bigtravelbuzzArunachal Pradesh is a state in Northeast India, known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some travel tips for Arunachal Pradesh:
- Permits: Visitors to Arunachal Pradesh require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter the state. Foreigners require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) as well. These can be obtained from the government offices in Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, or at the entry points of the state.
- Climate: Arunachal Pradesh has a varied climate depending on the altitude, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit is from October to April, when the weather is mild.
- Transportation: Arunachal Pradesh has limited transportation options, with the main mode of transport being buses and taxis. Private cars can also be hired for longer trips. The roads are often narrow and winding, so it’s important to be cautious.
- Attractions: Arunachal Pradesh is home to many scenic destinations and cultural attractions, such as Tawang Monastery, Ziro Valley, Namdapha National Park, and the Mechuka Valley.
- Accommodation: Arunachal Pradesh has a range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Respect local customs: Arunachal Pradesh has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, seek permission before taking photographs of people, and avoid touching religious artifacts without permission.
- Safety: As with any travel destination, it’s important to stay alert and cautious. Be mindful of your belongings, avoid walking alone at night, and stay in well-lit areas.
Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh is a state in Northeast India, known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh:
- Tawang: Home to the famous Tawang Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in the world. It is also known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for trekking.
- Ziro Valley: A picturesque valley with lush green hills, rice fields, and traditional villages. It is home to the Apatani tribe and is known for its unique customs and traditions.
- Namdapha National Park: A biodiversity hotspot and one of the largest national parks in India, known for its rich flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species.
- Pasighat: A scenic town located on the banks of the Siang River, it is known for its natural beauty and is a popular destination for river rafting and fishing.
- Bomdila: A small town located in the Himalayas, known for its stunning vistas of snow-capped peaks and picturesque monasteries.
- Roing: A town located in the lower Dibang Valley, known for its natural beauty, including the Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary and the Mayudia hill station.
- Anini: A remote town located in the Dibang Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and unique culture. It is also a popular destination for trekking and hiking.
- Along: A scenic town located on the banks of the Siyom River, known for its natural beauty and rich culture, including the Adi tribe’s customs and traditions.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. The state has a wealth of natural beauty and cultural attractions waiting to be explored.
Best Time To Visit Arunachal Pradesh
The best time to visit Arunachal Pradesh is from October to April, which is the winter and spring season. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperature during these months ranges from 10°C to 20°C in most parts of the state.
The monsoon season in Arunachal Pradesh starts from May and lasts till September. Heavy rainfall during this season can lead to landslides and roadblocks, making it difficult to travel around the state. However, the monsoon season does bring a lush green cover to the hills and valleys, making the scenery more beautiful.
The summer season in Arunachal Pradesh starts from May and lasts till September. This season is best avoided as the temperature can rise up to 35°C, making it uncomfortable for tourists to travel around.
In summary, the best time to visit Arunachal Pradesh is from October to April when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, if you don’t mind the rain and want to witness the lush greenery, you can visit during the monsoon season from May to September.
Things to Do in Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh is a beautiful state in Northeast India, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top things to do in Arunachal Pradesh:
- Visit Tawang Monastery: Explore the famous Tawang Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in the world, and learn about its rich history and cultural significance.
- Trekking: Arunachal Pradesh is a popular destination for trekking, with a range of trails for all levels of fitness. Trek to the stunning Gorichen Peak or the beautiful Ziro Valley.
- Wildlife watching: Arunachal Pradesh is home to many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as Namdapha National Park and Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot a variety of rare and endangered species.
- Cultural experiences: Immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the local tribes, such as the Apatani, Adi, and Monpa tribes, by visiting their villages and learning about their customs.
- Rafting and fishing: Experience the thrill of rafting on the Siang River or go fishing for the famous Golden Mahseer fish, which is found in many of the rivers in Arunachal Pradesh.
- Explore the towns and cities: Visit the charming towns and cities of Arunachal Pradesh, such as Pasighat, Along, and Bomdila, and discover their unique cultures and traditions.
- Enjoy the natural beauty: Arunachal Pradesh is known for its stunning natural beauty, from the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the lush green hills and valleys. Take a leisurely walk or go on a picnic in the beautiful countryside.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Arunachal Pradesh. The state has a wealth of natural beauty and cultural attractions waiting to be explored, making it an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts.
How to Get Around in Arunachal Pradesh
Getting around in Arunachal Pradesh can be challenging as the state’s hilly terrain makes it difficult to navigate. However, there are several ways to travel around the state:
- Private vehicles: Hiring a private car or taxi is the most convenient way to travel around Arunachal Pradesh. You can hire a car or taxi with a driver, which is easily available in major towns and cities.
- Public buses: Arunachal Pradesh State Transport operates regular bus services to different parts of the state. However, the buses can be crowded and uncomfortable, and the routes can be limited.
- Shared taxis: Shared taxis are a popular mode of transportation in Arunachal Pradesh, especially in remote areas. These taxis operate on fixed routes and are cheaper than private taxis.
- Motorcycles and bicycles: If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can rent a motorcycle or a bicycle and explore the state’s scenic routes. However, it is important to note that the hilly terrain can be challenging for inexperienced riders.
- Helicopter services: Helicopter services are available in Arunachal Pradesh to connect major towns and cities. These services are faster and more convenient but can be expensive.
In summary, hiring a private car or taxi is the most convenient way to travel around Arunachal Pradesh. However, if you are on a budget, you can opt for public buses or shared taxis. If you want to experience the state’s natural beauty up close, you can rent a motorcycle or a bicycle. Helicopter services are also available for those who want to travel faster and more comfortably.
Where to eat in Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh is home to a variety of local and regional cuisines, which are a blend of different ethnic groups and cultures. Here are some of the best places to eat in Arunachal Pradesh:
- Local food stalls: You can find many local food stalls and street vendors selling a range of delicious dishes such as momos, thukpa, and bamboo shoots. These stalls are usually located in the markets and near tourist spots.
- Cafes and restaurants: There are several cafes and restaurants in major towns and cities that serve a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan. Some popular options include Cafe Subu in Tawang and Orange Garden Restaurant in Itanagar.
- Homestays: Many homestays in Arunachal Pradesh offer authentic local cuisine as part of their hospitality. Staying with a local family is a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine.
- Local markets: Visiting local markets such as the Itanagar Market, the Aalo Market, and the Pasighat Market is a great way to sample local produce and dishes. You can find a range of fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, and fish, as well as local snacks and sweets.
- Local festivals: Arunachal Pradesh is known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Ziro Festival of Music and the Tawang Festival, which offer a great opportunity to sample local cuisine.
In summary, Arunachal Pradesh offers a range of dining options, from local food stalls and markets to cafes and restaurants. Homestays and local festivals are also great places to sample authentic local cuisine.
Famous street stalls in Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh is home to a range of street food stalls that offer delicious and authentic local cuisine. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Arunachal Pradesh:
- Kiosk near Old Market, Tawang: This kiosk is famous for serving delicious momos, a popular local dish made with steamed dough and filled with minced meat or vegetables.
- Ganga Market, Itanagar: This market is known for its street food stalls that offer a range of dishes such as thukpa, a hearty noodle soup, and chowmein, a stir-fried noodle dish.
- Aalo Market, Aalo: This market is a great place to sample local fruits and vegetables, as well as local snacks such as pakoras, fried dumplings made with potatoes and vegetables.
- Nehru Market, Itanagar: This market is known for its street food stalls that serve a range of dishes such as kebabs, grilled meat skewers, and jhal muri, a popular snack made with puffed rice and spices.
- Akashdeep Market, Tezu: This market is a great place to sample local sweets such as chikki, a type of brittle made with jaggery and peanuts, and til laddoo, a sweet made with sesame seeds.
These are just a few of the many street food stalls in Arunachal Pradesh that offer delicious and authentic local cuisine. Street food is a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine of the state. However, it is important to ensure that the food is hygienic and safe to eat.
Where to stay in Arunachal Pradesh
Luxury accommodation
Some of the luxury accommodations in Arunachal Pradesh are:
- Donyi Polo Ashok Hotel, Itanagar
- Hotel Tawang Regency, Tawang
- Hotel Thengal Manor, Jorhat
- Bomdila Hotel, Bomdila
- Hotel Siang Regency, Pasighat
However, please note that the availability of luxury accommodations in Arunachal Pradesh may be limited, and it is always recommended to check for current availability and booking options before planning your stay.
Budget accommodation
Some budget accommodations in Arunachal Pradesh are:
- Hotel Blue Pine, Bomdila
- Hotel Taktsang, Tawang
- Hotel Donyi Hango, Itanagar
- Hotel Highway Palace, Bhalukpong
- Tourist Lodge, Pasighat
Please note that the availability and quality of budget accommodations in Arunachal Pradesh may vary depending on the location and season, so it is always recommended to check for current availability and booking options before planning your stay.
Travel Tips Arunachal Pradesh
Here are some travel tips for visiting Arunachal Pradesh:
- Get the required permits: Arunachal Pradesh is a restricted area and non-Indians require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit. Indians from outside Arunachal Pradesh also require an ILP. Make sure to obtain the necessary permits before your travel.
- Respect the local customs and culture: Arunachal Pradesh is home to a diverse range of tribal cultures, each with their own unique customs and traditions. Respect the local culture and traditions, dress modestly, and seek permission before taking photographs.
- Be prepared for the weather: The climate in Arunachal Pradesh is largely influenced by the Himalayas and can be unpredictable. Carry warm clothes, rain gear, and appropriate footwear.
- Plan your itinerary well: Arunachal Pradesh is a vast state with many attractions. Plan your itinerary well in advance and allow for sufficient time to explore each place.
- Hire a local guide: Arunachal Pradesh is a relatively unexplored region and a local guide can provide valuable insights into the local culture and help you navigate through the region.
- Use public transport: Public transport is the best way to get around Arunachal Pradesh. Shared taxis and buses are easily available, especially in major towns.
- Carry cash: ATMs are limited in Arunachal Pradesh, especially in remote areas. Carry enough cash to cover your expenses.
- Stay in registered accommodations: Stay in registered accommodations to ensure your safety and avoid any potential scams.
- Take care of the environment: Arunachal Pradesh is home to some of the most pristine natural environments in the country. Take care of the environment and avoid littering.