The Seven Sisters Of India: The Marvelous Mountains Of North East India

Posted on Wednesday, December 25th, 2024 by Navneet Kaur Leave a Comment

The Seven Sisters of India are a chain of seven northeastern states in India. Geographically, these states are isolated from the rest of the country. Culturally, they are diverse. The people of these states are descendants of many different groups, including Mongolians, Tibetans, and Burmese. Each of the states has its own distinct culture, language, and cuisine.

The Seven Sisters of India refers to Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura and Meghalaya. They are home to some magnificent terrains and hills in India, inhabited with exotic flora and fauna and diverse traditions that highlight the culture in India. The 7 sisters of the Northeast have been attracting young travellers and explorers from all over the world as they are on the list of the finest places to visit in India.

Keep reading to know more about the exquisite states of northeast India and all the names of the seven sisters of India.

Amazing Facts About The Land Of Seven Sisters

1. Assam – Land Of Tea

Nestled in the country’s northeast corner, Assam is a land of misty mountains and verdant valleys. The seven sisters of India are a region in the Northeast known for its natural beauty, Assam silk, and Tea production. The area has rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers. Majestically stretched out over 78,438 km2 (30,285 sq mi), Assam is popularly known for its wildlife tourism to Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, World Heritage Sites, and Dibru-Saikhowa National Park.

The state is also home to a variety of animal species, including one-horned Indian rhinoceros, wild water buffalo, pygmy hog, tiger, Asiatic birds, and Asian elephant. The beauty of Assam is breathtaking, and it cannot be shared. The hills of North India have great potential to fill the wanderlust. It is also home to one of the oldest pilgrimage sites, the Kamakhya Temple and attracts numerous devotees from different parts of India. Along with that, the locals are warm and hospitable, and the food is delicious. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in India, consider visiting this one of the stunning lands of seven sisters.

General Information

Festivals Celebrated: Bihu is one of India’s most legendary harvest festivals, celebrated in Assam three times a year. Magh Bihu is celebrated in January, Rongali Bihu is celebrated in April, and Kati Bihu in October. Women wear colourful mukhlas—the traditional dress of Assam and dance to the tunes of drums. At the same time, menfolk play the drums and sing together to celebrate the most important festivals in India.

Places To Visit In Assam: Assam has a plethora of beautiful places to experience and is one of the major tourist attractions in northeast India. Assam boasts of rich and deep-rooted wildlife in India and is proudly home to one-horned Rhinoceros in the Kaziranga National Park in India. Kaziranga National Park is a world heritage site and hosts two-thirds of the magnificent one-horned rhinos. Along with this, you can also visit Majuli Island, Manas National Park, Tocklai Tea Research centre and Dipor Bil. 

Best Time To Visit Assam: Assam can best be experienced from November to May. Orchids in Assam bloom between March and May and is also the best time to be in the area for tourists as they can experience the local harvest festival of Bihu. 

Culture Information

Dress: Mekhela Chador or Riha Mekhela is the traditional dress adorned by women and men wearing a dhoti or Suria and draping a ‘Seleng’. 

Food: Assamese select to eat less-spicy food compared to other North-Indian dishes. They devour non-vegetarian items like fish, chicken, pigeon and duck and their staple food is rice. Dried fish a trial Assamese cuisine. 

Dance Form: Ojapali, Devdasi, and Satriya are the major dancing forms of Assam.

Official Language: Assamese language or the eastern Indo-Aryan language is the official language of Assam state of India. 

2. Arunachal Pradesh – Land Of Dawn Lit Mountains

Referred to as the least explored state in India, Arunachal Pradesh is wild and pristine, in its full glory. The largest state among seven sisters is an attractive mix of snow-capped peaks, lush green forests and gushing streams of energetic water bodies. Arunachal Pradesh is best known for its magnificent forests and offers exciting activities for tourists to try. 

The Land of Dawn-Lit Mountains is the haven for 26 indigenous tribes and almost 500 exotic bird species. Along with that, it is home to the unique Red Panda. One of the largest national parks of India, Namdapha, is located in this state. Arunachal Pradesh promises its tourists and visitors adventures to cherish forever. This region is all about the raw beauty of nature that cannot be found anywhere across the world. As a tourist, you can bask in glory amidst the snow-capped mountains and Inhale the mountain air or seek solace amidst the serene environment.

General Information

Festivals Celebrated:  Arunachal Pradesh is a state of rich Indian culture and history. Some popular festivals celebrated here are the Losar Festival, the Ziro Festival of music, and the Pangsau Pass Winter festival. 

Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh: If you are looking to spend your time in the hilly abode of Arunachal Pradesh, then Tawang should be your first choice. Along with Tawang, you can also explore Nuranang falls, Madhuri Lake, and enjoy a perfect view of Mount Dapha – the highest peak in northeast India in the state.

Best Time To Visit Arunachal Pradesh: The best time to visit Arunachal Pradesh is during the spring season, from October to April. As it is located at an altitude, tourists will get the best experience to view Arunachal Pradesh in its full glory. 

Culture Information

Dress: Among the traditional attire of Arunachal Pradesh include shawls, wraps and skirts. Also, Idu Mishmi’s traditional dress is black with reddish embellishments for womens and menswear, a white loincloth, a jacket, along with cane hat and red embellishments.

Food: The cuisine in Arunachal Pradesh is made using fresh herbs and vegetables. Some famous dishes include bamboo shoots, lustre, Momos, Pika Pila, and more. 

Dance Form: Some popular dance forms of Arunachal Pradesh include the Wancho Dance, The Idu Mishmi dance, Digaru Mishmi Bhuiya dance and the Khampti dance. 

Official Language: Hindi and English are the official languages of Arunachal Pradesh.

3. Nagaland – Land Of The Head Hunters

Nagaland is one of the states in Northeast India and is known as the “7 Sisters of India.” Nagaland shares a border with Assam to the west, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam to the north, Manipur to the east, and Mizoram to the south. The Land of the head-hunters, Nagaland, is all about endless explorations. The region is known for its natural beauty, with hills, valleys, rivers, and forests. The people are also known for their hospitality and culture. 

Nagaland is also home to 16 major tribes and many sub-tribes. The region is known for its natural beauty, with hills, valleys, rivers, and forests. The people are also known for their hospitality and culture. The out-of-date tribal villages, wildlife sanctuaries and untamed forests offer an unusual charm to every traveller visiting Nagaland. Here, people wear traditional tribal attire with pleasant colours that look pleasing to the eyes. 

General Information

Festivals Celebrated: Moatsu and Hornbill are the two main festivals. The Ao Naga people of Nagaland mark the Moatsu festival, and traditional songs and dances celebrate the Moatsü festival. The whole festival full of celebration and fun is observed only for three days from May 1 to 3.

Places To Visit In Nagaland: Nagaland is unique in its impeccable culture and deep-rooted heritage. Kohima is the most charming and enthralling place to visit in Nagaland. The ancient and modern blend has smeared this town in an attractive colour. Kohima has become a memorable landmark for the state. Other tourist destinations in Nagaland include the ancient capital city of Dimapur, the Hornbill Festival in Kisama Village, and the Dzukou Valley.

Best time to visit Nagaland: Nagaland is a state in Northeast India known for its stunning landscapes and friendly people. The best time to visit Nagaland is from November to February during the winter months. The weather is cool and comfortable, and there are plenty of festivals and activities to enjoy.

Culture Information

Dress: The pattern of their outfits is common amongst all the dresses of Angamis, which is bands coloured red and yellow on top of a black cloth locally called Lohe. 

Food: The food of Nagaland is known for its variety and simplicity. Naga food is considered spicy due to their affection for the most famous chilly. Some favourite items include Bamboo shoots, Axone, Anishi, Akini and much more. 

Dance Form: dance is the extreme, heightened pleasure, zest and joy. The different types of dances in Nagaland are Changing, Monyu Asho, Melo Phita, and Angushu Kigihilhe are some of the famous dance forms. 

Official Language: English and Nagmese are some of the widely spoken languages.

4. Manipur – The Jewel Of India

One of the least explored seven sister states of India, Manipur is home to some of India’s most beautiful and culturally rich landscapes. With the capital city of Imphal, Manipur is one of the fascinating states known for its beautiful landscape and its rich culture. It also has an agricultural economy with significant hydroelectric power generation potential primarily. Along with that, it is home to many sports and the origin of Manipuri dance. 

Manipur is the second largest state in northeastern India and displays dense forests, serene lakes and breathtaking landscapes. From rolling green hills and pristine waterfalls to ancient temples and bustling markets, Manipur has something for everyone. The Jewel of India is carpeted with dense and lush green forests. It is truly a land with a traditional and cultural aura to offer tourists. 

General Information

Festivals Celebrated: One of the most famous festivals of Manipur, Cheiraoba, is celebrated on the 1st day of Sajibu month (March-April). The regional goddess Sanamahi is also ardently worshipped during this festival. 

Places To Visit In Manipur: When visiting tourist places, we know Imphal is obvious. Imphal showcases the beauty of mountain peaks and foothills in all their glory.Ensure you do not miss visiting landmarks like Manipur State Museum, Palace of Kangle and Polo Ground. One of the greatest Manipur locations, Imphal, is laced with glittering lakes and waterfalls you will discover as you take a tour. Other places to visit in Manipur are Loktak Lake – one of the largest lakes in India, and Kangla Fort. 

Best time to visit Manipur: The recommended months to visit Manipur are September and April. The climate remains pleasant during this time, giving tourists the best holiday. 

Culture Information

Dress:  The dresses of Manipur have been defining fashion forever. Other dress styles include Panek, Inaphi, Potloi, Mayek Naibi and Dhoti.

Food. A typical Manipuri cuisine consists of Steamed rice, boiled vegetables, thick curries, and stir-fried vegetables. 

Dance Form: Manipuri dance has originated from Manipur.

Official Language: Manipuri Meiteilon, also known as Meetei, is a Tibeto-Burman language spoken in Manipur. 

5. Mizoram – The Land Of Hills

Nestled in the mountainous region, Mizoram is the Land of blue mountains, green hills, and dense bamboo jungles. Land of the Mizos is one of the little-known northeast regions. It is the southernmost landlocked Seven Sister States in India, sharing borders with Tripura, Assam and Manipur. Dotted with lush green forests and teeming with wildlife, Mizoram offers a piece of heaven for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies. 

Mizoram is quite famous for tourism across International and Domestic travellers, entirely covered with greenery. Mizoram lies towards the far ends of the country, and the scenic views are beautifully tucked away and protected from the rush and bustle of the city. The beautiful mountain villages and the verdant valleys beyond Aizawl remain quite an attractive destination for off-the-beaten-track travellers who travel from various parts of the world.

General Information

Festivals Celebrated: There are essentially three festivals celebrated in Mizoram. They are Chapchar Kut, Mim Kut and Pawl Kut. All the3 festivals celebrate harvest and agriculture along with the arrival of spring. 

Places To Visit In Mizoram: Aizawl is the capital of Mizoram in India. It is often added to the list to be one of the most splendid places to visit as part of the seven sisters of Northeast India. Other popular tourist attractions in Mizoram are Reiek Heritage Village, Solomon’s Temple, Durtlang Hills, Mizoram State Museum, Phulpui Grave, Burrabazar, etc.

Best time to visit Mizoram: The best months to visit Mizoram are November to March. They are suitable as the climate is pleasant and touring around can be safe. The temperature during these months can range from 11°C to 30°C.

Culture Information

Dress: Puanchei is the dress worn by most Mizo women during festivals. The main dress is named Pawl Kut and Chapchar Kut. Puan has shades of black and white and often come in several colours. 

Food: Rice is consumed as the staple food of Mizoram, and they also use a lot of non-vegetarian items like fish, chicken, pork and beef. Meals in Mizoram tend to be blander with less oil and more fresh vegetables. Koat Pitha is one of the most famous sweet delicacies of Mizoram. 

Dance Form: Cheraw is a traditional dance that is performed in Mizoram.

Official Language: Mizo and English is the official language of Mizoram.

6. Tripura – State Of Primate Species

Spread over just 10,491.69 km2, Tripura is the third-smallest state in India. This Land of seven sisters is popular as a hilly state in northeast India. It is bordered by the states of Assam and Mizoram to the north, Bangladesh to the south, and Meghalaya and Manipur to the west. One of the most interesting reasons to visit Tripura is to experience the true culture and magnificent views of the heritage sites and temples. 

The people of Tripura are warm and friendly, and the state has a rich tradition of music and dance. With its lush green hills, pristine lakes and rivers, and rich cultural heritage, Tripura is a paradise for nature lovers and tourists. Along with that, it is also blessed by ten rivers. Equally magnificent and attractive in its design and grand in its extensive dimensions is the Neermahal, which means the water palace. Such dense greenery is a present to the eyes of the traveller!

General Information

Festivals Celebrated: Garia Puja, Ashokastami festival and Pilak festival are widely celebrated in Tripura. Asokastami festival is also known as the Unakoti festival by the locals in Tripura. Each year in February, it is celebrated where rock-cut images of gods and goddesses are ornamented and worshipped. Several international and local tourists can attend the festival and take part in the rituals.

Places To Visit In Tripura: Udaipur, Agartala, Kailashahar and Jolaibari are some of the most popular tourist destinations of Tripura and the seven sisters of North India. Agartala is the capital city of Tripura and is laced with Mughal gardens and fountains with a scenic view. Some of the top tourist attractions of Tripura include Ujjayanta Palace, Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary, Chittagong Hills, Tripura Sundari Temple and more.

Best time to visit Tripura: October to February are the best months to visit Tripura to enjoy its natural glory.

Culture Information

Dress: Traditional costume for men in Tripura is a plain solid coloured towel known as Rikutu Gamcha. Kubai is one type of shirt. Men wear Rikutu Gamcha with Kubai. To protect from the extreme heat during the summer, Tripura Men wear turban or Pagri over their head and hair. 

Food: Tripura is known for its rich cuisine of spices and many curries. Rice is consumed along with chicken, mutton, pork and fish. Rice beer is a popular drink in Tripura. 

Dance Form:  Hozagiri dance of the Reang community and Lebang boomani dances of the Tripuri community are some of the most popular dance forms.

Official Language: Bengali and Kokborok are widely spoken by locals of Tripura. 

7. Meghalaya – Scotland Of The East

Meghalaya is located in the Northeast of India and is one of the seven sister states. The state shares borders with Assam, Tripura, Mizoram, and Manipur. The capital of Meghalaya is Shillong – one of the top hill stations in India. Meghalaya is also home to a number of tribal groups, including the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes, who have their own unique culture and traditions. The state is known as the “abode of clouds” because of the perpetual fog and mist that covers the region. 

Often referred to as the “Scotland of the East”, Meghalaya is one of Earth’s most naturally beautiful places. The landscape is full of lush greenery, towering mountains, and pristine rivers and waterfalls. The people are warm and friendly, and the culture is rich and diverse. There is so much to see and do in Meghalaya, from trekking through the jungle to exploring ancient temples. If you’re looking for an amazing travel destination that’s off the beaten path, Meghalaya is definitely worth considering!

General Information

Festivals Celebrated: Festival of Wangala is the most famous festival among the Garos of Meghalaya, India, celebrated in honour of Saljong, the Sun-god of fertility.

Places To Visit In Meghalaya: Meghalaya is a perfect escape to a lush green world of peace and serenity. The most popular locations include Cherrapunji, Don Bosco Museum, Shillong, Elephant Falls, and Tura.

Best time to visit Meghalaya: Meghalaya is best seen during the winter months of November to February. It can get difficult to travel around during the rainy season.

Culture Information

Dress: the traditional costume for women is usually made of mulberry silk, a local selection known as Jainism.

Food: The staple food of the people is rice with spicy meat and fish preparations. They rear goats, pigs, fowl, ducks and cows and enjoy their meat. 

Dance Form: ka Shad Suk Mynsiem is an annual dance of Meghalaya

Official Language: Khasi and Garo, Jaintia and English, are Meghalaya’s official languages. 

Each destination of North-east India is a treat to the eyes and awaits visitors each year. If you wish to travel to India to experience the culture and beauty of the Seven Sisters of India, plan your trip with us. Travanya is an affordable, informative, and best-in-class travel portal that provides solutions for your travelling needs. 

We provide affordable and budget-friendly tickets for both domestic and international travellers who wish to participate in local festivals and indulge in India’s deep-rooted culture and tradition. Book your flights to India with Travanya, and we will assist you in every way possible. 

You can contact us at +91 800 023 5865 to know more about our flight deals and holiday packages!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is North East India famous?

Answer: Northeast India is famous for several reasons. It is deep-rooted in Indian heritage and culture. It is home to several endangered species, such as the one-horned Rhinoceros. Most of these animals and birds thrive in the Kaziranga Park in Assam. Shillong, which is the capital town of Meghalaya, is also known as the Rock Music Capital of India.

Q: What are the 7 sisters of India?

Answer: The seven sisters of India include the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Manipur, Assam, Nagaland and Tripura.

Q: Why is the Northeast called Seven Sisters?

Answer: The Northeastern States are often known as the Seven Sister States of India because they are interdependent. All these states are connected to India via the Siliguri Corridor. Hence, that is the only way to reach the Seven Sister States.

Q: Who is the brother of Seven Sisters?

Answer: Sikkim is often considered the brother of the seven sisters of the Northeast.

Q: Which is the smallest state in Seven Sisters?

Answer: Tripura is considered the smallest state of Northeast India.

Q: How many wildlife sanctuaries are there in North East India?

Answer: There are 28 Wildlife sanctuaries and National Parks in North East India.

Q: Which state is known as the Land of Rising Sun?

Answer: Arunachal Pradesh is known as the Land of Rising Sun.

Q: Which is the most beautiful state among the 7 sisters?

Answer: While each state has its charming beauty and experience, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland are considered the most beautiful of them all. It surely tops the list with its amazing flora and fauna and wide arrangements of unique habitats.

Q: Why is Manipur called the jewel of India?

Answer: Manipur, located in northeastern India, is often called the ‘jewel of India’. The state is known for its natural beauty, mountains, valleys, and forests. The people of Manipur are also known for their culture and art. The state has a long history and many ancient temples and palaces.

Q: What are the best places to visit in Seven Sisters?

Answer: The top places to visit in Seven Sisters are:

• Gangtok
• Shillong
• Guwahati
• Kaziranga National Park
• Pelling