The Easternmost state of the Indian subcontinent, Arunachal Pradesh, is also the largest of the seven sisters of North East India. With over 75% of the state under forest cover, it also remains to be one of the least explored regions in the whole country.
“How long does it take to fully explore Arunachal Pradesh?”, is a question that we get asked ever so often, and our answer always is- “We don’t believe a lifetime is enough”. That’s right! With over 26 major tribes, over 100 sub-tribes, each with their own unique dialects, traditional attire, food, architecture, beliefs, is it really possible to explore all of it? Just in terms of travel, there are a total of 13 circuits that have been identified for the state authorities, and this is just the tip of the iceberg.
In terms of geography, the terrain’s altitude ranges from just 300m above sea level, all the way up to over 7,000m, depending on which part of the state you are in. The climate varies according to the elevation from a humid subtropical climate towards the plains, to alpine climate at it’s higher ranges.
Being a remote location, the region had not picked up much in the travel space, with a lack of infrastructure over the last few decades. However, it is safe to say that things are fast changing. No, it is still not as easy and accessible like many other states, but that is due to lesser airport connectivity, leaving a lot of the interiors untouched.
In this chapter, we bring to you a whole new circuit of this magnanimous state- one which covers parts of the lesser known eastern belt. With improved roads, and the support of our local partners, we are thrilled to delving into this new and unexplored fairy tale of a region- the Dibang Valley.
Of the 26 major tribes, in this chapter, we will be hosted by members of the Idu Mishmi community, some of the warmest people that you will meet in your life. With incredible stories of the yesteryears, and some mouth watering local food and brew (you have to try Yu-chi), gear up for a fascinating journey into the mountains of the Eastern Himalayas.
