Arunachal Pradesh, India’s easternmost state, is a haven for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts. With its serene monasteries, tribal heritage, and breathtaking landscapes, this 8-day itinerary covers Namphake Monastery, Namsai, Golden Pagoda, Parshuram Kund, Walong, Dong, Kibithu Village, Roing, and Anini. Here’s your ultimate guide for a memorable Arunachal trip, including travel times, accommodation, and top experiences.
Table of Contents
How to Reach Arunachal Pradesh
By Air
- The nearest airport is Dibrugarh (Assam). From here, drive to Namphake Monastery.
By Train
- The nearest railhead is Tinsukia Junction (Assam), well-connected to major Indian cities. From there, hire a cab to Namphake Monastery.
By Road
- Arunachal Pradesh is accessible via road from Assam. Private taxis or state transport buses from Dibrugarh or Tinsukia are the most convenient options.
How to get around in Arunachal Pradesh
As the route we are taking in this itinerary is completely offbeat, we recommend hiring a car with a very experienced driver for the whole duration of the trip.
We hired ours from a local travel company NEST (North East Sojourn Travels) and they also arrange for the permits wherever required. Contact : +91-7002560803.
This will surely add up the cost of the trip so to make it budget friendly, we recommend doing it with a group of friends.
Day-Wise Itinerary for Arunachal Pradesh
Day 1: Arrival at Namphake Monastery (Assam)
- Travel: Drive from Dibrugarh (Approx. 1.5 hours).
- Stay: Monastery Guesthouse at Namphake. Contact : +91-7086438967
- Highlights: Arrive and rest in the peaceful ambiance of the monastery, nestled by the Burhidihing River.
Day 2: Namphake Monastery to Namsai
- Sunrise at Burhidihing River: Start your day with a mesmerizing sunrise by the river.
- Tai Phake Tribe Pooja: Witness their traditional rituals and participate in a spiritual experience at the Monastery.
- Nam Phake Village Tour: Explore the stilted houses, vibrant culture, and a small local museum.
- Lunch: At the village museum, enjoy a simple, traditional Assamese meal.
- Travel: Drive to Namsai (Approx. 5 hours).
- Stay: Golden Pagoda Eco Resort. Contact : +91-8730081650
Day 3: Namsai – Parshuram Kund – Walong
- Golden Pagoda (Kongmu Kham): A magnificent Buddhist structure with golden spires and serene surroundings. Visit it in the morning. And leave for the journey ahead after breakfast.
- Parshuram Kund: A sacred pilgrimage site by the Lohit River (Approx. 2 hours from Namsai).
- Lohit View: A scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the valley.
- Travel: Drive to Walong (Approx. 5 hours).
- Stay: Anu Namai Homestay, Walong. Contact : +91-9402939596
Day 4: Exploring Walong and Dong
- Night Trek to Dong: Embark on a thrilling trek to Dong, India’s easternmost village, to witness the first sunrise of the country. We will need a local guide for this trek. After reaching your homestay, ask them for a local guide and they will help you with it.
- Hot Springs: Visit the therapeutic natural springs near Dong.
- Kibithu Village: Explore this charming border village with stunning views and serene vibes.
- Overnight at Anu Namai Homestay, Walong.
Day 5: Walong to Roing
- Travel: Drive to Roing (Approx. 8 hours).
- Stay: Mismi Hill Resort. Contact : +91-9862856981
- Highlights: Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Dibang Valley en route.
Day 6: Roing to Anini
- Travel: A long drive to Anini (Approx. 8 hours).
- Stay: Mismi Tuckin Homestay. Contact : +91-9402208767
- Highlights: Pass through Mayodia Pass for stunning mountain views.
Day 7: Anini Exploration
- Highest Viewpoint of Anini: Start your day with panoramic views of the Dibang Valley.
- Mathu Valley: Visit this lush, picturesque valley.
- Museum and Idu Mishmi Tribe Home: Dive into the cultural heritage of Anini by interacting with the locals.
- Waterfall Trek: End the day with an exciting trek to a nearby waterfall. The owner of our homestay helped us with it. It is very risky so don’t try without a local guide.
- Stay: Mismi Tuckin Homestay, Anini.
Day 8: Anini to Roing
- Travel: Drive back to Roing (Approx. 8 hours).
- Highlights: Enjoy the journey through the scenic Dibang Valley.
- As the journeys are long, stay overnight before taking the flight back home
Best Time to Visit Arunachal Pradesh
- March to May: Spring brings blooming flowers and clear skies.
- October to November: Post-monsoon period is perfect for treks and sightseeing.
- Avoid traveling during the monsoon due to landslides and heavy rain.
Stay Options in Arunachal Pradesh
- Namphake Monastery Guesthouse : Contact : +91-7086438967
- Golden Pagoda Resort (Namsai) : Contact : +91-8730081650
- Anu Namai Homestay (Walong) : Contact : +91-9402939596
- Mismi Hill Resort (Roing) : Contact : +91-9862856981
- Mismi Tuckin Homestay (Anini) : Contact : +91-9402208767
Top Things to Do in Arunachal Pradesh
- Witness India’s First Sunrise: At Dong village.
- Explore Monasteries: Namphake Monastery and Golden Pagoda.
- Parshuram Kund: A spiritual site and serene escape.
- Tribal Heritage: Visit Idu Mishmi homes and learn their traditions.
- Trekking: Waterfall trails and Dong night trek.
Tips for Travelers
- Carry Permits: An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for some locations. Please consult a local guide/ travel company/ stays for more details regarding this.
- Food : The journey from one place to another is long and you will hardly find eateries along the way. So, carry some ready to eat food packets, snacks and water.
- Pack Warm Clothes: Especially for higher altitudes.
- Cash is King: Limited ATMs in remote areas.
- Road Conditions: Be prepared for long and bumpy drives.
- Local Guides: Hire guides for treks and cultural visits.
This 8-day Arunachal Pradesh itinerary takes you through a blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. From the serene banks of the Burhidihing River to the enchanting valleys of Anini, this journey is a perfect escape for those seeking offbeat travel experiences.
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Happy travels! ✈️