Arunachal Pradesh aptly referred to as ‘The Land Of The Rising Sun’ is a state located in the northeastern part of India cocooned by snow capped mountains and dense forests. Because of its beautiful natural scenery and numerous historical landmarks, it is a place that remains relatively unknown to many people. Here in this write-up, we shall provide more information on places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh.
Arunachal Pradesh is home to some of the most picturesque valleys in India, each with its own unique charm and beauty.
Tawang Valley
The Tawang Valley is one of the exotic arunachal pradesh attractions situated in the central Himalayas that can overwhelm anyone because of traditions and sceneries. What can be said about visitors who are instantly charmed by this beautiful combination of snow-capped mountains, clear lakes, and vast tracts of green fields, it is in fact the dream place for the lovers of nature. However, Tawang is not just the view. It also houses Tawang Monastery, the largest and the second oldest monastery of the monastic traditions of Mahayana Tantric Buddhism of Tibetan origin. This undoubtedly turns the valley into a historic spiritual place of-touching also the heart and soul- that Tawang is.
Ziro Valley
An indigenous paradise, is how one might describe this astonishing and surreal place called Ziro Valley. Down to rolling greens there are terraced rice field glinting in the sun; imposing afar are the pine-crowned mountains looming like sentinels of the land. It might sound clichéd to say that this pictorial beauty is much more than a feast to the eyes; it is the living cultural heritage of the Apatani tribe. They are as much in synch with the geography as the landscapes of the province are riveting. time is almost stagnant in Ziro – there is calmness that awaits the soul in way that is hard to come across.
Mechuka Valley
Located in the West Siang district, Mechuka Valley is less traversed by mainstream tourists. The untouched surroundings, winding through lush green forests and snow-capped peaks, all contribute to this valley’s peace. The enchantment of the Samten Yongcha Monastery, perched on a hilltop, completes this valley in a true spiritual sense. The vibrant local culture and the friendly nature of the locals, with warm hospitality, always provide an authentic touch where one can truly have a taste of experiential traveling.
Majestic Rivers and Lakes
Arunachal Pradesh is blessed with an abundance of rivers and lakes, each adding to the state’s natural beauty.
Sangti Valley and Kameng River
The Kund-shaped Sangti Valley, bisected by the River Kameng, looks like a piece of a postcard. This out-of-the-way location offers pristine beauty and a quiet air. The lush green forests and snow-covered mountains surrounding the river make it an ideal destination for nature walks, while bird lovers can use binoculars to watch colorful species. In the winters, Himalayan black-necked cranes migrate to this valley, making it even more beautiful.
Sela Lake
Sela Lake, known as Paradise Lake, is located at a height of 13,700 feet near the Sela Pass. Since the lake is frozen almost all year, when it melts partially during summer and the snow-clad peaks are visible reflected in the water, the sight is simply mesmerizing. The expedition to Sela Lake also fosters an experience, with the twisted curves of roads offering such lush scenic views that they are beyond description. The lake holds significant importance for the local Monpa people and is considered a sacred site.
Bum La Pass and Madhuri Lake
At 15,200 feet, Bum La Pass is a strategic border post and yet one of extraordinary natural beauty. It is a roller coaster ride on rough terrains but presents great views of the changing countryside. Another popular attraction near Bum La is Madhuri Lake (Sangestar Tso) — formerly known as Shonga-tser, named after the Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit. The sheer beauty of the lake, corralled by rock-faced mountains and scrubby pines, is stunning. Madhuri Lake is a wonderful place for nature lovers.
Dense Forests and Wildlife
The forests of Arunachal Pradesh are a treasure trove of biodiversity, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Namdapha National Park
One such place is Namdapha National Park, in the Changlang district—being the largest protected area within the Eastern Himalayas and known for its rich biodiversity. This park is also an abode for snow leopards (an endangered species) along with two dozen other almost-threatened mammals, including the clouded leopard and the rare red panda. Namdapha is one of the very few places in India where you can truly explore nature untouched and unscathed by outside interference through dense forests and rugged terrains, photographing rare species endemic to Namdapha. There are numerous trekking trails that drag you into the heart of pristine nature, where you can truly experience Arunachal’s vast natural wealth.
Pakke Tiger Reserve
It is home to the mighty tiger of Bengal, and hence, known as Pakke Tiger Reserve. Despite having less number of tigers in the reserve the efforts to conserve the same are exceptionally understandable. There are also so many hornbills in the reserve and therefore attracts many bird watchers in the region.
Pakke Jungle is a camp site Ideally suited for ecotourism and nature trekking since the place is surrounded by thick forests, melodious river and lots of wild life. The reserve showing the kind of eco-lodges constructed on the “de-tourism” methodologies and different community-based tourism projects makes the tourists meet the culture of the locality and, at the same time, helps to save the habitat.
Eagle nest Wildlife Sanctuary
The Eagle nest Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the prominent wildlife destinations nestled in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh that may not be very popular but is equally beautiful. This place is famous for many birds; currently, more than 450 species of birds are residing in the sanctuary; even Bugun Liocichla has been found here only. Eagle nest is one of the biodiversity destinations that harbor sub tropical forest to alpine pastures. Bird watching at Eagle nest offer a really wonderful and a special view of the life existing in these areas of virgin forest.
Conclusion
It is the place where nature resides, where mountains touch rivers and forests are distributed profusely, though divided by jhum fields, apple gardens or banana plantations wherever possible. Hunting for a bit of action or if you are looking for a peaceful vacation or if you are nature lover looking for places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. Though Arunachal pradesh is not that much famous as the other states of India this untouched corner of nature has a lot in stock for those travelers who seek indulgence in the virgin territory, which meanders across the untouched Himalayas.
Each time one has to visit Arunachal Pradesh it is not merely a journey, it is a journey back to the soul, discovery of the mother nature in her absolute rawest form. Therefore, grab your bags and wear your hiking boots because you are preparing for the journey of a lifetime in the kingdom of The Thunder Dragons.