Arunachal Pradesh, which literally means “land of the rising sun”, is a splendid looking state of India. It lures travellers with its flourishing valleys, cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes and striking mountain tops. This North-Eastern state is known for its vibrant mix of cultures which are brought by the list of diverse tribes staying here.? Tribes like Adi, Galo, Aka, Apatani, Nyishi, Tagins, Bori, and Bokar are popular in the state, bringing in their own cultural lifestyle, languages and traditions.
Places to Visit
Attractions in Arunachal Pradesh are close to the Mother Nature. Visit Tawang, housing historical sites amidst emerald green meadow. Hugged by Gudpi and Chong Chugmi ranges, Tawang is known for a 28 feet high golden statue of Lord Buddha. From here, catch enchanting views of Bap Teng Kang Waterfall and Nuranang Falls. Bomdila is another beautiful summer escape, located at a height of 8000 ft above sea level. It is great to escape city crowds and relish clearer views of Kangto and Gorichen Peaks. If you are a trekking enthusiast, then Ziro is an ideal destination for you. Kardo Hills, Talley Valley and Talley Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the prime attractions in Ziro. Also visit Itanagar, the state’s capital taking you close to the history of Arunachal Pradesh. The historical Ita Fort and Jawaharlal Nehru Museum here are must visit.
Wildlife
Wildlife of Arunachal Pradesh is astonishing due to the marvellous topography of the state. Here you can find rich flora and over 500 species of fauna. Arunachal Pradesh is home to eight wildlife reserves, including Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, Kane Wildlife Sanctuary, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Dr, D. Ering Memorial Wildlife Sanctuary, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary, Mouling National Park, Dihang-Debang Biosphere Reserve and Namdapha Wildlife Sanctuary. It is perhaps the only state having four major cats - tiger, leopard, clouded leopard and snow leopard.
Festivals
Festivals of Arunachal Pradesh beautifully portray richness of its cultures and traditions. As it is home to a plethora of tribes, one can see a melange of festivals here too. Siang River Festival is a popular one that celebrates the communal harmony in the state. Its festivities can be witnessed in places like Tuting, Yingkiong and Pasighat. Pangsau Pass Winter Festival is celebrated in Nampong. This three-day fest flaunts extravagant ethnicity and folk dances of the state. It also involves an exhibition where you can bag handloom articles of Arunachal Pradesh. For the lovers of music, Ziro Festival of Music is a must visit. This is the state’s own version of the Sunburn Festival where you can relish performances of international and domestic music artists. Losar is also a renowned festival of Arunachal Pradesh that welcomes the New Year. The festival has both religious and cultural importance. Other must witnessed festivals of Arunachal Pradesh are Solung, Nyokum, Dree Festival, Boori Boot, etc.
Food
Arunachal Pradesh is a foodie’s delight. Food here differs from tribe to tribe. Thus, one gets to taste a diverse variety of food options. Rice is a staple product in Arunachal Pradesh. Bamboo shoot is cooked in every household and remains a chief component in many dishes. Another delicacy of the state is Lukter (cooked dry meat and chilly flakes). Pehak, made with fermented soya bean and chilli, will definitely make you fall for gluttony. Arunachal Pradesh has its own local beer named Apong. It is chemical free and great for light drinkers. Also, no traveller visiting the state can ever miss a chance to try steaming Momo which come with different stuffing.
Shopping
Arunachal Pradesh is very popular for its handicrafts made by the locals using skills like weaving, painting, pottery, smithy work, etc. Thus, they are unique and exquisite in nature. Woodcarving is an ancient tradition of the state carried out mostly by Monpas, Khamtis, Wanchos, Phom, Konyak tribes. Women folk indulge in weaving and create beautiful woven products like Sherdukpen shawls, Apatani jackets and scarves, Adi skirts,, bags, etc. Cane and bamboo items are also sold in all the local markets and make great souvenirs. ???
By Air: Lilabari (North Lakhimpur) Tezpur airport in Assam is the closest airport to the state (around 260 km).
By Rail: Harmuti train station (Assam) is the nearest train station connecting the state to rest of the country.
By Road: Travellers can also find many inter bus services connecting Arunachal Pradesh to Meghalaya (around 790 km), Assam (560 km) and Nagaland (456 km).