Arunachal Pradesh is located in the north-eastern part of India and is famous for its natural delights. Every year thousands of visitors do visit this place. Surrounded by India’s three neighbouring countries-Bhutan, China and Myanmar it is a mostly sparsely populated state.
Who does not want to visit a place with a soothing climate, hospitable people, and snowy mist, some of the world’s famous monasteries, placid lakes, picturesque mountains and foothills of the Himalayas after the tough life of the populated cities?
Famous Tourist Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh:-
1. Tawang:
- Tawang is one of the best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. Being the centre of the Buddhist minorities and the headquarter of Tawang district it is the land with centuries-old monasteries. The Rocky Mountains, hundred pristine lakes, snow-capped summits, Dragon gates and numerous waterfalls are where the true beauty lies.
- It can be also called the treasure of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Tawang monasteries are Asia’s second-largest monastery and control 17 gumphas (Buddhist monasteries) which are 400 years old. Tawang, the land of the Monpa and Sherdukpen tribes the Tibetan influence here is prevalent. The famous Torgva festival is held here from Dec-Jan. As per the Buddhist Calendar, the eleventh Monpa month is called the Dawa Chukchipah.
There is an 8-meter high statue of Lord Buddha. Prayer flags are hoisted outside even that is a wonderful view to watch.
Around Tawang:
- The World’s Second highest Pass, the Sela Pass lies on the way to Tawang. At 4,125 meters, which runs through a small ridge and along a placid Lake called Paradise Lake? It is the highest pass of the state of Arunachal Pradesh and also the third-highest in the world.
- Pakang Teng Tso Lake, the placid lake lies about 17km from Tawang and has an amazing view of vegetation.
- The birthplace of Tsangyang Gyatso, Urgelling Monastery, and the sixth Dalai Lama of a Monpa Mother is situated at a distance of 5km from Tawang.
Read: Vist Famous Waterfalls in Arunachal Pradesh
2. Bomdila:
Bomdila is a beautiful tourist attraction in Arunachal Pradesh that offers stunning views of snow-clad mountains, wild orchids, Himalayan landscapes, and luring waterfalls. Being the headquarters of West Kameng district located at the height of 8500 ft above sea level. The Bomdila monastery is a replica of the Tsona Gontse monastery located in Tibet. The Bomdila monastery also happens to be known as the Gentse Gaden Rabgyel Ling monastery and was erected by Tsona Gontse Rinpoche. Besides these, there is also the Ethnographic Museum. Over many centuries there have been strong Tibetan and Buddhist influences.
Around Bomdila:
- Dirang, situated in between Bomdila and Tawang.Apple orchards, yak breeding farms are what it is famous for.
- A few kilometres from Dirang hot springs where people go for a holy dip to wash away sins and diseases.
- Tipi is Asia’s largest orchidarium. Surrounded by an evergreen forest, it has more than 500 species of orchids. The Orchid centre is on the bank of the river Bharali. The hot spring, a big orchid garden is the treasure of the place.
- Jia-bharali River passing lies on the way to Bomdila and is the gateway to Arunachal Pradesh, from the southwest.
- Bhalukpong lies 64km from Tezpur on the foot of Aka Hills are a beautiful picnic spot. And was the capital of Bhaluka, the grandson of King Bana.
3. Itanagar:
The land of the dawn-lit mountains’ is the capital city of northeastern state Arunachal Pradesh. It is located to the east of Tawang and has been recognized with Mayapur, a city of 14th-15th century A.D. A modern settlement built very closely of the ruins of a medieval capital. It comes administratively under the Papum Pare district. However, Itanagar can be called mini India, as people from all over the country, live here in harmony. Regular Helicopter service is available from Guwahati to Naharlagun (Itanagar). Travelaholics from across the country visit this place to explore its natural beauty.
Around Itanagar:
Naharlagun, known as the twin town of Itanagar, is situated at a distance of 10km from Itanagar. It consists of Zoo, Craft Centre, and Polo Park.
4. Ziro:
Ziro is a unique place to see in Arunachal Pradesh, surrounded by mountains covered with pine it is the home of Apatani tribes. It has been a favourite town for World Heritage Site for many years. It is located about 167 km from Itanagar. The fresh breeze, Pine Bamboo groves, indigenous method of rice cultivation, just blows your mind and make you feel relieved. This place also happens to be an Anthropologist’s delight.
Around Ziro:
Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is a natural botanical garden. The Sanctuary consists of many exotic orchids. It is the home of the crossbreed of Wild Gaur (Mithun) shy type of animal.
Tarin Fishing Farm is the high altitude fishing seed farm at Tarin and is famous for Terrace Paddy and Fish culture.
Read: Best Honeymoon Destinations in Arunachal Pradesh
5. Daporijo:
Situated at the point of flowing two rivers, Sippi and Subansiri, it is the largest village town. A bit congested but to see here are the local people and the bridges made from bamboo and cane by the locals.
6. Aalo Formerly Along:
The historical Malinithan Temple can be seen on the way along. The Legendary Akashi Ganga, a point from where people can witness the Brahmaputra and its tributaries. Crossbreeding farm at Kamki of Mithun and Jersey can be seen.
7. Pasighat:
Situated on the right bank of river Siang (name of river Brahmaputra in Arunachal Pradesh), it is the Headquarters of East Siang district. Dr D. Ering Wildlife Sanctuary where wild buffalos, tigers, sambar deer and wild ducks is a must-watch. The Brahmaputra Darshan, festival has become a bi-annual fest.
Wildlife:-
The wildlife which we can witness in this state cannot be seen in any part of India. Animals like Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear and Goral. Birds like White Winged Wood Duck, Bengal Florican, Temmincks Tragopan, Mishmi Wren and Sclater’s Monal etc… Can be seen here. The state is very rich in flora and fauna.
Wildlife Sanctuaries:-
- Dr D. Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary, Pasighat
- Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Roing
- Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, Seijosa
- Eagle Nest Wildlife Sanctuary, Seijosa
- Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Naharlagun
- Kamlang Wildlife Sanctuary, Miao
- Kane Wildlife Sanctuary, Along
National parks:
- Namdhapa National Park (Tiger Project), Miao
- Sessa Orchid Sanctuary, Tip
- Mouling National Park, Jengging
- Dihang-Debang Biosphere Reserve, Dibang Valley
Read: Arunachal Pradesh Famous Festivals
Travel Tips:
People who love adventure must experience these:
Rafting Brahmaputra is counted as one of the best rivers for rafting in the world. This river gives an amazing and exciting, lifetime memorable rafting expedition experience into the North-East part of India. The Tsang Po River flows on the east side of Tibet, passing through the great Himalayans.
- Subansari River Rafting Subansari River is also known as the “Gold River”. This river is the biggest tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
- Kameng River Rafting: This River was known as the Bhareli River before it got renamed Kameng. This is one of the most challenging rivers for river rafting in India.
- The travellers should try these authentic foods: Momo is made by stuffing minced Pork and Onions into a dough and then steamed in a three-layer steamer or fried. The Thupka is a soup filled with noodles, minced meat, and vegetables, also known as Der Thuk. Zan is the staple dish of the Monpa tribes, Khura is a pancake, Gyapa Khazi
- Arunachal Pradesh is the safest state in northeast India. The people of Arunachal Pradesh are not very religious. They are very friendly and ready to help you.