Arunachal Pradesh, the northeastern-most state of India, shares borders with Assam and Nagaland to the south and international borders with Bhutan, Myanmar, and China. Itanagar serves as the capital. The state is known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty, earning it the nickname “Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains” in Sanskrit. It is also referred to as the “Orchid State of India” due to its diverse flora. Arunachal Pradesh is the largest among the Seven Sister States of Northeast India. Despite its beauty, a significant portion of the state is claimed by China, which refers to it as “South Tibet.”
places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh
Namdapha National Park
Namdapha National Park, located in Arunachal Pradesh, is the largest protected area in the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot. Covering a vast area, it is the third-largest national park in India and is known for its rich biodiversity, including species such as the elusive snow leopard and red panda.
Parshuram Kund
Parshuram Kund is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage site situated on the Brahmaputra plateau in the Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh. Located 21 km north of Tezu, it is believed to be the place where Sage Parshuram washed away his sins by taking a dip in the river.
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary
Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, located mostly in Bhutan’s Trashigang district, extends into Arunachal Pradesh. It is home to diverse wildlife species and is one of Bhutan’s key protected areas, offering a haven for rare species like the endangered red panda.
Pangsau Pass
Pangsau Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,727 feet, is located on the crest of the Patkai Hills on the India-Burma border. It offers one of the easiest routes for travelers and traders to cross between India and Burma and provides stunning panoramic views.
Nuranang Waterfalls
Nuranang Waterfalls, also known as Jang Falls, is a beautiful 100-meter-high waterfall located 40 km from Tawang. The waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery, is one of the major tourist attractions in the region and offers a serene atmosphere.
P.T Tso Lake
P.T Tso Lake is a breathtaking locale near Tawang, perfect for a peaceful picnic. Surrounded by pristine nature, the serene atmosphere and beautiful landscape make it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Mayudia
Mayudia, a scenic hill resort, offers stunning views of lush green forests, snow-clad mountains, and beautiful valleys. The sight of snowfall in winter creates a magical atmosphere that connects visitors with nature in a serene and tranquil setting.
Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary
Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary, located near the state capital, is a haven for nature lovers. The sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, with rolling hills and valleys offering breathtaking views and a rich array of trees and wildlife.
Kile Pakho
Kile Pakho, located near Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh, offers nature lovers spectacular views. Climbing the ridge provides panoramic vistas of the Ziro Plateau on one side and the snow-clad Himalayan ranges on the other, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its population of one-horned rhinoceroses. It is one of the last remaining places on earth where this prehistoric species survives and offers a rich diversity of flora and fauna in its lush grasslands and wetlands.
top destinations in Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang
Tawang is a picturesque mountain town in Arunachal Pradesh, India, known for its 17th-century Tawang Monastery, home to a massive gilded Buddha statue. It also features the Tawang War Memorial, which honors soldiers who died in the 1962 Chinese-Indian War. Nearby Penga Teng Tso Lake attracts migratory birds, making it a serene spot for nature lovers.
Roing
Roing, located in Lower Dibang Valley, is renowned for its ancient history and scenic beauty. Archaeological evidence suggests that human habitation in Roing dates back to the Neolithic period. The town offers an exciting mix of nature, history, and adventure, making it a hidden gem for travelers.
Itanagar
Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. The city is home to Ita Fort, a medieval fort, and the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, which showcases local textiles and handicrafts. The nearby Gompa Buddhist temple, consecrated by the Dalai Lama, and Geker Sinying (Ganga Lake) surrounded by lush forests, add to the city’s charm.
Bomdila
Bomdila is a serene town set amidst the lofty eastern Himalayan ranges. Known for its Buddhist monasteries and apple orchards, it remains untouched by mass tourism. The town also offers various trekking trails for adventure enthusiasts and beautiful landscapes for nature lovers to explore.
Ziro
Ziro, located in the Ziro Valley, is a World Heritage Site recognized for its stunning natural beauty. The region is known for the Apatani Plateau, with its lush rice fields and pine tree-covered mountains. The area’s rich flora and fauna, combined with its captivating landscapes, make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Bhalukpong
Bhalukpong, sitated in the West Kameng district, is known for its scenic beauty and tranquil surroundings. The town lies along the Kameng River and offers a picturesque journey to Bomdila via the Tipi Orchidarium. Bhalukpong is also home to an inner line check post, providing an entry point into the protected regions of Arunachal Pradesh.
Pasighat
Pasighat is a beautiful town in Arunachal Pradesh, surrounded by the natural splendor of the Brahmaputra River. Known as a photographer’s delight, the area offers breathtaking landscapes that allow visitors to experience nature at its purest. The town is an excellent destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Anini
Anini, surrounded by majestic mountains and lush green meadows, offers a peaceful escape from city life. The untouched environment provides a serene atmosphere, making it an ideal place for visitors to connect with nature and experience tranquility in its purest form.
Best Time to Visit Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh experiences diverse weather conditions due to its varied topography, so the best time to visit depends on the type of weather you’re seeking.
- Summer (May-June): Temperatures can rise up to 35°C, making it a great time for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the outdoor beauty of the region.
- Winter (October-February): The winter months bring cooler temperatures, ranging from 14°C and lower, offering a crisp, chilly atmosphere ideal for those who enjoy the cold. It’s perfect for exploring the state’s natural beauty without the oppressive heat.
- Monsoon (July-September): Arunachal Pradesh experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, leading to slippery roads and potential landslides, making it an unfavorable time for travel.
