Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most unexplored and offbeat places in India with adorable wildlife and fascinating festivals. And because it gets the first sunrise in the country, is called the Land of the Rising Sun in India. While researching some unexplored places with amazing wildlife and a lot of festivals to enjoy I found Arunachal Pradesh was somehow getting overlooked. Its natural wonder, scenic beauty, wildlife, tribal traditions and culture are alluring. Adventure enthusiasts, nature admirers, wildlife photographers and bird watchers can spend a wonderful time in this picturesque state. The variety and expansion of the wildlife in Arunachal Pradesh can be understood by the following statement.
There are eight Wildlife Sanctuaries, one Orchid Sanctuary and two National Parks in state of Arunachal Pradesh covering an area of 9,488.48 sq km.
arunachalforests.nic.in
This place boasts of its pristine beauty and lush greenery. Besides all this, the state hosts some famous and exotic festivals which should be visited once in your lifetime. Lakes, monasteries and dense forests as well as thrilling hiking and trekking trails adorn the state of Arunachal Pradesh. If you’re interested in learning about the tribal culture then you can spend a day mingling with the tribes. It is a hidden gem in the heart of Northeastern India.
Let’s Talk About 7 Unexplored Places, Wildlife and the Festivals
One by One
There is a lot to talk about the wildlife and the sights along with the vibrant and engaging festivals of Arunachal. Along with Meghalaya, Unakoti, Arunachal is also way more like an explored treasure even to date. So let’s start this untouched topic one by one.
Top 7 unexplored destinations in Arunachal Pradesh with phenomenal Wildlife
1. Tawang
Tawang is renowned for its beautiful monasteries. It is one of the favourite tourist destinations of Arunachal Pradesh. Nestled within the mighty Himalayan range, the mystic views of the town are mesmerizing. Tawang literally translates to “chosen by horse”. ‘TA’ means ‘Horse’ and ‘WANG’ means ‘Chosen’. Tawang is famous for being the birthplace of his holiness “the Dalai Lama”. It used to be the capital city of the kingdom of Tibet. Other attractions of the place are its rich natural wonders and wildlife. Adventure lovers can opt for hiking and trekking across the mountain trails.
Other attractions of Tawang are:
- Gorichen peak
- Bap Teng Kang waterfall
- Tawang monastery
2. Bhalukpong
Bhalukpong is another enchanting and captivating place in Arunachal Pradesh. Nature has decorated it with exotic flora and fauna. One can soothe one’s mind by listening to the gushing water flows of the river coming and immersing in the breathtaking beauty of the dense forest. If you wish to go Fishing, Hiking, Trekking or River Rafting then Bhalukpong can be that one place in Arunachal Pradesh to go for. It offers a plethora of opportunities for all of those audacious activities. It is perfect to entertain and delight your adventurous mindset. The Pakhui wildlife sanctuary is another sightseeing spot where you can watch a good number of birds and animals.
Other attractions of Bhalukpong are:
- Lumum waterfall
- Tipi orchidarium
- Bhalukpong fort
3. Roing
Roing is a picturesque place enriched with lakes, rivers, waterfalls, snow-capped hills, greenery, forests and gorgeous valleys. If you love to visit during winter and enjoy the snowfall then you must not miss visiting the Mayodia Pass. Mehao wildlife sanctuary is another spot for wildlife enthusiasts. You can see many animals and birds here.
Other attractions of Roing are:
- Bhismaknagar fort
- Nijomaghat
- Rukmini Nati
4. Ziro
Ziro is one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in Arunachal Pradesh. Full of lush green forest, and rivers and is located 1500 meters above sea level making it a heavenly hill station. The place is famous for its paddy-cum-pisciculture cultivation and the terraced paddy fields. The unique system of poly-culture and water management is practised by the people of the Apatani tribe. The Bollywood film “Bhediya” 2022 featuring Varun Dhawan was shot here.
Other attractions of Ziro are:
- Shiva lingam at Kardo forest
- Talley Valley
5. Bomdila
Bomdila is inhabited by the people of Aka (Hrusso), Miji (Sajalong), Monpa, Sherdukpen, and Khawas tribes. The snow-clad mountains, monasteries, greenery and scenic beauty have given it the tag of being “A photographer’s delight”.
The main attractions in Bomdila are:
- Bomdila Monastery
- Gentse Gaden Rabgyel Ling (GRL) Monastery
- Craft Center
- Ethnographic Museum
- Apple orchards
- Bomdila View Point
- RR Hills.
6. Itanagar
Itanagar is the capital of Arunachal Pradesh. It is a beautiful place full of archaeological sites, scenic beauty and adventure experiences. The place is famous for housing many tribes and their unique arts and crafts.
Some of the major attractions of this place are:
- Ita fort
- Jawaharlal Nehru Museum
- Geykar Sinyik
7. Dirang
Dirang is situated on the banks of River Kameng. It is the gateway to Tawang. It is a small town with spectacular landscapes and gorgeous surroundings. The weather is pleasant throughout the year. It is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers and trekkers. It has natural hot water springs, and apple and kiwi orchards. Siberian black-necked storks come here during the winter.
Some of the main attractions of this place are:
- National Yak Research and Breeding Centre at Nigmadung
- Sheep Breeding Farm
- Sangti Valley
- Dirang dzong
If you have just fallen in love with the wildlife of Arunachal you may check out more information on the website of arunachalforests.nic.in.
4 Major events and festivals of Arunachal Pradesh
1. Ziro music festival
It is celebrated during the month of September-October. It is an independent outdoor music festival started by two people which gained quick popularity. From Indie music to the folk music of the region all of it is celebrated there with a tinge of modern flavour in it. It is hosted by the local Apatani community.
2. Siang river festival
It is celebrated in different parts of Arunachal Pradesh in the month of December. Earlier it was known by the name of Brahmaputra Darshan festival. The festival consists of folk songs and dances. Adventure and sports activities like paragliding etc. Exhibitions, games and other cultural activities. The objective of this festival is to promote and highlight the culture of the state and to boost tourism.
3. Pangsau Pass Winter festival
It is celebrated in Nampong every year in January. It offers a platform for cross-border trade and culture between the state and Myanmar.
4. Nyokum Yullo
It is celebrated in the month of February. This festival is celebrated by the people of the Nyishi tribe. The Word Nyokum means togetherness of land. All the Gods and Goddesses are invited with Goddess Nyokum being the chief deity. The festival is celebrated as a prayer for better cultivation.
Best time to Visit Arunachal Pradesh to Explore the Festivals and The Wildlife
You can visit Arunachal Pradesh at any time of the year. However, to explore the places, witness wildlife and indulge in the festivals of Arunachal Pradesh here is what you can do.
Most of the festivals of Arunachal are organized in the winter season. This is the time when after the Monsoon, a new generation of fauna and flora flourishes in the area. The weather remains pleasant throughout the season. Therefore, the months of October to April are the best to plan a visit to Arunachal Pradesh. You can also enjoy the winters with the snow-capped peaks around you.
How to reach Arunachal Pradesh?
The best way to Arunachal Pradesh is to come to Guwahati and then travel to Arunachal Pradesh.
The nearest airport is at Lilabari, Dibrugarh and Tezpur.
Trains are also available from Guwahati to Naharlagun. It takes about 7-8 hours. The best way to reach is by Rail. Book now on IRCTC.
You can also book a cab from Guwahati or from any other place.
Where to stay in Arunachal Pradesh to balance your trip cost?
Do not expect luxurious hotels, homestays and resorts in Arunachal Pradesh. Being a relatively unexplored destination the hotels are affordable and mostly budget ones.
*Some of the mid-budget hotels with modern amenities starting from around ₹3500 are –
Y international hotel, Itagar
Hotel Pybss, Itanagar
Vamos trail, Tawang
*The other budget hotels are –
Gakyi Khang Zhang, Tawang
Hotel Pancheng, Bomdila
Hotel Pine Ridge, Itanagar
Arunachal Guest house, Ziro
FAQ’S =》
1. How many days are required to visit Arunachal Pradesh?
Ans– If you are planning to visit 4-5 cities, then it is best to plan a total of 10 days. But if you have fewer days for the vacation and want to keep it less hectic, then you can also plan for 5 days and cover 2-3 cities.
2. How to enter Arunachal Pradesh?
Ans – Indians from other parts of the country need to acquire the inner line permit before they are permitted entry to visit Arunachal Pradesh.
3. How to get the inner line permit?
Ans – For this, you need to have your official identity cards such as a PAN card, driver’s license, voter’s ID card, passport or aadhar card.
Steps to follow while applying for the inner line permit.
Ans – The application is available online and you need to upload a passport-size photo for long visits.
Approx. 4 or 5 hours are needed for approval after the application is submitted.
Well, I have said enough about Arunachal Pradesh I guess. So, now it’s your turn to share something from your experience. I will be waiting for you to read this article and tell me about that.
