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New Delhi: Fresh air has become rare for city dwellers, and this is why the Northeast stands out with its untouched landscapes and naturally low pollution levels. Many towns and valleys across this region continue to record AQI below 50, which is considered excellent for health, even during peak tourist months. This factor makes them ideal for visitors who want a calm environment and healthy surroundings.
From remote districts in Arunachal Pradesh to green valleys in Nagaland and quiet towns in Meghalaya and Sikkim, these destinations offer clean air, open views and slow-paced travel. Travellers looking for quiet trails, culture-rich villages, and mountain weather find these locations perfect for a short break. Here are some of the cleanest-air destinations across the Northeast.
1. Anini: AQI 15
A remote region in Arunachal Pradesh known for forests, rivers and wide open spaces that keep its air clear.
Tourist attractions: The Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, Dri River, Mathun Valley, Iphi Pani Ghat, Bhismaknagar Fort, Seven Lakes Trek, Hunli, and Mipi.
2. Shergaon: AQI 19
A quiet village in Arunachal Pradesh surrounded by pine forests and farms.
Tourist attractions: The Choskorong Waterfall, Buddha Heritage Park, P Khandu Trout Farm, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, Ball of Fire Museum, Bomdila Monastery and Bomdila Pass.
3. Dawki: AQI 22
A riverside destination in Meghalaya, famous for its clear waters and clean air.
Tourist attractions: Umngot River and Dawki Bridge.
4. Shillong: AQI 33
The capital of Meghalaya, known for its elevation, greenery and pleasant air quality.
Tourist attractions: Elephant Falls, Don Bosco Museum, Umiam Lake and Shillong Peak.
5. Namchi: AQI 19
A peaceful town in Sikkim with mountain views and fresh air.
Tourist attractions: The Samdruptse Hill, the Siddheswar Dham, Sai Mandir, Ngadak Monastery, Ralong Monastery, the Namchi Rock Garden, and the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary.
6. Champhai: AQI 30
A scenic Mizoram town with green hills and low traffic, helping maintain clean air.
Tourist attractions: The Lianchhiari Lunglen Tlang cliff, the Lamsial Puk cave, the Mura Puk caves, the Hlakungpui Mual and the Mizo Poets' Square, and the monoliths.
7. Jowai: AQI 28
A plateau town in Meghalaya with clean air and open landscapes.
Tourist attractions: Krang Suri Falls, Thadlaskein Lake, Nartiang Monoliths, and the Syntu Ksiar riverside.
These destinations remain ideal for travellers who value fresh air and natural surroundings.