High above the sweeping valleys of Arunachal Pradesh lies Meesopsha, a wide green dome of grazing land that feels almost otherworldly. The gentle hill opens into an uninterrupted carpet of grass, bordered by a deep valley on one side and blue layered mountains on the other. It is a place where silence has a softness and the wind carries the scent of earth, pine and open skies.
Reaching Meesopsha begins with a short 20 minute downhill hike through a pleasant trail. As the forest thins, the landscape suddenly opens and the sight before you feels straight out of a dream. Yaks graze freely across the meadow, their thick coats swaying as they move with their young ones close behind. Their bells echo softly across the open land, adding to the sense of calm.
Scattered across the meadow are a handful of Brokpa stone houses, with wisps of smoke curling out of their chimneys, hinting at warm fires inside and the gentle, time-tested rhythm of pastoral life. The Brokpas, nomadic yak herders, have lived with these mountains for generations, moving with the seasons and caring for their animals with quiet dedication.
After your time at Meesopsha, you can extend the journey to Mandala Top, which is about 30 minutes away. The drive winds through forested slopes until the landscape suddenly opens into a circular ridge crowned with 108 colourful Buddhist manes. The manes are arranged in perfect symmetry, each carrying prayers and blessings that flutter into the wind. At the centre stands a serene Buddha statue facing the mountains, creating an atmosphere of peace and reflection. Standing here feels like being in a space suspended between sky and earth, where prayer flags ripple in every direction and the horizon stretches endlessly.
The grassy dome of Meesopsha and the spiritual calm of Mandala Top together create a deeply refreshing escape. One lets you sink into the natural beauty of grazing lands and mountain life, while the other invites you to pause, reflect and breathe in the quiet power of the hills.
09:00 AM to 09:20 AM: Begin the short downhill hike to Meesopsha. Enjoy the scenic trail as the forest gradually opens into a sweeping meadow.
09:20 AM to 11:00 AM: Spend time at Meesopsha watching yaks graze with their young ones, admiring Brokpa stone houses and taking in the deep valleys and blue mountains.
11:00 AM to 12:00 PM: Picnic on the meadow. Relax on the soft grass and enjoy local snacks while soaking in the mountain breeze.
12:00 PM to 12:30 PM: Hike back towards the starting point.
12:30 PM to 1:00 PM: Drive to Mandala Top, a serene mountaintop known for its prayer structures and scenic vistas.
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM: Explore Mandala Top. Walk among the 108 manes, take in the calming presence of the Buddha statue and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding ridges.
The hike is easy and suitable for beginners. It is a short downhill walk of about 20 minutes on a pleasant forest trail, making it accessible for most age groups with basic fitness.
No prior trekking experience is required. The walk is gentle and unhurried, designed more for enjoyment and exploration than physical challenge.
The experience is best enjoyed from spring to early autumn, when the meadow is lush, visibility is clear, and yaks are actively grazing. Weather conditions may vary in the mountains, so layers are recommended year-round.
Yaks commonly graze at Meesopsha, especially during suitable seasons. However, as this is a natural grazing land, sightings depend on the animals’ movement on that day.
Yes, this experience is suitable for families, children, and elderly travelers who are comfortable with short walks. The pace is relaxed, and there are plenty of spots to rest and take in the views.
The picnic includes simple local snacks that complement the setting. Guests are also welcome to carry additional personal snacks if they wish.
Washroom facilities are limited in this remote mountain setting. Guests are advised to use facilities before starting the hike.
Guests may observe Brokpa life and their traditional stone houses from a respectful distance. Any interaction is done sensitively and depends on the comfort and availability of the locals.
No, Mandala Top is reached by a short drive from the hike endpoint. Exploring the area involves easy walking around the prayer manes and viewpoint.
Yes, photography is encouraged. Guests are requested to be respectful when photographing people, homes, and religious structures.
Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, and weather protection such as a light jacket or shawl are recommended due to changing mountain conditions.
Yes, as it takes place outdoors, weather conditions may affect visibility and comfort. In case of unfavourable weather, the experience timing or flow may be adjusted for safety.
