Arunachal Pradesh
About Arunachal Pradesh
Home to picturesque mountains, unexplored passes, tranquil lakes and famous monasteries, Arunachal Pradesh is an amazing destination for an amazing holiday. Arunachal Pradesh is the perfect state for you if you wish to explore the tribal culture and the simplicity of their exquisite beauty. Its amazing array of flora and fauna, in a unique habitat with glaciers, high altitude meadows and sub-tropical forests add to the charm of the beautiful state.Arunachal Pradesh, bordered on the south by Assam, on the west by Bhutan, on the north and northeast by China, and on the east by Myanmar is also known as the “Orchid State of India” or the “Paradise of the Botanists”. More than 500 species of birds have been recorded to be found in this state, many of which are highly endangered and restricted to this state. For the most part, Arunachal Pradesh is covered with serene mountains that offer one a breathtaking view during the winters. As the snow covers the peaks of these mountains, flora and fauna display a state of calmness and freshness in the region. The crafty, yet traditional people of the state welcome one and all with a smile on their faces and love and warmth in their hearts.
Itanagar
With the snow capped Himalayas towering on the northern end and the fertile Brahmaputra river plains on the southern, Itanagar is a natural paradise.Recently opened to tourists by the government, the heritage and tribal culture of the city, which is decades and centuries old, is still intact. The 15th century Ita-Fort, legendary Ganga Lake which is locally known as Gyakar Sinyi and the Buddha Vihar, consecrated by Dalai Lama are among the most important attractions here. The amicable weather throughout the year makes it a tourist’s delight. The town of Yupia shares it’s attractions with Itanagar. Hence, the two can be covered simultaneously.
Things to Do
Ganga Lake
Also known as the Gyankar Sinyi, this is a major attraction for locals and tourists alike. The chief spot in the city, the beautiful water body accompanied with the peaceful and serene atmosphere and the lush green mountains in the vicinity make this a preferred locale.The pristine clear water and the shadows of the towering Himalayas highlight the beauty of the lake as well.
Ita Fort
One of the old and renowned marvel of ancient religion, located in the Papum Pare district, the Ita fort is an important tourist spot. Ita Fort literally means the fort of bricks as ‘Ita’ means brick in the Ahom language.Itanagar was named after this fort which was built around 14th century AD. The marvelous stone work and construction lead to the building of such a magnificent structure which guarded the kingdom years and years ago.
Namdapha National Park
The third largest national park in the country, area-wise, Namdapha National Park is located in Arunachal Pradesh. Namdapha National Park is a gem for any wildlife and nature lover. With its altitude varying between 200 meters to 4500 meters, it is a haven of rare and endangered animal and plant species with one of the most vibrant bio-diversities in the country. It is here that you can spot species such as Snow Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Leopard, and Tiger. Namdapha National Park is located at a mere distance of 160 km from the capital of Assam, i.e. Dibrugarh and is well-connected by a network of roads up till Miao, which is its getaway.Being in the lower Eastern Himalayan belt, the national park provides a beautiful view of the nearby peaks; it is perfect for some forest trekking and hiking activities and for relaxation. The birdlife at the sanctuary is also great and diverse with many rare species and migratory present in the National Park. It is a great place to start off your journey into Arunachal Pradesh giving you a glimpse of the wonderful things to come ahead. The name of the park itself ‘Namdapha’ is a combination of two Singpho words that mean ‘Forest Keeping’ indicating that conservation of forests is the primary objective of the tribals as well as the locals in the area.
Gompa Buddhist Temple
This is the most major tourist spot of Itanagar as well as Arunachal Pradesh. The USP of the temple is its striking yellow roof because of which this structure can be identified from afar.The roof is contrasted by the green carpets that surround the shrine. The most important feature for the tourists as well as the followers of the sculpture of Lord Buddha.
Bhalukpong
Apart from being the nature lover’s paradise, Bhalukpong can provide you a complete experience with wildlife and a host of activities complimenting its natural beauty and the environment of a place lesser known.The Kameng River running in the forest surrounding it makes the town even more attractive. In Bhalukpong you’ll find yourself making the most of hiking, trekking, camping and fishing. The Pakhui game sanctuary can be visited to see birds as exotic as the place itself, along with tigers, elephants, barking dear and more.
Outdoor activities
Trekking is gaining immense popularity with the tourists. White water rafting is now fully functional. Hiking in this quite and serene area has a tranquilizing effect on the body.
Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary
This royal sanctuary plays home to the royal bengal tiger and many more varieties of flora and fauna. At least 40 mammal species occur in Pakke Tiger Reserve.Tiger, leopard, clouded Leopard, jungle cat, wild dog Jackal, Himalayan Black Bear, Binturong, Elephant, Gaur, Samber, Hog deer, Barking Deer, Wilboar, Yellow throated martin and so so many more animal species can be found here. Nearly 300 species of birds call this reserve their home too. It is aslso known as the Pakke Tiger Reserve as the sanctuary aims at preserving and protecting the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Tawang
Located at a height of about 3048m, is known for many important and beautiful monasteries and is famous for being the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso.The beautiful town of Tawang, also pronounced as Dawang has many sceneries to make your trip a picturesque one. However, what begins to define the area is its significance for Buddhist monks. Tawang is the place to go for monasteries, with the Tawang Monastery being the most popular one and extremely sacred for the Buddhists. Tawang is a place which will flatter you with its natural beauty wrapped in the scent of spirituality. The beautiful orchid sanctuary and the Tipi Orchid Sanctuary is also an ideal place for your list of places to visit. Along with this one can have their taste buds to have an experience of Tawang by indulging into the area’s unique cuisine.
Nuranang Falls
A largely unknown and virgin place, deep in the forest of Tawang, Nuranang Falls offer a pristine and beautiful experience. One of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country, the Nuranang Falls are a beautiful white sheet of water that descends from the height of about 100 meters. Part of the Nuranang River which originates at Sela Pass, Nuranang Falls is largely unknown to the popular tourist trail making it an offbeat and tranquil spot. Popular as the BTK waterfall, the Bap Ten Kang has crystal clear water which elevates your spirits and encourages you to indulge in swimming. A day tour to the Nuranang Falls while on your journey from Tawang till Bomdila allows you to have some relaxed and enjoyable time by the waterfalls. The scenery around the falls is dotted by high hills all around, covered in thick greenery and mist hanging about caressing the hilltops giving you total tranquillity and joy. At the falls, you can visit the Hydel plant which generates electricity for the nearby areas from the force of the waterfalls. Nuranang Fall is a great stopover place for you to get a glimpse of the beauty that Arunachal Pradesh holds within itself.
Tawang Monastery
Located amidst the picturesque surroundings, the Tawang Monastery also known as the Golden Namgyal Lhatse is one of the gems in Arunachal Pradesh. Perched at the height of 3,000 metres above sea level, it has been recognised as the second largest monastery in the world, the first one being Lhasa. The monastery is believed to be 400 years old and has control over 17 gompas in the region. Built as a large mansion, it is an abode for over 300 monks. Lying amidst the Himalayan ranges, it offers a breathtaking view of the Tawang-Chu valley. One of the most prominent attractions in the monastery houses is the massive statue of Lord Buddha which is 8 meters in height.The three-storeyed building was founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyamtso to complete the wish of Nagwang Lobsang Gyatso, the 5th Dalai Lama in 1860-61. It belonged to the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism and had a religious association with Drepung Monastery of Lhasa, which continued during the period of British rule. The main temple, Dukhang, boasts of magnificent interiors with beautiful artwork while the inner walls contain sketches and paintings of Bodhisattvas. The library is stocked with valuable old scriptures like Kangyur and Tengyur.
Tawang War Memorial
A 40 feet colorful structure, the War Memorial is dedicated to all the martyrs of the Sino-India War of 1962. Lying in the bosom of the beautiful peaks of Himalayas, this memorial overlooks the scenic Tawang-Chu valley.
Sela Pass
One of the most breathtaking places in the Himalayan vista, Sela Pass is a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh, and it is as heavenly as it gets. The Sela Pass and Himalayas combine to enchant one and all by their mystic beauty. One of the most stunning gifts of nature to the North-East, Sela Pass is a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh as it is the only way that connects Tawang district of the state to the rest of the country. Besides its geographical importance, Sela Pass is breathtaking place always covered in snow providing some beautiful views of the eastern Himalayan range. The rocky pass is also home to one of Arunachal’s most beautiful lakes – the Sela Lake. Being a sensitive region, one needs an inner line permit to visit Sela Pass.The Sela pass and the Sela lake situated at an altitude of 4170 meters are a gateway to Arunachal and in a way tell you the treasures that lie ahead within the state. Being at Sela Pass and gazing into the frozen Sela Lake one cannot help but marvel at the wonder that is the Himalayas. Sela pass lies on your way to Tawang city which is some 80 km from the pass and does make a great place to stop and relax admiring the awesomeness of the surroundings.
Bomdila Monastery
Inaugurated in 1965, this abode to Buddhist monks and Llamas is the biggest attraction in Bomdila. The monastery is also believed to be an exact replica of Tsona Gontse Monastery, Tibet.This monastery in Bomdila is constructed by who was believed to be the 12th reincarnate of Tsona Rinpoche. The monastery belongs to the Mahayana Buddhism. A huge prayer hall has also, recently, been added to the structure. Another major part and attraction is the Buddha Temple built withing the monastery premises. This monastery has three parts, Upper Gompa, Middle Gompa and Lower Gompa.
Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary
Also known as Eagle’s Nest Wildlife sanctuary, this place lies between Sessa Orchid Sanctuary and Pakhui Tiger Reserve.It is a great place for bird watching as there is immense variety of bird species (over 450 species) spotted here. Some of them are Cormorans, Herons, Black Stork, Oriental White Ibis, Ducks, Hawks, Eagles, Kites, Vultures, Falcons, Pheasants, Quails, Tragopan, Cuckoos, Parrots, Pigeons, Woodpeckers, etc. Among other species found here are tigers, elephants, red panda, asiatic black bear, Arunachal Macaque, Gaur, Snakes, Lizard and various kind of insects.
Bomdila View Point
Clouds kissing the ground, the massive Himalayas towering all around, the panoramic view of the Kemeng Valley – not a single one of the will let you down. The view from up here is sure to take up a permanent space in your memory and its beauty will be unforgettable.
Apple Orchards
Seeing nature’s game has it’s own delights ! The Apple Orchards at Bomdila give such a feeling as well. The systematic plantations when fully laden with apples look beautiful and full. The view is fascinating and one of a kind. Make a point not to miss a visit to these orchards.