Arunachal Pradesh

Because of its location in the east of India, it is also known as the Land of the Rising Sun. Arunachal Pradesh is home to undiscovered passes, stunning mountains, majestic monasteries, peaceful lakes, and much more. Arunachal Pradesh is one of India's Seven Sisters, located in the northeastern corner of the country.

The state's unknown routes, breathtaking scenery, tranquil lakes, and monasteries with rich spiritual heritage will astound your senses. From being a cultural centre to being a nature lover's paradise, Arunachal Pradesh will give you with a variety of exhilarating tourism experiences that you will remember for a long time.

Arunachal Pradesh is home to tribal cultures, Buddhist monasteries, scenic lakes, high-altitude mountains, and charming hillside settlements. This beautiful country, which shares borders with China, Bhutan, and Myanmar (Myanmar), is home to a diverse range of flora and animals that would fascinate any tourist. Over 500 unusual orchid species can be found in Arunachal Pradesh's dense woods. The state of Arunachal Pradesh is known as India's Orchid Paradise.

Visit Arunachal Pradesh to see orchids in bloom, snow-capped mountain peaks, scenic valleys, the whispering sound of green leaves in the trees, meandering sparkling streams flowing through tiny strips of land, Buddhist monks reciting hymns, and its welcoming people.

The country is separated into five river valleys: the Siang, Subansiri, Kameng, Tirap, and Lohit. The magnificent valleys are surrounded by lush trees.

Summer is the greatest season for camping and hiking because the weather is good and rain does not spoil the experience. The monsoon is strong, and the weather is continually changing, disrupting some of your plans. Winter is enjoyable and excellent for long walks, tranquil camping, local festival participation, and much more if you dress warmly in warm clothing.

You'll need to apply for an Arunachal Pradesh travel permit once you've selected where you want to go. You can apply for a permit in Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati (Assam), and Itanagar (although you need a permit before you can enter Itanagar, so this option is only available to locals). A permit can be obtained through a tour organisation or on your own.
 

Main Attractions

Tawang is also noted for its numerous Buddhist monasteries, which attract a huge number of people every year. The mesmerising Gudpi mountains, the ethereal Tawang valley, and Madhuri Lake are just a few of the wonders to behold in Tawang. Before leaving, explore the beautiful Gorichen Peak, which gives bizarre perspectives of the area. In Tawang, there are many glacial lakes with crystal blue waters, such as Sangetser and Sela. The bulk of peace seekers flock to the Taktsang Gompa, a pilgrimage destination surrounded by mountains and coniferous woods. The birthplace of Tsangyang Gyatso, the 6th Dalai Lama, is well-known. Don't miss the Losar festival, which takes place in the Tawang Monastery.

The Apatani tribe lives in Ziro Valley, which is a picturesque historic town in Arunachal Pradesh famed for its pine hills and rice farms. Ziro is a haven for peace seekers, with a unique tribal people and a nice atmosphere. One of the most interesting things to do in the Ziro Valley is to attend the Ziro music festival, an outdoor music festival hosted in the valley. The Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Hapoli, which serves as the hub for all of the town's activities, and the Siddheshwarnath Temple are just a few of the attractions.

One of the best sites to visit in Arunachal Pradesh is Namdapha National Park, which is home to the Red Panda species of the Ailurus genus and the Ailuridae family. It's also India's third-largest park and a hotspot for biodiversity. The Red Panda can only be seen in 20 places in India, including Namdapha National Park. This park is the third-largest in the country and a biodiversity hotspot. The tiger, leopard, clouded leopard, and snow leopard are among the four large cats found here. Hike through the rain forests till you reach Lisu Village with the help of a Duban guide. Red Pandas can be found at both this site and Arshu.

At an elevation of 8000 feet above sea level, Bomdila is one of the most scenic sites in Arunachal Pradesh. To get the greatest views of Gorichen Peak and Kangto Peak, take a trip across the plains. Another popular tourist destination is the Bomdila Monastery. Near the monastery, we have a local craft centre that displays the best cultural and local handiwork of the people of Bomdila. One of the best things to do in Bomdila is visit the Sessa Orchid Sanctuary, which houses over 80 orchid varieties and 2600 orchids.

Itanagar is a well-developed township situated 350 metres above sea level. Because of its rich and cultural architectural wonders, this capital city is one of the most fascinating destinations to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. Ita Fort, which is made up of exclusive breaks, is a must-see. Another fascinating location is the legendary Gyakar Sinwi, also known as Gan.

Sela Pass is a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh and is as heavenly as it gets. It is one of the most magnificent spots in the Himalayan panorama. The Himalayas and the Sela Pass combine their magical beauty to enchant everyone.

When visiting Dirang for its gorgeous spectacular vistas, learn about the numerous tribes that reside there, as well as their history and customs. Dirang's must-see attractions include the hot spring, Dirang Dzong, and the Yak research centre. These elements combine to make this a destination worth seeing at least once in your life.

Roing, which means "cold and refreshing," is one of the few Arunachal Pradesh tourist attractions that lives up to its name. This village is situated close to the tranquil and lovely Dibang River, which has a calming effect. Trekking here is a fantastic trip because of the most spectacular sunset from way up there.

Tezu is a tourism hotspot in Arunachal Pradesh and one of the most prominent sites to visit in the state. This gorgeous location, located in the Mishmi Hills, has a wildlife refuge, museum, botanical park, and attractive towns to offer visitors. The most notable feature here is the beautiful Glow Lake, which is set against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

Changlang's charisma, nature, and ecosystem all have a subtle distinctness to them, implying an exotic and distinct personality. This district borders Myanmar (Burma) on the international border and is recognised for its biodiversity, scenic beauty, and distinct culture that sets it apart from the surrounding places.

It is located between the Siang River Valleys and the Himalayas and is known as the Gateway to Arunachal. The sea is nearly transparent, and the state's oldest town exudes a romantic allure to visitors. Pasighat is a completely immersive experience, not just because of its surroundings, but also because of its people.

Tradition & Culture

The ancient texts and historical significance of the Land of Dawnlit Mountains are well-known. As demonstrated by its presence in the Mahabharata and the Kalika Purana, Arunachal Pradesh is regarded to have a long history with India. Sage Parshurama washed away his sins in the Lohit District, Maharshi Vyasa pondered there, and Lord Krishna is claimed to have married Rukmini there. The sixth Dalai Lama was born in Tawang in the 17th century.

Arunachal Pradesh is home to some of the most diverse ethnic tribal tribes and subgroups in the world. Each of the twenty-six major tribes has its own language, dialects, culture, and traditional history. Some of the important tribes include the Adis, Apatanis, Daflas, Monpas, Mishmis, Wangchu, Noktey, Akas, Nishis, and Sherdukpens. Peace is important to these tribes, and they enjoy festivals and feasts.
The bulk of the tribes today work in agriculture, despite their origins as hunters. It is a frequent vocation to cultivate wetlands. In this region, tea and fruit such as kiwi and apple are commonly farmed. Bamboo and cane are used by some indigenous people to weave and produce a range of items.

Arunachal Pradesh, unlike the bulk of Indian states, has its own culture and religion. The people of Arunachal Pradesh have their own religion. Their faith is largely focused with the preservation of the natural world. Despite the fact that over 30% of the state's population is Christian, the remaining population is primarily Hindus, Tibetan Buddhists, and Theravada Buddhists. These Buddhist organisations can be found in West Kameng, Twang, and other Tibetan-influenced places. They claim that nature is their actual god. Their faith in God's oneness is unsurpassed and magnificent.

Apart from tribal languages within each tribal group, Hindi and Assamese are the state's official languages. Arunachal Pradesh's population is made up of indigenous tribes that speak a variety of languages. Because there are over 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes, Hindi is the primary language of communication. The popularity of English is rapidly increasing.

Arunachal Pradesh's traditional women's clothing are brilliantly coloured and feature a range of motifs that immediately communicate the tribe's culture. Monpa women wear a warm jacket and Shingka, a sleeveless gown with white stripes, and accessories with earrings, silver rings, bamboo-bits, red beads, and gorgeous turquoises. It's crafted from rough endi. Sherdukpen women dress in sleeveless and collarless clothes. An embroidered full-sleeved jacket and mushakis, or waistcoats, are worn over it. The men of the Sherdukpen tribe dress in sleeveless silk gowns with two pinned shoulder edges. Knee-length clothing is the norm.

Apatani priests may wear a particular shawl on ceremonial occasions. This shawl is claimed to have exceptional supernatural qualities due to its one-of-a-kind character. Galae is a lower wrap-around for women by Adi and Apatani with multicoloured stripes. The predominant colours are yellow and red. The shirt they wear is known as a galuk. Headgear is worn by both men and women in a variety of fashions. Ngama-shom, on the other hand, is the most popular. It's only an inch thick and made of yak fur. It's in the shape of a skull.

Dance and music have a big influence on Arunachal Pradesh's culture. Religious dance dramas, martial arts, and other exciting dance genres will captivate your mind and heart. Some of the most popular dances include Aji Lamu, Chalo, Pasi Kongki, Hiirii Khaniing, and Peacock dance. Arunachal's dance genres are numerous, ranging from detailed Buddhist religious dance dramas to martial arts and colourful Noctes and Wancho dance shows. The majority of dance forms have chorus music.
 

Fairs & Festivals

Fairs and Festivals of Arunachal Pradesh:

Because Arunachal Pradesh is a completely tribal state, festivals are an integral aspect of the people's socio-cultural identity. The bulk of festivals are associated with agriculture and are celebrated with ritualistic revelry, either to thank God for his favours or to pray for a plentiful harvest. The festivities are a representation of the people's culture, artwork, and musical and dance ability.

  • Sangken Festival- On February 14, Arunachal Pradesh's entire state celebrates Sangken, one of the state's most prominent festivals. Though it is seen throughout the state, the Khampti tribe is the primary observer. You can visit the Khamptis' native district, Lohit, during the event. Worshippers bathe Buddha's idol during the three-day celebration, which celebrates the New Year.

 

  • Losar Festival- The Monpa tribe celebrates the Losar Festival to usher in the new year. Tawang, one of Arunachal Pradesh's most prominent tourist locations, hosts the event, which is best visited during the festival season. The festival is usually held in February or early March and lasts between 8 and 15 days. During the event, people clean their homes, deliver prayers, and place religious flags on each house; they also study sacred scriptures and light oil lamps in their homes.

 

  • Ziro Music Festival- Arunachal Pradesh's Sunburn is the name given to the Ziro Music Festival. This is the state of Arunachal Pradesh's largest and most well-known outdoor celebration. Music fans from all across the country flock to Ziro to see this spectacular show. This four-day music festival is free to attend and showcases both international and local acts.

 

  • Torgya- Torgya is an annual event conducted at the Tawang monastery in the month of January. The Buddhist Monpa tribe holds a three-day festival to protect the locals from natural disasters. The Torgya festival, which takes place on the first day, is centred on the adoration of a three-foot flour and butter framework. On the second day, several masked dances are held in the main square, bringing mythological myths to life. During the "Wang" ceremony on the festival's final day, the head monk bestows blessings, pours holy water, and gives holy thread to each individual.

 

  • Siang River Festival- Every year in Arunachal Pradesh, the Yomgo River Festival (Siang River Festival) is conducted to commemorate community peace. It is the centrepiece of one of Arunachal Pradesh's most well-known celebrations. The festival was previously known as the Brahmaputra Darshan Festival in Tezu and Pasighat, but in Tuting, Yingkiong, and Pasighat, it has been recognised as the Siang River Festival since 2005. Among the festival's adventure events are elephant races, traditional boat racing, river rafting, food festivals, folk dances, cultural displays, and hot air balloon paragliding. Various districts are also hosting a handloom and handicrafts exhibition.

 

  • Myoko- The Apatanis hold the Myoko festival to reaffirm their long-held belief that executing the ceremonies will ensure fertility in the fields and among their people. The profound idea that the celebration fosters and promotes family, clan, and inter-village bonds is another element. Many complex rites and sacrifices are done during the major event.

 

  • Nyokum- Every year on February 28, the Nyishi tribe celebrates the Nyokum celebration. Both the land and the people are honoured throughout the two-day event. There is a lot of singing and dancing during the event, and visitors should go to the districts of East Kameng, Lower Subansiri, Kuring Kummey, and Papum Pare.

 

  • The Pangsau Pass Winter Festival- It is a three-day event conducted by the villagers of Nampong, Changlang district. This festival takes place every year in the month of January. As part of the ethnicity festival, they perform folk dances and music. Here is a stand with a range of artworks from across the company. Myanmar, too, has the opportunity to showcase its culture at this level. The festival brings the tribes together.

 

  • The Dukpa Tse Shi Festival- This festival in Sarnath honours Buddha's exposition of the Four Noble Truths. It falls in the sixth month of the Lunar Calendar.
     

Cuisines

Cuisines

Rice, fish, bamboo shoots, poultry, and green vegetables are staples in Arunachal Pradesh, which is another continuation of India's culinary tradition. Let us look at the splendour of Arunachal Pradesh's food in the shape of everyday, authentic, and drool-worthy delicacies.

The following are some foods worth trying:

  • Bamboo Shoots: Bamboo shoots, like curry leaves, are a must-have component in any Arunachal Pradesh meal. It's nutrient-dense and, of course, easily accessible. The boiling salad with bamboo shoots is a specialty of the country of the sun. Give it a go at the very least.
  • Puta- Puta is a buckwheat noodle dish with fermented soya beans, chives, onion, garlic, butter, and a red dried chilli.
  • Pika Pila- It is a well-known pickle made by the Apatani people of Arunachal Pradesh. It's a popular cuisine side dish and a personal favourite. Pika Pila is made with bamboo shoots, hog fat, and king chilly.
  • Lukter- Lukter is a roasted beef slice with dry red chilli seeds on top. This dish is made especially for the New Year, which falls in December. It can also be served with rice.
  • Pehak- It is a fermented soya bean and king chilli chutney. It's best served with steamed rice on the side. As a result, if you're in Arunachal Pradesh, don't miss it. Pehak is made even more delightful by the addition of seasoned rice and a hot, sour mash.
  • Rice- Rice is Arunachal Pradesh's main cuisine, with everything else serving as a side dish. The most notable and distinguishing feature of their rice is that it is cooked in a hollow bamboo over a hot coal in Arunachal, giving it a distinct flavour from other types of rice.
  • Wungwut Ngam- This is a rice flour chicken dish. For this meal, raw rice is roasted first, then pounded into a fine powder. After being marinated in rice powder with herbs and spices, the chicken portions are boiled.
  • Apong- It is Arunachal's favourite rice drink. In the state of North East India, it is the most popular beverage. It's not too heavy, and it's only served on exceptional occasions. It is both affordable and widely available. The perfect way to ring in the New Year is with snow and a road trip.
  • Byak- Byak is a local variation of Thai eggplant that grows in abundance in Arunachal Pradesh. The natives like it in the form of chutney, which is usually made with roasted or boiling baingan.
  • Chura Sabji- Chura Sabji is a spicy curry cooked with fermented cheese made from yak or cow's milk, as well as some King chilly. This meal is also served with rice.
  • Marua- It is a millets-based alcoholic beverage made at home. It's a popular drink in Arunachal Pradesh. This is a drink reserved for exceptional occasions only.
  • Po cha- It is the name for butter tea. The butter is made with yak milk. To begin, brew a cup of black tea. Season with salt after that. Add milk to a cup of black tea. Before adding the butter, let the pot boil for a few minutes. Heat until it's creamy and smooth. It's delicious as a tea or soup. For the greatest flavour, combine with Koat Pitha or Iite.
  • Koat Pitha- A popular meal in the state is koat pitha. The key ingredients are flour, bananas, jaggery, and mustard oil. Simply combine all of the ingredients and fry. Oh, the horror! You have the most delicious lunch in town! It's a smash with the kids, and their mothers love it since it's healthy. Because it is inherently sweet, it will appeal to anyone with a sweet craving.

Excursion

Shopping

When you're on a tour, it's impossible not to shop. As a keepsake or souvenir, take a piece of the location with you as a great remember of the incredible experience you had on the tour. Arunachal Pradesh is one of those places where you can leave a lasting impression on your recollections by purchasing a wonderful handmade item of tribal jewellery, handicraft, cane or bamboo miniatures, and so on.

  • Ganga Market, Itanagar- Like other big cities, Itanagar lacks large shopping complexes and markets. Tourists, on the other hand, will appreciate the opportunity to shop at this neighbourhood market. In a variety of shops and roadside stalls, thangkas are sold in a variety of styles and at reasonable costs. Pots and vases, chairs, baskets, handcrafted bamboo mats, lamps, wall hangings, and a variety of other bamboo and cane items abound. Apart from tribal decoratives and jewellery, you may also get woollen and wooden products.

 

  • Government Handicraft Emporium, Tawang- The Arunachal Pradesh government's Handicraft Emporium sells shawls, carpets, handcrafted bags, native tribal skirts, and other products. This store is well-known for selling quality goods at reasonable costs. You will certainly come across all handicraft-related products from the Tawang region.

 

  • Vihara or Tibetan Market, Tawang- Tibetan settlement market, also known as Vihara market, is a local market in Tawang Township that consists of modest businesses and roadside shacks that serve both locals and tourists' needs. Local cafes and businesses selling traditional goods are the main attractions in this area. Porcelain and China clay crockery, as well as Chinese crockery, are commonly available. Flags, prayer wheels, Lord Buddha sculptures, wall hangings, and other Buddhist religious items can also be found here.

 

  • Ziro Market, Ziro Valley- In Ziro's little market, unique bamboo handicrafts like baskets, wall hangings, and ornamental objects are popular. Handlooms and handicrafts from Apatani are also popular among tourists. Handwoven garments, luggage, woollen rugs, and traditional masks are among the gifts and souvenirs available at the Ziro market.
     

Things To Do

Getting There

By Air – The closest airport to the state is Tezpur, which is located in Assam. Taxis are available to take you to the airport, which is around 260 kilometres distant. You can fly to Kolkata or Guwahati if Tezpur airport is unavailable.

By Railway – At 15 kilometres, the Naharlagun railway station in Arunachal Pradesh is the closest to the state capital, Itanagar. It was created in 2015 and only runs a few trains between New Delhi and Guwahati at the moment. However, flying into Guwahati and then taking a train to Naharlagun is the most convenient way to arrive in Arunachal Pradesh by train. Guwahati is the most well-connected city in the country.

By Road – Arunachal Pradesh is connected to many neighbouring states by roadways. Shillong, Guwahati, Ziro, and Pasighat are all easily accessible by car. Both state-run and private buses are extremely reliable, making a road trip a pleasurable and scenic experience.

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