Situated in the eastern corner of the country, Arunachal Pradesh is a hilly swate located in the foothills of the Himalayas. It shares the international border with China, Bhutan and Myanmar.

Most of the terrain is dominated by valleys, highland plateaus, and ridges with 80 per cent of the state covered in forest with four different kinds of forest, each having its own unique identity.

The diverse topography and changing altitudes have created a wildlife population that is not only diverse, but also unique.

Interestingly, this is the only state that claims to have four major varieties of big cats in its jungle - tiger, leopard, clouded leopard and snow leopard. The mammal Mithun is indigenous to the state too. These forests are fed by five major rivers that flow through the state - Kameng, Subansiri, Lohit, Siang and Tirap.

Every district of the state has its own exclusive and unique variety of orchids, with Asia’s largest Orchidarium located in Tipi. With such a vast cover of natural habitats, Arunachal Pradesh has taken steps to preserve them with protected national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.

While Arunachal Pradesh offers a favorable climate throughout the year, the state welcomes the monsoon from July to September.

Permits:All domestic tourists have to apply for an Inner line permit. This permit can be applied online from the Arunachal Pradesh tourism website, or via the tourist ILP facilitator centers at Naharlagun railway station, Gumto railway station, Guwahati Asom Paryatan Bhawan near Nepali mandir and Guwahati LGBI Airport. Foreign tourists can obtain a Protected Area Permit.

Bomdila: A quaint town located at an elevation of 8000 ft boasts not only spectacular views of nature but is also deeply embedded in culture. Bomdila once belonged to the kingdom of Tibet and has been ruled by several local rulers which has influenced cultural diversity. 

One of the prime attractions is the Bomdila Monastery. You can also walk around the vast areas of apple orchards and visit the craft center.  

Adventure lovers can head to the Eaglenest wildlife sanctuary for a day out with streams, waterfalls and unique birds. Trekking trails from Bomdila are a visual treat of smitten peaks, rainforests and blooming valleys. Bomdila to Seppa is a popular yet alluring trekking route.  

Tawang: Another gorgeous town of Arunachal Pradesh is Tawang. The town greets you with mystical Buddhist prayer chants and the site of monks engrossed in their prayers and daily routine - and all this in the backdrop of endless mountains and floating clouds.

Gudpi, Tawang valley and Madhuri Lake are some of the spots which are nature’s best creations. Sangetser and Sela glacial lakes charm you with their crystal clear blue water. If you miss a trek to Gorichen Peak, then you miss out on an unforgettable view of the town. While summers are for trekking, winters are for skiing.  

Sela Pass: Approximately 14,000 ft above sea level, Sela Pass is a gateway to Tawang. The winding route to Sela Pass is a journey with rain, ice, mud and rocks. However complex the journey, the views are absolutely worth the effort.  

The Sela pass gate will welcome you wrapped in colorful Buddhist prayer flags in the backdrop of white curtain. The frozen lakes and blankets of snow make it look like a winter wonderland. The pass has almost 100 lakes, the most accessible one being Sela Lake. 

As you look around, you are bound to lose your breath, both by the altitude and the Himalayas. 

Ziro Valley: The never ending shades of green carpet the landscape of Ziro valley. Surrounded by rice fields and pine trees, this World Heritage site hill town is straight out of a picture. Camping on the Ziro Puto guarantees you views that will make you want time to stand still. Ziro valley is home to an extremely unique Apatani tribe, who are known for their custom of face tattoos.  

Besides camping and trekking, adventure lovers can also indulge in the bold cuisine of this region. The 5,000-year-old Meghna cave temple is yet another attraction.  

Namdapha National Park: Namdapha National Park and Rainforest is a biodiversity hotspot. With out-of-the-world trekking routes along the pristine Noa-Dihing river that cuts through virgin forests, this place is a must visit for nature and adventure enthusiasts. 

While crossing the crystal clear rivers by a bamboo bridge, you will notice the blue mountains peeking from a cover of thin white sheets of clouds. Hike across loose boulders, and wake up on misty mornings for a hot cup of tea in the middle of nowhere.  

Itanagar: This capital city offers exclusive views of the Himalayas. Itanagar is a perfect start to your trip to Arunachal Pradesh and is a city of historic and scenic importance. It offers a plethora of activities to indulge in.

Ganga Lake is situated in the backdrop of an evergreen forest. The calm and still water is an ideal spot for boating and a day picnic. Other scenic excursions include Jawaharlal Nehru National Park, Ita fort, Indira Gandhi Park and Rupa, a hill station located close to Itanagar.  

Gompa Buddhist temple, craft center and emporium are places of cultural importance. 

Pasighat: Trekking to Tuting, Mariang: Witness the might of the Brahmaputra river by rafting through strong and promising rapids. White sands, blue waters and green mountains will transport you into a world resembling a painting. Pasighat is home to the gushing Siang river and indeginous hanging bridges. 

The grace of the waterfalls, the song of birds and the misty mornings will charm your hearts away. You might also get a chance to catch a Golden Mahseer fish, which is considered as a golden opportunity.

Seppa: Rafting in Siang River to Bhalukpong:If nature inspires you then Bhalukpong is a place to be. Surrounded by untouched and pristine forests and sanctuaries, this is a retreat for anyone seeking a break from the bustle of the city.  

Angling and river rafting are the primary thrill-based activities in this region. 

Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhalukpong Fort and Tipi are some of the destinations which are not to be missed. Tipi Orchidarium houses around 5,000 varieties of orchids. 

If you think adventure is all about nature and adrenaline rush, think again. Adventure is also about exploring new cultures and interacting with locals. Arunachal Pradesh is an experience which is a perfect blend of adrenaline rush, inspiring interactions and a visual treat. 

Unforgettable thrills:

1. Trekking and a visit to Eaglenest wildlife sanctuary in Bomdila
2. Skiing in Tawang
3. Trekking in Sela pass
4. Camping and trekking in Ziro valley
5. Rafting in Siang valley
6. Namdapha Rainforest trek