If you’re a family that loves to trade screen time for green time, and you believe the best memories are made one step at a time, then Northeast India might just be your next perfect getaway.
Tucked away in a quieter corner of the country, this region is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich cultures, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that feel refreshingly real. But what makes it truly special for families? It’s walkable. Not in the “touristy sidewalk” way, but in the let’s-explore-that-hill-trail-together kind of way.
From exploring the ancient living root bridges of Meghalaya, to walking through the tea-scented air of Assam’s plantations, or wandering through tribal villages in Nagaland where time seems to slow down—these walks are more than just hikes. They’re shared adventures, full of curiosity, laughter, and moments your kids will actually remember (and talk about long after the trip is over).
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the best family-friendly walking tours across the Northeast—what to expect, where to go, and how to make the most of every step.
So pack your comfiest shoes, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready to wander.
Why Walk with Kids?
Northeast India is well-connected by air, rail, and road. There are plenty of cozy homestays, welcoming restaurants, and comfortable options for getting around. The weather—especially between October and March—is practically perfect for exploring, whether you’re hopping in a car or setting out on foot.
But here’s the thing: walking with kids adds a whole new dimension to travel.
When you slow down to explore a place on foot, you’re not just passing through—you’re experiencing it. Kids are naturally curious, and walking gives them the time and space to notice things adults might miss: a butterfly flitting through the air, a trail of ants across a stone path, or the sound of distant drums from a village festival.
Walking also encourages interaction. A short trail through a forest can lead to conversations with local guides, encounters with village children, or spontaneous snacks at a roadside tea stall. These aren’t just “sightseeing” moments—they’re real, human connections.
Plus, let’s be honest—kids have energy to burn. Structured walking routes give them a safe and productive outlet, with the added bonus of tired, happy faces by evening (read: better sleep for everyone!).
Along the way, they also get to learn about indigenous lifestyles and tribes, and witness a slower pace of life that often feels untouched by time.
In short, walking transforms a family trip into a shared adventure. And in a region as culturally rich and naturally stunning as Northeast India, every step tells a story.
Here in this blog, we’ve rounded up some of the best walking tours you can do with your children. Whether you’re weaving through vibrant local markets, trekking gentle forest trails, or exploring quiet villages tucked into the hills, each walk offers a chance for discovery, connection, and learning. These family-friendly routes are designed to be safe, engaging, and full of moments that both kids and adults will remember long after the trip is over.
Arunachal Pradesh
Walk Through Orchards, Meadows, and Hidden Waterfalls in Shergaon
In the serene village of Shergaon, you can stay on a local farm nestled in beautiful apple orchards—an ideal base for slow, meaningful travel with children. Explore the nearby meadows, where sweeping views of the Eastern Himalayas unfold around you, creating the perfect backdrop for easy walks and outdoor play.
Take a gentle hike to the Zengbu Gompa, a peaceful monastery where your children can marvel at the unique Buddhist architecture and get a glimpse into the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage. The stillness of the place invites quiet reflection and connection.
For a bit more adventure, set out on a family-friendly trek to the Choskorong Waterfall, Shergaon’s hidden gem. Tucked away in a tranquil forest, this waterfall is reached by a scenic walk that includes a bit of rock-hopping—fun for active kids. The clear, cool water and untouched setting make it a rewarding stop for a picnic or a quiet pause in nature.
Namdapha National Park: A Christmas Day Jungle Adventure with River Crossings, Forest Trails & Birdwatching
Celebrate Christmas with an unforgettable family adventure deep in the heart of Namdapha National Park, one of India’s most biodiverse and untouched forest reserves. The day begins with a drive to Deban, a scenic entry point to the park where the river and jungle meet. From here, you’ll take a short boat ride across the Noa-Dehing River, an exciting start that adds a sense of exploration right from the beginning.
On the other side, a forest trek toward Haldibari awaits. The route passes through lush jungle trails filled with bird calls, butterflies, and towering trees—an experience that sparks curiosity in young explorers. Namdapha is especially famous for birdwatching, and the trek offers plenty of chances to spot colorful and rare bird species along the way. Children will love pointing out the birds they see and listening for different calls echoing through the forest.
It’s a moderately easy walk, broken up with a quick snack break and plenty of opportunities to observe the rich plant and animal life of the region.
After returning to Deban, take time to relax by the river, where kids can play on the pebbled beach and adults can unwind in the peaceful surroundings. The setting is perfect for soaking in the natural beauty or simply resting after the trek. A wholesome lunch at the Forest Guest House offers a quiet moment to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
As the day winds down, head back to Miao, where a cozy bonfire and barbecue evening awaits. Gather under the stars for a relaxed dinner and reflect on the day’s wild and wonderful adventures. End the day with a restful night at Tikhak Homestay, tucked away in the calm of the hills.
Meghalaya
Shillong: A Gentle Day of City Walks, Lakeside Boating & Garden Explorations in the Hills
Spend a relaxed and refreshing day exploring one of Meghalaya’s charming hill towns, where the cool climate and scenic beauty make it a joy to walk around with children. The town is peaceful and pedestrian-friendly, offering a perfect mix of nature, culture, and light adventure for families.
Start your day with a leisurely walk through the town, taking in the crisp mountain air, quaint colonial architecture, and vibrant local life. It’s a great way for children to observe daily life in the hills and enjoy a slower, more mindful pace.
One of the highlights for families is a visit to Ward’s Lake, a beautifully landscaped spot right in the heart of the town. Here, children can enjoy boating on the calm waters, feeding fish, or simply running along the walking paths lined with flowers and greenery.
Just a short walk away, the Botanical Garden offers more open space to explore. With a variety of native and exotic plants, small bridges, and shaded trails, it’s a lovely place for kids to learn about flora while also burning off some energy. It’s peaceful, safe, and full of discovery.
Whether you’re strolling between spots or pausing for snacks at a local café, a day in this hill town captures the gentle charm of Meghalaya—making it an ideal, low-effort adventure for families with young explorers.
Wakhen bamboo trek: A Thrilling Walk on Nature’s Bridges
For families with adventurous kids, the Wahkhen Bamboo Trek offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the hills of Meghalaya. This offbeat trail takes you through lush forest landscapes and across natural bamboo bridges, carefully crafted by the local villagers using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
The trek is moderately challenging but safe, making it a great option for older children who enjoy a bit of excitement and exploration. Walking on these narrow, swaying bamboo bridges is both exhilarating and educational—it gives kids a firsthand look at how communities live in harmony with nature, using locally available materials to build practical, sustainable structures.
The trail itself is scenic and peaceful, offering glimpses of waterfalls, dense greenery, and the quiet rhythm of rural life in Meghalaya. It’s an ideal way to step off the tourist track and introduce children to the wonders of indigenous engineering and eco-conscious living, all while burning off some of that boundless energy.
If your family enjoys nature, walking, and a little adventure, the Wahkhen Bamboo Trek is not to be missed.
Nongriat Double Root Bridges Trek: For Adventurous Families Who Love a Challenge
For families with older kids and a strong sense of adventure, the trek to the Double Living Root Bridges in Nongriat is an unforgettable experience. This trail is one of Meghalaya’s most iconic and rewarding walks, combining natural beauty, cultural heritage, and just the right amount of physical challenge.
The journey involves descending and climbing back up approximately 3,000 stone steps, winding through dense forest, small Khasi villages, and across swaying suspension bridges. While it’s not suited for very young children, active kids who enjoy hiking and exploring will love it—especially when they know what’s waiting at the bottom.
At the heart of the village lies the stunning double-decker living root bridge, an incredible piece of bioengineering created over generations by guiding the roots of rubber trees across the river. It’s like stepping into a real-life fantasy world.
And the reward for all that effort? A refreshing swim in the crystal-clear natural pools and waterfalls near the village—a well-earned treat after the long walk down. The cold water and lush surroundings make it the perfect way to cool off, play, and unwind before beginning the hike back up.
While the trek is physically demanding, it’s also deeply rewarding and offers a true taste of Meghalaya’s natural and cultural wonders. With the right pacing, support, and plenty of water and snacks, it’s a memorable adventure for the whole family.
Nagaland
Dzukou Valley Trek, Nagaland: A Scenic Wonderland for Families Who Love the Outdoors
Tucked between the borders of Nagaland and Manipur, the Dzukou Valley is one of Northeast India’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. Known for its rolling green meadows, wildflowers, and cool mountain air, it’s a perfect destination for families with older children who enjoy long walks, camping, and wide-open spaces.
The trek to Dzukou is moderately challenging, best suited for adventurous families and older kids who are comfortable with uphill trails and longer durations on foot. The effort is more than worth it—the moment you step into the valley, you’re greeted by sweeping views, gentle streams, and a sense of quiet that feels almost otherworldly.
Children will love walking across wooden bridges, spotting wildflowers, and climbing gentle hills surrounded by emerald green grasslands. If your family enjoys nature photography or just lying on the grass and watching the clouds drift by, this is the place to be.
For those willing to stay overnight, basic campsites or rest houses in the valley allow you to experience the magic of sunrise and sunset over the hills, with starry skies above—an unforgettable memory for kids and adults alike.
The Dzukou Valley Trek is more than just a walk—it’s a journey into the wild heart of Nagaland, where families can disconnect from screens, reconnect with each other, and explore one of India’s most unspoiled landscapes.
Sikkim
Rinchenpong: A Rustic Walk Through Forests, Heritage Homes & Hidden Monasteries
For families looking to experience the quiet charm of rural Sikkim, a stay in Rinchenpong offers the perfect mix of comfort, culture, and slow exploration. Nestled in the hills, this peaceful town is home to heritage farms and traditional homes, and serves as a gateway to many lesser-known treks in the region.
Your day begins with a hearty breakfast before setting out on a guided walk through chestnut and rhododendron groves, surrounded by the misty forests of West Sikkim. The trail is gentle and immersive—ideal for families who enjoy nature walks without the pressure of a full-day trek. Along the way, take short breaks to listen to the sounds of bubbling forest streams, admire sweeping Himalayan views, and maybe even chat with local farmers tending to their fields.
One of the highlights of the walk is a stop at a century-old Lepcha house, where children can learn about traditional architecture and the indigenous way of life. You’ll also explore a quiet local monastery, a beautiful, lesser-visited space that offers a moment of stillness and reflection in the hills.
The entire walk takes around 4.5 to 5 hours, with a light snack provided mid-way. By early afternoon, return to your heritage farmstay, where a hot lunch featuring fresh, local produce from the farm awaits—comforting, home-cooked Sikkimese dishes that reflect the simplicity and richness of the region.
This rustic walk in Rinchenpong is more than just a hike—it’s a window into a slower, more connected way of life, and a deeply grounding experience for both kids and adults.
Hilley to Barsey: A Gentle Jungle Walk Through Sikkim’s Rhododendron Paradise
If you’re looking for a quiet yet enriching family escape in Sikkim—far from the usual tourist trails—the Hilley to Barsey walk is one of the finest ways to experience the Himalayas. This gentle forest trek winds through the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, a pristine jungle teeming with life, colour, and silence that only the deep woods can offer.
Thanks to its high altitude (above 2,000 meters) and generous rainfall, the region is a botanical wonderland, especially in April and May, when the rhododendrons burst into full bloom. The forest trails are carpeted with fallen petals, and the trees explode with pink, red, and white blossoms—making it feel like you’ve stepped into a dream. If your children are fascinated by flowers or just love being outdoors, this trail will leave them wide-eyed.
But there’s more. The sanctuary is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to countless Himalayan bird species flitting through the trees. And for the truly lucky (and quiet), there’s even a chance—however rare—to spot the elusive Red Panda in its natural habitat. These shy creatures are masters of camouflage and prefer to avoid humans, but just knowing you’re walking through their forest home adds a thrill of the wild to the experience.
The walk itself is gentle and suitable for families, making it a great introduction to forest trekking for older children or nature-loving parents. You can stay overnight in a simple village homestay or a trekkers’ hut inside the jungle. While these stays aren’t luxurious, they offer something far richer: peace, authenticity, and a true connection with the land and its people.
If you’re after a relaxed family vacation with a touch of adventure, and a chance to explore Sikkim’s lesser-known natural beauty, this jungle walk from Hilley to Barsey may be exactly what you’re looking for.
Every Step Tells a Story
Traveling with children isn’t just about reaching new places—it’s about discovering new ways of seeing the world. Northeast India, with its lush forests, vibrant cultures, and gentle walking trails, offers the perfect setting for families to slow down and reconnect—with nature, with people, and with each other.
From riverside adventures in Namdapha to flower-filled forests in Barsey, bamboo bridges in Wahkhen, and heritage trails in Rinchenpong, each walk introduces children to a world that moves at a gentler pace—one where butterflies are noticed, monks might wave hello, and even a rainy forest becomes a place of wonder.
These experiences aren’t just about sightseeing—they’re about touching, tasting, listening, and learning. They’re about wandering through rhododendron groves, spotting rare birds, swimming in waterfalls, and walking hand-in-hand through centuries-old villages. They’re adventures that spark curiosity, build resilience, and create stories your family will remember long after the backpacks are unpacked.
So, whether your kids are full of energy or love quiet discovery, Northeast India has a trail, a village, or a valley waiting to welcome them.
Because here, walking isn’t just a way to get around—it’s a way to truly arrive.
