5 Amazing Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh

Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh, one of India’s least visited states, is renowned as the “last Shangri-La.” Snow-capped Himalayan peaks, deep valleys, and cliffs characterize the subcontinent’s easternmost state, which is located in the wild and mountainous northeast region. Arunachal Pradesh is one of India’s Seven Sisters and is situated on the country’s northeastern tip. It is bordered by China, Burma, Bhutan, and Assam. It also has 26 different tribal groups, several of which are more closely related to those in Tibet and Bhutan and the state is home to a diverse range of flora and animals. Doesn’t it sound like a dream come true? Imagine yourself in this lovely land on earth.

Unexplored passes, breathtaking mountains, magnificent monasteries, quiet lakes, and more may all be found in Arunachal Pradesh.

Arunachal Pradesh, is remote from the Indian mainland, has limited infrastructure, and demands intrusive permits from both Indian and foreign tourists.

The Kameng, Subansiri, Siang (Brahmaputra), Dibang, Lohit, and Noa Dihing rivers are all major rivers in Arunachal Pradesh. Subsurface flows and summer snowmelt influence the volume of water.

The rocky terrains and landslides during the rainy season make the road conditions harsh. Moreover, the infrastructures in this region are non-star, very basic but beautiful in its own ways.  While this causes a problem to visit sometimes, it also rewards you with breathtaking landscapes and the opportunity to explore the world’s second largest Buddhist monastery.

If you’re interested in visiting Arunachal Pradesh, this guide will provide you an outline of everything you’ll need to know before visiting this fascinating and distant Indian state.

Climate of Arunachal Pradesh-

The climate of Arunachal Pradesh varies according to altitude. The climate in low-altitude locations is humid subtropical. The climate in high-altitude locations is a mix of subtropical highland and alpine. Rainfall in Arunachal Pradesh ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 millimeters each year, with 70 percent–80 percent falling between May and October.

Permits required –

To enter any other region of Arunachal Pradesh, all tourists must first get an Inner Line Permit (ILP). The permit is issued regularly for tourists; therefore it should not prevent anyone from visiting Arunachal Pradesh. New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Shillong, Dibrugarh, Tezpur, North Lakhimpur, and Jorhat are among the cities where ILPs are issued. ILP is now also available online.

The foreign nationals need Protected Area Permit (PAP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh.

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ARUNACHAL PRADESH-

Generally, the best months to visit Arunachal Pradesh are April-May and October-November. However, this might differ from tourist to tourist and what they plan to see.

From November until February- March, the high altitude district of Tawang will be severely cold, even though the route to get there is open all year. If you’re going to see the snowy peaks, dress warmly!

The monsoon season in Arunachal Pradesh lasts from June or July through September, yet sometimes it may start in May. Monsoon is not the best time to visit the northeastern states of India because they are all prone to severe rainfall.

HOW TO REACH ARUNACHAL PRADESH–

In a way, there are 12 ways to connect. They are:

• Tezpur (Assam state) – Bhalukpong – Bomdila – Tawang
• Itanagar – Ziro – Daporijo – Aalo (Along) – Pasighat
• Pasighat – Jengging -Yingkiong – Tuting
• Tinsukia – Tezu -Hayuliang
• Margherita – Miao – Namdhapa – Vijoynagar
• Roing – Mayudia – Anini
• Tezpur (Assam state) – Seijosa – Bhalukpong
• Ziro – Palin – Nyapin – Sangram – Koloriang
• Doimukh – Sagalee – Pake Kessang – Seppa
• Aalo (Along) – Mechuka
• Daporijo – Taliha – Siyum – Nacho
• Jairampur – Manmao – Nampong – Pangsau Pass

However, there might be new ways to build too because of the new construction of roadways and rapid improvement over the state. Flight can be easily taken to Guwahati or Dibrugarh to reach any part. If train or roadways are preferred, you will have to pass through Guwahati.

Also Read – Offbeat Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh

TOP 5 PLACES TO VISIT IN ARUNACHAL PRADESH-

1. TAWANG-

Tawang is a paradise that has yet to be discovered, which is both historically and naturally enriched. Traveling to Tawang is generally regarded as challenging by some due to its isolated location. However, it is one of the most beautiful spots in the Himalayas’ north-eastern region. Surrounded on three sides by Tibet in the north, Bhutan in the south and the Sela ranges in the east, the region are known for its natural beauty, which includes glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks.

Tawang was once known as ‘Mon-yul,’ or the Monpa tribe’s homeland. In truth, the Monpa tribe has long dominated Tawang, and they continue to do so now, except for the Shyo village, which Tibetans dominate.

Tawang is significant to Tibetan Buddhists since it is the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama. The Tawang Monastery, which is roughly 400 years old, is a Buddhist shrine of unrivaled importance.

How to reach Tawang-

There is no railhead or airhead in Tawang. The nearest domestic airport is at Tezpur, Assam, which is 325 kilometers away. The nearest international airport is Guwahati (480 kilometers).

To go to Tawang, you can use a bus, jeep, or private automobile from Guwahati or Tezpur. From Tezpur to Tawang, it takes about 12 hours. However, the road’s picturesque splendor more than compensates for the long ride. You must pass through Bhalukpong, Dirang, and Bomdila on your way to Tawang.

Places to see in Tawang-

Tawang Monastery-

Tawang’s primary attraction is the Tawang Monastery, also known as the Gaden Namgye Lhatse. It is also India’s largest monastery. The monastery, which is perched majestically on a mountaintop and overlooks the entire Tawang district, is regarded as a wonderful work of art and the nucleus of Buddhist culture and history. A monk named Mera Lama founded the monastery in 1680 to propagate Buddhism’s tenets. Currently, there are around 400 monks living at the monastery.

Urgelling Monastery –

The Dalai Lama VI was born at Urgelling Monastery, a 400-year-old monastery. During the Mongol attacks and the conflict between the Tibetans and the Bhutanese, this monastery was destroyed. Today, only a portion of the monastic structure survives. It is a peaceful and secluded location with few people. The Holy Dalai Lama VI erected a sacred tree, which is revered and worshipped by the villagers.

Tawang War Memorial –

The war memorial was erected in honor of the soldiers who died in the Indo-China conflict of 1962, which took place in this area. A lovely stupa can be found at the memorial. The best feature is that it contains the names of all 2420 Indian soldiers who served in the conflict. Several items from the 1962 war are also on display. A visit to this location will undoubtedly make you proud of our military personnel.

Nuranang Falls-

Nuranang Falls is one of eastern India’s most beautiful waterfalls. It is simply a beautiful sight, falling from a towering height of 100 meters. It is also known as the Jang falls and is located about 2 kilometers from the city near the Jang settlement.

Sela Pass-

On the road to Tawang, you’ll pass via Sela pass. This is one of India’s highest motorable passes. You can stop at the pass to relax your sore backs after a hard ride and take in the spectacular views that surround you. Your journey will be remembered for the snow-capped peaks and the colorful flying Buddhist prayer flags. Move a little higher to observe the stunning Sela Lake.

The Sela Pass is one of India’s most significant passes. It runs between Tawang and Tezpur, as well as the rest of India.

Jaswant Garh-

Jaswant Garh is a small village on the way to Tawang, around 25 kilometers from the city. In the gorgeous backdrop, there is also a war memorial honoring the courageous martyrs of the Indian army during the 1962 Sino-Indian conflict. The memorial is dedicated to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat of the Garhwal Rifles Infantry Regiment’s 4th Battalion of Garhwal Rifles Infantry Regiment.  During the battle, Jaswant Singh was an unusually heroic soldier who fought and held off the invading Chinese army for 72 hours on his own. Before succumbing to an enemy bullet at an altitude of 10,000 feet, he did not move from his post. In honor of his tenacity and bravery, he was posthumously given the Mahavir Chakra. After him, the point he held to repel the Chinese assault was named Jaswant Garh.

Bumla Border-

Beyond Tawang, the environment opens up to stunning landscape and a variety of scenery that serves as nature’s eye candy. You can visit the Bumla Border while visiting Madhuri Lake. It is the Indo-China border, which is roughly 37 kilometres from Tawang city and is located at a height of 16000 feet. The road conditions are not too good, but the visual splendor compensates for the inconvenience. The army post on the Bumla-Bumla border is exceedingly welcoming. They will also invite you for a cup of tea and will be delighted to tell you about their lives.

The Best time to visit Tawang-

Tawang is open all year, however, the rainy season, which runs from July to September, should be avoided. Winters can be bitterly cold, while the mornings are pleasant. The weather transitions from spring to fall from April through October, and you can expect both sun and rain. The land comes alive with a variety of plants in April. The skies are clear in October, making it the greatest time to observe the lakes in all their glory.

2. ITANAGAR-

Itanagar, the state capital, is located in the foothills of the Himalayas and is an excellent spot to begin your exploration of Arunachal Pradesh. The city has a thriving combination of historical sites, breathtaking views, and a crossroads of major socio-cultural significance.

When visitors arrive in Itanagar, they will be met by a modern city, yet concealed inside it is centuries of history, culture, and cuisine customs. Several indigenous tribes still live in Itanagar, adding color to this magnificent city. For centuries, Buddhism and Hinduism have coexisted together in this city, and you can easily find a Hindu temple and a Buddhist Gompa side by side.

How to reach-

By Air– Itanagar does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Lilabari in Assam, which is 67 kilometres from Itanagar and is well linked with daily flights from Guwahati. Another airport that might be used is Naharlagun Airport, which is located 67 kilometres from Itanagar

By Road – Itanagar has a well-developed road network, and the highways connecting to it are similarly well-paved. Overnight buses from Guwahati to Itanagar are available. Furthermore, the Arunachal State Transport Corporation runs buses from Itanagar to all of the Northeast’s major cities. It is not at all difficult to get to Itanagar. You can also hire a car for your trip. It’s only that during the monsoons, the roads become more tricky to access and, in some cases, unsafe due to severe rainfall, landslides, and other factors

By Train- There is yet no direct train connection to Itanagar. The nearest railway stations are in Naharlagun, 15 kilometres from Itanagar, and Harmuti, 34 kilometres distant.

Places to see in Itanagar-

Ita Fort-

The word “ita” in Ahom means “brick,” hence this old fort is known as the “Fort of Bricks.” Ita Fort is a fortification that goes back to the 15th century. The fort was erected by King Ramachandra, one of the Jitari dynasty’s most prolific monarchs. To confound the enemy, the fort was purposefully designed in an uneven shape. The fort has three enormous entrances, each of which is pretty lovely. Expert artisans are thought to have built the Ita Fort out of 16,200 cubic meters of pre-medieval age bricks.

Gompa Mandir-

Gompa Mandir is a must-see for everyone seeking serenity and calm. This Buddhist temple, nestled among hillocks and just a short distance from Itanagar’s city center, was built by none other than the Dalai Lama. The Gompa Mandir, which is situated on a hilltop, is surrounded by natural splendor. The grandeur of Arunachal’s valleys may be seen from any angle. A modest, multi-hued entrance gate would greet you as you entered the Gompa. A large statue of Lord Buddha sits inside the temple. Buddhist monks can be seen singing prayers and giving sermons, bringing positive energy into the air. The temple’s centerpiece is a white stupa with golden sculptures and Buddhist teachings.

Gaker Sinying-

Geker Sinying means “restricted lake” in Nyishi dialect. This lovely lake is also known as Ganga Lake. It is surrounded by stunning hills and large boulders. The vivid kinds of Orchids that line the banks of this lake are a sight to behold. The lake is bordered by a variety of ancient trees. The tint of the water in this lake is one of its unique features. Throughout the year, the lake has a lush green appearance. While there is a mythology that claims the water of this lake turned green after a hermit cursed it. Others believe the water’s hue comes from the profusion of vegetation in the surrounding areas, as well as the teeming marine life within the lake. The lake, on the other hand, is an excellent area to practice. If the water is too cold for you to enter, there are motorboat rides available that will allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of this lake.

Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary –

Your trip to Itanagar isn’t complete without a stop at the Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary. This is a really lovely forest region located in the steep terrains of Naharlagun. Because of the lack of human involvement, wildlife observations at this wildlife reserve remain high. At Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary, one can easily witness a herd of elephants, sambar, or barking deer. You might have a chance encounter with a Tiger or Panther if you’re really lucky. There are up to 45 species of rare birds in the trees here. Arunachal Pradesh’s state bird, the hornbill, can be seen here. Apart from that, the Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary’s forests have their allure. Orchids come in a variety of colors and bloom in different places of the sanctuary.

Jawaharlal Nehru Museum –

For history aficionados, the Jawaharlal Nehru Museum in Itanagar is a must-see attraction. This museum is spread up over two levels. Exhibits about Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous history, culture, and legacy may be seen on the ground floor. Musical instruments, artworks, handicrafts, and religious artifacts have their department. On the first level, there are historical exhibits from the Ita Fort and other historical sites in the Itanagar area.

Best Time To Visit Itanagar-

The months of October to April are the optimum for visiting Itanagar because the weather is lovely. Summers can be hot, especially around June, but they are still bearable. Monsoons are also a nice experience.

3. MECHUKA-

Mechuka, Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden wonderland, is still largely unknown to tourists. Mechuka, considered one of the most beautiful valleys in India’s easternmost state, can give you severe wanderlust. Mechuka, nestled between snow-capped mountains, is a lesser-known and sometimes overlooked resort. The valley is the picture perfect postcard destination in Arunachal Pradesh for discerning travellers, surrounded by giant mountains, virgin forests, vast meadows, quaint villages, fluttering prayer flags, rhythmic Yargyap Chhu (Siyom River), hanging bridges, grazing horses, and sacred Buddhist monasteries. The scattered multicoloured wooden cottages, flanked by mountains, give the impression of a Scandinavian town.

How to reach Mechuka-

There is no direct air or rail access because it is an unusual attraction in Arunachal Pradesh. The only viable option for getting to Mechuka is by road.

Nearest Airports: Take a flight to Dibrugarh and then hire a cab to Mechuka.

Lilabari Airport, also known as North Lakhimpur Airport, is located in the Assam district of Lakhimpur. You can get a cab from here to get to Mechuka Valley.

By train: You can take a train from Guwahati to  Silapathar or Murkongselek. From there you can take a sumo to Aalo throughPasighat and head for Mechuka the next day.

Places to see in Mechuka-

Samten Yongcha Monastery –

The 400-year-old monastery of Samten Yongcha Monastery is one of Mechuka’s must-see attractions. The monastery is situated on a hilltop 14 kilometres from Mechuka town. From the bottom of the hills, one must hike up to the monastery. Small cars can still make it to the top.

Guru Nanak Taposthan and Gurudwara-

Guru Nanak Taposthan, created by soldiers from the Sikh military in the 1980s, is another must-see in Mechuka. The Gurudwara is perched on a bluff overlooking the river. Guru Nanak is said to have paused here and meditated on his route to Tibet, according to folklore. The Indian Army maintains the Gurudwara that was established in his honour.

Dorjeeling Village –

Dorjeeling hamlet is like a hidden gem in a faraway region of North East India. The village is dotted with scattered dwellings, huge grassland with grazing horses, swaying tall grasses, and the Siyom River flows gently through it. On the road, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone. Mountains that tower over you appear to be a protective barrier.

Hanuman Camp-

Another notable attraction in Mechuka is the “Hanuman rock face,” a natural rock structure in the hills that resembles Hanuman (Hindu God). There is also a Hanuman Temple. Nearby is also a permanent Indian Army camp there, which is the final camp before the Indo-Tibetan border and is only 29 kilometres from the town.

Hanging Bridges-

Mechuka is the place to go if you’re interested in hanging suspension bridges. Over the river Siyom, you’ll come across a number of historic hanging bridges. The villages on both sides of the river are connected by these shaky bridges. Locals have no reservations about using it for their daily journey. Walking across the swollen river on those wooden plank bridges is quite a challenge, since they cling together with the help of two iron rods on both sides that can be utilised for support.

Dzogchen Samten Chooling Monastery –

This is a freshly built monastery atop a hillside in Mechuka that is easily accessible. It doesn’t have the same allure as the old monastery. The panoramic view of Mechuka town from the top is the sole thing the monastery has to offer. The view of the town, as well as the surrounding hills and massive mountain range, from the white enormous chortens is simply breathtaking.

Best Time To Visit – 

Winter is experienced in Mechuka from October to February, and it is regarded one of the greatest periods to visit and enjoy Mechuka. Even though the temperature may drop quite a bit, the weather is still beautiful enough to make the most of it, from lush vegetation to snow-capped mountains to brilliant skies.

4. Ziro Valley –

Ziro Valley, nestled between the mountain foothills, is a haven for peace seekers. It’s a fascinating scene buried away in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lower Subansiri District, the virgin horizons untouched by the fangs of mass tourism. The expansive golden paddy field spread valley has managed to retain its rawness due to its seclusion and remoteness. A lush covering of plants and fauna covers the enchanting terrain. It is famous for its golden paddy fields, lush bamboo channels, pine trees, fish farms, and beautiful villages with stilt wooden houses.

The Apatani Tribes live in the picturesque village, and its customs and cultures have captivated visitors from all over the world. The Apatani tribes are the oldest tribes in North East India, with a plethora of legends surrounding their origins and existence. The older women of the Apatani Tribe are recognized for their huge nose plugs and unique face tattoos covering their forehead, nose, and chin.

How to reach-

Ziro is not an easy destination to get to, and in most situations, the journey will need to be broken down (unless travelling with your vehicle). The public transportation journey is divided into two parts.

You can either take a bus from to Itanagar or North Lakhimpur from Guwahati or Donyi Polo Express from Guwahati to Naharlagun.

Things to do in Ziro Valley –

Check out the unusual agro fishing techniques-

As the sun shines down on the valley dotted with paddy fields, it appears to be awe-inspiring. The combination of paddy farming and pisciculture is particularly intriguing. A number of fishery pockets have emerged in the agricultural areas, bringing with them the unique practise of fish farming. In between the paddy fields, there are small pockets of water for culturing fish. The paddy provides food for the fish, and the water is used for irrigation. The indigenous people fish for food in the water pockets of rice fields.

Visit tarin fish farms at high altitude-

One of the most common techniques used in Ziro is pisciculture. The Tarin Fish Farm is a high-altitude fish farm with interconnecting artificially dug ponds where pisciculture is practised. It measures roughly 7.4 hectares and is located in the Bulla Village. In and around the fish farms, there’s a lot to see and do. Exploring the area and learning about sowing and culture takes nearly half a day.

 

Walk around Hong, the second largest asian village –

Hong Village is Asia’s second largest village, and it provides you a real Apatani experience. The rice fields are peppered with wooden structures that look to be improvised dwellings needed for cultivation. The village is an intriguing piece of fantasy, simple yet magnificent, thanks to the Apatani style wooden dwellings erected on stilts. Strolling routes have been set out on the rice fields to assist locals in walking through them during the cultivation and harvesting seasons.

Visit the ziro music festival –

If you haven’t visited Ziro yet, the four-day music festival should be on your bucket list right away. It is an annual outdoor music event held in September (usually by the end) featuring a lineup of independent musicians and bands. The stage is set on a hillside surrounded by rice fields with pine trees in the background. It’s an extraordinary event with a mix of soul-lifting and foot-thumping live Indie, rock, blues, jazz, rock, and folk music from all over the country and the world. For entering the venue grounds, there are four-day passes as well as single-day passes available.

Best Time To Visit- 

Ziro enjoys beautiful weather throughout the year, so you may visit at any time of the year. From March through October is the best season to visit Ziro. During the summer, Ziro transforms into a great getaway from the oppressive heat of adjacent cities. Early winter, from October to November, is another great season to visit Ziro since the valley is blanketed with snow. However, temperatures as low as -13 degrees Celsius are experienced in the months of late November to January, and should be avoided.

5. DIRANG –

Dirang is a small village in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kemang district. It is a popular transit point for those travelling to Tawang. Many tourists to Dirang, however, overlook the strange vistas of Dirang, which include beautiful green plains, crystal clear water flowing softly in the river, and a diverse array of wildlife. Nature lovers, hikers, birdwatchers, and photographers will adore it. It has apple, orange, and apricot orchards as well as kiwi farms. In the lowest regions of the Eastern Himalayas, it is one of those destinations that is ideal for a rustic, quiet, and joyful time.

How to reach-

Guwahati, which is 300–380 kilometres distant, is the nearest airport (depending on the route you take).

You can come to Guwhati via train and head for Dirang by taxi or shared sumo.

In terms of public transportation, there are numerous shared Tata Sumos that run between Guwahati/Tezpur and Dirang. It may be congested at times, but it is the most cost-effective method to get to Dirang.

Places to visit in Dirang-

Hot Water Springs –

The natural Hot Water Springs are located around a kilometre or two from Dirang’s main town. This location can be reached by descending around 200 stairs from the main road. The natural Sulphur water springs are revered as a sacred site, and the water is said to have healing benefits. Two streams of hot water flow naturally through this area, eventually joining the neighboring river. The hot water is accumulated in a small tank built alongside one of the streams. On normally frigid mornings, visitors can take a swim in the tank and enjoy the warm water.

A Buddhist temple and a Shiva temple are located near the hot springs. The location is also regarded holy due to the presence of these two temples. Aside from these attractions, there are lush green hills on all sides and a river running through the valley. The rising light, the river water reflecting the sun’s first rays, the greenery of the plains next to the river, and the green hills all contribute to this being a picture-perfect site.

Thupsung Dhargye(Dirang Monastery)

Thupsung Dhargye Ling is a shrine and learning institute in the Himalayan village of Dirang, India, dedicated to the study of Tibetan Buddhism by common people and monks. His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, gave the place the name Thupsung Dhargye Ling, which means “Place of Flourishing of the Buddha’s Speech.” The best time to see the grandeur of this place is at sunrise, when the dazzling and vibrant hues of the monastery fill you with positive energy.

Thembang Heritage Village

Thembang is a small town roughly 20 kilometres from Dirang. The settlement has a long history and is currently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The walled settlement is surrounded by lush green hills, deep gorges, and snow-capped mountains. The community has been through several conflicts in the past, and it has been fortified. To enter the village, two massive stone walls were constructed. The Monpas’ traditional architecture and building style is reflected in the dwellings, stone walls, and entry gates (the local tribes in the region).

The community has about 40+ dwellings and a population of about 200 people. A short walk about the village will give you a sense of the people’s modest way of life. The village’s people are very outstanding in their friendliness

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Sangti Valley –

Sangti Valley is a slice of heaven on Earth. The grandeur of this valley is beyond description. It’s something you have to see, feel, and experience for yourself. It’s about 15 kilometres from Dirang, and the ride is breathtaking. A river flows gently through the valley. The colorful stones at the river’s bottom can be seen, thanks to the crystal clear water. Despite the fact that the river is not particularly deep, the water current in a few places is really strong, and you may lose your equilibrium! Sunset is a fantastic time to visit Sangti Valley, as the setting sun casts a rainbow of hues across the surrounding hills.

The Valley is not much populated; you can easily go and get out of your busy schedule to relax in the beauty of nature.

River Dirang Chu-

The River Dirang Chu runs through this lovely village and is a great location to sit and relax. There are various wooden chairs along the river’s edge where you may enjoy some quality time with nature. You might perhaps take a seat adjacent to the lake on one of the rocks. The river’s pure water attracts a large number of birds. If you enjoy bird watching, bring a good pair of binoculars with you to Dirang.

Best time to visit –

The winter months from October till March are often considered ideal for visiting Dirang. However, you can visit the place anytime in the year.

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