Packing for Northeast India requires preparing for significant elevation changes—from warm subtropical river plains (**28°C**) to freezing sub-zero Himalayan mountain passes (**-10°C**):
Essential Packing Checklist
- Layered Clothing Strategy: Pack breathable cotton shirts and lightweight trousers for the Assam plains, fleece mid-layers and windbreakers for hill capitals (Shillong, Gangtok, Kohima at 1,500m), and heavy thermal base layers, woollen caps, gloves, and a down parka for high-altitude passes (Tawang, Sela Pass, North Sikkim at 3,000m+).
- Footwear: Broken-in trekking shoes with aggressive rubber grip for root bridge stairs and mountain trails; lightweight slip-on sneakers for wildlife safaris and temple/monastery visits where shoes must be removed.
- Cash & Documentation: Keep **₹5,000 to ₹10,000 in physical cash** per person. Carry 4–6 physical passport-sized photographs, government photo IDs (Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Passport), and printed hard copies of all state Inner Line Permits (ILP).
- Optics & Electronics: Binoculars (8x42 or 10x42) for Kaziranga safaris and Himalayan birdwatching; camera with 70–300mm or 100–400mm telephoto lens; heavy-duty power banks (20,000 mAh) as cold high-altitude temperatures drain phone batteries rapidly.
- Health & Mountain Care: Motion sickness medication for winding mountain roads, Diamox (under medical advice for high-altitude passes above 3,500m), insect repellent for wildlife reserves, personal first-aid kit, and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Monsoon Gear (June to September): Heavy-duty rain poncho or waterproof jacket, sturdy umbrella, and waterproof dry bags for cameras and mobile devices.