Introduction
Whenever you plan a visit to the Himalayas, you often think of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, or Uttarakhand. If you've already explored these states, you might consider Sikkim or North West Bengal. However, the home of pristine and virgin valleys—Arunachal Pradesh—is often ignored. Located in the far northeastern part of India, Arunachal Pradesh is home to 26 main tribes with 100 subtribes scattered across the state.
Understanding Arunachal Pradesh
When you visit Arunachal, you'll understand why this beautiful state, despite its attractions, is often ignored by travelers. Firstly, both local and foreign tourists need a permit to visit. Secondly, due to extreme terrain and government neglect, the infrastructure is poor. Although there's been a recent boost in development, much work still needs to be done.
This mass ignorance can be both a curse and a blessing. While there's a lack of information about the state, the idea of exploring such an untouched place can be alluring.
Planning Your Trip
When planning my first trip to this virgin land, I thought I had enough information. Despite my interest in this beautiful place since childhood, I lacked crucial details to plan a perfect trip. After my visit, I realized I made several mistakes. Here, I'll share what you should avoid to make your trip better.
Essential Travel Tips for Arunachal Pradesh
- Flights Over Trains If you can afford flight fares and are determined about your trip, book a flight instead of a train. Arunachal Pradesh has limited air access with two functioning airports: Pasighat and Tezu. Train travel can be hectic and dull, especially when you're from the western part of the country. Plus, the fare is almost equal to an AC car ticket.
- Minimal Luggage One of the biggest mistakes I made was packing too much. Due to the lack of information about the weather, terrain, and culture, we ended up with excessive luggage. I recommend packing light. A good trek bag is ideal. Avoid unnecessary items. Carry an umbrella and raincoat in the summer, and warm clothes in the winter. Even in summer, places like Tawang, Ziro, Bomdila, Anini, or Menchukha require warm clothing.
- Carry Hard Cash Arunachal Pradesh has a high scarcity of ATMs. Those available are often out of service or empty. Power cuts add to the problem. Always carry enough cash to avoid inconveniences. Locals recommend it, and it's a practical tip to ensure a smooth trip.
- Don’t Be Choosy About Food If you're picky about food, Arunachal Pradesh might not be for you. Don't pack your own food; it will only weigh you down. The state is predominantly non-vegetarian. Vegetarian options are limited, especially in high hills. You must adapt to simple, regular food like dal, rice, and potatoes.
- Adapt to the Local Schedule Arunachal Pradesh follows an early-to-bed, early-to-rise routine. The sun rises by 4-5 AM and sets by 6 PM. Start your day early, especially if you have a Sumo booking for travel. The first Sumos leave by 5:30 AM. Adjusting to this schedule will enhance your experience.
- Keep Buffer Days Always include 2-3 buffer days in your trip. The North East is prone to uncertainties like weather changes or political unrest. Strikes and natural events like landslides or avalanches can disrupt plans. Buffer days allow you to manage these situations or explore more if everything goes smoothly.
- Forget About Your Phone If you're a phone addict, Arunachal Pradesh is perfect to break the habit. The state has poor network coverage, especially in higher reaches like Menchukha. Only BSNL has some access, and even that is unreliable. Enjoy the solitude and disconnect from the digital world. Carry proper medication for road trips as the terrain can cause back pain or motion sickness.
Conclusion
Arunachal Pradesh is a beautiful yet challenging destination. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable trip. Embrace the adventure, adapt to the local culture, and make the most of your visit to this pristine part of India.