Best time to visit in

North-East

Weather & Temperature

Spring to early summer. Hills (Sikkim, Arunachal, Meghalaya) stay pleasant around 8–20°C; higher passes can still see near-freezing nights in April. Assam plains warm up to 25–34°C with rising humidity (60–85%) and pre-monsoon showers/thunderstorms, especially afternoons and evenings.

What to Expect

Bloom season with rhododendrons and orchids, clearer mornings and hazier afternoons. Roads generally open, though brief storm-related delays are possible. Lively local life but fewer tourists than peak winter; wildlife parks begin winding down by May in flood-prone areas.

Key Events & Festivals

• Rongali (Bohag) Bihu – mid-April, Assam
• Shad Suk Mynsiem – April, Meghalaya
• Aoling Festival – early April, Nagaland
• Moatsu Mong – May, Nagaland
• International Flower Festival – May, Sikkim (Gangtok)
• Saga Dawa – May/June, Sikkim & Buddhist regions
• Ambubachi Mela – late June, Kamakhya, Assam

Recommended Activities

• Valley walks and easy treks (Yumthang, Dzongu, Dzükou)
• Monastery circuits (Rumtek, Pemayangtse, Tawang) before heavy rains
• River rafting on Teesta/Siang (conditions permitting)
• Tea estate stays and factory visits in Assam
• Waterfall-hopping in Meghalaya ahead of peak monsoon
• Birding at Eaglenest/Nameri while migration lingers

Travel Tips

• Carry light layers plus a compact rain shell; weather flips quickly after noon
• Plan outdoor activities early in the day to dodge thunderstorms
• Check closing dates for Kaziranga/Manas (often shut by late May/June)
• Apply in advance for ILP/PAP where required (Arunachal, Nagaland, Manipur; special zones in Sikkim)
• Road works and brief landslides can occur—keep buffer time between transits
• Pack leech socks for forest hikes from late May onward
• Sun protection and hydration are important in the humid plains
• Seek current permits for Nathula/Sela passes; they can have lingering snow in April