Arunachal Pradesh
Overview
Tucked away in the far northeast, Arunachal Pradesh is India’s wild, unexplored paradise — a realm of towering mountains, ancient monasteries, crystal-clear rivers, and vibrant tribal cultures. Sharing borders with Bhutan, China, and Myanmar, the state offers a stunning diversity of landscapes and traditions.
Often called the “Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains,” Arunachal is home to more than 26 major tribes, each preserving their distinct festivals, dances, and craftsmanship. From the golden spires of Tawang Monastery to the verdant valleys of Ziro and Namdapha National Park, this is a land where nature, spirituality, and adventure blend seamlessly.
Major Cities & Towns
Itanagar
The capital, blending tribal culture with modern growth.
Tawang
A spiritual and scenic gem, home to India’s largest Buddhist monastery.
Bomdila
Hill town with monasteries and apple orchards.
Ziro
UNESCO World Heritage candidate, known for Apatani culture and the Ziro Music Festival.
Pasighat
The oldest town, gateway to Siang River adventures.
Along (Aalo)
Picturesque valley surrounded by bamboo groves and mountain streams.
Roing
Base for trekking and exploring the Dibang Valley.
Tezu
Known for natural beauty and the Parshuram Kund pilgrimage site.
Changlang
Gateway to Namdapha National Park and tribal experiences.
Top Destinations
Tawang
Tawang Monastery (second largest in the world), Sela Pass (13,700 ft), Madhuri Lake (Sangetsar Lake), Bumla Pass, Tawang War Memorial.
Bomdila
Bomdila Monastery, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, apple orchards, viewpoints of the Eastern Himalayas.
Ziro Valley
Home of the Apatani Tribe, Ziro Music Festival, Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, paddy fields set against pine hills.
Namdapha National Park
One of India’s largest biodiversity reserves; home to tigers, snow leopards, clouded leopards, and red pandas.
Pasighat
Siang River rafting, Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary, hanging bridges, and tribal villages.
Roing (Lower Dibang Valley)
Mayudia Pass, Mehao Lake, Bhishmaknagar Fort, Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary.
Along (Aalo)
Patum Bridge, Ramkrishna Mission Campus, Siang River confluence, tribal festivals.
Tezu
Parshuram Kund, Glow Lake, Dong Village (India’s easternmost sunrise point).
Dirang
Dirang Dzong, Hot Water Springs, Sangti Valley – known for black-necked cranes.
Getting There
- By Air: Donyi Polo Airport (Itanagar) is the state’s main airport. Nearest major airport for Tawang is at Tezpur (Assam).
- By Rail: Naharlagun (near Itanagar) connects to Guwahati and major Indian cities.
- By Road: Excellent but mountainous routes via Assam — particularly from Guwahati, Tezpur, and Dibrugarh.
Best Time to Visit
- March–June: Ideal weather for sightseeing, treks, and festivals.
- September–November: Clear skies and post-monsoon greenery.
- December–February: Snowfall in Tawang and Bomdila; great for winter travelers.
Why You’ll Love Arunachal Pradesh
- Majestic Himalayan landscapes and pristine valleys
- Ancient monasteries and Buddhist serenity
- Rich biodiversity and unspoiled wilderness
- Distinct tribal traditions, art, and festivals like Losar, Solung, and Dree
- Scenic Mountain drives through passes like Sela and Bomdila
- The honor of witnessing India’s first sunrise at Dong
Signature Experiences
- Attend the world-famous Ziro Music Festival amid pine forests.
- Meditate at the serene Tawang Monastery, 10,000 feet above sea level.
- Take a road trip from Guwahati to Tawang — one of India’s most scenic drives.
- Trek through Namdapha’s dense jungles and spot rare wildlife.
- Witness the sunrise at Dong, the easternmost village of India.