Things to Do in Arunachal Pradesh

Far away from city life, the region of Arunachal Pradesh in Northeast India offers experiences that are beyond awe-inspiring. For a holiday filled with culture and character, consider visiting this beautiful state, which is one of the ‘Seven Sister States’ of India. While here, don’t miss these top things to do in Arunachal Pradesh.

Get Spiritually Awakened at Tawang Monastery

Located in the city of Tawang, the Tawang Monastery is the largest monastery in the country and the second largest in the world. Dating back to the late 1600s, this three-story structure is situated on a mountain overlooking the Tawang River at a height of 3,048 metres. With sweeping views of snow-capped mountains set against dense green forests, the monastery is as scenic as it is spiritual. Within the compound, there are 17 gompas along with numerous colourful thangkas, mandalas, sacred Tibetan scripts and a statue of Buddha that is over five and a half metres high seated in a lotus position.

Read more: 8 Spectacular Buddhist Monasteries in India

See Red Pandas at Namdapha National Park

Namdapha National Park spans 1985 square kilometres in the Eastern Himalayas. The largest protected biodiversity area, the flora and fauna here is diverse and includes abundant species of wildlife and birds. Among big cats like tigers and leopards along with gibbons, black bears and elephants are one of the park’s most notable residents— the red pandas. Also known as red cat bears, these endangered arboreal mammals can only be found in a few forests in Northeast India.

Trek in the Bombdila-Tawang Area

The Bombdila-Tawang area is replete with terrain perfect for trekking and hiking. With verdant forested acreage dotted with waterfalls, you may also suddenly find yourself amidst a remote tribal village with welcoming hosts. The trails range from relaxed to rigorous, and there’s a pathway for any and everyone willing to explore the region.

Rock Out at the Ziro Music Festival

Labeled as the country’s ‘greatest outdoor music festival’, music lovers throng to the remote valley of Ziro every year for the Ziro Festival of Music.  A heady four-day celebration of music, art and culture all under one stage, the festival showcases the talent of independent musicians across the country. Ziro valley is situated at a height of over 1,700 metres, making it a stunning venue for the festival.

Read more: 8 Reasons You Should Visit the Ziro Festival

Experience the Enchantment of Madhuri Lake

Also known as Sangester Tso, locals fondly call it Madhuri Lake, as an ode to the Bollywood actress, Madhuri Dixit, who visited the lake. Created as a result of an earthquake and flash floods in 1950, the lake is en route the Bum La Pass near the Indo-China border at an altitude of over 5,000 metres. Not easily accessible due to challenging climatic conditions, visiting Madhuri Lake also requires a permit from the Indian Army. But all the effort is well worth the pristine beauty that awaits you.

Read more: The Most Breathtaking Himalayan Villages to Explore in India

Book Your Flight to Tezpur, Arunachal Pradesh

With so much to see and do in Arunachal Pradesh, there’s no reason you shouldn’t start planning your vacation to the Northeast right away!