Are you looking for the best places to visit in North East India in December? This ultimate guide covers snow in Tawang, festivals in Nagaland, and clear waters in Meghalaya. We provide real costs, hidden hacks, and itineraries to help you plan the perfect winter trip. Start exploring now!
Imagine standing on a mountain peak where the wind is cold enough to freeze your breath, but the view of the snow-capped Himalayas warms your soul. Or picture yourself in a vibrant tribal village, dancing to the rhythm of ancient drums while thousands of people celebrate around you. This is not a scene from a movie. This is reality if you choose the right destination for your winter holiday. However, planning a trip here can feel overwhelming. You might worry about the freezing temperatures, the road conditions, or which permit you need.
I understand your hesitation. The “Seven Sisters” states are beautiful, but they can be confusing for a first-time traveler.
That is why I have written this guide. I want to remove the stress from your planning. December is actually one of the best months to explore this region because the skies are clear, the festivals are loud, and the rivers are transparent. Whether you want to see the famous Hornbill Festival or touch snow in Tawang, this article covers it all. In this guide, we will explore the best places to visit in north east india in december so that you can have a safe and memorable trip. We will look at costs, hidden secrets, and practical tips that most travel agents will not tell you.
Quick Glance: Top 10 Highlights of North East India in December
Here is a quick summary table to help you decide which places to visit in North East India in December fit your style.
| Name of Place | Ideal For | Time Needed | Approximate Cost (INR) |
| Hornbill Festival (Nagaland) | Culture Lovers | 2 Days | ₹1500 – ₹3000 (Entry + Food) |
| Tawang (Arunachal) | Snow Seekers | 3 Days | ₹5000 – ₹7000 (Permits + Cab) |
| Kaziranga National Park | Wildlife Enthusiasts | 1 – 2 Days | ₹2000 – ₹4000 (Safari) |
| Dawki River (Meghalaya) | Nature Lovers | 1 Day | ₹800 – ₹1000 (Boating) |
| Gangtok (Sikkim) | Families & Couples | 2 Days | ₹2000 – ₹5000 |
| Nathula Pass (Sikkim) | Adventure Seekers | 1 Day | ₹1000 – ₹1500 (Shared Cab) |
| Ziro Valley (Arunachal) | Peace Seekers | 2 Days | ₹2000 – ₹3000 |
| Shillong (Meghalaya) | Music & Christmas | 2 Days | ₹2000 – ₹4000 |
| Majuli Island (Assam) | Culture & History | 2 Days | ₹1500 – ₹2500 |
| Cherrapunji (Meghalaya) | Trekking | 1 Day | ₹1000 – ₹2000 |
Cultural Extravaganza and Festivals
December is the month of celebration in this region. If you are looking for vibrant places to visit in North East India in December, you must start with the festivals.
The Hornbill Festival in Kohima is one of the best places to visit in North East India in December
This is often called the “Festival of Festivals.” It takes place from December 1st to December 10th every year in Nagaland.
- H3: Kisama Heritage Village
- The Vibe: The air is filled with the sound of war drums and folk songs. You will see warriors in traditional dress with colorful feathers and spears. The smell of smoked pork and rice beer is everywhere. It feels electric and alive.
- Practical Info:
- Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Daily events).
- Entry Fee: Approximately ₹20 – ₹50 per day (Camera extra).
- Best Time to Visit: The first week of December.
- Insider Secret/Hack: Accommodation in Kohima fills up months in advance. However, you can book a tent at the campsites near the heritage village. It is cheaper and puts you right in the middle of the action.
- Accessibility: Moderate walking is involved. It is suitable for healthy seniors and children.
Christmas in Shillong, Meghalaya
Shillong is known as the “Rock Capital of India.” In December, the entire city lights up for Christmas.
- The Vibe: The streets are decorated with lights and stars. You can hear carols playing in every cafe. The weather is cold, but the atmosphere is very warm and welcoming. It feels like a European winter town.
- Practical Info:
- Timings: Evening time is best.
- Entry Fee: Free to walk around.
- Best Time to Visit: December 24th and 25th.
- Insider Secret/Hack: Visit the Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians in Laitumkhrah. The midnight mass there is beautiful. Also, try the plum cake from the local bakeries; it is famous across the region.
- Accessibility: Very accessible. You can hire a taxi to move around the city.
Snow and High Altitude Adventure
For many travelers, finding snow is the main goal. Fortunately, some of the top places to visit in north-east India in December are covered in a white blanket of snow.
Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is among the snowy places to visit in North East India in December
Tawang holds a rich history and immense beauty. It sits at a high altitude and is home to a massive Buddhist monastery.
- H3: Sela Pass and Tawang Monastery
- The Vibe: It is freezing cold but incredibly peaceful. The landscape is stark white with snow. The monastery creates a spiritual atmosphere with the sound of chanting monks and fluttering prayer flags.
- Practical Info:
- Timings: Daylight hours are best for travel.
- Entry Fee: Inner Line Permit (ILP) costs around ₹100.
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-December for high chances of snowfall.
- Insider Secret/Hack: According to local drivers, you must start your journey from Bomdila or Dirang very early in the morning (around 5:00 AM). This helps you cross Sela Pass before the afternoon winds make it dangerous.
- Accessibility: Difficult. The high altitude can cause sickness. It is not recommended for people with heart or breathing problems.
Nathula Pass in Sikkim
Located on the Indo-China border, this is a thrilling day trip from Gangtok.
- The Vibe: The wind here is strong and icy. You are surrounded by tall peaks. Seeing the soldiers guarding the border fills you with patriotism. The snow is usually deep and fresh.
- Practical Info:
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays).
- Entry Fee: Permit costs vary (usually included in the cab package of ₹3000 – ₹5000).
- Best Time to Visit: Reaching before noon is essential.
- Insider Secret/Hack: You cannot drive your own car here unless you have special permission. It is best to hire a local taxi from Gangtok one day in advance to sort out the permit paperwork.
- Accessibility: Moderate difficulty due to low oxygen levels.
Read More About: Travelers Guide to Nathula Pass Sikkim 2025
Wildlife and Nature
The winter weather is dry, which forces animals to come out to water sources. This makes wildlife sanctuaries some of the most exciting places to visit in north-east India in December.
Kaziranga National Park is one of the Wild Places to visit in North East India in December
This park in Assam is world-famous for the one-horned rhinoceros.
- H3: The Jeep Safari in Central Range
- The Vibe: The morning starts with heavy mist. As the sun rises, the golden tall grass reveals elephants, deer, and rhinos. It smells of damp earth and grass. It is a thrilling game of hide-and-seek with nature.
- Practical Info:
- Timings: Morning safari (7:30 AM) and Afternoon safari (1:30 PM).
- Entry Fee: Jeep safari costs approximately ₹3000 – ₹4000 per jeep.
- Best Time to Visit: Morning slot for better bird watching; afternoon for rhino spotting.
- Insider Secret/Hack: According to wildlife experts, the Western Range (Bagori) has the highest density of rhinos. If you want a guaranteed sighting, ask your driver to take you to the Western zone.
- Accessibility: Very accessible. The jeep ride can be bumpy, but it is safe for all ages.
Crystal Clear Waters and Serenity
If you do not like the snow or the crowds, you should look for calmer places to visit in north-east India in December. The dry season turns the muddy rivers into glass.
Dawki and Shnongpdeng are scenic places to visit in north-east India in December
Located in Meghalaya near the Bangladesh border, this river is famous for its transparency.
- H3: The Umngot River
- The Vibe: It feels like magic. The water is so clear that the boats cast a shadow on the riverbed. You can see every pebble at the bottom. It is quiet, peaceful, and stunningly beautiful.
- Practical Info:
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Entry Fee: Boating costs ₹800.
- Best Time to Visit: December and January are the absolute best months for clarity.
- Insider Secret/Hack: The main boating point at the bridge is very crowded. Go further to Shnongpdeng village. It is quieter, cleaner, and offers camping options right by the river.
- Accessibility: Moderate. Getting into the small boats requires some balance.
Ziro Valley in Arunachal Pradesh
While Ziro is famous for its music festival in September, December offers a different charm.
- The Vibe: The valley turns golden-brown after the harvest. The air is crisp. You can see the unique facial tattoos of the Apatani tribe members. It is a slow, rhythmic life here.
- Practical Info:
- Timings: Daylight hours.
- Entry Fee: ILP required.
- Best Time to Visit: Early December.
- Insider Secret/Hack: Try the local rice beer and the “Pike Pila” (a pickle made with bamboo shoots and pork fat). It is a staple of Apatani cuisine and will keep you warm in the winter cold.
- Accessibility: The roads to Ziro can be rough. Be prepared for a long and bumpy drive.
Read More About: Ziro Tourist Place, Arunachal Pradesh – The Ultimate Guide You Did Not Know You Needed
Plan Your Trip: Three Perfect Itineraries
To help you navigate these places to visit in North East India in December, I have created three distinct plans.
1. The Express Plan (1 Day) – The Meghalaya Day Trip
- Morning (7:00 AM): Leave Shillong early to beat the traffic.
- Mid-Morning (10:00 AM): Arrive at Dawki. Enjoy a 1-hour boat ride on the crystal clear water.
- Lunch (1:00 PM): Have a simple meal at Mawlynnong, the cleanest village in Asia.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Walk to the Living Root Bridge near the village.
- Evening: Drive back to Shillong and enjoy a Christmas dinner at a local cafe.
2. The Leisure Plan (3 Days) – The Sikkim Winter Special
- Day 1: Arrive in Gangtok. Walk down MG Marg in the evening. It is a pedestrian-only zone with great food and shops.
- Day 2: Take a day trip to Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake. Play in the snow. Return to Gangtok by evening.
- Day 3: Visit the Rumtek Monastery in the morning. Enjoy the mountain views before heading to the airport.
3. The Explorer Plan (Offbeat Focus) – The Festival & Wildlife Mix
- Day 1: Land in Dimapur and drive to Kohima. Attend the evening shows of the Hornbill Festival.
- Day 2: Spend the full day at the festival exploring tribal huts and food.
- Day 3: Drive or take a train to Kaziranga National Park.
- Day 4: Take the early morning elephant safari or jeep safari to see the rhinos.
Frequently Asked Questions about places to visit in North East India in December
Here are answers to common questions regarding your trip.
1. Is it too cold to visit North East India in December?
It depends on the altitude. High-altitude areas like Tawang and Nathula will have freezing temperatures, often below zero. However, places like Guwahati and Kaziranga have pleasant weather with cool days and cold nights. You need heavy woolens for the mountains and light jackets for the plains.
2. Do I need permits for all states?
No, not all states require permits. You need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Manipur. States like Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura do not require permits for Indian tourists.
3. Are the roads safe in December?
Generally, the roads are safer in December than in the monsoon season because there is no rain or landslides. However, fog can be a major issue in the mornings, especially in Assam and Meghalaya. It is best to avoid driving very early in the morning or late at night.
4. Can I see snow in December?
Yes, you can see snow. Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh and Nathula Pass in Sikkim are the best places to visit in north east india in december if you want to experience snowfall.
5. Is vegetarian food available easily?
Yes, vegetarian food is available. While the local tribal cuisine is meat-heavy, standard Indian dishes like dal, rice, and vegetable curries are available in all hotels and restaurants.
Conclusion: Your Winter Wonderland Awaits
The North East is a region of surprises. It challenges you, but it also rewards you with views and experiences that you cannot find anywhere else. The list of places to visit in north east india in december is long, but each spot offers something unique. Whether it is the crystal clear water of Dawki, the roar of a tiger in Kaziranga, or the festive drums of Nagaland, your trip will be full of stories.
Here are my final three tips for you:
- Book Early: December is peak season for festivals. Hotels in Kohima and Shillong sell out fast.
- Layer Up: The temperature drops rapidly after sunset. Wear layers so you can adjust.
- Respect the Locals: The tribal cultures are unique and proud. Always ask before taking photos of people.
Do not let the cold stop you. The mountains are calling.
Have you ever celebrated Christmas in the hills? Or are you planning to see the rhinos this year? Share your plans in the comments below!
