The path less traveled is the one that gives the greatest number of surprises. Such is the state of Arunachal Pradesh and the mystery that whirl around it is simply hypnotic.
Known as the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’, this unexplored state offers its pristine beauty and mysterious charm and you will find peace for your soul.
ADVERTISEMENT
Arunachal Pradesh has a wide range of places that you can visit during your trip. From snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys to cascading waterfalls and ancient monasteries, there is a lot to explore.
In this article, you will get to know about the following places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh,
Let’s see each of these destinations in detail.
1. Ziro
| Best time to visit | Throughout the year |
Ziro is one of the oldest towns in Arunachal Pradesh and is situated in the Lower Subansiri district. It is a valley that lies at an elevation of 1688 meters to 2438 meters above sea level. The valley has a stunning landscape of blissful green forests, rivulets, and rice fields.
This place is the home of the Apatani tribe, who are known for their distinctive culture and traditions. Ziro is also a part of the Tentative List for UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, as it showcases the harmony between nature and humans.
Ziro has many attractions that will captivate you with its beauty. Some of them are Ziro Putu, Shivalingam at Kardo, Talley Valley, Tarin fish farm, etc. The climate is pleasant throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for any season.
ADVERTISEMENT
You can opt for various adventure activities, such as trekking to Midey and Dolo Mando, rafting on the Kamla River, and camping in the wilderness. You can also experience the rich culture and heritage of the Apatanis by visiting during their festivals, such as Myoko in March, Murung in January, and Dree in July.
Another festival that is celebrated in Ziro is the Ziro Music Festival, which is a four-day event that features independent music from India and abroad. It is held in the Ziro Valley and attracts music lovers from all over the world. After enjoying all the fun, you can also buy some souvenirs from the local craftsmen.
2. Itanagar
| Best time to visit | October – March |
Itanagar is the capital and the largest city of Arunachal Pradesh. It is the political and administrative center of the state, as it houses the Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly and the government offices. The city is situated in the southwestern part of the state and is known for its natural beauty and charm.
There are many places to visit in Itanagar, such as Gompa Buddhist Temple, Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, Ganga Lake, Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Namdhapa National Park, Ita Fort, etc. It also offers many adventure activities, such as trekking in the hills, rafting on the Siang River, mountaineering on Gorichen Peak, boating on Ganga Lake, and fishing in various streams. You can also enjoy jungle safari and bird watching in the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
If you want to witness the culture and festivals of Itanagar, you can visit during Tamladu in February, Reh in February-March, and Losar in February-March. These are festivals that celebrate nature, harvest, and the new year.
3. Sela Pass
| Best time to visit | October, November, March-May |
Sela Pass is a heavenly destination and one of the most popular and scenic places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. It is located at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level and is the gateway to Tawang Valley. Sela Pass is also one of the highest motorable passes in the world.
This is an awe-inspiring place that is always covered in snow and offers some magical views of the eastern Himalayan ranges. The Pass has one of the most beautiful lakes in Arunachal Pradesh, the Sela Lake. The lake’s tranquility mitigates the harshness of the rugged mountains that surround it. You can also visit the pine forest near the lake.
ADVERTISEMENT
The snow-clad mountains from the Pass look like a painting. You can admire the beauty of Sela Lake, and try out trekking, camping, and yak safari while you are here. Make sure you have an inner line permit with you when you visit the pass.
4. Tawang
| Best time to visit | October – March |
Tawang is a charming town that is famous for its numerous monasteries that have a lot of significance. It is also the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. The town is known for its serenity and enchanting sights.
This is a must-visit place in Arunachal Pradesh, blessed with snow-covered mountains, valleys, lakes, and dense forests. It has many attractions to explore, such as the Tawang Monastery, which is one of the largest monasteries in India, Gorichen Peak, Nuranang Falls, Thingbu Hot Spring, Tawang War Memorial, P.T Tso Lake, etc.
During your stay in Tawang, you can hike to Gorichen Peak, visit Bumla Pass, spend a day at Shonga-Tser Lake, meditate at Taktsang Gompa, and relax.
You can also eat at the local restaurants and try some of the local delicacies. To know more about the place and its culture, you can wander around and interact with the locals. There is also a Tibetan settlement market where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs.
5. Shergaon
| Best time to visit | October – March |
Shergaon is a picturesque village that boasts natural beauty and tranquility. It is situated at an elevation of 7,000 ft above sea level and is surrounded by verdant forests and hills. It is a haven for botanists and plant lovers, as it has a diversity of trees and wildflowers.
You can visit this village to relax and enjoy the sounds of nature, such as the babbling brooks, the singing birds, and the rustling leaves. The views from this place are incredible and serene. The mountains stand guard in the background of a tranquil nature.
ADVERTISEMENT
While you are here, visit the Zengbu Gompa, which is a unique monastery in the state. You can also admire the Choskorong Waterfall, which cascades down from a height of 100 ft. If you are looking for some adventure, you can go camping for a night or two and experience the beauty of the place under the stars.
The ideal time to visit Shergaon is from October to March when the place is adorned with winter charms. The valleys, rivers, and meadows are filled with a cool sensation that soothes the mind and the spirit.
6. Bhalukpong
| Best time to visit | October – March |
Nestled in the West Kameng district of the Himalayan foothills, Bhalukpong is a charming town that offers a blend of nature and culture. It lies on the edge of the lush Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, where the Kameng River flows through the dense forest.
The town captivates visitors with its scenic beauty and friendly locals. The Kameng River also provides opportunities for fishing and river rafting for adventure seekers. One of the attractions of Bhalukpong is the Sessa Orchid Sanctuary, which hosts a variety of rare and endangered orchids. The sanctuary is also home to wildlife such as red pandas, pheasants, and serows. Hiking and trekking are also popular activities in the area.
The best time to visit Bhalukpong is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the Aka tribal festival is celebrated in March. This festival showcases the rich culture and traditions of the local tribe and is a delight for tourists and travelers.
7. Anini
| Best time to visit | October – March |
Anini is a town in the Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh and is the headquarters of the Dibang Valley district. It is one of the most untouched and pristine places in the easternmost state of India. It is mostly inhabited by the Idu Mishmi tribal people, who have a distinct culture and tradition.
The place is a paradise with clouds, mist, tranquility, and a soothing ambiance. It is ideal for those who love adventure and nature. You can trek through the Mayudia Pass, explore the greenery of Hunli, and go angling at Iphi Pani Ghat.
ADVERTISEMENT
You can also try the 7-Lake Trek at Mipi, which is a challenging and rewarding trek that takes you to seven beautiful lakes. After all the sightseeing, you can relax at the Nehru Van Udayan, which is a serene park with a variety of plants and flowers.
Another attraction of Anini is the tribal villages, where you can experience the hospitality and heritage of the locals. Villages like Hunli, Ranli, and New Anaya will welcome you with open arms and show you their way of life.
8. Tirap
| Best time to visit | March – June |
Tirap is a district in Arunachal Pradesh that shares its borders with Myanmar and is known for its scenic beauty, flamboyant orchids, and streaming rivulets. The district has a rich diversity of tribes, such as the Nocte, Wancho, and Tangsa, who have their own festivals, crafts, and customs. The district offers a unique and fascinating experience to travelers and tourists.
There are many places to explore while you are here, such as Deomali Peak, Khonsa Museum, Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary, etc. You can also enjoy adventure activities like trekking and camping or play some local games and sports with the villagers.
You can also visit the Noctes & Tutsa Tribes of Tirap and learn about their culture and traditions. If possible, visit during Pongtu and Chalo Loku festivals, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and joy by the tribes.
Taste some local delicacies like rice and meat cooked with herbs and spices. Lettuce is a popular vegetable among the locals and is cooked with green chilies, coriander, and ginger. Give it a try and see if you like it.
These are some must-visit places in Arunachal Pradesh. You will be amazed by the unexpected beauty of this region.
Make sure you have a well-planned itinerary if you are planning to explore this natural wonderland.
Don’t miss the opportunity to discover the ancient sites, customs, festivals, and cuisine of this place. Have a wonderful adventure!
Some more articles you can check out:
- How to Check (Track) Passport Status Online In India 2024
- 6 Best Places To Try Paragliding In India 2024
- How To Add Money To IRCTC e-Wallet Online 2023
- IRCTC e-Wallet Registration Process Online 2023
- 6 Must Visit Beaches Near Santa Ana (California)
- 5 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Odisha
Affiliate Disclaimer: Some of the links provided in the article are affiliate links. This means when you buy or book anything using those links, you help support this website at no extra cost.
The images used in the article are for representation purposes only.
