The North East of India is a beautiful region known for its lush valleys, misty mountains, flowing rivers, and vibrant cultures. Compared to commercial hotels, homestays in this region offer visitors an opportunity to have a more in-depth experience of the region’s natural beauty and its local traditions . Interacting with families, tasting local food, and enjoying the slow pace of the countryside are things that one could do while staying at a homestay.
People who love nature will probably find the charm of these stays to be the fact that they could wake up to a birds’ chorus, watch sunrises coming over snow-capped peaks, or enjoy a cup of tea while being surrounded by nature without end. Here is a detailed guide to some of the most memorable nature homestays in North East India that combine with comfort, culture, and stunning landscapes.
1. Tea Garden Homestays, Assam
Assam tea is popular all over the world, and many people who live near tea plantations have started renting out their houses to tourists . These homestays let visitors see the process of tea production while giving them charming views of the lush gardens . Guests can partake in guided tours of tea estates, strolls through villages, and traditional Assamese meals cooked with organic produce, etc.
Feature: Experience tea plucking and drink freshly brewed Assam tea right at the source.
2. Dzongu Homestays, Sikkim
Located in North Sikkim, Dzongu is a serene place that belongs to the Lepcha community . Staying at the local homestays is just like entering a hidden utopia . Villages are surrounded by dense forests, waterfalls, and stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga . Hosts usually narrate Lepcha custom stories and also take visitors on the hike to the holy lakes besides imbibing their culture.
Feature: Genuine cultural immersion coupled with awe-inspiring Himalayan view.
3. Majuli Island Homestays, Assam
Majuli, the worlds largest river island on the Brahmaputra, is a mesmerizing place where nature and culture are rooted deeply into each other . The village style houses are made of bamboo and generally situated close to the satras (monastic institutions) . The guests can watch the locals performing different art forms such as mask-making, pottery, and could take river rides as well.
Feature: Enjoy life at the calm pace that comes with island living amid the luxuriant paddy fields and riverbanks.
4. Tawang Homestays, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang is located in the Eastern Himalayas and is mostly famous for its monasteries and snow clad mountain. Homestays here are commonly wooden with an open fireplace , and you have wonderful mountain views all around. The guests are offered butter tea and traditional Monpa dishes by the hosts. During winters , the place gets covered with snow, which makes it a nice getaway for tourists.
Feature : Not far away from Tawang Monastery and encompassed by unspoiled high-altitude terrains.
5. Mawlynnong Homestays, Meghalaya
Recommended as The cleanest village in Asia, Mawlynnong is an ideal option if you want to rent uniquely designed bamboo cottages or homestays that are situated amidst beautiful gardens and woodlands. Visitors will be able to view the living root bridges, the amazing natural bridge formed by the roots of the trees, take in breathtaking sceneries from the skywalk and warmly experience the eco-friendly lifestyle of the Khasi community.
Feature : The combination of cleanliness, natural wonders, and warm Khasi hospitality makes it a perfect destination.
6. Ziro Valley Homestays, Arunachal Pradesh
One of the candidates for the UNESCO World Heritage Site; Ziro Valley is surrounded by pine clad hills and rice fields . Homestays are mostly managed by the Apatani tribe members who are well known for their great farming tradition. Visitors can participate in agricultural activities , go for a hike in the forest, and can enjoy the well-known Ziro Music Festival if they happen to be there during the festival time.
Feature: Harmony of scenic beauty, cultural wealth, and lively festivals.
7. Cherrapunji Homestays, Meghalaya
One of the things Cherrapunji is famous for, besides being the wettest place on Earth, are its waterfalls, caves, and misty hills . Most homestays here are very beautiful as they are located on hilltops and therefore give guests spectacular views of valleys and clouds that are passing by. Eating indigenous Khasi food, having story-sharing evenings, and trekking the root bridges are just a few of the activities that make it memorable for visitors.
Highlight: Get up and look through your window at waterfalls and greenery that has no end.
8. Mokokchung Homestays, Nagaland
Homestays in Nagaland are the best way to get an eye and ear witness account of the tribal cultures and traditions. It is the home of the Ao Naga tribe and known for its festivals, folk music, and warm hospitality, thus, Mokokchung has a global reputation . Guests accompanied by locals are sometimes doing the cooking, attending the weaving class or a community gathering. All these give them a close impression of tribal life in nature.
Highlight: Get close to the tribal lifestyle and enjoy their lively traditions in a calm environment.
9. Imphal Valley Homestays, Manipur
Imphal Valley of Manipur is where guests can find homestays in the middle of lush paddy fields and with views of the lotus settled Loktak Lake . They can stay in traditional huts, eat Eromba , a Manipuri delicacy, and ride boats over the floating phumdis of Loktak.
Highlight : An idyllic retreat with easy access to natural and cultural treasures of Manipur.
10. Aizawl Homestays, Mizoram
The capital of Mizoram, Aizawl is where homestays can be found and they are a charming place to stay while exploring the city and the surrounding hills . Travellers can enjoy the picturesque side of Mizoram, relishing perfect bamboo shoot dishes, and getting a peek at the state’s heritage through its vibrant culture.
Highlight : Enjoy the best of city life, nature and home grown traditions in one place.
Also check:- Top organic farm destinations across India
What Makes Homestays Special in the North East?
~ Connection with Locals : Direct interaction with families offers authentic experiences.
~ Eco Friendly Living : Most homestays use bamboo, wood, and natural materials.
~ Cultural Immersion : From food to music, every stay is a learning opportunity.
~ Closeness to Nature : Whether mountains, rivers, or forests, every homestay is surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Travel Tips for Homestays in the North East
~ Book Early : Some homestays have limited rooms, especially during festivals.
~ Respect Local Customs : Dress modestly, and follow cultural norms.
~ Pack Light but Warm : Weather can be unpredictable, so layers are useful.
~ Stay Flexible : Remote areas may have limited facilities embrace simplicity.
~ Support Locals: Buy local handicrafts or produce as souvenirs.
