Arunachal Pradesh Travel Guide 2025: Best Places to Visit and Itinerary

Arunachal Pradesh is an untouched gem tucked in the far Northeast of India. It is often called the “Land of the Dawn Lit Mountains” and is renowned for its welcoming communities, wildness, and serene environment.

Arunachal feels like a step into a storybook filled with misty valleys, vibrant tribal festivals, peaceful monasteries, and wild rivers. 

But here is the thing: Arunachal is vast and incredibly diverse, so one can’t experience it in one go. Trying to cover too many places in a single trip can make the experience feel rushed and overwhelming. After research and thought, I realised it’s best to focus on one region at a time to truly soak it all in. 

Here’s a simple Itinerary that takes you through the western and Central Arunachal Pradesh. From the spiritual calm of Tawang to the Bum La pass, Madhuri lake, and the lesser-explored gems like Dirang, Tawang, and Bomdila.7-Day Arunachal Pradesh Itinerary

Route: Guwahati ⇒ Bhalukpong ⇒ Dirang  ⇒ Tawang (with excursions to Bum La & Lakes) ⇒ Bomdila ⇒ Guwahati

Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati, drive to Bhalukpong

The journey begins from the lush plains of Guwahati (Assam). As you leave Guhawati, the road slowly winds into the hills.

By evening, you’ll arrive in Bhalukpong (takes 5-6 hours to reach). It is a quiet riverside town surrounded by green forests. Once you arrive in the town, check into your guesthouse or homestay. Before the day ends, don’t forget to get your Inner Line Permit (ILP Arunachal) verified or issued from Bhalukpong.  

Bhalukpong is not overrun with tourist sites. Here are a few places that you can visit.

1. Kameng River: Take a steaming cup of hot tea and relax by the river. The soothing sound of the river and the cool wind will melt away your travel tiredness. 
2. Sessa Orchid Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to over 500 species of orchids. You can make a quick visit before you move on to the mountains.  

Day 2: Bhalukpong to Dirang

The real magical journey begins today. Start early for Dirang, a beautiful mountain town. You’ll drive through rising hills and pine-covered slopes. Crossing small villages where life seems to flow slowly. On the way, stop at Bomdila View Point and Bomdila Monastery, a smaller but serene version of the Tawang Monastery.  By afternoon, you’ll reach Dirang (takes about 6 to 7 hours), home of the ingenious Monpa community. 

Here is a list of places to explore in Dirang.

1. Dirang Dzong: A 300-year-old tribal fort village that showcases the traditional Tibetan-influenced Monpa architecture.
2. Sangati Valley: This beautiful valley is around 15 km from Dirang town and takes about 30 minutes to reach. In winter, this serene landscape becomes the home of black-necked cranes, which migrate here from Tibet. In November, the valley gets filled with Oranges, apples, kiwi, tomatoes, chillies, and vegetables everywhere. 
3. Thupsung Dhargye Ling Monastery: Also known as Dirang Monastery, it is located just a  few kilometers from the main market area. Surrounded by stunning views of the Dirang valley. The monastery stands out with its vibrant colour and striking traditional Tibetan architecture. 
4. Mandala Top: One of the lesser-known yet stunning viewpoints in the hills. It’s 25 Km from Dirang town and takes about 1.5 hours to reach. At the highest top, 108 white stupas surround a Buddha statue that represents the 108 Buddhist teachings. The best time to visit is early in the morning or around sunset. 

Day 3: Dirang to Tawang 

This part of the journey is going to be the most thrilling drive. Depart early to reach Tawang. The drive usually takes about 4 hours, but with stops at sights along the route, it can stretch to 8-9 hours. The landscape slowly starts to change as you ascend. The air gets lighter, and with whiter terrain, the lakes appear like mirror pools.

On the way, you can visit the following sights:

1. Sela Pass: Sela Pass is over 13,700 feet high, offering breathtaking views along the journey. 
2. Sela Lake: Our journey continues to Sela Lake, situated near the Sela Pass. Its crystal clear water reflects the surrounding peaks like a mirror. Take a stroll around the lake and soak in the beauty. 
3. JaswantGarh War Memorial: As we descend towards the Tawang route, stop at JaswantGarh War Memorial. This memorial honors Rifleman Jaswanth Singh Rawat. A hero of the 1962 Indo-China War, who reportedly held his ground and killed about 300 Chinese soldiers. A temple dedicated to him, alongside a Smriti Sthal and a Museum, displays his belongings. 
4. Nurnang Falls/Jang Falls: A dramatic waterfall falling in a deep gorge, perfect for a peaceful break. Try to reach before 3:30 PM for the most breathtaking sights of the waterfall. 

By the evening, you’ll reach Tawang. Wrap up your long day and relax in your hotel or guesthouse. 

Day 4: Explore Tawang

Tawang deserves a slow day. This culture-rich town offers breathtaking views and peaceful monasteries. Here is a list of places to visit in Tawang:

1. Tawang Monastery: Begin the day by visiting the legendary Tawang Monastery. It is the largest in India and the second largest Monastery in the World. The golden-roofed prayer halls, ancient scriptures, and chanting monks will leave you amazed. 
2. Giant Buddha Statue & Temple: Next, visit the giant Buddha statue, a symbol of peace and enlightenment. It is one of the Iconic Tawang landmarks offering panoramic views of the Tawang valley. 
3. Tawang War Memorial: Head to the Tawang War Memorial, dedicated to all the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1962 war. The evening light ceremony here is moving and patriotic.
4. Craft Center and Emporium: Explore the craft center and emporium to see the Monpa textile and wooden masks. End your day, tasting momo and butter tea at a local cafe. 

Day 5: Tawang to Bum La Pass and Madhuri Lake

For Bum La pass, hire a taxi from Tawang and arrange permits from the DC office. The entire route feels straight out of the movie, with landscapes dotted with gorgeous lakes, jagged cliffs, army outposts, and mountains covered with Rhododendron bushes. 

Today’s route includes:  

1. Bum La Pass: Perched at over 15,000 feet along the Indo-China War. It’s a historical and strategic site. A special permit is mandatory to visit the site. 
2. Madhuri Lake (Shungatser Lake): Formed after an earthquake, and became famous when a Bollywood scene featuring Madhuri Dixit was filmed here. There is not much to do, but what sets the lake apart is the hauntingly beautiful sight of dead tree trunks vertically stuck inside the lake. 
3. P.T. Tso (Pangateng Tso): If time permits, visit P.T. Tso, a lesser-known alpine lake. The lake is tucked away in an untouched terrain where you can spend some peaceful time.  

After exploring all the sites, enjoy warm drinks and Maggie in the Army run canteen. There aren’t any other options for food until you reach Tawang. 

Day 6: Tawang to Bomdila

After days in mountain corners, it is time to begin the descent journey. While coming down, take your time on the road and slow down at the places where you’ve missed out or want to experience it better. 

For today, we’ll make a stop in Bomdila. Check into a comfortable lodge and visit the Lower & Upper Gompas. You can also explore the local market and get some handmade shawls and Tibetan artifacts. 

Day 7: Bomdila to Guwahati 

The journey is going to be long, so try to start early. The scenery changes from pine-clad rides to lush Assam valleys. 

If time allows, when you reach Guwahati, take an evening river cruise on the Brahmaputra. You can also visit the famous Kamakhya Temple the next morning before you head home. 

F & Q

When is the best time to visit Arunachal Pradesh?

The best time to visit Arunachal is from March to October. The weather usually remains pleasant, and the skies are clear, perfect for exploration.

How do I get to Arunachal Pradesh?

Guwahati in Assam serves as the gateway to Northeast India. First, travel to Guwahati and from there, you can take a private taxi, cab, bus, or train to reach Arunachal Pradesh.  

What's the weather like throughout the year?

If you visit during the spring or summer, then you'll enjoy pleasant weather, and ideal for exploring the state. Expect heavy rain during the monsoon, and winters are pretty chilly, especially in the higher regions. So, it's best to pack accordingly. 

What exactly is the Inner Line Permit (ILP), and how do I get it?

The Inner Line Permit is a special document required for entering certain places of Arunachal Pradesh. It helps to protect the local communities and their cultures. You can apply for it easily online (ILP Arunachal) or at certain government offices before your trip.