Permits, transport, and Rs 800-1500/day daily budget — Northeast India is the most affordable region for Indian backpackers if you know the routes. Here are three 14-day itineraries that work.

Northeast India remains the most affordable Indian backpacking region in 2026: homestays at Rs 600-1500/night, local Sumos and shared jeeps under Rs 200/leg, and meals under Rs 150. Total daily budget can be held to Rs 1000-1500. Route 1 (Meghalaya, 14 days): Guwahati → Shillong → Cherrapunji → Mawlynnong → Dawki → back to Shillong. Total transport Rs 3500, stays Rs 12-18K, food Rs 4500. Route 2 (Arunachal, requires ILP): Guwahati → Bomdila → Tawang → Dirang → back. Total Rs 25-32K including ILP. Best Oct-Mar. Route 3 (Nagaland Hornbill festival, December only): Dimapur → Kohima → Khonoma → back. Festival 1-10 December. Book stays 90 days in advance. What to skip: agency-booked tours costing Rs 50K+. The Northeast rewards independent travel.