Arunachal Tribes, Monasteries and Wildlife Tour
Overview
Leaving the large town of Dibrugarh and a ferry ride across the extensive Brahmaputra River- the widest River in India – it almost appears like a sea- this tribal awareness tour takes us through quite a few tribal villages in Central Arunachal Pradesh, stops in important Buddhist Monasteries and concludes in the Western Arunachal Pradesh. We explore three Apatani tribal villages of Central Aruanachal that present a very different culture than Monpa culture in the western side. The entire tour is focused on Arunachal's Tribal culture, lifestyle, traditions and customs. Its amazing to see the way the tribes are able to lead a simple life in such remote and isolated area. We will have plenty of opportunity to interact with the tribal people and closely look at their daily lives tending herds of yak, growing crops, following religious custom and traditions.
We will visit Tawang Monastery in the Western Arunachal Pradesh -the most famous Buddhist institution of the region and a power place, second to only the Potala Palace of Lhasa. We will also visit two famous National Parks of the North East India; Kaziranga and Nameri National Parks , both in the state of Assam, are abundant with rare and endangered species. Kaziranga National Park, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, is a testimony of the conservation of Great One Horned Rhinoceros, which was once almost extinct and now are found in only the jungles of Kaziranga and Nepal.
Outline Itinerary
Day 01~Flight from New Delhi or Kolkatta to Dibrugarh.
Day 02-03~Boating trip on Bramhaputra River followed by drive to Pasighat in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas. Spend another day here exploring the villages of Pasi, Adi and Indu Mishmi Tribes.
Day 04~Pasighat to Along-the land of Adi tribes.
Day 06~Today we head to Daporijo-the land of Adi (Galo) tribes who build the house on the rock without using the nail!
Day 06-07~A long day drive to Ziro-a plateau surrounded by Apatani tribal villages, Dibbo- Hija-Bulla-Hari and Hong villages.The uniqueness of Apatani tribe is tooting in women face and its nose plug, which you will find different from the other tribes.
Day 08~Ziro to Itanagar-the capital city of Arunachal Pradesh, time permitting visit the Jawaharlal Nehru museum.
Day 09-12~It’s a long day drive to Bomdila; spend 3 days here exploring Tawang Monasteries and tribal villages around.
Day 13-14~Scenic drive to Dirang through waterfalls and via Sela Pass. Another day at Dirang for local sightseeing and hikes.
Day 15-18~Jungle safari rides in Nameri and Kaziranga National Park.
Day 19~Return back to Guwahati.
Day 20~Flight from Guwahati to New Delhi or Kolkatta.
Itinerary
Day 01: Flight to Dibrugarh
There are daily flights to Dibrugarh from Kolkatta, Delhi and Mumbai and most of them go via Guwahati. Upon arrival at the airport, we are received at the airport by our local guide and then we are transferred to our hotel. We will have free time to explore the town on our own. Overnight hotel.
Day 02:Boating trip followed by drive to Pasighat
We take boating trip to Pasighat. Depending on the water level, the boat ride can take from 5 to 7 hours and then we will take car to cover the rest of the distance. We will have opportunity to admire the rich migratory bird life and if we are lucky, we might even be followed by Fresh Water Ganges Dolphins. The ferry ride culminates with a short 45 minutes drive to the small town of Pasighat at the foothills of the eastern Himalayas. En route, we will visit Adi Villages. Upon arrival check in at the guest house. Rest of the time free to discover the town on your own. We can also arrange your stay in private house so that you have opportunity to interact more with the local people.
Day 03:At Pasighat, exploring local tribes
Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh, that derives its name from the Pasi tribes of the area, is the oldest town of Arunachal Pradesh and referred as the heart of Arunchal Pradesh due to its central location. With its breathtaking hillside and lush-green river valleys domesticated by a galaxy of tribes, the area is a tourist’s delight and photographers paradise. We discover more the of the 'Pasis' or the Adi Villages. These aboriginal tribes are famous for their bamboo works. The hanging bridges of Pasighat made of local raw materials is an interesting point of observation to the tourists. We will visit their craft center and the museum. Across the Bhramhaputra River, locally known as Siang River and a boat ride away is Mebo, the granary of the Siang the River. We also visit Padam village and further on to Aohahi village of Idu Mishmi tribes. Dinner and overnight in the guesthouse.Dinner and overnight at the hotel/guest house.
Day 04:Pasighat to Along
After breakfast, we will have time to explore more of the Adi and Abor villages before we head to Along (100km/63 miles, 5 hrs). After visiting the tribal villages of Adi and Abor, we will depart for Along. Along situated at an altitude of 300m is the headquarter of West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh and is the land of Adi (Gallong) tribes. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 05:Along to Daporijo
After breakfast, we drive to Daporijo (160km/100 miles, 8 hrs). En route, visit Adi (Galo) and Tagin tribal villages. Adi (Galo) tribes build the house on the stone without using the nail!. Daporijo, situated at an altitude of 600m, is the home of Tagin tribe; theirs faces which resembles to Chinese. We check in our guesthouse and after some rest, we stroll in this interesting township. Visit tribe villages’ en route.
Day 06:Daporijo to Ziro
It's a long day drive to Ziro, today (160 km/100 miles, 8 hrs). After such a long and exhaustive day, we deserve rest. Ziro, situated at an altitude of 1560m from the sea level, is a plateau surrounded by Apatani tribal villages, Dibbo- Hija-Bulla-Hari and Hong village. Hong village are to be counted as second biggest and most organized tribal villages in Asia. The uniqueness of Apatani tribe is tooting in women face and its nose plug, which you will find different from the other tribes. Fish cum paddy culture is another interesting if you visit during August-October. We can visit Tarin Fish farm, museum, emporium and local market. En route, we can visit of Hillmiri tribal villages at Raga (Nishi, Hillmiri and Tagin tribe are more or less similar in their culture customs, tradition, and also slight similarity in their dialogue.
Day 07: Ziro, exploring Apatani Villages
Full day visit the Apatani villages including the trek in the Talle valley, returning to a walkabout through an Apa Tani village. Large parts of the Talle valley national park are still unexplored! we will take the tour of Apatani Tribes. Most Apatanis are loyal followers of the Danyi-Piilo faith, who pray to the Sun and the Moon. The dress of the Apatanis is elaborate and colorful, yet simple in style. Tattooing and the stuffing of large nose plugs were once popular among the women, although this practice has gradually fallen into decline in recent years. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 08: Ziro to Itanagar
After breakfast, we depart for Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh State. (150km/94 miles, 5 hrs). The capital city of Arunachal is a modern settlement built in the vicinity of the ruin of the 14th century fort old capital. The archaeological remains of this medieval capital comprise of two brick wall ramparts. Itanagar has extremely interesting museum known as Jawaharlal Nehru Museum, time spent here can really acquaint you with the culture and tradition of this region. All prototype of the bamboo and cane architecture of dwelling of different tribes and apparel, design and functional tools and others handicrafts are display here.
Day 09: To Bomdila (350km, 8 hrs)
It’s a long day drive from Itanagar to Bomdila. En route, we stop to visit Tipi Orchidarium, a glass house with over 7500 Orchids. We will also visit Shertukpen tribal village and Padma Choeling Monastary at Rupa. Upon arrival in Bomdila, we check in our hotel and take rest for the day.
Day 10: To Tawang through Buddhist Monasteries, Tribal village and Sela pass.
Early morning, we will visit the upper and the lower 'Gompa', a Buddhist Monastery at Bomdilla. After a leisurely breakfast, we depart for Tawang (180km/113 mile, 6 hrs), the blessed land of Monpa's. We drive through centuries old Dirang Basti a 'Dirang Monpa' tribal village, still retaining its old stone made houses and its colorful inhabitants with warmth in their hearts, Dirang town overlooking the fast flowing Dirang River, Sela pass (13703 ft) and Jaswant-Garh Chino-Indian war memorial. We check in the hotel and take rest for rest of the day. At night, it’s interesting to see the illuminating Tawang Monastery.
Day 11:At Tawang visiting its monastery, nunneries and enjoying tribal culture.
After breakfast, we visit the famous 350 years old Galden Namgyal Lhatse, popularly known as Tawang Monastery , founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyamtso in the year 1860-81. The Tawang monastery stands on the spur of a hill, about 10,000 feet above sea level, offering a commanding and picturesque view of the Tawang Chu valley and is surrounded on all sides except on the east by mountains with snow peaks and pine forest below. According to lore, this was the place where the great treasure master, Padma Lingpa gave initiations such as Kagyad and Tamdin tantras and hence the place came to be known as Tawang. This monastery is the fountain-head of the spiritual life of the Gelupa Sect of the Mahayana School of Budhism, The inner walls of the Dukhang - the assembly hall are painted with murals of various divinities and saints. We will also visit Ani Gompa nunnery near the town. Traditionally , at least one girl from a family mandatorily joined the nunnery but now, the rule has been relaxed and its voluntary. Later, we will visit 460 years old Urgelling Monastery, established by Lama Urgen Sangpo Bhumthang. It is also the birthplace of His holiness 6th Dalai Lama. In the evening, we enjoy folk dances performed by Monpa tribal people and monks.
Day 12:Monpa Village Village Excursion
Early in the morning, we will drive to a Monpa Tribal Village. Monpa tribes of the high, isolated valleys of Arunachal Pradesh, basically practise Tibetan Gelugpa sect of Buddhism, this being the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama and home to Asia’s second largest monastery, the mighty Tawang Monastery. We will have opportunity to meet the tribal people and closely look at their daily lives tending herds of yak, growing crops, following religious custom and traditions. Overnight hotel in Tawang.
Day 13:Scenic drive to Dirang through waterfalls and via Sela Pass.
We leave hotel early morning and head to Jang to enjoy the views of the waterfalls. We continue driving and cross 4,150m high Sela Pass, which was once battle ground between Indian and Chinese armies. There are opportunities for photography at every turn and twist of the mind-boggling road. Overnight hotel at Dirang.
Day 14:Dirang Sightseeing and hikes
We explore the beautiful Sangti valley and trek through the 'Dirang Monpa' Tribal village, where rare Black Necked Cranes come for wintering. Overnight at Dirang.
Day 15:To Nameri National Park and jungle safari rides
Early in the morning, we leave Dirang for Nameri National Park(209km/130mile), the last habitat of White winged Wood Duck along with many other rich wildlife including Tiger, Black bear, elephant, Leopard, Clouded Leopard, Indian Bison, Pangolin, Indian wild dog, deer, Civet Cat, Capped Langur, Jackals etc. We spend whole day on elephant safari rides, exploring the wildlife of the park. We have accommodation in safari style Eco Camp with thatched huts, adjacent to the park, an opportunity to live in the nature.
Day 16:To Kaziranga National Park.
After a leisurely breakfast at Eco camp, we drive to Kaziranga National park(158km), a title of a remarkable success story of conservation of the One Horned Rhinoceros and a UNESCO recognized world heritage site. The park is also rich in various wild lives. Overnight at Kaziranga Tourist lodge.
Day 17: At Kazirang National Park, Jungle Safari Rides
Early morning, we explore central area of Kaziranga National park on an elephant back. After lunch, again we take jeep safari to the central area of the park in quest of the more wildlife. Rest of the day at leisure to explore nature. Overnight at tourist Lodge.
Day 18: At Kazirang National Park.
Jungle Safari Rides, Tea Estate and Tribal Village Tour We embark again on safari ride and explore the eastern range of the park with packed lunch. We will also visit the neighboring tribal village and take a tour of a Tea Estate. We have some time in the afternoon to explore the mother nature on our own. Overnight at tourist Lodge.
Day 19:Return back to Guwahati
Early morning, we leave Kaziranga for Guwahati(220km/138miles), the gateway to the places of interest and beauty with varied offerings of its own. After lunch, we have a free day or we can visit the Government emporium to buy souvenirs of North East India. In the evening, we have still chance to take the boat cruise on Bramhaputra River, if we miss it the first day upon arrival.
Day 20:Flight Guwahati/Delhi/Kolkatta.
Transfer to the airport for flight to Delhi or Kolkatta or Bagdogra.
Trip Info
Cost Includes
- Accommodation on twin sharing.
- Three meals a day .
- All transfers and tour by a private vehicle.
- English speaking local guide.
- Sightseeing admission fees, including permits.
- Ferry rides and safaris
Cost Does Not Include
- Drinks, tipping and other expenses of personal nature such as laundry, phone etc.
- Airfares and airport taxes
- Extra expenses or loss due to nature and unforeseen events such as flight cancellation, delay, illness, civil unrest, inclement weather etc.
- Travel Insurance
Indian Visa and permits
You need to obtain Indian visa before hand as India does not grant visa upon arrival. Travisa Outsourcing handles all the India visa requests from inside the United States as a private contractor to the Indian Embassy and Consulates. For more information and application process, please follow the link below.
https://indiavisa.travisaoutsourcing.com/get-a-visa
Admission to Arunachal Pradesh requires Special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) which will be arranged by us in advance. For the RAP application, we need the photocopy of the passport and the Indian Visa together with 04 passport size photograph. Arunachal Royalty to the Government cost $50 per person. Contrary to previous requirement of minimum 4 travelers in a group, now we can apply permit for group of 2 travelers. The neighboring states of Assam, Mizoram and Nagaland no longer require special permit for admission effective Jan 01, 2010, with exception to Chinese and Pakistani nationals who still need to apply for permit before hand.
Trip Difficulty:
Its motor vehicle based tour with some long day drives. Roads are mountainous and at times can be bumpy, under paved or damaged during the monsoon. No strenuous activities at all! The trip is suitable for travelers of all ages with regular health conditions. No specific preparation is required so far
Accommodations:
Cities of Kohima, Dibrugarh and Guwahati offer choices of accommodation available and rest of the places have limited choices. Obviously, we pick the best available in the region. Hotels are fairly small; some hotels with 5-6 rooms only. They are clean and have private bathroom with hot and cold shower. But what we count in Arunachal is more the scenery out of the windows rather than the walls or lobby of the hotel.
Meals:
The trip features three meals a day. Indian, Chinese and various Tribal vegetarian foods are served. You may miss western style dishes. In order to supplement with the calorie, you may want to bring some dry foods like energy bars, dry fruits, cofee etc along with you.
Transportation:
We use top of the range and well maintained cars such as Toyota Innova, Chevrolet Tavera or Tata Spacio driven by reliable drivers for all transfers and sightseeing. The vehicles are comfortable, well maintained and air conditioned but for the climate of Arunachal, we don't need to run air conditioning. Drivers are courteous, friendly and well experienced in the mountainous road of the Himalayas.
Guide:
We are accompanied by a local East Indian Guide who is trained and proficient in English. Most importantly, our guide is friendly, flexible and committed to deliver the best services and personalized care.Your guide will make sure that you have necessa permits and vouchers, coordinate with drivers for day planning, deals with checkposts and help you check in the hotels.
A typical day of the trip:
Usually around 9 am, our guide and driver will show up at your hotel to take us on the trip. We visit the monasteries, temples and other sights for about 3-4 hours, depending on the agenda of the day and we will have lunch break between 12 noon to 1 pm. After lunch, we will have a couple of hours more to recover the remaining sights of the day and the tour concludes usually by 4 pm. We will be brought back to our hotel or our driver can drop us somewhere on our request . While we visit the monasteries, or temples or other attractions, we will have plenty of time to take photos, interact with the locals and do bargain shopping. Before the guide and driver leave us for the day, we will discuss the schedule of the next day.
Important Note:
Arunachal has everything to offer to the visitors but luxury. So, travellers seeking luxury accommodation must think twice before deciding to go on this trip.
Booking
When you are sure you are traveling, please don't delay in booking.Timely made booking helps to secure reservation in preferred hotels and flights. A deposit of US$200 is requested along with complete trip application form and passport copies.
Balance payment is due 60 days prior to your departure. Depending on the number of applicants, we may set an early payment date. Credit card payment attracts additional fee.
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- 90 days prior departure: Administrative fee US$ 50 per person.
- 60-89 day's prior departure: US$ 250 or 25% of the land cost whichever is higher.
- 45 days to 59 days prior departure: US$ 450 or 50% of the land cost whichever is higher
- 30 days to 44 days prior departure: US$ 600 or 75% of the land cost whichever is higher.
- Less than 30 days: 100%
Highland Asia Travel
We are an active adventure travel company, based in Minneapolis, USA with destination management offices in Delhi,Kathmandu, Thimphu and Lhasa. We are BBB accredited business and an active member of American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) and Nepal Association of Travel and Tours Agents (NATTA). Our local partners are also affiliated with the tourism associations of the respective countries and maintain all government requisites and licenses. We have set the standard for adventure travel and have a strong reputation for excellence that we do everything we can to maintain. Our managers and guides have more than 15 years of experience in organizing and leading adventure trips in the highlands of Asia.
Travel Protection Plan
While we plan do our best to make your trip smooth and seamless, there may be chances of unforeseen events and conditions such as illness, accident, inclement weather, and flight cancellation or missed connection or loss of baggage etc. that may cause interruption or delay or total cancellation of your trip putting your hard earned travel investment in jeopardy. It’s also possible that you may need medical assistance, emergency evacuation or medical transportation when you get ill or involve in an accident when you are traveling in remote areas. Highland Asia’s Tour cost does not cover any of these expenses or losses and so we strongly recommend you that you should protect yourself and your travel investment against those unfavorable conditions.
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Trip Snapshot
- Difficulty Level
Moderate: This is moderate trip ! - RatingNon-Touristic
- Destination(s)India
- Group Size4-10 Person
- Trip Price
US$ 3550 (2-3 pax)
US$ 2950 (4-6 pax)
US$ 2650 (7-10 pax)
US$ 550 ( Single Room Supplement)
Internal airfare would be extra. - Trip Start FromDibrugarh
- Trip Ends atGuwahati
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