Among the Apatanis
Villages, Valleys & Voices of Ziro
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Weekend Getaway
- 8 seats
- July 18th to July 20th
- August 29th to August 31st
- September 5th to September 7th
Step into the world of the Apatanis, one of Arunachal Pradesh’s most fascinating indigenous communities, with this immersive cultural experience in Ziro Valley. Wander through centuries-old heritage villages, interact with the Apatani people, and gain firsthand insights into their unique customs, sustainable living practices, and deep-rooted traditions.
Begin with a guided walk through an Apatani heritage village, where you’ll explore age-old bamboo houses, meet the elders adorned with traditional facial tattoos and nose plugs, and learn about their ingenious wetland rice cultivation system. Our expert guide will share stories of the Apatani way of life, their animist Donyi-Polo faith, and their efforts to preserve their rich heritage.
Next, step into the warm embrace of an Apatani home, where a family welcomes you with a home-cooked traditional meal. Savor delicacies like smoked meat, bamboo shoot preparations, and the locally brewed rice beer, Apong, as you engage in conversations about their daily lives, festivals, and crafts.
This experience offers an authentic and intimate look into the Apatani culture, making it a must for travelers seeking deeper cultural connections.
Inclusions
- Exploring the beautiful Ziro valley on a scooty.
- Paddy field walk / Burial ground / Ziro Art craft centre / Naara Aba winery / Ziro market on Day 1. (As per your interest and availability).
- Guided walk through an Apatani heritage village on Day 2.
- Traditional Apatani lunch in a local family home on Day 2.
- Hike to Ngiikho Choting waterfall / Pomo Yalang or Tautiibi organic farms.
- Local sightseeing and expert insights into Apatani history, customs, and daily life.
- A Tripleader to guide you through your weekend getaway.
Exclusions
- All food & beverages costs apart from the ones mentioned above.
- Airfare / train tickets / transportation till Itanagar or Naharlagun.
- Inner Line Permit cost.
- Stay & driver tips (we request you to encourage our locals with tips for their hard work)
- Any personal expenditure (Toiletries, medicines, etc.)
- Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary/ stay
- Cancellation due to bad weather, ill health, roadblocks and/or any factors beyond control.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the head “Inclusions”.
Things to carry
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the villages.
- Sun and rain protection: hat, sunglasses, umbrella, sunscreen, gumboots, etc.
- A notebook to jot down interesting cultural insights.
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- A camera to capture the vibrant landscapes and cultural moments.
Day 1:
1.30 PM (Post Lunch) to 5.00 PM:
Things to do in Ziro as per your interest:
- Ride around Ziro on a rented scooty and explore the beautiful valleys.
- Go for a Paddy field walk.
- Visit the Burial ground in Ziro.
- Visit the Ziro Art craft centre.
- Visit the Naara Aba winery.
- Visit the Ziro market.
- Witness the Traditional Apatani dance. (Subject to availability).
Day 2:
- 8.00 AM: Breakfast
- 9.00 AM: Meet your guide and get an introduction to Apatani culture and traditions.
- 9.30 AM – 1.00 PM: Hike to Ngiikho Choting waterfall / Pomo Yalang or Tautiibi organic farms. (Depending on the weather and road conditions)
- 1.00 PM: Visit a traditional Apatani home. Engage in conversations with the hosts and gain insights into their daily life and traditions. Enjoy an ethnic lunch at a Traditional Apatani home. You can gain an insight about the significance of different dishes in their culture.
- 2.00 PM – 5.00 PM: Guided walk through the heritage villages. Visit traditional bamboo houses, learn about the Apatani way of life, and interact with the locals. Heritage walk from Bamin Michi to Dutta Village, a trail of Local folkfores and stories covering 4 villages.
- 6.00 PM: Spend the evening at leisure.
Day 3:
- 4.00 AM – 6.30 AM: Drive to Pomu Yalang for a sunrise viewpoint. (Optional)
- 8.00 AM: Breakfast
- 9.00 AM: Conclude your experience with heartfelt goodbyes and a deeper appreciation of the Apatani way of life.
- Cultural Explorers: Ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in indigenous traditions and heritage.
- Food Enthusiasts: Perfect for travelers eager to taste authentic tribal cuisine.
- Photography Lovers: A paradise for capturing the unique Apatani lifestyle, architecture, and scenic beauty.
- History & Anthropology Buffs: Great for anyone fascinated by tribal customs, sustainable practices, and ancient traditions.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Apatani traditions firsthand by visiting their villages and homes.
- Authentic Encounters: Meet and interact with Apatani elders, artisans, and families.
- Unique Gastronomy: Savor a traditional Apatani meal, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Sustainable Living: Learn about Apatani’s eco-friendly wet rice and fish farming system.
- Scenic Beauty: Walk through Ziro Valley’s picturesque landscapes, dotted with traditional houses and rice fields.
Connect with our team
Frequently asked questions
How do I reach Ziro?
Ziro is accessible by road from Itanagar (3 hour drive). The nearest railway station is Naharlagun (2.5 hour drive). It is an 8-9 hours drive from Guwahati.
How do I reach Itanagar?
5-6 hour drive from Guwahati.
How do I reach Naharlagun?
8 hour train journey / 6-7 hour drive from Guwahati.
What will I see and do?
You’ll explore Apatani heritage villages, visit a traditional home, enjoy an ethnic lunch, and learn about their farming, crafts, and daily life.
What kind of terrain should I expect?
Expect easy walks through villages and fields. One waterfall hike ranges from 30 mins to 1 hour depending on weather.
Is this physically demanding?
No. The pace is gentle and the activities are suitable for most fitness levels.
What kind of food will be served?
You’ll enjoy a home-cooked Apatani meal, including traditionally prepared chicken, and Apong (rice beer). Vegetarian options are available on request.
Is this experience suitable for kids or older travelers?
Yes, but please inform us in advance if special assistance is needed.
Cancellation policy?
Minimum of 4 Sign ups required for the trip to commence and maximum can be 8 persons.
Trip Cost
Trip Cost per person : ₹8,700 per person
Other Important points
Permits: An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indian citizens (except Arunachal residents). Details will be shared and you can book it online. The cost for the application is Rs.500.
Accommodation: Clean, comfortable village homestays or eco-lodges on twin/triple sharing. Expect basic amenities and warm hospitality.
Weather & Packing: It’s monsoon—wet, misty, and magical. Pack a rain jacket, quick-dry clothes, waterproof shoes, mosquito repellent, multiple sets of socks, and a small daypack.
Fitness & Activities: Suitable for anyone with moderate fitness. Includes short hikes, market visits, and cooking sessions. Not suitable for travelers needing mobility assistance.
Monsoon readiness: Carry an umbrella and gumboots. Watch out for leeches near forest trails and waterfalls.
Food: Traditional Apatani meals, some featuring foraged or exotic ingredients. Vegetarian and allergy-sensitive meals available on request. Participation in cooking is optional but encouraged.
Connectivity: Mobile networks like Airtel & Jio will be present in most places. There will be some spots during your travel where networks will be scarce.
Group Size: Small and personal—minimum 4 and 8 travelers max.
Add Ons
Enhance your trip with the following optional service :
- Transportation options (Innova / Tempo traveller) available from: Itanagar, Naharlagun and Guwahati.
