Of Lore, Lakes and Landscapes
A Monpa and Sherdukpen Chapter
- Western Arunachal Pradesh
- Group Trip
- 12 seats
- June 7th to June 14th
- September 27th to October 4th
- October 12th to October 19th
- October 17th to October 24th
- October 25th to November 1st
- November 15th to November 22nd
- December 13th to December 20th
- December 23rd to December 30th
Arunachal Pradesh has always been one of the best kept secrets of North East India. The remoteness and challenging terrains of the region have helped in retaining the pristine natural and cultural beauty of the region, making it one of the most unexplored destinations in the world.
Prior to the year 1972, all of present Arunachal Pradesh and beyond was grouped into one territory collectively known as NEFA (North East Frontier Agency). Thereafter, till 1978, the region was renamed and considered a Union Territory of India. Finally, statehood was announced in the year 1978.
With nearly 80 percent of this high altitude state attributed to forest cover, one can only imagine the biodiversity that one may find here. From rare birds endemic to the state, to new species being discovered every passing year, all spread across changing terrains based on altitude, Arunachal Pradesh proves to be an absolute treat for the adventurous nature lover. (Fun fact: Arunachal Pradesh harbours the world’s northernmost tropical rainforest and is estimated to have nearly 50% of the total flowering plant species of India).
In terms of the communities that live in the state, there are 26 major tribes that are officially recognised and over 100 sub-tribes, all of whom have their own dialects and cultures (including food, outfits, rituals and beliefs). Hindi proves to be the common language. Many aspects of the cultural diversity of the state remain undocumented till date.
We believe that a lifetime is not enough for one to explore and understand Arunachal in its truest sense. In this chapter, we will be taking you across the western belt of this massive state. The major indigenous communities on this belt are Monpa and the Sherdukpens, some of the warmest people that we have come across. Mahayana Buddhists by religion, the people share close cultural and religious affinities with people from Tibet and Bhutan. It is interesting to note that some of the villages that you will be visiting have even been taxed by Tibetan rulers not too long back. In fact, in the year 1959 when his Holiness, the 14th Dalai Lama escaped from Tibet to India, where he now resides, he used this very route to come down to the plains.
A trip not meant for the faint hearted, join us as we take you on a journey up to 15,200 feet and back this winter!
Note: Following the events of Sino-India War of 1962, this region remains a military-occupied terrain due to its close geographical location to the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Please note that certain restrictions are imposed in this circuit, especially for Foreign Nationals so please plan accordingly. Our team will be happy to assist you in doing so.
- Visit the land of the Sherdukpens and interact with a community of less than 10,000 people in the world
- Enjoy local rice beer and wine at homestays across West Kameng and Tawang
- Explore the unique art and culture of a Nyingma monastery (Chillipam, Tawang)
- Visit India’s largest monastery, a 16th century Gelug Gompa
- A drive through one of the highest motorable passes in the world
- Visit Sangetsar Tso, a high altitude holy lake near the Indo-China Border
Go off the beaten trail to explore hidden hot springs and waterfalls in the Indo-China Border - Get a window into the rural life of the Eastern Himalayas with locally guided village walks and jungle trails
- A hike on a shepherd’s trail to experience the forests of West Kameng
- Visit apple and kiwi orchards of the region
- Stay on all nights in twin sharing basis
- Breakfast from Day 2, 3, 5 to 8
- Lunch on Day 2, 4 and 7
- Dinner on Day 1 and 2
- Local guides on Day 2, 4, 5 and 7
- Arunachal Pradesh registered vehicle
- Inner Line Permits
- Permits to enter Chumi Gyatse
- Trip lead throughout the trip
- Transport from Day 1 to 8 in a Tempo Traveler
- Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
- Entry fees to sightseeing points
- Protected Area Permit
- Hotel Tips, Driver Tips or Guide Tips
- Any personal expenditure
- Flight or Train Tickets
- Stay on Day 8
- Anything not specifically mentioned under the head “Inclusions”.
- Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary/ stay on account of any factors beyond control.
Get Detailed Itinerary
Frequently asked questions
What time does the trip start and end?
The journey begins from Guwahati Airport at noon on Day 1 and concludes in Guwahati by 9 PM on Day 8. We recommend planning your departure for the following day to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Are there vegetarian food options everywhere?
Vegetarians do not need to worry. While a lot of the local delicacies are meat-based, with the influx of tourism there are multiple vegetarian options at all places. You must also try out the seasonal fruits and vegetables in the region.
Do I need a permit to travel to Arunachal Pradesh?
Yes, you would be requiring an Inner Line Permit to travel enter Arunachal Pradesh. We will be arranging the same for you. We would need details such as your Aadhar Card/Passport, passport size photo, along with a few other details to procure this.
The ILP usually takes about 7 days to process.