By Nandani Sharma
In Northeast India, culture doesn’t sit in museums – it lives in the wind and walks beside you. It cooks your meals, welcomes you into its bamboo homes and through its tribal hearts you get to experience India in its rawest and kindest form.
More Than Names: These Are Living Cultures
The northeast is home to over 200 tribes, each with their own rhythms. There’s no umbrella term, no single identity. From Nagaland’s fierce Pride to Meghalaya’s matrilineal tenderness, each tribe holds centuries of wisdom – still breathing and evolving.
Nagaland
- Known for 16 Naga Tribes, including Konyaks, Angamis and Aos
- Famous for the warrior past, facial tattoos, and featherhead headgear
- Visit during the Hornbill Festival (December 1-10) to experience the tribal dance, food and crafts in one vibrant space.
- Visit Khonoma, a model eco-village that blends tradition with sustainability
Photo by thetravelshots.com
Arunachal Pradesh
- Home to Mishmi, Apatani or Monpa, and Nyishi tribes
- In villages like Ziro, women with traditional nose plugs and vibrant handwoven shawls greet you with quiet grace and history
- In Tawang, Monasteries demonstrate animism and Tibetan Buddhism through prayer and tribal folklore
Photo by fischer-bruidsfotographie.nl
Meghalaya
- Dominated by Khasi, Jaintia and Garo tribes
- Known for matrilineal society and unique living root bridges
- Traditional music, forest worship, and clan – based governance still shape life today
- Join a local music jam or taste smoked pork in a family kitchen
Photo by www.caleidoscope.in
Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Assam
- Each offers its own rich tribal presence – Lushai in Mizoram; Meitei of Manipur; Reang of Tripura; Karbi of Assam
- Cultural festivals, folk dances and handwoven textiles make every visit personal
A few Things To Remember:
- Visiting Tribal areas is a privilege, not a right.
- Ask before taking photographs
- Learn a few words in the local dialect
- Support local artisans by buying handmade textiles, bamboo products, or jewellery
- Try home stays and tribal-run eco lodges
- Attend local festivals instead of just tourist focused events
Explore with Aryavrit Travels
Navigating the Northeast tribal regions – with remote access, language barriers and permit regulations can be challenging. But Aryavrit Travels has done it for years.
What we offer:
- Guided cultural tours through tribal villages and heritage sites
- Authentic homestays or eco – lodges curated for comfort and respect
- Permit assistance for states like Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland
- Local escorts fluent in regional languages and cultural practices
- Craft village visits and textile tours
Let Aryavrit Travels take you not just through geography, but through memory, tradition and soul.
