Visiting North-Eastern India from Australia: Ensuring a Safe Journey
The North East often attracts travellers who are hardy and eager to explore new terrain. Another reason is that you can expect both cultural and geographic diversity when you visit this place. So why not take a break from your busy life and find peace in the North East after checking all the necessary India e-visa requirements?
But before you know why you should visit the North Eastern region, learn about the area permits first. The North Eastern part of India shares its borders with Bhutan, Myanmar, China, etc.
Hence, it is a protected area and a sensitive geographical location. So as a foreign tourist, you have to apply for PAPs (Protected Area Permits) to travel through this region. The Government of India issues this permit. The requirements for obtaining such a permit depend upon which region of the North East you’re travelling to.
This permit is valid for group tourists of two or more people. You can only visit the particular tourist places and go through the specific routes with the permit. Now, you should note that you can travel within the boundaries of the North East via road or air.
Why Visit North-Eastern India?
The amazing region is filled with various natural wonders like national parks, hills, and many more scattered throughout its 8 states, with their diverse tribes and communities.
This is why you can witness different festivals like the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland, Sangai Festival, Sanga Dawa, etc.
North East India is a beautiful land with various traditions. Each place has distinct cultures with natural beauty and unique local heritage. You can also explore the traditional villages among the resident native tribes.
However, to do so, you must maintain all the India entry visa requirements. Some of the places you should not miss are Tawang, Pelling, Mawlylong, Guwahati, Meghalaya, etc.
Travel from Australia to North-Eastern India
Visiting North-East India can prove to be quite an underrated and incredible adventure.
Discover some popular routes and places below and experience various cultures.
Popular Routes and Transport Options
There are direct flights from Sydney to Guwahati, Delhi, Kolkata etc. You have to take a connecting flight to reach the North East. Places like Manipur, Nagaland, Tripura, and Assam are the connecting routes for it.
If you are coming from Perth, Melbourne, Darwin, or other places, then again you have to come to Delhi, Kolkata, or other airports first and then you can go for the NorthEast region.
If you want to come to India via ship, then there are various options available for you. You can take Cunard, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, and others to travel along. The cruises generally start off their journey from Sydney, Melbourne or Perth.
You will reach Mumbai, Cochin, or other places in India through the ships. Then you have to take connecting flights or other transports like trains from there to reach North-East India.
Key Destinations in North-Eastern India
Explore 4 of the best places below and experience the various cultures.
Assam
Famed for its tea and the Bhut Jolokia chilli, Assam has an eclectic array of pleasures for foreign travellers. Wildlife lovers should not miss the experience of seeing rhinos in their natural habitat in the Kaziranga National Park.
On the other hand, spiritually inclined people should visit the Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to one of the forms of Goddess Shakti. Afterwards, you can rest by the banks of the Brahmaputra, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
You can also visit Majuli Island which was once considered to be one of the biggest riverine islands.
Sikkim
The different culture and rich history of this place make it more attractive to travelers. You can experience the Buddhist culture and descendants of Tibetans in Sikkim.
One of the most popular places you can explore in Sikkim is Gangtok, its capital. It is a base for Himalayan treks. The Baba Mandir and Nathu La are must-visit places there. You must also visit the hill station of Pelling.
This quaint city offers amazing views of the valley and has many spiritual places. This makes it a perfect place for seekers of adventure and peace.
Manipur
This place has some beautiful landscapes to explore. For instance, you should visit Loktak Lake, which is well known for being the only floating body of water in the world. Don’t forget to check out the national park there as well.
Additionally, you will also encounter friendly natives when you visit this place after fulfilling all the India entry visa requirements.
Nagaland
It is the real tribal state of the North-East. The people here are quite fearless and make for brave warriors. You should take care to not be deterred by the rough and rugged terrain.
Instead, you will have a memorable experience when you spend some time with the tribes there and stay at their homes. For instance, you should definitely visit the Konyak tribe.
Preparing for Your Trip
India is truly incredible. The amazing food, various scenery and unique culture make the country a real experience for tourists. It requires some careful planning to travel to India from Australia.
Visa Requirements for Australian Travelers
There are several India eVisa requirements for you to apply for. Most travelers apply for business or tourist eVisas. As you are going to experience various cultures and landscapes, then you have to apply for a tourist visa.
You can apply for this visa online by visiting the official website. Include your contact information and other details from your passport. Attach the supporting papers that are required.
You have to pay the visa fee using credit or debit cards. The confirmation will be delivered online to your email ID. You can stay for a period of 60 days with an Indian tourist visa.
30 to 60 minutes will be taken to complete the application process. You will need the following things to fulfil the India entry visa requirements:
- Email id
- Credit or debit card
- A passport that should remain valid for 6 months after leaving India
Travel Insurance and Health Precautions
It is crucial to arrange the medical papers before your trip. Travel insurance will help you protect against unexpected injuries or losses. You can be treated in case of a medical emergency with insurance.
Now, you should visit your doctor for a general checkup and ensure that all your vaccinations are up-to-date. Some vaccinations that are necessary for a traveler to have include:
- Hepatitis A
- Yellow fever
- Japanese encephalitis
- Rabies
Some vaccines need to be taken 4 to 6 weeks before you enter India. You can arrange your Indian vaccinations on the government website of health and aged care.
Most travelers do not experience any problems during their stay in India. If they do, the Consular and Passport Section of the Australian High Commission will:
- Issue emergency passports
- Assist in accidents
- Assist in serious illness or death
- Witness and certify documents
You can get global health insurance that will cover hospitalization expenses in India and emergency medical treatments. The high commission will always be ready to assist you in the emergency cases.
Best Time to Visit North-Eastern India
The best time depends on what you are looking for: weather, festivals, or cultural events. Know about it briefly below.
Seasonal Weather Overview
The best time to visit is between the months of March to June as it is the time of summer in India.
The northernmost parts face pleasant and friendly summers but the lower altitude regions get hot. The crystal clear skies and amber sunshine with blooming flora lead to attractive spots.
During the winter, the weather differs between being chilly and extremely cold.
For example, the Kaziranga National Park is chilling during the winter. This is why you should take the safaris when the temperature is more bearable. You can explore the region during winter if you love chilled weather.
Festivals and Cultural Events
The Hornbill Festival is a standout celebration and draws a significant number of Indian and Western tourists in the first week of December when it is held.
It takes place in the first week of December every year. Almost 150 tribes from across the state come together to dance, perform, and enjoy games.
The Reh festival also takes place in Arunachal Pradesh. It promotes peace, food prosperity, and brotherhood. This festival is held in February and July. The Idu Mishmi people welcome the spring and beg for the spirit to get a successful harvest and a happy year.
Nagaland people also celebrate another festival, called the Aoling festival. It is celebrated by the headhunting tattooed Konyak Naga tribe in the 1st week of April.
Travel Tips for North-Eastern India
The region is beautiful. A holiday will refresh your soul and keep you coming back here for more. And also don’t forget to meet Indian eVisa requirements and get a visa for your travel.
Navigating the Region
Before going to a place, it is crucial to estimate the transport accessibility properly. Besides the language barrier, you may need local guides. So knowing the place properly before reaching will help you in any case.
Check for a convenient entry point to North-East India. Places like Assam and Guwahati are connected to the Indian railways and airways. Know if there are transports available for point-to-point travel.
You can also hire a local guide for navigation throughout the journey. Prioritize research to find certified guides and inquire about their knowledge of the area.
Negotiate the prices upfront and confirm language fluency. Consider using established tour operators or online platforms to access reliable options.
Staying Safe During Your Visit
It is crucial to stay safe during your whole tour. Do not fall for any scam and stay safe in remote areas.
Ensure to not share any personal information. That’s because honest organizations will not call you often to get information and let you make up your mind in your own time.
So, anyone who will pressure you to pay fast tends to be a scammer.
Here are some tips for you to stay safe:
- Stay informed of current events and travel advisories.
- Follow the local people’s dressing habits and choose your outfits accordingly
- Share your travel itinerary with a person you trust and stay in touch
- Book tickets from official websites
- Avoid overnight travel in remote areas
- Consider domestic flights for longer distances.
Sustainable and Responsible Travel
You can use the following techniques to travel in an eco-friendly manner.
Supporting Local Communities
Responsible and immersive travel experiences give priority to support the local economy. Stay in local lodges or homestays and ensure that you eat there, to avoid overspending. Also, you should hire local guides.
This ensures that the local communities are benefitted and develop further.
Protecting the Environment
You should not use plastic bottles and containers. Instead, you should bring your own water bottles as the increased use of plastic contributes to climate change and harms marine life.
Ready, Set, Go to North East India!
We hope the above trip preparation tips will help you to ensure a successful vacation to your destination. Remember to research each place properly to avoid unexpected situations and experience memorable moments.
Meet all the India visa requirements properly and travel the Northeast region seamlessly!