Quick Facts
- Capital: Itanagar
- Largest City: Itanagar
- Official Languages: English (official), with 26 major tribal languages
- Formation: 20 February 1987 (Statehood)
- Nicknames: “Land of the Rising Sun”
- Borders: Bhutan, China (Tibet), Myanmar
- UNESCO Sites: None (Tawang Monastery is a cultural gem)
Contents
History & Heritage
Arunachal Pradesh, once known as the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA), has deep ties to Tibetan Buddhism, tribal kingdoms, and Ahom influence. It became a union territory in 1972 and a state in 1987.
- Tawang: Spiritual hub with the second-largest monastery in the world.
- Tribal Heritage: 26 major tribes with vibrant festivals and customs.
- Modern Era: Statehood achieved on 20 February 1987.
Geography & Climate
Arunachal Pradesh lies in the Eastern Himalayas, boasting lush forests, snow-clad peaks, and rich biodiversity.
- Rivers: Siang, Subansiri, Lohit, Kameng, Tirap.
- Climate: Alpine in highlands, subtropical in valleys; monsoon is intense.
Top Places to Visit (Handpicked)
- Tawang: Monastery, Sela Pass, Bum La Pass.
- Ziro Valley: Apatani villages, Ziro Music Festival.
- Bomdila: Monastery and panoramic views.
- Namdapha National Park: Wildlife paradise.
- Itanagar: Ita Fort, Ganga Lake.
- Roing & Mayudia: Lakes, wildlife sanctuaries.
- Pasighat: River rafting, eco-tourism.
Major Monasteries & Spiritual Circuits
- Tawang Monastery: Largest in India.
- Urgelling Monastery: Birthplace of 6th Dalai Lama.
- Bomdila Monastery: Serene Buddhist site.
Festivals of Arunachal Pradesh
- Losar: Tibetan New Year.
- Nyokum: Nyishi tribe festival.
- Solung: Adi tribe’s harvest celebration.
- Reh: Idu Mishmi festival.
- Ziro Music Festival: Popular music event.
Cuisine – What to Eat
Tribal and Himalayan flavors dominate the cuisine.
- Staples: Rice, bamboo shoot dishes.
- Specials: Thukpa, momos, apong (rice beer).
Arts, Handicrafts & Culture
- Weaving by Apatani and Monpa tribes.
- Cane & bamboo crafts.
- Folk dances like Aji Lhamu.
Adventure & Wildlife
- Trekking to Mechuka & Sela Pass.
- Rafting on Siang.
- Wildlife spotting in Namdapha.
How to Reach
- By Air: Donyi Polo Airport (Itanagar).
- By Rail: Naharlagun station.
- By Road: Via Assam highways.
Best Time to Visit
October to April is ideal for tourism.
Sample Itineraries
4 Days – Tawang
- Day 1: Tezpur → Bomdila
- Day 2: Bomdila → Tawang
- Day 3: Explore Tawang
- Day 4: Return via Sela Pass
5 Days – Ziro
- Day 1: Guwahati → Ziro
- Day 2: Ziro villages
- Day 3: Ziro → Daporijo
- Day 4: Daporijo activities
- Day 5: Return
Famous Personalities
- Pema Khandu: Chief Minister.
- Talem Gao: Renowned musician.