India’s real hidden gem is honestly northeast. Although I have been to various NE states many times, however, my last trip to Arunachal Pradesh was indeed a memorable one.
Arunachal Pradesh in northeast India is home to picturesque mountains, unexplored passes, tranquil lakes, and famous monasteries. Arunachal Pradesh is the perfect destination to explore the local culture and the scenic beauty of unexplored landscapes. The charm of the state lies in its varied array of flora and fauna, high-altitude meadows, and sub-tropical forests.
Here are some of the places which I highly recommend travel to if you are a true travel enthusiast –
- To begin with is Itanagar, the capital city, which is surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas in the north and the fertile Brahmaputra River plains in the south. Ganga Lake in Itanagar is a popular attraction for locals and tourists. The pristine, clear water and the shadows of the towering Himalayas highlight the beauty of the lake.
- About 20 kilometers from Itanagar, the quaint hill station of Rupa is a must-visit during a trip to Arunachal Pradesh. Untouched by mankind, Rupa lies on the banks of the river Tenga and exhibits picturesque beauty. Verdant greenery, bright blue skies, and fresh mountain air add charm to Rupa and make it the perfect destination to explore the beauty of the region.
- Moving forward, Namdapha National Park is the state’s treasure. It is a haven of rare and endangered animal and plant species with one of the most vibrant biodiversities in the country. One can spot species such as the snow leopard, clouded leopard, leopard, and tiger. The national park showcases a beautiful view of the nearby peaks; it is perfect for some forest trekking and hiking activities as well as relaxation. The birdlife at the sanctuary is also great and diverse, with many rare species and migratory birds present in the National Park.
- Tawang, one of my favorite places in the state, is located at a height of about 3048 m and is infamously known for being the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. The Tawang Monastery is considered one of the most popular and sacred monasteries in the country. Tawang is a place of natural beauty wrapped in a tinge of spirituality. The Tipi Orchid Sanctuary is also a very tourist-friendly place to visit.
- For mountaineers and hikers, Sela Pass is one of the most breathtaking places in the Himalayan region of Arunachal Pradesh. Sela Pass is a spectacular, heavenly, serene place, always covered in snow, showing off some stunning views of the eastern Himalayan range. The rocky pass is also home to one of Arunachal’s most beautiful lakes, the Sela Lake, situated at an altitude of 4170 m.
- Further, Roing, another beautiful destination, is a natural heaven with its snow-peaked mountains, deep gorges, gushing rivers, numerous waterfalls, tranquil lakes, archaeological sites, and above all, its heavenly climate. It is one of the most exciting places in Arunachal Pradesh. The Bhishmaknagar fort and Nehru Udyan add historical significance to the place. Mayudia Pass is another tourist spot that is snow-covered for almost all seasons of the year. Roing really is one of the most attractive destinations in Arunachal for tourists.
- Last but not the least, Bhalukpong is a paradise for nature lovers. It has a wide variety of fauna and flora. The Kameng River running in the forest surrounding the town of Bhalukpong makes the town even more mesmerizing. One can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, camping, and fishing in the serene landscape. The Pakhui game sanctuary is a tourist hotspot that showcases unique and exotic bird species along with tigers, elephants, barking deer, and more.
Arunachal Pradesh, also known as the “Land of the Dawn-lit Mountains,” is one of the least explored states in India, though it is rife with natural beauty and history. Its serene environment makes it a very tourist-friendly place.
A must-visit destination, indeed!
– Dr. Himanshu Talwar
