Nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, the Northeastern region of India is renowned for its picturesque hill ranges that are home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. The region boasts of a diverse and vibrant cultural heritage that is reflected in its music, dance, art, and cuisine. The hill ranges of Northeast India are a perfect amalgamation of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore the unexplored.
From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the lush green valleys of Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh, the Northeastern region offers an abundance of natural beauty that is simply unparalleled. The region is also home to several indigenous tribes, each with their unique traditions and customs, adding to the rich cultural tapestry of the area. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or a cultural enthusiast, the hill ranges of Northeast India offer something for everyone.
Location and extent of the Himalayas in Northeast India
The Himalayas form the northern border of India, including Northeast India. The range stretches from the eastern border of Bhutan to the western border of Myanmar, covering a distance of approximately 2,400 km. The Northeast Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and parts of Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, and Nagaland lie in the Himalayan region. The Himalayas in Northeast India are characterized by snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and alpine meadows.
Significance of the Himalayas in the region and its Geology
The Himalayas have immense significance in Northeast India. They play a crucial role in regulating the region’s climate and weather patterns, acting as a barrier to the monsoon winds from the Bay of Bengal. The region is also known for its high seismic activity, and the Himalayas act as a natural shield against the impact of earthquakes and landslides. The Himalayas also serve as a vital source of water for the rivers that flow through the region, including the Brahmaputra, Teesta, and Barak.
The North East region of India is part of the Himalayan mountain range and is known for its diverse geology. The region is characterized by the Himalayan Fold Belt, which is a complex geological structure formed as a result of the collision between the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. The North East region is composed of sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks. The sedimentary rocks include sandstones, shales, and limestones, which were formed during the Mesozoic and Cenozoic eras. The metamorphic rocks include gneisses, schists, and marbles, which were formed due to the high pressure and temperature conditions during the Himalayan orogeny. The region also has extensive volcanic activity, which has led to the formation of various volcanic rocks such as basalt and andesite. The North East region is also known for its rich mineral resources, including coal, oil, gas, and various metallic and non-metallic minerals. Overall, the geology of the North East mountain ranges is complex and diverse, making it an important region for geological research and exploration.
Temperature & Weather
The temperature and weather in the North East India hills can vary depending on the season and altitude. The region experiences a humid subtropical climate with a lot of rainfall, especially during the monsoon season which runs from June to September. Here’s a general overview of the temperature and weather in the North East India hills:
Summer (March to June): During the summer months, temperatures can range from 15°C to 25°C in higher altitudes, while lower altitudes may experience temperatures up to 35°C. The weather is generally warm and humid with occasional showers.
Monsoon (June to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to the region, with some areas receiving up to 3000 mm of rainfall during this time. Temperatures during this season range from 20°C to 25°C in higher altitudes, while lower altitudes may experience temperatures up to 30°C. It can be quite humid during this season, with occasional floods and landslides in some areas.
Autumn (October to November): The autumn season is generally pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C in higher altitudes, while lower altitudes may experience temperatures up to 30°C. The weather is generally clear with occasional showers.
Winter (December to February): Winters in the North East India hills can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C in higher altitudes. Lower altitudes may experience temperatures up to 20°C. The weather is generally dry and sunny with occasional fog and frost.
River & Waterfalls
The North East region of India is blessed with several mountain ranges, which are home to many rivers and waterfalls. Here are some of the popular rivers and waterfalls in the North East mountain ranges:
Brahmaputra River: The Brahmaputra River is one of the largest rivers in the world and originates in the Himalayas in Tibet. It flows through Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya, and is a lifeline for the people of the North East. The river is also known for its scenic beauty and is a popular tourist destination.
Nohkalikai Falls: Located in Cherrapunji in Meghalaya, the Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest plunge waterfall in India. The waterfall is fed by rainwater collected on the summit of the surrounding hills, and the water plunges down a height of 340 meters into a plunge pool below.
Umngot River: The Umngot River is a clear water river that flows through Dawki in Meghalaya. The river is known for its crystal-clear waters, which make it a popular spot for boating and kayaking. The river also forms the border between India and Bangladesh.
Dihing River: The Dihing River is a tributary of the Brahmaputra River and flows through the states of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. The river is known for its scenic beauty and is home to many species of fish and birds.
Krem Liat Prah: Krem Liat Prah is a cave system located in the Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya. The cave system is home to several waterfalls and underground rivers, including the Umkot River, which flows through the caves. The cave system is a popular destination for adventure tourism.
Popular Himalayan hill stations in Northeast India
The Himalayas in Northeast India are home to several popular hill stations, attracting tourists from all over the world. Some of the most popular Himalayan hill stations in Northeast India include:
Darjeeling: A town in West Bengal, Darjeeling is known for its tea plantations, stunning views of Kanchenjunga, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
Gangtok: The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is known for its picturesque landscapes, stunning views of the Kanchenjunga, and the Rumtek Monastery.
Kalimpong: A town in West Bengal, Kalimpong is known for its scenic beauty, traditional handicrafts, and Buddhist monasteries.
Tawang: A town in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is known for its ancient monasteries, stunning views of the Himalayas, and traditional Tibetan architecture.
Shillong: The capital of Meghalaya, Shillong is known for its scenic beauty, colonial architecture, and music scene.
These Himalayan hill stations offer visitors an opportunity to explore the region’s enchanting landscapes, unique cultural traditions, and cuisine. They are also popular for adventure activities such as trekking, hiking, mountaineering, and river rafting.
Biodiversity of the North East
North East India is a region rich in biodiversity, and it is home to many rare and endangered species of flora and fauna.
Animals found in the Mountain ranges of the North East
The rhinoceros
Tiger
Deer
Chital
Swamp deer or dolhorina
Clouded leopard
Hoolock gibbon
Pygmy hog or nol-gahori (Porcula salvania)
Hispid hare
Golden langur (Trachypithecus geei)
Golden cat,
Giant civet
Binturong, hog badger
Porcupine
Civet
Gangetic dolphins
Mongooses
Giant squirrels
Pythons
Wild water buffalo
The major birds include
Red Junglefowl
Indian Peafowl
Kalij Pheasant
Yellow-bellied Prinia
Striated Grassbird
White-throated Laughingthrush
Spot-winged Grosbeak
Himalayan Cutia
Black-throated Sunbird
Fire-tailed Myzornis
Brown Fish Owl
Great Indian Hornbill
Asian Fairy Bluebird
Oriental Pied Hornbill
White-cheeked Partridge
Green-billed Malkoha
Rufous-necked Hornbill
Grey Peacock-Pheasant
Black-breasted Parrotbill
Grey-headed Parakeet
Black Stork
National Parks
Kaziranga National Park: This park is located in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam and is famous for its population of the one-horned rhinoceros.
Manas National Park: This park is located in the Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, and Udalguri districts of Assam and is known for its population of tigers, elephants, and other wildlife.
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park: This park is located in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts of Assam and is known for its diverse bird population, as well as wild horses and dolphins.
Nameri National Park: This park is located in the Sonitpur district of Assam and is known for its population of elephants and tigers, as well as the Jia Bhoroli River that flows through it.
Orang National Park: This park is located in the Darrang and Sonitpur districts of Assam and is known for its population of the great Indian one-horned rhinoceros and wild elephants.
Namdapha National Park: This park is located in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh and is the largest protected area in the Eastern Himalayas. It is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the clouded leopard, snow leopard, and Asiatic black bear.
Mouling National Park: This park is located in the Upper Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh and is known for its rich biodiversity. It is home to several endangered species, such as the Mishmi takin, goral, and red panda. The park also has a significant population of bird species, including the white-bellied heron, a critically endangered species.
Biodiversity Threat
The North East region of India is one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the world, and is home to a rich variety of plant and animal species. However, the region is also facing a number of threats to its biodiversity.
One of the biggest threats to biodiversity in the North East is habitat loss due to deforestation and land-use changes. Forests in the region are being cleared for agriculture, logging, mining, and infrastructure development. This has led to the loss of critical habitat for many species, and has increased the risk of extinction for many plants and animals.
Invasive species are another major threat to biodiversity in the North East. Non-native species such as the water hyacinth, mimosa, and lantana have invaded many areas of the region, competing with native species for resources and disrupting the ecosystem. Poaching and illegal wildlife trade are also major threats to biodiversity in the North East. Many of the region’s iconic species, such as tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses, are being hunted for their body parts and meat.
Climate change is another major threat to biodiversity in the North East, affecting both plant and animal species. Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns can impact the distribution and abundance of species, leading to declines in biodiversity.
Overall, protecting the biodiversity of the North East region is crucial for maintaining the health of the ecosystem and the well-being of local communities. Efforts are underway to conserve and protect the region’s biodiversity, including the establishment of protected areas, conservation initiatives, and awareness campaigns.
Hill Ranges in various States:
Hill ranges of Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh is a state located in the northeastern region of India, and it is known for its beautiful hill ranges. Here are some of the major hill ranges of Arunachal Pradesh:
Eastern Himalayas: The Eastern Himalayas run along the northern border of Arunachal Pradesh and include some of the highest peaks in the world, including Kangto, Nyegi Kangsang, and Gorichen. These mountains are home to a variety of flora and fauna, including many rare and endangered species.
Mishmi Hills: The Mishmi Hills are located in the northeastern part of Arunachal Pradesh and are known for their rich biodiversity. The hills are home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the Mishmi takin, Mishmi hill partridge, and Mishmi wren-babbler.
Patkai Range: The Patkai Range is a mountain range that runs along the eastern border of Arunachal Pradesh and extends into Myanmar. The range is known for its rugged terrain and dense forests, and it is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and clouded leopards.
Siang Hills: The Siang Hills are located in the western part of Arunachal Pradesh and are known for their scenic beauty. The hills are home to a number of tribal communities, including the Adi, Galo, and Minyong tribes.
Ziro Valley: The Ziro Valley is a beautiful valley located in the lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh. The valley is surrounded by hills on all sides and is known for its rice fields, which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
These hill ranges of Arunachal Pradesh offer visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region, as well as the unique cultures of the local tribes.
Hill ranges of Assam
Assam is a state located in northeastern India, and while it is mostly known for its tea plantations and the Brahmaputra River, it also has some notable hill ranges. Here are some of the major hill ranges of Assam:
Karbi Hills: The Karbi Hills are located in the central part of Assam and are known for their scenic beauty. The hills are home to the Karbi people, who are one of the major ethnic groups in Assam.
North Cachar Hills: The North Cachar Hills are located in the southern part of Assam and are known for their rugged terrain and dense forests. The hills are home to a number of tribal communities, including the Dimasa, Hmar, and Zeme tribes.
Garo Hills: The Garo Hills are located in the western part of Assam and extend into neighboring Meghalaya. The hills are home to the Garo people, who are one of the major ethnic groups in the region.
Dehing Patkai Hills: The Dehing Patkai Hills are located in the eastern part of Assam and are known for their biodiversity. The hills are home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the hoolock gibbon, elephant, and clouded leopard.
Jaintia Hills: The Jaintia Hills are located in the southern part of Assam and extend into neighboring Meghalaya. The hills are home to the Jaintia people, who are one of the major ethnic groups in the region.
These hill ranges offer visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Assam, as well as the unique cultures of the local tribes.
Hill ranges of Meghalaya
Meghalaya is a state located in northeastern India and is known for its beautiful hill ranges, which are part of the Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia hills. Here are some of the major hill ranges of Meghalaya:
Khasi Hills: The Khasi Hills are located in the central part of Meghalaya and are the most populous and developed of the three hill ranges. The hills are known for their scenic beauty, waterfalls, and limestone caves. The Khasi people are the major ethnic group in the region.
Jaintia Hills: The Jaintia Hills are located in the eastern part of Meghalaya and are known for their coal reserves and limestone deposits. The hills are home to the Jaintia people, who are one of the major ethnic groups in the region.
Garo Hills: The Garo Hills are located in the western part of Meghalaya and are known for their scenic beauty, wildlife, and indigenous culture. The hills are home to the Garo people, who are one of the major ethnic groups in the region.
South Garo Hills: The South Garo Hills are located in the southern part of Meghalaya and are known for their dense forests, rivers, and waterfalls. The hills are home to a number of tribal communities, including the Garo, Hajong, and Rabha tribes.
West Khasi Hills: The West Khasi Hills are located in the western part of Meghalaya and are known for their scenic beauty, limestone caves, and waterfalls. The hills are home to a number of tribal communities, including the Khasi, Pnar, and Lyngngam tribes.
These hill ranges of Meghalaya offer visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region, as well as the unique cultures of the local tribes.
Hill ranges of Nagaland
Nagaland is a state located in northeastern India, and it is known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful hill ranges. Here are some of the major hill ranges of Nagaland:
Patkai Range: The Patkai Range is a mountain range that runs along the eastern border of Nagaland and extends into Myanmar. The range is known for its rugged terrain and dense forests, and it is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and clouded leopards.
Naga Hills: The Naga Hills are located in the eastern part of Nagaland and are known for their scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. The hills are home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the Naga wren-babbler, Naga laughingthrush, and Naga hill myna.
Barail Range: The Barail Range is a mountain range that runs along the western border of Nagaland and extends into neighboring Assam. The range is known for its scenic beauty and is home to a number of tribal communities, including the Zeliang and Angami tribes.
Saramati Range: The Saramati Range is a mountain range that runs along the eastern border of Nagaland and extends into neighboring Myanmar. The range is known for its high peaks, including Mount Saramati, which is the highest peak in Nagaland.
These hill ranges offer visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Nagaland, as well as the unique cultures of the local tribes.
Hill ranges of Manipur
Manipur is a state located in northeastern India, and it is known for its beautiful hill ranges, which are part of the Eastern Himalayas. Here are some of the major hill ranges of Manipur:
Manipur Hills: The Manipur Hills are located in the central part of Manipur and are known for their scenic beauty, biodiversity, and unique cultures. The hills are home to a number of tribal communities, including the Naga, Kuki, and Hmar tribes.
Maram Hills: The Maram Hills are located in the northeastern part of Manipur and are known for their rugged terrain and dense forests. The hills are home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the Hoolock gibbon, slow loris, and clouded leopard.
Ukhrul Hills: The Ukhrul Hills are located in the northern part of Manipur and are known for their scenic beauty and unique cultures. The hills are home to the Tangkhul Naga tribe, who are known for their colorful dances and traditional handicrafts.
Chandel Hills: The Chandel Hills are located in the southern part of Manipur and are known for their beautiful waterfalls and rich biodiversity. The hills are home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the pangolin, slow loris, and barking deer.
Tamenglong Hills: The Tamenglong Hills are located in the western part of Manipur and are known for their scenic beauty and unique cultures. The hills are home to the Zeliangrong Naga tribe, who are known for their colorful dances and traditional handicrafts.
These hill ranges offer visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Manipur, as well as the unique cultures of the local tribes.
Hill ranges of Mizoram
Mizoram is a state in the northeastern part of India, located between the coordinates of 21.58°N 92.38°E. The state is known for its lush forests and scenic beauty, and is home to several hill ranges. Some of the prominent hill ranges of Mizoram are:
Lushai Hills: Also known as Mizo Hills, this is the largest hill range in Mizoram and is spread across the entire length of the state. The highest peak in this range is the Phawngpui or the Blue Mountain which is located at an altitude of 2,157 meters.
Damparengpui Range: This hill range is located in the northern part of Mizoram and is known for its steep slopes and rugged terrain. It is an important habitat for various wildlife species such as tigers, leopards, and elephants.
Pawi-Lugdi Range: This hill range is located in the southeastern part of Mizoram and is known for its picturesque valleys and high peaks. It is home to several waterfalls, including the Vantawng Falls which is the highest waterfall in Mizoram.
Chhimtuipui Range: Also known as the “Abode of the Serpents”, this hill range is located in the southern part of Mizoram and is known for its deep gorges and high cliffs. It is home to the Chhimtuipui River, which is also known as the Kaladan River.
Tlangnuam Range: This hill range is located in the central part of Mizoram and is known for its scenic beauty and diverse flora and fauna. It is home to several rare and endangered species such as the Hoolock Gibbon, Clouded Leopard, and the Serow.
Hill ranges of Tripura
Tripura is a state located in the northeastern region of India. The state is characterized by its undulating terrain, hills, and valleys. Here are some of the prominent hill ranges in Tripura:
Jampui Hills: Jampui Hills is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tripura. The range is located at an altitude of 3000 feet above sea level and is famous for its scenic beauty, orange orchards, and waterfalls.
Atharamura Hills: Atharamura Hills is a range of hills located in the western part of Tripura. The hills are known for their dense forests, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. The famous Unakoti rock-cut sculptures are also located in these hills.
Longtharai Hills: Longtharai Hills is a range of hills located in the southeastern part of Tripura. The hills are known for their scenic beauty and wildlife. The Longtharai Wildlife Sanctuary is located in these hills.
Dhalai Hills: Dhalai Hills is a range of hills located in the northern part of Tripura. The hills are known for their natural beauty and wildlife. The famous Chabimura rock-cut sculptures are also located in these hills.
Sakhan Range: Sakhan Range is a range of hills located in the southern part of Tripura. The hills are known for their dense forests and wildlife. The famous Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary is also located in these hills.
These hill ranges are not only important from a geographical point of view but also from a cultural and historical perspective. They have played a significant role in shaping the history and culture of Tripura.
Historical & Cultural Significance
The mountain ranges in the northeastern region of India have a rich and diverse historical and cultural significance. Here are some of the important aspects:
Religious Significance: The northeastern mountain ranges have been home to several religious and cultural communities like Buddhists, Hindus, Christians, and Muslims. The hills have played a crucial role in shaping their religious beliefs and practices. The Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh, Kamakhya Temple in Assam, and the Mahadeva Temple in Tripura are some of the significant religious sites located in the mountain ranges.
Tribal Culture: The northeastern mountain ranges are home to several indigenous tribal communities like the Naga, Mizo, Khasi, Garo, and others. These communities have their unique cultural practices, traditions, and beliefs, which are closely associated with the mountain ranges. The Naga tribes celebrate the Hornbill Festival, which is an important cultural event in the region.
Historical Significance: The mountain ranges have played a significant role in the history of the region. The Ahom dynasty of Assam, which ruled for over 600 years, was founded in the Brahmaputra valley and extended its influence to the surrounding mountain ranges. The hills were also used as natural fortresses by the various tribes to defend themselves against invading forces.
Biodiversity: The northeastern mountain ranges have a rich and diverse biodiversity, with several rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. The region is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, and Dampa Tiger Reserve, which are significant for the conservation of wildlife.
Adventure Tourism: The northeastern mountain ranges are becoming increasingly popular for adventure tourism activities like trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, and paragliding. The scenic beauty of the hills, coupled with the rich cultural and historical significance, attracts a large number of tourists to the region every year.
Threat & Conservation
The northeastern mountain ranges of India are facing several threats due to human activities and natural factors. The region’s growing population has led to deforestation, hunting, and encroachment, causing severe damage to the region’s fragile ecosystem. Additionally, natural disasters such as landslides and floods are also affecting the region’s biodiversity and causing damage to the local communities.
To conserve the northeastern mountain ranges, there is an urgent need for effective conservation measures, including afforestation, wildlife protection, and sustainable tourism practices. The local communities and government agencies should work together to implement measures that can help protect the region’s ecosystem and biodiversity. The conservation of the region’s forests and wildlife is crucial not only for the local communities but also for the overall ecological balance of the region.
Moreover, creating awareness among the local people and tourists is equally important to ensure the sustainability of the northeastern mountain ranges. The development of eco-tourism can generate income for the local communities while also providing incentives to conserve the region’s biodiversity. It is essential to recognize the cultural and historical significance of the region and promote responsible tourism practices that do not harm the environment. Conservation efforts should aim to balance economic development with ecological sustainability to ensure that the northeastern mountain ranges continue to thrive for generations to come.
Conclusion
The northeastern mountain ranges of India are a unique and significant part of the country’s natural and cultural heritage. These mountain ranges are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, several indigenous tribal communities, and numerous religious and cultural sites. However, the region is facing various threats due to human activities and natural disasters, which are causing damage to the ecosystem and affecting the local communities’ livelihoods.
Effective conservation measures are crucial to safeguard the northeastern mountain ranges and ensure their sustainability. It is essential to balance economic development with ecological sustainability to ensure that the region’s biodiversity and cultural heritage continue to thrive. Additionally, creating awareness among the local communities and tourists about responsible tourism practices can play a vital role in promoting the conservation of the region.
The northeastern mountain ranges are not only significant for their ecological and cultural significance but also for the overall development of the region. Sustainable development measures should be implemented to promote the region’s economic growth while also ensuring the conservation of its natural and cultural heritage. The northeastern mountain ranges are a valuable asset for the country, and preserving them should be a top priority for all stakeholders.
