How to Plan a Safe Solo Trip in North East India

No matter where we travel, there remains one aspect that is absolutely non-negotiable.

Safety.

And the peace of mind that comes with it is something that you would not want to trade it with anything else. This aspect of travelling, is really what makes or breaks your trip. You want to end your journey taking the good memories to cherish for as long as possible.

On the other hand, Solo trips are becoming the new norm for many because of the solitude and self-discovery it offers.

And North East of India, truly is a good place to start with. Whether you want to start your day with a hot cup of tea and enjoy the lush, green landscapes, sparkling lakes, breathtaking mountain views, or you simply want to learn more about 220 plus indigenous groups, the peaceful culture and atmosphere of the North East Indian states, attracts the tired soul from all walks of life, especially if you want a sort of reset.

These states are known for their safety, warm hospitality and for not having too many crowds, that makes it an ideal destination for many solo travellers.

Pre-book Accommodation

Nothing is worse than not having the comfort of your own room in a new place all alone. So, in order to avoid last minute uncertainties then pre-book all your accommodations. While hotels are convenient for many, homestays are also a good option for those solo travellers who want a more authentic experience and the opportunity to connect with the locals.

Besides, who does not want home-cooked meals, especially when visiting some place new? Whether it is the serene green forests of Sikkim, or the river island of Majuli, homestays offer a home away from home experience.

Mandatory Permits

The Inner Line Permit (ILP) for citizens and Protected Area Permit (PAP) are official travel documents that help to regulate the entry of visitors in north east Indian states. These permits help with cultural preservation and security reasons and can be applied for in a smooth process through official government sites in advance.

While Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura do not require any permits for both Indians and foreigners, Indians require an Inner line permit for the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, and Nagaland. On the other hand, foreigners require a Protected Area Permit for Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. Some states like Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland offer permits on arrival for foreigners. However, the requirements of these permits are subject to change as well, so make sure to check out the same when you apply online.

Transportation

Getting to North East India is not too difficult since Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura and Assam have direct flights. And travelling to the other states via Assam is also accessible, however it is getting around within the states that can get a bit tricky. Especially when you consider the mountainous regions of Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, and landslides prone area of Sikkim.

In such situations, the best thing is to go for rented cars. While private ones do offer comfort and convenience, however if you are looking for a safer option then you can even check out shared taxis’ which are known as sumo jeeps.

If you want to travel by foot for shorter distances, in order to fully experience and wander about a new territory, make sure to retire for the day before the sun sets and go back to the safety of your accommodation.

Stay connected

While travelling solo, it would be vigilant to keep those close to you informed about your whereabouts. Before you begin your trip, you can share your travel itinerary with those whom you trust. Later, in case of change of plans in your itinerary, then buying a local sim, preferably Airtel or Jio or any other sim that has better network even in remote areas would be another measure you can take to keep the people you know and trust in the loop.

You can also keep your hotel contact and address saved offline, so that if a situation comes up and for whatever reason technology is not cooperating with you, then saving details offline can be of huge help.

Wrapping up

While travelling in a group, be it with your friends or family, is fun and exciting, a chance to bond and create new memories, Solo trips can be equally thrilling. However, during your solo trips make sure to always trust your gut feelings. If you feel something is off, then put a stop to your travel and return to the comfort and safety of your accommodation.

Whichever state you choose to visit, be it the seven sisters of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, or the brother state of Sikkim, these states provide a calming vibe and learning opportunity with its beautiful scenery and vibrant cultures. Explore these locations here.