π§³ Journey to India's Hidden Paradise
Arunachal Pradesh, the land of the rising sun, is one of Indiaβs most untouched gems β filled with snow-capped peaks, tribal villages, Buddhist monasteries, and mystic landscapes.
Planning a trip can be tricky, but this guide makes it simple β covering permits, routes, itineraries, and travel tips from major cities like Guwahati, Delhi, and Kolkata.
π Step 1: Do You Need a Permit?
Yes! Indian citizens need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), and foreigners need a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
π Step 2: Reaching Arunachal β Guwahati Is Your Gateway
βοΈ From Delhi
- Fly to Guwahati (direct flights daily)
- Train: Rajdhani or Brahmaputra Mail (~28 hrs)
βοΈ From Kolkata
- Direct flights to Guwahati or Lilabari (near Ziro)
- Train: ~18 hrs to Guwahati
- Scenic drive: Siliguri β Tezpur β Bhalukpong
π Main Travel Routes Inside Arunachal
Route A: Guwahati β Bhalukpong β Dirang β Tawang
- Most scenic & popular route
- Stops: Bomdila, Dirang, Tawang
- Cross the epic Sela Pass
- Approx: 520 km | 2-day drive
Route B: Guwahati β Itanagar β Ziro β Mechuka
- For cultural & offbeat experiences
- Best for slow travel lovers
Route C: Guwahati β Tezpur β Roing β Mayodia β Anini
- Easternmost wild landscapes
- Snow in Mayodia Pass during winter!
π Transport Options from Guwahati
- Shared Sumos from Paltan Bazar
- State-run APSTS buses (budget)
- Private taxis or self-drive (only if skilled)
π Tawang Route β 7-Day Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1: Guwahati β Bhalukpong
- Day 2: Bhalukpong β Bomdila
- Day 3: Bomdila β Dirang (Hot Springs)
- Day 4: Dirang β Tawang (via Sela Pass)
- Day 5: Explore Tawang
- Day 6: Tawang β Bomdila
- Day 7: Return to Guwahati
π¨ Where to Stay
- Homestays: Dirang, Ziro, Aalo
- Hotels: Tawang, Bomdila
- Monastery Guesthouses (spiritual & peaceful)
π Food & Essentials
- Try: Momos, Thukpa, Butter Tea
- Carry cash β UPI doesnβt work everywhere
- Altitude meds are recommended
βοΈ Best Time to Visit
October to April: Snow + clear skies
Avoid July to Sept: Monsoon & landslides
π§ Final Thoughts
From border monasteries to snowy passes, Arunachal Pradesh offers adventures that stay etched in your soul. Plan well, travel slow, and let this untouched land write your next big travel story.