Let’s picture a place where snowcapped mountains dot the horizon and rainforests cover the landscape like a blanket, where alpine lakes as blue as the sky beckon you for a dip, and meandering valleys easily take your breath away.
Sounds like heaven, right? Well, this place is somewhere near it.
Tashi Delek from the Land of the Dawn-lit Mountains, a state so unexplored and pure that most of us even forget that it even exists.
But if you ever open the map of India and look at the easternmost region, you’ll find the biggest state among the seven sisters, Arunachal Pradesh.
Here, Parshuram sought to cleanse himself, Vyasa discovered enlightenment, King Bhishmaka laid the foundation of his kingdom, and Lord Krishna found peace with Rukmini. This place feels so close to heaven that it even welcomes the first rays of the sun in India (in the village of Dong).
So, if you are planning to explore this vast state, we’ve pulled together a rough and ready list of places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh that will help you plan your journey. But first, let’s talk about:
Why Travel to Arunachal Pradesh?
If you want to see snowcapped peaks, discover lush valleys, enjoy boat rides on crystal clear rivers, soak in the views of alpine lakes, and experience a culture like no other in India, then you should definitely book your tickets to Arunachal Pradesh.
Firstly, it’s any wildlife or nature enthusiast’s paradise, with almost 80% of its land area covered in evergreen forest. Along with the rainforest, this state also has Himalayan peaks – a rarity in India. You’ll get to see mountains as high as 7,090 meters and get to visit high-altitude passes that will make Rohtang Pass look like your neighborhood flyover. And if you are lucky, you can spot wildlife like the red panda, hoolock gibbon, and, in those once-in-a-lifetime experiences, a snow leopard.
Secondly, the tourist spots of Arunachal Pradesh are nothing short of majestic. Since this state is closer to Tibet, Myanmar, and Bhutan, it also shares their geographical culture. You’ll find tribal museums, Tibetan flag-laden bridges, and a lot of gompas. Plus, scattered across the state are the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh, like the Monpas and Sherdukpens (in the west), the Apatanis and Nyishis (in the central areas), and the Idu Mishmis (on the eastern side) – each with their own language, culture, and practices.
In retrospect, a visit to this remote corner of India can show you how beautiful life can be in its simplest form.
Best Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh
Now, let’s talk about the Arunachal Pradesh destinations that you should definitely put in your bucket list.
| Sr no. | Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh | Best Time to Visit |
| 1 | Itanagar | October to April |
| 2 | Tawang | Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) |
| 3 | Ziro Valley | March to May & October and November |
| 4 | Namdapha National Park | October to April |
| 5 | Dirang | October to February |
| 6 | Bomdila | March and October |
| 7 | Pasighat | January to May & October |
| 8 | Mechuka | October to March |
| 9 | Roing | October to April |
| 10 | Tezu | November to February |
| 11 | Anini | November to March |
1. Itanagar
Chances are, Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, will be the touch-point for your visit to this state. However, if you believe that you would find nature in its bountiful glory and Ladakh-like roads with not a soul in sight, well, we’ve got news for you. Itanagar is a chaotic city, always busy with pedestrians, scooters, and cars. But since it is located on the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, it remains one of the best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh with picturesque views.
Itanagar not only brims with food, flavors, and lively tourist spots, but also proudly wears its tribal heritage like a crown. Visit here during one of the tribal festivals like the pre-harvest festival of Nyokum, the Dree Festival, the Losar festival, or the Mopin festival.
How to Reach: You can reach Itanagar directly by bus or private cab from Guwahati, North Lakhimpur, Tezpur, and Banderdewa.
Highlights: Ita Fort, Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, Gompa Buddha Vihar, Gekar Sinyi, Zoological Park at Chimpu, Polo Park, and more.
2. Tawang
Read any blog on the Arunachal Pradesh tourist attractions, and this destination is sure to be among the top five. Why? Well, the secret behind its charm is hard to pinpoint. It keeps you wondering: is it because of the majestic monastery (the largest in India) that overlooks the entire town? Or is it the calmness that wraps around the place that makes it so wonderful? Maybe it’s the panoramic views of the Greater Himalayas, or perhaps it’s the stories of the Indo-China war that every village is waiting to tell.
When you pause to reflect, you’ll see that Tawang isn’t defined by just one factor, but all of these. That’s what makes it among the top tourist spots of Arunachal Pradesh.
How to Reach: Drive to Tawang from Tezpur, Assam, via Bomdila, with breathtaking sights like Nuranang Waterfalls and rolling green valleys on the route.
Highlights: Tawang Monastery, Gyangong Ani Gompa, Tawang War Memorial, Urgelling Gompa
Places to See Near Tawang: Nuranang Waterfalls (25km), Sangetsar Lake (28km), Bumla Pass (37km), Jaswant Garh (40km), Dolma Lhakhang (45km), Sela Pass (67km), & Gorsam Chorten (85km)
3. Ziro Valley
At Ziro, you are sure to encounter Arunachal’s natural beauty at its peak. With stunning river valleys, vegetation-covered hills that hide exotic flora and fauna, and the constant views of the Eastern Himalayas, expect nothing short of being mesmerized.
But this valley’s natural beauty is as breathtaking as its food is bizarre. Here, Apatani tribeswomen offer silkworms by the kilo (served live or roasted as per preference) while shops display meats of rats, pigs, and creatures you’d struggle to identify.
Despite the adventurous cuisine of this region, it is a popular destination, especially known for its Ziro Festival of Music, hosted every September.
How to Reach: Travel from Guwahati to Naharlagun, the closest station to Ziro valley, and then hire a cab to reach your hotel.
Highlights: Hapoli, Apatani Hamlets, Ziro Viewpoint, Ziro Festival of Music, Tarin Fish Farm, Kardo Hill Temple, and more.
Places to See Near Ziro Valley: Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary (35km), Sangram (81km), Palin and Nyapin Hill Stations (75km)
4. Namdapha National Park
Did you know that this tourist spot of Arunachal Pradesh is the 3rd largest National Park in the country? That means you can see a range of flora and fauna here – from a number of rare orchids and avian species like white-bellied heron and hornbills to mammals, such as tiger, leopard (both clouded and snow), elephant, red panda, deer, and even the endangered hoolock gibbon.
For a true jungle experience, consider trekking. You’ll get to cross the Noa-Dihing River, walk on the stones, cross over wobbly wooden bamboo bridges, and camp overnight amid the pristine wilderness.
How to Reach: You can access the Namdapha National Park from the closest railway station, Tinsukia, or the Dibrugarh airport.
Highlights: Trekking, birding, wildlife spotting, river boating, and more.
5. Dirang
On your way to Tawang, chances are that you’ll make a pitstop at this rustic, sleepy little town. Here, you’ll find hot springs to melt away your jetlag, apple orchards to relax under, and, of course, vistas of snow-capped Himalayan mountains. The magnificent Kameng River flows through the valley, adding to the beauty of the wooden houses of the town. This place is nothing less than postcard-perfect, no matter which direction you look.
How to Reach: The closest airport to Dirang is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, while the nearest railway station is in Tezpur. If you prefer a road trip, Dirang can also be accessed from Bomdila.
Highlights: Dirang Dzong, New Gompa, National Research Centre on Yak, Hot Spring, and Nyukmadung War Memorial.
6. Bomdila
Another gem on the Tawang route is Bomdila. Nestled at over 8,000 feet, this place of tourist interest in Arunachal Pradesh offers jaw-dropping panoramas of the two highest mountains in the state – the Kangto and Gorichen peaks.
Head over to the West Kameng district, where you can find decent hotels, pretty cafés, well-stocked shops, and sports complexes. However, despite its modern influence, Bomdila still remains less crowded than Tawang, making it ideal for travelers who want peace with a view.
How to Reach: Follow the same route as Dirang.
Highlights: Upper Gompa, Middle Gompa, Lower Gompa, Bomdila Bazaar, and more.
7. Pasighat
This is a laid-back town where you can spend a day or two soaking up some hilly charm. While considered the oldest town in Arunachal Pradesh, what truly sets it apart is the beautiful (and mighty) Siang River that flows through it, later becoming the Brahmaputra. On a sunny day, you can enjoy rafting in the river, take a swim, or even walk along its bank to soak in the charm of the place.
How to Reach: You can drive to the town through NH 515 from Dibrugarh or take NH 590 from Guwahati.
Highlights: Rafting, fishing, angling, boating, wildlife safaris, and more.
Offbeat & Hidden Arunachal Pradesh Destinations
Done exploring the best tourist places in Arunachal Pradesh? Here are a few more off-the-chart spots that you can visit if you find some extra time on your hands:
8. Mechuka
Picture this: a valley surrounded by snow-clad mountains, with a river cutting through and wooden houses scattered like toy blocks. That’s Mechuka. Still relatively unexplored, it’s perfect for those who want to escape the touristy trails.
You can plan your visit to coincide with Adventure @ Mechuka, a festival that hosts angling, biking, paragliding, river rafting, and a number of other activities.
How to Reach: Come here through Murkongselek Railway Station or hire a direct cab from Itanagar.
Highlights: Mechuka Lake, Samten Yongcha Monastery, and more.
9. Roing
With waterfalls, lakes, and forests, expect pure nature therapy in Roing. This region offers strikingly diverse landscapes – gentle hills rising from the Assam plains, dense rainforests blanketing the land, picturesque valleys along the Dibang River, and snow-draped peaks near the China border. A journey here will leave you spellbound.
How to Reach: You can reach this tourist spot of Arunachal Pradesh from the closest railway station, New Tinsukia Junction.
Highlights: Nehru Van Udyan, Baily Bridge, Idu Mishmi and Adi villages, Sally Lake, Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, and more.
10. Tezu
If flowers make you happy, Tezu will make your heart sing. The town is famous for its botanical gardens and orchid centers. It’s a beautiful place to spend some time in and soak in the spectacular views of the riverine vistas. This tourist spot of Arunachal Pradesh is among the best offbeat places that you can visit.
How to Reach: Come here by Dibrugarh railway station (about 170 km away) and then travel by road.
Highlights: Parasuram Kund, Glow Lake, Dong Valley, and more.
11. Anini
Anini sits near the Dibang Valley and is as remote as it gets. Mist-covered hills, gushing rivers, and dense forests make this place surreal. It’s not the easiest to reach, but that’s exactly why it remains untouched and magical. Plus, it is known as the least populated district in the country.
Come here during the Reh festival, a celebration that involves dancing (performed by the shamans), feasting, and drinking, honoring the Goddess Nanyi-Intaya.
How to Reach: Travel to the nearest major airport (Dibrugarh Airport) or railway station (Tinsukia) and then take a road journey through mountainous terrain.
Highlights: Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, panoramic views, rustic villages, and more.
Must-Do Things in Arunachal Pradesh
Beyond the many places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh, the state also invites you to dive deeper into its culture, flavors, and adventures. Here are some things you absolutely shouldn’t miss:
1. Enjoy Beautiful Nature Treks
If you love trekking, Arunachal Pradesh will spoil you with choices. The Seven Lakes Trek is as magical as it sounds, taking you past sparkling alpine lakes hidden in the high mountains. For a cultural touch, the Aeyo Valley Trek winds through lush greenery and tribal hamlets. And for those looking for a mix of spirituality and adventure, the Athu-Popu Trek is a must. It’s also considered a sacred journey by locals.
2. Savor Exotic Dishes
When in Arunachal Pradesh, don’t miss out on sampling the local flavors. Popular dishes include Pika Pika (a mix of pig fat and bamboo shoots), Pehaak (fermented soybeans), Chura-Sabzi (vegetables cooked with yak milk cheese), and Papuk (a hearty dish of fermented bamboo shoots, chicken, banana flowers, and red chillies). Pair it with the famous apong (rice beer), and you’ll truly eat like a local.
3. Feel the Adrenaline Through Adventure Activities
Arunachal is heaven for adrenaline junkies. Here, you can enjoy white-water rafting on the Siang River, mountain biking through rugged trails, or paragliding over lush valleys. Even the drives through high-altitude passes like Sela and Bum La feel like mini-adventures of their own.
4. Go for Birding & Angling
With over 500 species of birds, Arunachal Pradesh is a paradise for birdwatchers. Hornbills, rare pheasants, and colorful parakeets will have you glued to your binoculars.
Angling enthusiasts will love casting their lines in Arunachal Pradesh’s sightseeing places like the Siang and Subansiri Rivers, known for mahseer fishing. And if you’re someone who enjoys slower, immersive experiences, there are plenty of scenic lakes and riversides to simply sit back and soak in the wilderness.
5. Attend the Many Festivals of Arunachal
The true soul of Arunachal is in its festivals. Almost every tribe has its own celebration, and they’re vibrant, colorful, and full of energy. Losar (the Tibetan New Year), Nyokum (of the Nyishi tribe), and Solung (celebrated by the Adi people) are just a few you might get lucky to witness. Expect music, dance, rituals, and feasts that bring entire communities together.
Travel Tips for Arunachal Pradesh
Before you pack your bags and start exploring Arunachal Pradesh destinations, here are some handy tips to make your trip smooth, safe, and memorable:
- Get Your Permits in Advance: Indian citizens need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh, while foreign nationals require a Protected Area Permit (PAP). Both can be applied for online or at designated offices in Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal.
- Best Time to Visit Arunachal Pradesh: The ideal time is October to April, when the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and the roads are more reliable. Summers are lush but can bring heavy rainfall, making travel difficult in certain areas. Winters (December–February) can get snowy in higher regions like Tawang.
- Pack Smart: Temperatures vary drastically. Carry warm clothing if you’re heading to the mountains, even in summer. A raincoat or poncho is a must during the monsoon. Don’t forget sturdy shoes for treks and long drives.
- Road Travel: Distances look short on the map, but the winding mountain roads can make journeys long. Always keep buffer time in your itinerary and stock up on snacks and water for road trips. Hiring a reliable local driver is highly recommended.
- Connectivity: Internet and mobile networks can be patchy, especially in remote areas. BSNL and Jio tend to work better, but don’t count on high-speed connectivity everywhere. Download offline maps in advance.
- Health & Safety: Arunachal is generally very safe, with warm and welcoming locals. Still, carry a basic first-aid kit, medicines for motion sickness, and always follow local guidance while trekking or exploring wildlife zones.
- Respect Local Culture: The state is home to over 26 major tribes and countless sub-tribes. Be respectful of customs, ask before taking photographs, and try to learn a few local phrases.
Final Thoughts
Arunachal Pradesh offers an experience that stays with you. From monasteries echoing with chants to valleys bursting with green, from rivers roaring through mountains to tribes preserving centuries-old traditions… this state is something magical.
So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and make a list of places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. Who knows, this might become the best adventure of your life?
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Meghalaya
