culture and hikes.
    4
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    Diphlu River Lodge (near Kaziranga)

    4.5

    Diphlu River Lodge (near Kaziranga)

    Lodge-style accommodation near Kaziranga National Park providing wildlife-friendly guided safaris and close proximity to park entrances—ideal for early-morning wildlife excursions.
    4.5
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    Dawki Eco Homestay (Dawki)

    4.8

    Dawki Eco Homestay (Dawki)

    Simple riverside homestay near Umngot River offering direct access to boat rides and scenic river views—great for peaceful stays and photography at the crystal-clear waters.
    4.8
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    Shillong Peak View Hotel (Shillong)

    4.4

    Shillong Peak View Hotel (Shillong)

    Conveniently located for easy trips to Shillong Peak and local markets; comfortable rooms, helpful staff and a good launching point for day hikes in Meghalaya.
    4.4
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Local Events & Happenings

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Don't forget to visit the Root Bridge and Dawki there. Then after 2-3 days in Shillong, come back to Guwahati and travel to Tawang in Arunachal. Stay there and visit places th...

    Help me plan a trip to the North East

    Don't forget to visit the Root Bridge and Dawki there. Then after 2-3 days in Shillong, come back to Guwahati and travel to Tawang in Arunachal. Stay there and visit places th...

    /r/indiasocial
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  • Reddit Icon

    Spent a month in Northeast a couple of years ago. I would say split your days in 2-3 states if you really want to see the place. First meghalaya, covering shillong, cherrapunj...

    Best 10 day itinerary for North East India?

    Spent a month in Northeast a couple of years ago. I would say split your days in 2-3 states if you really want to see the place. First meghalaya, covering shillong, cherrapunj...

    /r/india
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  • Reddit Icon

    Tawang is in Arunachal Pradesh and it sits near the China and Bhutan international border, it has the second largest budhhist monastery. It's a must visit for a proper backpac...

    Travel recommendations for North-East India

    Tawang is in Arunachal Pradesh and it sits near the China and Bhutan international border, it has the second largest budhhist monastery. It's a must visit for a proper backpac...

    /r/Northeastindia
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  • Reddit Icon

    From guw you will get direct train ... and helpful here though take care of your stuff. And try to always carry raincoat/umbrella and a thin light sweater for shillong/tawang....

    Need advice for Solo travel to Northeast in India

    From guw you will get direct train ... and helpful here though take care of your stuff. And try to always carry raincoat/umbrella and a thin light sweater for shillong/tawang....

    /r/india
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    You can also go to Arunachal Pradesh. You can visit places like Roing and Ziro from Jorhat. Or you can go to Bomdila and Tawang through Tezpur. Beware that the road to Tawang ...

    Visiting the North East this Dec. What are some do's and dont's?

    You can also go to Arunachal Pradesh. You can visit places like Roing and Ziro from Jorhat. Or you can go to Bomdila and Tawang through Tezpur. Beware that the road to Tawang ...

    /r/india
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Darjeeling, Sikkim will be noice trip you have very good number of days so you guys can even go up till Sandakphu too or if you don't like climbing that high altitude sta...

    20 day trip to North-East

    Darjeeling, Sikkim will be noice trip you have very good number of days so you guys can even go up till Sandakphu too or if you don't like climbing that high altitude sta...

    /r/india_tourism
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  • Reddit Icon

    But as foreigner one needs permit. As solo, you can visit Ziro, Itanagar and Tawang. If you want to go further, ask, and they may add you to other groups permits allowing you ...

    There is an entire region in North East in India which many tourist convinently forget

    But as foreigner one needs permit. As solo, you can visit Ziro, Itanagar and Tawang. If you want to go further, ask, and they may add you to other groups permits allowing you ...

    /r/travel
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Assam - Kaziranga National Park, Kamakhya Temple, Umananda island, Sivasagar(has monuments of Ahom kingdom), Haflong(hill station). ... Meghalaya - Cherrapunji, Mawlynlong(Asi...

    Is there any advice for a lone trip to northeast India?

    Assam - Kaziranga National Park, Kamakhya Temple, Umananda island, Sivasagar(has monuments of Ahom kingdom), Haflong(hill station). ... Meghalaya - Cherrapunji, Mawlynlong(Asi...

    /r/assam
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  • Reddit Icon

    Then after that rent a taxi to kaziranga or take a Bus at khanapara to Kaziranga. Choose a hotel there and spend the night.

    Is it worth it to visit kaziranga national park solo?

    Then after that rent a taxi to kaziranga or take a Bus at khanapara to Kaziranga. Choose a hotel there and spend the night.

    /r/assam
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Keep an eye on weather conditions, and a plan B. Enjoy your trip. I have been to meghalaya, Assam, and wanted to go to Tawang + nagaland this month, but had to hold because of...

    First solo trip to NE, scared and excited

    Keep an eye on weather conditions, and a plan B. Enjoy your trip. I have been to meghalaya, Assam, and wanted to go to Tawang + nagaland this month, but had to hold because of...

    /r/SoloTravel_India
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    I didn't trek dzukou but i can provide info...from dimapur to kohima taxi fare 300-350 INR.You will find shared taxi outside dimapur railway station and if you wanna take...

    Requesting answers to some questions regarding solo trek/hike to Dzukou Valley in early April

    I didn't trek dzukou but i can provide info...from dimapur to kohima taxi fare 300-350 INR.You will find shared taxi outside dimapur railway station and if you wanna take...

    /r/assam
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  • Reddit Icon

    I went on a 2 day trek in Nagaland so for that one I can suggest you ideas. I did the Dzukou Valley trek and went with a tour group called Wild Hill Adventure. They are afford...

    Nagaland - advice/recommendations for solp travel

    I went on a 2 day trek in Nagaland so for that one I can suggest you ideas. I did the Dzukou Valley trek and went with a tour group called Wild Hill Adventure. They are afford...

    /r/SoloTravel_India
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  • Reddit Icon

    I suggest visiting Ziro valley. It's not far from the Capital Itanagar. And also you can explore the whole valley within a day. Hotels and homestays are widely available....

    Planning a 12-day chill NE trip with my parents need your recs!

    I suggest visiting Ziro valley. It's not far from the Capital Itanagar. And also you can explore the whole valley within a day. Hotels and homestays are widely available....

    /r/Northeastindia
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    You have dozens of options in Uttarakhand, Himachal, Varanasi and J&K if youre from up north. Likewise, Goa, Kodaikanal, Hampi, Varkala, Munnar, Coorg are among the many optio...

    If someone has to start solo travellingwhat is the best place to start in India?

    You have dozens of options in Uttarakhand, Himachal, Varanasi and J&K if youre from up north. Likewise, Goa, Kodaikanal, Hampi, Varkala, Munnar, Coorg are among the many optio...

    /r/SoloTravel_India
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    First things first, would suggest not to visit next month as well. October is better since the rainy season is over. Arunachals Tawang and nearby locations are really good. Yo...

    Suggest me some beautiful travel destination in Nort East India

    First things first, would suggest not to visit next month as well. October is better since the rainy season is over. Arunachals Tawang and nearby locations are really good. Yo...

    /r/desitravellers
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    [OC] We are a instagram travel couple, we took a trip through Manipur, Nagaland, and Meghalaya two years ago. We went to Nagaland primarily for the Dzukou Valley trek. Initial...

    One day trek to Dzukou Valley, Nagaland (Details in comments)

    [OC] We are a instagram travel couple, we took a trip through Manipur, Nagaland, and Meghalaya two years ago. We went to Nagaland primarily for the Dzukou Valley trek. Initial...

    /r/india_tourism
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    Assam and Meghalaya are a pretty great idea to explore NE India. You'll definitely find enough to keep yourself busy for 2 weeks. If you are interested in wildlife, Kaziranga ...

    Two Weeks in Northeast India - Help with Itinerary

    Assam and Meghalaya are a pretty great idea to explore NE India. You'll definitely find enough to keep yourself busy for 2 weeks. If you are interested in wildlife, Kaziranga ...

    /r/solotravel
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    If you're considering Ziro instead, the ride is much easier. You can rent a bike or a shared sumo service and explore on your own. The drive from Itanagar to Ziro takes a...

    Solo travel itinerary review

    If you're considering Ziro instead, the ride is much easier. You can rent a bike or a shared sumo service and explore on your own. The drive from Itanagar to Ziro takes a...

    /r/ArunachalPradesh
    View on RedditView on Reddit
  • Reddit Icon

    My north east trip was spanned across 2 separate years (1 year for Meghalaya and Assam including Majuli island) and another year for Sikkim (north sikkim and pelling).

    2 Weeks around North East India

    My north east trip was spanned across 2 separate years (1 year for Meghalaya and Assam including Majuli island) and another year for Sikkim (north sikkim and pelling).

    /r/SoloTravel_India
    View on RedditView on Reddit

Music for Your Journey

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    Foo Fighters - Everlong - Acoustic Version

    Foo Fighters - Everlong - Acoustic Version

    Uplifting, intimate acoustic version perfect for quiet drives through misty hills and reflective moments at viewpoints.
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    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros - Home

    Warm, folk-infused track that complements riverine landscapes and the feeling of finding calm in remote places.
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  • Music Icon

    Bon Iver - Holocene

    Bon Iver - Holocene

    Ambient, contemplative song ideal for long hikes and taking in expansive natural vistas.
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  • Music Icon

    Angus & Julia Stone - Big Jet Plane

    Angus & Julia Stone - Big Jet Plane

    Laid-back, travel-themed melody that suits relaxed evenings and gentle road stretches between towns.
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    The Head And The Heart - Rivers and Roads

    The Head And The Heart - Rivers and Roads

    Emotional, piano-led track fitting for solitary travel and moments of longing or personal reflection.
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    Van Morrison - Into the Mystic - 2013 Remaster

    Van Morrison - Into the Mystic - 2013 Remaster

    Soulful, timeless tune that enhances scenes of mist, rivers and the older cultural rhythms you’ll encounter.
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  • Music Icon

    SZA - Saturn

    SZA - Saturn

    Dreamy, atmospheric piece that pairs well with starry skies and tranquil nights in remote guesthouses.
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  • Music Icon

    Of Monsters and Men - Mountain Sound

    Of Monsters and Men - Mountain Sound

    Energetic indie-folk with an uplifting chorus, great for hiking and reaching scenic summits.
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  • Music Icon

    Sia - Breathe Me

    Sia - Breathe Me

    Haunting, emotive track suited to reflective solo moments after a long day of trekking or wildlife watching.
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    Portishead - Roads

    Portishead - Roads

    Minimal, evocative song that captures the solitude and wonder of long-distance travel through changing landscapes.
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