How to reach Northeast India is one of the first questions travelers ask before planning their trip to the enchanting Seven Sisters—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, and Tripura. This region is blessed with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and adventure opportunities, but being tucked away in India’s far east, many wonder about the best routes and modes of transport.

In this blog, we’ll explore 5 easy ways on how to reach Northeast India, covering air, rail, and road connectivity, so you can plan your journey smoothly.

Why Understanding How to Reach Northeast India is Important

Before diving into the routes, knowing how to reach Northeast India helps you:

  • Save time by choosing the most convenient option

  • Budget better for flights, trains, and road trips

  • Decide the entry point depending on your itinerary

  • Experience a stress-free journey to this offbeat destination

5 Easy Ways on How to Reach Northeast India

1. How to Reach Northeast India by Air – Fastest and Most Convenient

Air travel is the most preferred way for tourists exploring how to reach Northeast India. Major airports are well-connected to Indian metros and even international hubs.

  • Key Airports:

    • Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati (Assam)

    • Imphal International Airport (Manipur)

    • Lengpui Airport, Aizawl (Mizoram)

    • Dimapur Airport (Nagaland)

    • Agartala Airport (Tripura)

    • Dibrugarh Airport (Assam, gateway to Arunachal Pradesh)

Pro Tip: Most travelers start their journey in Guwahati, the largest and busiest airport in the region.

 

2. How to Reach Northeast India by Train – Scenic and Affordable

For those who love train journeys, exploring how to reach Northeast India by rail is a rewarding experience.

  • Major Railway Stations:

    • Guwahati Railway Station (Assam) – the main entry hub

    • New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal) – connects to Assam and beyond

    • Dibrugarh, Silchar, and Dimapur – important regional stations

Trains from Delhi, Kolkata, and Bangalore frequently operate to Guwahati, making it the primary railway gateway.

 

3. How to Reach Northeast India by Road – Adventurous and Flexible

For road trip enthusiasts, learning how to reach Northeast India by road opens up a world of scenic drives. The National Highway 27 (NH-27), part of the East-West Corridor, connects the region with mainland India.

  • Best Entry Points:

    • Siliguri Corridor (West Bengal) via Guwahati

    • Shillong, accessible via Guwahati by road

    • Imphal, connected through NH-39

Pro Tip: Buses and shared taxis are widely available, but renting a car or bike adds flexibility.

 

4. How to Reach Northeast India via International Borders

If you’re an international traveler, knowing how to reach Northeast India from nearby countries is useful.

  • From Bangladesh: Enter via Agartala or Dawki (Meghalaya).

  • From Bhutan: Entry possible through Assam and Arunachal borders.

  • From Myanmar: Moreh in Manipur is an open land border for tourists.

Always check visa and permit requirements before traveling.

5. How to Reach Northeast India by Local Connectivity

Once inside, how to reach Northeast India between states becomes equally important.

  • Flights: Regional airlines like Alliance Air and FlyBig connect smaller towns.

  • Rail: Short-distance trains link Assam with Tripura, Nagaland, and Arunachal.

  • Road: State-run buses, shared sumos, and private taxis are the backbone of travel.

This makes inter-state travel smooth and adventurous.

Travel Permits Required

While figuring out how to reach Northeast India, remember some states require permits:

  • Arunachal Pradesh: Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indians, Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreigners.

  • Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur: ILP required for Indian citizens.

  • Foreign Travelers: Usually need PAP/Restricted Area Permit depending on the state.

Apply online or at entry points for hassle-free access.

 

Essential Permits & Travel Essentials

 

Tips for Travelers

  • Start your journey via Guwahati for best connectivity.

  • Book flights and trains early during festival seasons.

  • Carry valid ID proofs for permits.

  • Prepare for long but scenic road journeys.

  • Use a mix of air and road travel to maximize your time.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to reach Northeast India, planning your trip becomes easier. Whether you prefer the speed of flights, the charm of train journeys, or the thrill of road trips, Northeast India is well-connected for travelers.

From Guwahati as your gateway to exploring snow-clad Tawang, lush tea gardens of Assam, or the living root bridges of Meghalaya, every route leads to an unforgettable adventure.

Choose your preferred way, get your permits ready, and let Hidden Northeast guide you to India’s most enchanting region.