Arunachal Pradesh

Destinations in Arunachal

Bhalukpong – This is a small town located beside the Kameng River in the West Kameng district. This is a place famous for its captivating natural view. The mystic dense forests, the presence of the Kameng river and the surrounding Himalayan range – all these are just unmatched and make it a true haven for nature lovers. Apart from the abundance of natural beauty which the place offers to the guests, one might see the ruins of the historical Bhalukpong Fort here. The fort was made by King Bhaluka and testifies to the glorious past of the region. Though it’s ramshackle but enough to create a picture of its historical significance.

Tipi Orchidarium –  This is one of the finest and also the largest orchid centres in the country. The centre houses more than 50000 orchids. This orchidarium is the main attraction of Tipi which is just 5 km from Bhalukpong on the way to Tawang. This centre is situated close to the banks of the Bharali River (also known as the Kameng River). One of the prime attractions in the centre is the glass house which showcases a large number of orchids blooming in the hanging baskets and pots.

Bomdila  –  Located at a height of nearly 7300 feet this small paradise is the headquarters of the West Kameng district. The distance from Bhalukpong is 110 km. Bomdila is famous for its eye-catching beauty. Blessed with a spectacular view of the Himalayan peaks and ranges, this place has attracted people not only from India but across the world too.
Bomdila Monastery was founded in the year 1965. It is a very sacred place for the followers of Mahayana Buddhism.
The viewpoint – offers a majestic view of the surrounding Himalayan range and valleys. Nechipu pass is also visible from here.
Craft Centre and Ethnographic Museum – The place portrays the picture of the life of local inhabitants. The centre is especially famous for the carpets and masks.

Dirang  –  It is 42 km from Bomdila.  This scenic village entertains visitors with the pleasing beauty of nature. The attractions at Dirang include
The National Research Centre on Yak – Is a place tourists love to visit. One can spot different varieties of yak here. As far as the conservation of this animal is concerned, this centre has been doing a splendid job. 
Sangti Valley – This pristine valley offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Just 7 km from Dirang. Apart from the flowing brook, valley, dense forest and mountains; it is also a birdwatcher’s paradise.
Hot Water Spring – Dirang is famous for its hot water spring. The water is regarded as conducive to curing skin problems.
Kalachakra Gumpha – A very old ( nearly 500 years) monastery and must visit for those who love to spend time in Dirang.

Tawang

The most renowned tourist place in Arunachal. It is the headquarters of the Tawang district and the biggest tourist destination in the state. The place is most famous for the Tawang Monastery.  The Twang monastery is the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the Asian continent. The monastery which is also known as ‘Galden Namgyal Lhatse’ was built in the year 1860-61 by Merak Lama Lodre Gyamtso. The place is for the Mahayana sect of Buddhism. Apart from its spiritual and historical significance, it is quite acclaimed for its architectural brilliance. The Monastery is a treasure trove of old Buddhist scriptures (including the gold-lettered ones) some very valuable and old manuscripts, books, murals, and images. The 18-foot-high statue of Lord Buddha inside the huge assembly hall is a sight to remember. The monastery is situated nearly 10000 feet above sea level. The monastery offers a majestic view of the snow-capped Himalayan Mountains. The charming town of Tawang is close to the Indo–Bhutan border. The entire land is breathtakingly beautiful with high mountains dotted with waterfalls, valleys, and lakes. It is an ideal combination of spirituality and nature’s marvel. 

The Tawang War Memorial is a 40-foot structure built in memory of the Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1962 Indo-China war.

The land has a few other monasteries in and around namely Taktsang Monastery, Urgelling Monastery etc.
Festivals of Tawang – The festivals of Tawang attract people from all over the world. Locals enjoy and participate in the celebration. The Losar festival happens in January. It is a 15-day long festival and the general atmosphere at that time in the monastery and the town is quite fascinating. This is the celebration of the Tibetan New Year. Another festival which is celebrated here is Torgya.  This is a festival of the celebration of the good over evil. It is a 3-day long festival. A few other festivals also take place here such as Saka-Dawa, Lhabab Duechen etc.

Near Tawang

Sangetsar Lake – Surrounded by the great Himalayas this is one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in India. Apart from the visual treat, it is considered very holy by the Buddhists. The lake is known as Madhuri Lake after the shooting of the Bollywood hit movie Koyla where Madhuri Dixit played the lead role and performed a dance number beside the lake. The beauty of this lake is breathtaking.

Sela Pass – Located at a distance of 78 km from Tawang this pass connects Tawang to the rest of the country. It is situated at a height of nearly 14000 feet. Sela Pass offers a stunning view of the surroundings.

Itanagar

The capital of Arunachal Pradesh. This small town is known for its Picture Postcard kind of landscape and its historical significance. It is located in the Papum Pare district of the State.
Ita Fort –  A fine example of a brick-made forts in India. it is situated at the heart of the capital. The popular notion is the city derived its name from this fort.  The fort was built by one of the Jitari dynasty kings called Ramachandra.
Indira Gandhi Park – It is the green hub of the city. An ideal place for relaxation and interaction with nature.
Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum – An ideal place to understand the tribal life of the state. It exhibits the multifaceted life of the people here. From religious articles to wood carvings and Musical instruments, ornaments, and weapons to textiles; this place exhibits the rich tradition, culture and the different aspects of the lives of the local people.
Polo Park – This is a combination of nature and some business activities. Polo Park is widely regarded as a wonderful Botanical Garden. Famous for some exclusive collections of flowers this park has also got a zoo inside. Moreover, the Industries Department of the state runs a handicraft centre here which sells traditional shawls and carpets.
Ganga Lake – Just 6 Km from the city. This is a beautiful lake amid the towering Himalayas and as it is located at the foothills of the mountains it offers a spectacular view. The provision of boating has increased its attraction.

Ziro  – Contrary to the name nature has blessed this place with an abundance of beauty. Ziro is the headquarters of the Lower Subansiri district. The distance from the capital Itanagar is 164 Km. Arunachal is the home of many tribal people and among them ’Apatani’ is regarded as the most advanced group. They are the inhabitants of this picturesque village. Ziro was originally a village but now has turned into a town. Situated amid the Apatani plateau which is given the title of World Heritage site by UNESCO, Ziro offers a majestic view of the valley and the Himalayan Mountains which guard it.

Namdapha National Park –  It is in the Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh and is very close to the Indo-Myanmar border. Namdapha has a wide range of flora and fauna.  It is the home of several animals such as Snow Leopard, Tiger, elephant, gaur, deer, sloth bear etc. It is also the home of a rare species called Hoolock Gibbon. Trekking and Jeep / Gypsy safari, the park provide both options for jungle lovers.