North East India has some of the most beautiful places that you can visit when the travel bug bites you. If you love both nature and adventure, Arunachal Pradesh is the perfect destination for you. Arunachal is full of picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, quaint villages. You can also participate in various adventure sports, witness their vibrant festivals and taste their local cuisine.
If you are confused about which tourist places in Arunachal Pradesh you should visit, let us be your guide. If you want a rejuvenating experience, here are some of the best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh:
1. Tawang
If you are an adventure lover, Tawang is a paradise for you. The Tawang town is surrounded by the Gudpi and Chong Chugmi mountain ranges, with the Tawang Chu River flowing by. Tawang is known for its challenging roads, beautiful waterfalls, and several Buddhist monasteries.
How to reach Tawang:
Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport; Nearest Railway Station: Rangapara Railway Station; By road: Regular buses commute from Guwahati, Kalimpong, and a few other areas.
Best time to visit: March to June
Highlights:
- Tawang Monastery
- Urgelling Gompa
- Jaswant Garh Tawang War Memorial
- Bap Teng Kang Waterfalls
Things to enjoy In Tawang:
- Photography at Nuranang Waterfalls
- Pangateng Tso Lake
- Hiking at Gorichen Peak
- Enjoy the view from Taktsang Gompa
- Rejuvenate at Shonga-Tser Lake
- Visiting the Tawang Monastery
2. Roing
If you are looking for a peaceful and picture-perfect destination, you should definitely visit Roing. This place is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife sanctuaries. It is located in the lower Dibang district.
How to reach Roing:
Nearest Airport: Mohanbari airport; Nearest Railway Station: Dibrugarh Town Railway Station; By road: the road is smooth and easily commutable.
Best time to visit: October to February
Highlights:
- Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary
- Mehao Lake
- Nehru Van Udyan
- Hunli
- Rukmini Nati
Things to enjoy:
- Enjoying a picnic at Sally Lake
- Take a stroll in Nehru Van Udyan
- Exploring Bhismaknagar Fort
- Photography in Roing
- Trek to the Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary
3. Itanagar
It is one of the best destinations of Arunachal Pradesh, located on the northern side, and is the state’s capital. This place is also known for its scenic beauty and adventure sports. Itanagar is a perfect destination for nature lovers, family travelers, and adventure junkies.
How to reach Itanagar:
Nearest Airport: Mohanbari airport; Nearest Railway Station: Dibrugarh Town Railway Station; By road: the road is smooth and easily commutable.
Best time to visit: October to April
Highlights:
- Ganga Lake
- Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum
- Dikrong River
- Buddha Temple
- Ita Fort
Things to Enjoy:
- Rafting
- Shopping at the flea market
- Enjoying the festivals
- Angling and fishing
- Sightseeing
4. Namdapha National Park
It is the third-largest National Park in Arunachal Pradesh. It attracts a large number of tourists due to its diverse flora and fauna. The cost of the entry ticket is 50 INR, the time is 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., the guide is also available.
How to reach Namdapha National Park:
Nearest Airport: Mohanbari airport; Nearest Railway Station: Margherita Railway Station; By road: the road is smooth and easily commutable, you can take a bus from the nearby towns.
Best time to visit: November to February
Highlights:
- Clouded leopard
- Shrike Babbler
- Red Panda
- Red Caliph
- Naga Tree Brown
Things to Enjoy:
- Enjoy a safari
- Bird watching
- Boating
- Elephant safari
- trekking
5. Sela Pass
Sela Pass should be in your list if you are planning to visit Arunachal Pradesh tourist places anytime. It is located at an altitude of 4170 m above sea level. If you want to go for a quick trek to take a glimpse at the majestic view of the Himalayas, you should visit this place. This place is located between Tawang and Dhirang.
How to reach Sela Pass:
Nearest Airport: Salonibari Airport; Nearest Railway Station: Tezpur Railway Station; By road: the road is not easily commutable, you can take a cab from the nearby towns.
Highlights:
- Snow-clad mountain peaks
- Bluewater Lake
- Jung Falls
- Challenging roads
- Sela Lake
Things to enjoy:
- Photography
- Trekking
- Visiting the lake
- Biking
- Enjoying at the war memorial
6. Ziro Valley
Most of you must have heard about the popular Ziro Music Festival that is celebrated in the month of September. If you want to explore the culture amidst the stunning Ziro valley, make sure you visit around September. Many solo travelers visit this place. It is also one of the UNESCO world heritage sites. It is situated in the Lower Subansiri district.
How to reach Ziro:
Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport; Nearest Railway Station: Sirajuli Railway Station; By road: the road is well connected.
Highlights:
- Kile Pakho
- Tarin Fish Farm
- Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
- Meghna Cave Temple
- Dolo Mando
Things to enjoy:
- Enjoying the Ziro music festival
- Nature Walk
- Trekking
- Hiking
- Exploration expedition
7. Pasighat
A lot of tourists visit Pasighat due to its untouched beauty. If you want to visit Arunachal during the winter season, this place is a must-visit. This small town is located in the East Siang district.
How to reach Pasighat:
Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport; Nearest Railway Station: Sirajuli Railway Station; By road: the road is well connected.
Highlights:
- Kekar Monying
- Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary
- Pangin
- Rafting Point
- Komsing
Things to enjoy:
- Nature Walk
- Rafting
- Nature Photography
- Relaxing
- Hiking
8. Bomdila
Bomdila is one of the most beautiful cities of Arunachal Pradesh, it is located in the West Kameng district, at an altitude of 8000 ft. If you want to soak in nature’s beauty in a tranquil environment, Bomdila is the place for you.
How to reach Bomdila:
Nearest Airport: Salonibari Airport of Tezpur; Nearest Railway Station: Rangapura North Railway Station; By road: the road is well connected with nearby cities.
Best time to visit: April to October
Highlights:
- Bomdila Monastery
- Sessa Orchid Sanctuary
- Orchid Research & Development Centre
- Upper Gompa
- Apple Orchards
- Middle Gompa
Things to enjoy:
- Explore the art museum
- Relish fresh apples
- Amuse yourself with the view of the Himalayas
- Visit the Lower, middle, and upper Gompas
- Hike to the Bomdila View Point
9. Dirang
This picturesque small town is located around 42km from Bomdila. If you are going towards Tawang you should pay a visit to this beautiful destination, you will get stunning panoramic views, hot water springs, and beautiful apple orchards. This place is ideal for nature lovers and adventure junkies.
How to reach Dirang:
Nearest Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport; Nearest Railway Station: Tezpur Railway Station; By road: the road is well connected with nearby cities.
Best time to visit: November to February
Highlights:
- Kalachakra Gompa
- Dirang Dzong
- Sangti Valley
- Himalayan Preservation Society
- Dirang Chu river
Things to Enjoy:
- Visiting the Khastung Gompa
- A nature walk
- Go for a tea break at homestays
- Visiting the Sangti Valley
- Enjoy sunrise at Thubsung Dhargyeling Monastery
10. Bhalukpong
Bhalukpong is also called the gateway to Arunachal Pradesh and is near the town of Tezpur. It is a popular picnic spot and many tourists visit this place every year. You should visit this place during the month of March to witness the Aka tribal festival.
How to reach Bhalukpong:
Nearest Airport: Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport; Nearest Railway Station: Tezpur Railway Station; By road: the road is well connected with nearby cities.
Best time to visit: October to March
Highlights:
- Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kaziranga National Park
- Aka tribal festival
- Bhalukpong Fort
- Tipi
Things to Enjoy:
- Visiting the nearby Wildlife sanctuary
- Enjoying at the Aka Tribal Festival
- Explore the forested areas
- Photography and videography of the mountains/ valleys
- Go for a picnic at different places
11. Tezu
Tezu is flocked by tourists every year, it has a lot to offer to the people visiting this place like wildlife sanctuaries, botanical gardens, museums. The popular tourist attraction is Glow Lake. Tezu is a must-visit in Arunachal Pradesh. It is located in the Lohit district.
How to reach Tezu:
Nearest Airport: Mohanbar Airport; Nearest Railway Station: Tinsukia Railway Station; By road: the road is well connected with nearby cities.
Best time to visit: December to July
Highlights:
- Dong
- Glow lake
- Walong
- Tezu District Museum and Craft Center
- Tezu Botanical Garden
12. Along (Aalo)
Along is known for its lush green valleys and orange orchards. It has many small villages inhabited by the native tribes, so, if you want to know about their local culture and traditions you should pay a visit to Along. It is located in West Siang, Arunachal Pradesh.
How to reach Along:
Nearest Airport: Lilabari Airport; Nearest Railway Station: Silapathar Railway Station; By road: the road is well connected with nearby cities, bus services from Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Service (APSTS) buses are available.
Best time to visit: October to April
Highlights:
- Mechuka Valley
- Donyi Polo Temple
- Patum Bridge
- Ramakrishna Ashram
- Jirdin and hanging bridge
13. Nuranang Falls
Located in the Tawang district, Nuranang Falls is a hidden tourist spot in Arunachal Pradesh. Nuranang falls is also known as Bong falls, is located at an altitude of 6000ft and is around 100m high. The entry is free and the time to visit is from sunrise to sunset.
Best time to visit: November to April
Highlights:
- Tawang monastery
- Taktsang Gompa
- Sela pass
- Shonga-Tser lake
- Bumla Pass
14. Sangti Valley
Sangti valley is located near Dirang in the Eastern Himalayas. If you are looking for a less crowded, quaint, and peaceful place, this place is for you. This stunning beauty is place is not so popular among mainstream tourists, if you want to spend some time in the lap of nature surrounded by mountains and rivers you should visit Sangti valley. The valley is full of beautiful orchards and diverse flora and fauna.
How to reach Sangti valley:
From Dirang via Bomdilla- 15 km
Best time to visit: April-June or September-October
Highlights:
- Dirang Dzong
- National Research Centre on Yak
- Hot water spring
- Kalachakra Gompa
15. Changlang
It is one of the major districts of Arunachal Pradesh, which shares its boundary with Myanmar. It is known for its culture and scenic beauty.
Best time to visit: October to May
Highlights:
- World War II Cemetery
- Lake of No Return
- Namdapha National Park
- Nampong
- Miao
16. Mechuka
Mechuka, also known as Menchukha, at an elevation of 6000ft, this town is surrounded by pine forests. Menchukha means ‘Medicinal water of snow’. It is located in the West Siang district, 29 km away from the Indo-China border. If you are a photography lover, you should pay this place a visit.
Best time to visit: October to March
Highlights:
- Pristine water retreats
- Friendly tribe of Mechuka
- Nature walk
- Waterfalls
- Siang river
- Bamboo bridges
17. Bumla Pass
It is situated at an altitude of 15,200 ft above sea level near the Indo-China border. If you are fond of snow and snow-capped mountains you should definitely visit Bumla Pass. You can also see the high-altitude lake, Sangestar Tso in Bumla Pass.
To reach Bumla Pass, you need permits. You need to visit the Office of the Deputy Commissioner in Tawang District and then the Indian army cantonment of Tawang to get the permits.
How to reach:
Located at 37 km from Tawang
Best time to visit: Summer season
Highlights:
- Dalai Lama entry route
- Sangestar Tso
- Indo-China border meeting point
- Snow-covered picture-perfect landscapes
18. Anini
Anini is an unexplored town and is known for its misty weather. If you love adventure and treks, you should come here because this town is best explored by trekking the beautiful trails. Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular tourist destination nearby. You can visit the tribal villages and get to know about their culture and traditions.
Location: Near Dibang valley
Best time to visit: December to March
Highlights:
- Local sightseeing
- Trekking
19. Daporijo
It is a small town in Arunachal located near the river Subansiri. Daporijo is a suspension bridge made of cane and bamboo over the river Subansiri. This place is popular for its bamboo forest, paddy fields, waterfalls. This town falls on the way from Ziro to Along. One of the oldest tribes inhabits this place like the Mishmi Tribe.
Location: Subansiri District, Arunachal Pradesh
Best time to visit Daporijo: October to April
Highlights:
- Bamboo handicrafts
- Daporijo Suspension Bridge
- Old tribes
- Local Festivals
20. Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary (Pakke Tiger Reserve)
It is located in the East Kameng District of Arunachal Pradesh, spanning a region of 862 sq. km. It was declared as a Tiger Reserve in 2002 due to its Tiger population. The park is the home for tigers, leopards, clouded leopards, Barking deer, jackals, and elephants. If you enjoy nature walks and wildlife safaris you should visit this wildlife sanctuary.
Location: East Kameng District, Seijosa, Arunachal Pradesh
Entry fee for Oakhui Wildlife Sanctuary: INR 40
Best time to visit: November to April
Highlights:
- Pakke Tiger Reserve
- Sessa Orchid Sanctuary
21. Golden Pagoda, Namsai
If you are on a spiritual retreat, and like monasteries and Burmese architecture, Golden Pagoda is a must-visit for you. It is a religious place in Arunachal, spread across an area of 20 hectares. If you are searching for inner peace and want to observe the Buddhist culture, this is the perfect place.
Location: Minister Market in Namsai
How to reach:
Nearest Airport: Mohanbari Airport; Nearest Railway Station: New Tinsukia Junction
Entry Fee: Entry is free
Timing of Golden Pagoda: 8 AM to 5 PM
Best Time to Visit: All around the year
22. Madhuri Lake
The lake falls on the way to Bumla Pass, at a height of around 15,200ft above sea level. The original name of this lake is Sangestar Tso, but it is popular by the name Madhuri lake because of a scene shot from the film Koyla starring, Madhuri Dixit. You can enjoy the snow-covered scenic beauty of this location.
Location: Tawang – Bum La Pass Road, 30 km from Tawang
Entry Fee: Entry is free
Best Time to Visit Madhuri Lake: April to October
23. Gorichen Peak
If you like off-beat places, this place is just for you. Gorichen is popular for trekking and camping. It is surrounded by lush green hills.
Location: Tawang District, Arunachal Pradesh
Entry Fee: Entry is free
Timing: Open 24 Hours
Best Time to Visit: September and October
24. Hayuliang village
It is a hidden village which means the place of my liquor, this place is untouched and unexplored. You can see the confluence point of Lohit and Delai rivers. You can spend a day or two in the pleasant climate of the Hayuliang village.
Location: Anjaw District, Arunachal Pradesh
Best Time to Visit: October to March
25. Parasuram Kund
You shouldn’t miss the Makar Sankranti Mela at this place if you are visiting Arunachal Pradesh. It is located northeast of Tezu, it is a holy place where you can take a dip into the water of Brahma Kund.
Best time to visit: November to February.