Overview

Capital: Itanagar
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Languages: Hindi, English, Nyishi, Adi, Apatani, Monpa
Airport: Donyi Polo Airport (Itanagar); nearest major airport – Guwahati (Assam)
Ideal Trip Duration: 7–10 days

Arunachal Pradesh is known for its untouched natural beauty, ancient monasteries, tribal culture, snow-capped mountains, and lush valleys. It shares international borders with Bhutan, China, and Myanmar.

Top Places to Visit

1. Tawang

  • Home to the Tawang Monastery, India’s largest and second-largest in the world.
  • Visit Sela Pass, Madhuri Lake (Sangetsar Lake), and Bumla Pass near the Indo-China border.
  • Ideal for snow, Buddhist culture, and scenic drives.

2. Ziro Valley

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site nominee.
  • Known for Ziro Music Festival, Apatani tribal villages, and terraced paddy fields.
  • Great for nature lovers, trekking, and photography.

3. Bomdila

  • Peaceful hill station with apple orchards, monasteries, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
  • Visit Bomdila Monastery and local handicraft markets.

4. Dirang

  • Between Bomdila and Tawang — perfect stopover.
  • Explore Dirang Dzong, hot water springs, and Sangti Valley.

5. Itanagar

  • Capital city with a blend of heritage and modern life.
  • Attractions: Ita Fort, Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, Ganga Lake (Gyakar Sinyi), and Buddhist Gompa.

6. Pasighat

  • Oldest town in the state, situated along the Siang River.
  • Famous for rafting, angling, and tribal experiences.

7. Namdapha National Park

  • One of India’s largest biodiversity hotspots.
  • Home to tigers, leopards, snow leopards, and red pandas.
  • Ideal for wildlife lovers and adventurers.

8. Roing

  • Located in the Dibang Valley.
  • Visit Mayudia Pass, Mehao Lake, and Bhismaknagar Fort.

Culture & People

  • Arunachal Pradesh has 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes, each with unique customs, dance, dress, and festivals.
  • Major festivals: Losar (Monpa), Mopin (Galo), Solung (Adi), Nyokum (Nyishi), and Boori Boot Yullo (Hill Miri).
  • Handicrafts include wood carving, bamboo art, and woven textiles.

Local Cuisine

Try:

  • Thukpa – noodle soup
  • Momos – steamed dumplings
  • Apong – traditional rice beer
  • Pika Pila – local spicy chutney
  • Zan – traditional Monpa porridge

How to Reach

  • By Air: Donyi Polo Airport (Itanagar) connects to Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati.
  • By Train: Naharlagun railway station (15 km from Itanagar).
  • By Road: Well-connected via NH13 (Trans-Arunachal Highway) from Assam.

Note: Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for Indian tourists. Foreign tourists need a Protected Area Permit (PAP).

Things to Do

  • Attend the Tawang Festival or Ziro Music Festival.
  • Trek through Talley Valley and Gorichen Peak.
  • Explore tribal villages and monasteries.
  • River rafting on the Siang River.
  • Wildlife spotting at Namdapha National Park.

Where to Stay

  • Luxury: The Tawang Gateway, Hotel Pybss (Itanagar)
  • Mid-range: Dondrub Homestay (Tawang), Hotel Blue Pine (Dirang)
  • Budget: Ziro Valley Resort, Bomdila Tourist Lodge, eco-homestays

Travel Tips

  • Carry warm clothes year-round (especially in Tawang, Dirang).
  • Network connectivity is limited in remote areas.
  • Always keep ID and ILP copies handy.
  • Respect local customs and avoid photographing people without permission.
  • Cash is preferred in villages; ATMs may be limited.