01. Ri Kynjai (Barapani, Meghalaya)
Photo credit: Ri Kynjai
Words fail to describe the beauty of this resort. Located in Barapani (enroute to Shillong), Ri Kynjai is a must visit resort. The resort is based on a beautiful story about how the Khasi tribe landed onto the foothills of Meghalaya due to their sea faring nature, engulfing the idea of thatched roofs to protect themselves from incessant rains. With its thatched-hut feel, the main building is a three-level structure, completely built with glass on one side, overlooking the breathtaking Barapani (Umiam) lake. Even the Rock On 2 crew chose to stay here during the shoot. Yes, parts of the film have been shot in Meghalaya. Khasi traditions and folklore are beautifully depicted in its architecture and artefacts.
Cuisine Offered: Multicuisine, but you must try the Northeast specialities, such as smoked pork with bamboo shoot and the famous Cherrapunji chicken.
Nearest Airport/Railway Station/Bus Stop: Umroi Airport is only 35 km from Shillong and the Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport in Guwahati is 94 km from Barapani. Hire a taxi from the Guwahati airport to reach the resort in 2 hours. If you want to indulge, try the helicopter services that run through the week between Guwahati and Shillong.
Don’t Miss Out: Mawlynnong village and the sacred forest, the Umium (Barapani) lake
02. Eco Camp (Nameri, Assam)
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor
This resort should be on the top of your list if you want a super close tryst with nature. Located near the Jia-Bhoroli river, and conceptualised by the Assam Bhoreli Angling and Conservation Association(ABACA),the resort offers a number of adventurous activities for all age groups. Explore wild and endangered animals and birds, get familiar with the culture of the Mising and Assamese village folks in a short trek, or get an adrenaline rush while rafting. Eco Camp is ideal for your much-awaited eco-friendly trip.
Cuisine: Assamese
Nearest Airport/Railway Station/Bus Stop: Reach the Salonibari Airport (Tezpur) and take a 3 km bus/car ride to the resort.
Don’t Miss Out: River rafting, bird watching, fishing and village trekking
03. Hotel Mayfair (Gangtok, Sikkim)
Photo Credit: Mayfair Resorts
With the prestigious “The Best New Spa Resort” award by Asia Spa India, the 5-star brand needs no introduction. Located in Gangtok, the architecture is a perfect example of contemporary meets tradition. Snuggled between mountains and surrounded by Himalayan forests, this resort gives you the much needed luxurious break in the nature. Go splurge in MAHJONG—its live Casino, get pampered in its world-class spa, or let your kids be kids with numerous activities. Perfect for family and corporate meets.
Cuisine: Multicuisine
Nearest Airport/Railway Station/Bus Stop: The nearest airport to Gangtok is 124 km away in Bagdogra. Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station.
Don’t Miss Out: To try your luck at the brilliantly set up Casino and get spoilt in the spa!
04. Hotel Pemaling(Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh)
Photo Credit: Hotel Pemaling
Located in the famous Dirang valley,Pemaling is surrounded by serene picturesque landscapes. There are thick, lush green Arunachali mountainranges,where visitors can go kiwi picking and trekking. With a mesmerizing mountain view, this hotel will ensure that your stay is worth every penny. And then, there is the beautiful Monpa tribe that is ever so happy to have a few moments of cultural exchange.
Cuisine: Multicuisine
Nearest Airport/Railway Station/Bus Stop: The Tezpur airport is the nearest (205 kms)
Don’t Miss Out: Hot Water Springs, and Palyul Changchub Dargyeling and Kalachakra Monasteries.
06. Royal Heritage Tripura Castle (Shillong, Meghalaya)
Photo credit: Tripura Castle
The heritage hotel is the abode or rather the summer palace of the Royal Family of the Manikya Dynasty of Tripura. Have some wine at the Café Shillong Heritage with multi cuisine gourmet options or taste the authentic Khasi dishes at The Rice Court. It is also ideal for corporate gatherings.
Cuisine: Pan-Asian, Mediterranean, Continental and Northeastern specialties. Try rice-based jadoh, spicy pork dohkhlieh and exotic dried-fish tungtap.
Nearest Airport/Railway Station/Bus Stop: By Air though the Umroi Airport (only 35 km from Shillong) or the Lokopriya Gopinath Bordoloi Airport in Guwahati (128 kms from Shillong).
Don’t Miss Out: Shillong Peak, India Orchadium, Shillong Gold Course and Botanical Garden.
07. Bonhabi Resort (Assam)
Photo credit: Bonhabi resort
For a truly exciting experience of the very well-known Kaziranga National Park, try the Bonhabi Resort—which is just a little away from the Kohara Range main gate. The resort has been providing and exceeding expectations of the perfect jungle experience.
Cuisine: Multicuisine and ethnic food.
Nearest Airport/Railway Station/Bus Stop: The nearest airport is the Jorhat Airport. Take a 2.5 hour drive to Kaziranga National Park, where the resort is located.
Don’t Miss Out: Elephant and jeep safaris
08. Welcome Heritage Elephant Point Retreat (Tipi, Arunachal Pradesh)
Built on a 60-acre land, this eco resort is one of its kind. Aptly named, this retreat is located on a hill with a few hundred metres straight drop to the river flowing below. There are ample activities for nature lovers to loose themselves in the wild. Hornbills and other endangered birds, and orchards of bananas, pineapples, etc.,are sure to keep you away from life’s monochromes. While you enjoy a relaxing time under the pretty star-lit sky, the bustling sound of the river will calm every inch of your body. Services are very homely and rooms are well maintained.
Cuisine: Arunachali
Nearest Airport/Railway Station/Bus Stop: The Tezpur and Jorhat airports are the nearest. Take a few hours journey by road up to Tipi through Bhalukhpong.
Don’t Miss Out: Trek on request, 10–12 km walk through the most beautiful and scenic views of Arunachal, with small lakes, springs, etc all. You must try the lip smacking rice and meat made in hollowed-out bamboos.
Rhea Hussain
This 22-year-old political science graduate is a self-proclaimed fitness freak with a love for collecting books and smelling them incessantly. A few things that she digs are crunching on ice cubes, binging on momos and travelling. She has an unconditional affection for dogs. Although she says that she does not have a philosophy in life, but she believes that "happiness is subjective, so never compare".
