India's Frontier State
Arunachal Pradesh — the "Land of the Rising Sun" — is India's northeasternmost state. Bordering China, Bhutan, and Myanmar, it is a land of immense geographical diversity: from subtropical forests in the south to alpine meadows and Himalayan peaks in the north. With over 26 major tribes and 100 sub-tribes, it is one of India's most culturally rich states.
Entry Requirements
Indian nationals need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh. Foreign nationals require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Apply online at the Arunachal Pradesh government portal, or through a registered travel agent like us — we handle permits for all our Arunachal packages.
Tawang
Tawang is the crown jewel of Arunachal tourism, sitting at 3,048m in the western Himalayas. Key highlights:
Tawang Monastery
Built in 1680-81, Tawang Monastery is the largest Buddhist monastery in India and the second largest in the world (after Potala Palace in Lhasa). Home to hundreds of monks, its library holds ancient thangkas, manuscripts, and statues. The monastery overlooks the entire Tawang valley — an unforgettable sight at dawn.
Sela Pass
At 13,700 feet, Sela Pass is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. The road winds through a mesmerizing landscape of snow, frozen lakes, and prayer flags. Sela Lake beside the pass is strikingly beautiful. Best visited between April and October (usually closed in heavy winter snow).
Bumla Pass
At 15,200 feet, Bumla marks the India-China border. Indian tourists with prior permissions can visit this strategic location. Nearby PT Tso and Shungetser lakes are hauntingly beautiful.
Tawang War Memorial
A solemn memorial to the soldiers who died in the 1962 Sino-Indian War. Offers a moving tribute amid stunning mountain scenery.
Ziro Valley
A UNESCO World Heritage tentative site, Ziro Valley in the Lower Subansiri district is home to the Apatani tribe — known for their distinctive tattooing traditions (though the practice has largely stopped among younger generations) and unique agricultural system of paddy-cum-fish cultivation.
The valley is a mosaic of terraced paddy fields, pine forests, and bamboo groves. The Ziro Music Festival (September) attracts thousands of music lovers for four days of indie and folk music in a stunning outdoor setting.
Namdapha National Park
One of India's largest national parks, Namdapha spans nearly 2,000 sq km and supports four big cat species — tiger, leopard, snow leopard, and clouded leopard — in the same habitat. It is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 440 species recorded. Access is from Miao, and trekking inside the park requires a guide.
