Hush…The Seven Sisters Are Calling!

The north-eastern region of India is the deific abode of the stunning seven sisters i.e. Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura. As it is amongst the most secluded corners of the country, the beauty still remains unspoiled and charismatic sans the touch of modernization. The only willowy corridor, to enter this territory is Siliguri (approximately around 30Kms wide).

Beside Assam and Tripura, the region has a predominantly tribal population where you can get to see a perfect blend of multiple cultures, religions and languages. For instance, Tibeto-Burman, Mongolian and Austro-Asiatic cultures and beliefs including Christianity and Hinduism are a good mix. Mother Nature provides all the means of support to this Utopian population. No doubt, your trip will remain incomplete, if you miss the chance to have a glimpse of these distinct kinfolks.

Image Courtesy: www.thrillophilia.com

The gorgeous fauna world of the North-East is another attraction for the visitors. The sub-tropical climate in consort with copious rains, are the primary contributors of its thriving wildernesses. The land has myriad of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries for the wildlife lovers. The rainforests of this province have the best of ecological diversity, accumulating an array of miscellaneous mammals including One Horned Rhinoceros, Elephants, Tigers, Leopards and many more. Besides mammals various reptiles and numerous species of birds like Indian Horn-Bill, Stork and Adjutants can also be found here. If lucky enough, you might get a chance to discover some new species of creature, or a plant or creepy-crawly, and naming them as per your choice! Sounding interesting, isn’t it?

The overwhelming valleys of the vast Brahmaputra River not only make the beholder spellbound at first glance, but also drives him to nostalgic junctions. The whole sail on the mighty water course allows the traveler to unwind all the hustle and bustles of life by settling an invisible bond between man and nature.

Image Courtsey :www.ankurkolkata.com

The adventure aficionados do not fret. This North-Eastern region definitely has something to offer you as well. The fast speed of running water of this river upstream gives a chance to the water sports lovers to explore the natural path of rivers, through the jungles and rocky territories of Himalayas. Experience the thrill to be in the raft, flowing fast through the curves and twist of Brahmaputra.
Not to forget, to relish the sips of the best teas of the world at the Tea-Gardens of Assam. What could be more relaxing than sitting with a refreshing cup of tea and gazing at the surrounding serenity?

The Seven Sisters offer a vivid range of souvenir to the tourists, extending from different home décor fixture to an exclusive piece of dress material. Mat-making and basketry are among the most ancient of crafts of this province. Kouna craft or products made from water reed grass from Manipur, are the must-buys. Invest in these light-weight; reasonably priced and eco-friendly products. Manipuri woollen shawls are also a chic statement. The fully knitted cane sofa sets, Naga warrior spears as wall decorations and shawls are the keepsakes from Nagaland.  Tripura is popular for cane, bamboo and wood crafts including bamboo baskets, screens, rolling mats etc.  Assam offers a plethora of ‘Muga’ and silk sarees, woven ‘Modas’ or garden furniture, masks or ‘Mukhas’, metal crafts, toys, mats and a bamboo and cane decorative items, the wooden one-horned rhino and many more. Meghalaya, known as the `Scotland of the East', is popular for basketry waving from bamboo, and many cane crafted fixtures. The pen stand or luta as well as the light green decorated tray sets and Tiffin Boxes made from bamboo, dry flowers are impressive. Do not miss to bag the nice designer cloth-woven ethnic bags and eye-catching caps from Mizoram. Monpa cloth bag, traditional weapons/ knives, bamboo bangles and ear ornament, bead jewelry, Sherdukpen shawls, Apatani jackets and scarves, Adi skirts, jackets and bags, Mishmi shawls etc. are the best bargains from Arunachal Pradesh.

Image Courtesy: www.harekrsna.com

Enchanting beauties, rapids and rivers, tribal people, excellent flora and fauna and brilliant collection of keepsakes; a call from “The Seven Sisters,” is something worth attending!