10 Best Things to Do with Family in Northeast India This Winter
Looking for a refreshing winter escape? Northeast India is the perfect place to be. With its snow-capped mountains, misty valleys, and vibrant festivals, this lesser-explored region turns into a winter wonderland full of adventure and culture. Whether you are trekking through icy trails in Sikkim, walking across living root bridges in Meghalaya, or soaking in the festive energy of Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival, there’s something for every kind of traveller.
From serene landscapes to rich traditions, Northeast India promises an unforgettable winter journey filled with experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Explore the Frozen Sangetsar Lake in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Sangetsar Lake, also known as Madhuri Lake, is a stunning high-altitude lake near Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, that turns into a frozen wonder in winter. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and dotted with submerged tree trunks from a past earthquake, the lake offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy light treks, snow-covered nature walks, and birdwatching, or capture the surreal landscape through photography. For a cosy experience, enjoy a picnic or warm tea from the nearby army canteen. A special permit is required, but the journey to this frozen gem is well worth the effort.
A Boat Safari across the Dibru Saikhowa National Park, Assam
This winter, enjoy a thrilling boat safari at Assam’s Dibru Saikhowa National Park. One of Assam’s hidden treasures, best explored with Thrillophilia’s Northeast Packages, offers a unique experience of riverine grasslands that you won’t find anywhere else.. Experience a floating safari in houseboats or motorboats on the serene waters of the Brahmaputra and Dibru rivers, while soaking in the rich biodiversity of the park.
Catch sight of the elusive Gangetic River dolphins, watch feral horses, and admire over 300 species of birds like the rare white-winged wood duck. On-board facilities, including dining services, accommodations, and recreational activities, provide comfort in between wildlife spotting experiences, making this safari a family trip to remember.
Trek to the Living Root Bridges in Nongriat, Meghalaya
When it comes to adventure, the hike to the well-known double-decker living root bridge in Nongriat is a bucket-list adventure. Created by the intertwining of roots of rubber trees over the Umshiang river, these stunning man-made structures are among the wonders of sustainable engineering.
The trek begins at Tyrna Village, and the hiker descends some 3,000 stone steps in the lush forest trails, crosses turquoise streams and small villages. Exploring these living structures is not only an exhilarating experience but also a chance for children and adults alike to connect with Meghalaya’s unique harmony between nature and tradition.
Spot Wildlife at Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur
Surrounded by the picturesque Loktak Lake, the Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur becomes a haven in winter for families looking for adventure and some peaceful time. It’s the world’s only floating national park and offers an experience unlike any other, where visiting families discover graceful Sangai deer (also known as the “dancing deer”) gliding gracefully on the floating vegetative biomass called “phumdis”.
A leisurely boat ride along the park’s meandering waterways is a must, with close-up views of the respective ecosystems and birdlife such as kingfishers and mynas. Families can also head to the nearby Sendra Island for stunning lake views or to the INA Museum at Moirang to immerse themselves in India’s wartime past.
Explore The Hills of Haflong, Assam
Haflong, also called the only hill station of Assam, is a sleepy town flanked by rolling hillocks, tea estates and shimmering lakes. Families can walk around the Haflong Lake, visit the picturesque Maibong village, and the witness the queer bird action at the Jatinga – known for peculiar migratory habits!
It’s a charming place, ideal for picnicking around, for breezy sightseeing and cultural exchanges with the Dimasa tribes. Under a brilliantly clear winter night sky, the village is perfect for stargazing and many accommodations have bonfires set up, which make for a warm atmosphere while families sit together and share stories. The nearby hills and forest offer generous trekking and nature walks to enable families to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Unwind in Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Nestled in the misty mountains of Arunachal Pradesh, Ziro Valley is a peaceful escape that allows families to completely switch off from city life and reconnect with nature. Winter in Ziro means cold, clear air, rice fields turning golden and a calm and peaceful valley nestled among pine-clad hills. Making it just the place for a quiet and enriching family escape.
Families are invited to explore the Apani tribal villages, housing classic bamboo homes, ancient traditions and warm hospitality that will take them on a journey through an indigenous way of life. Children and adults will enjoy easy nature walks, bird watching and walking on the valley’s easy scenic trails. Be sure to visit the Tarin Fish Farm and Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, where kids can get up close and personal with local ecology.
Groove to Tribal Beats at the Hornbill Festival, Nagaland
Have the banging drums of Nagaland thrill you and your family this winter, amidst the Hornbill festival. The festival is held annually from December 1 -10 at the Kisama Heritage Village, which is located close to Kohima, and is a celebration of culture and heritage that is a visual treat.
Families have the opportunity to wander through tribal huts, watch craftsmen at work and taste authentic Naga cuisine at food stalls. Children will be delighted by the interactive exhibits and musical performances, but the warmth of Naga hospitality will appeal to parents. From evening concerts, craft sales to cultural parades, the Hornbill Festival presents its visitors with a mix of fun and experiential learning, a splendid family holiday in winter.
Relax by the Serene Umiam Lake, Shillong
Just on the outskirts of Shillong, Umiam Lake – an idyllic emerald treasure nestled among massive pine forest – delivers. Fondly known as Barapani, it is a winter watering hole for families wanting a quiet but activity-packed holiday.
Children ride paddle boats or speedboats, while parents relax near the picturesque shore and drink hot chai at local stalls. The setting around the lake is perfect for picnicking, long nature walks, and photography. For more thrills, head down to the Water Sports Complex, which has kayaking and water skiing. The lake is the perfect, peaceful respite for families to reconnect, re-energise, and form lifelong memories.
Ride the Toy Train to See the Red Pandas of Darjeeling, West Bengal
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway operates joyrides from Darjeeling to Ghum, offering panoramas of the Himalayan range and a passing view of the well-known Batasia Loop.
Enhance the experience by checking out the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park – home to an accomplished red panda breeding program. Also known as the City of Nandas, the city has clear skies and is comfortable during Winter months, making it the perfect time for families to take in these unique attractions.
Conclusion: Winter in Northeast India is not just about places to see, but to feel. Experience the warmth of tribal hospitality, the cold of a frozen stream and the stillness of a prayer flag stirring at first light. These are not just places, they’re experiences that your family can cherish, out of the rush, straight into nature and culture.
Recommended Travel Company: To travel to some of the more disparate/remote places with many family members, it is important to have local knowledge as well as good organisation and experience set up. That’s where Thrillophilia steps in. It’s a reputed travel company that specialises in providing unparalleled and seamless journeys in India and the world over. Backed by well-designed itineraries, local experiences and connections, Thrillophilia makes the holiday a more comfortable, safe and lifetime experience.
