Northeast Odyssey
Tucked away in the remotest tip of northeast India is the enticingly beautiful state of Arunachal Pradesh. Literally meaning ‘land of the dawn lit mountains’ in Sanskrit, Arunachal with its captivating snow-capped peaks, silver lakes, gushing rivers, verdant landscapes and glorious heritage has become a prime destination for both Indian and international tourists. Bollywood too was spellbound by the beauty of the place and shot.
Madhuri Dixit-starrer film Koyla in the breathtaking Tawang district.
In fact, it was in Tawang that the fifth Dalai Lama, Mera Lama, saw his vision to construct a monastery in 1681. It is said after praying for guidance, he found his horse standing quietly on a hilltop and took it as a divine sign. Hence the name Tawang, which means chosen by the horse.
The Abor Country River Camp is an eco-lodge passionately put together by Abor Country Travels and Expeditions. Right from the location which is on the banks of the Siang River that flows quietly through Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh, and in the middle of the tropical forest; this is a retreat into the lap of nature. It stays true to the ethos of ecology and does not depend too much on artificial resources. For instance, it draws its water supply from a natural spring with fresh water and gets its electricity from solar power, along with a generator that works as a backup.
The camp has a total of three rooms with attached toilets and, two grand Maharaja tents with individual toilets. All the rooms are cozy and exude a warm feel that comes from generous use of wood. The intricate woven cane wall panels lend a luxurious as well as ethnic look. An eclectic collection of objects sourced locally and elsewhere by the owner, Oken Tayeng, a wanderlust himself, sum up the décor. This is where Tayeng displays local craft and blends them with a contemporary touch. Interestingly, every object in the roomsin some way tells a story. The locally-manufacture wooden bedscrafted by local carpenters herald the richness of resource in that part of the world; the wooden dustbins are a celebration of the state’s natural abundance; the lamps made of fishing nets highlight the rich fauna and flora of the land.
If you enjoy outdoor splendor, this is it.Try a hand at birding and spot some of the finest birds that call this Himalayan paradise their home. Team up your birding activities with a healthy bout of trekking and be sure to catch some real photo op moments. What with the towering peaks and plunging valleys, it would be hard to not to be blown away by the vistas.
It goes without saying that once you are done with the day’s rigorous activities, kick back and enjoy the cool mountain breeze with a hot plate of the local delicacies put together by the camp chef.
The kitchen relies on fresh ingredients and greens that grow in the kitchen garden, it is always a treat. Be it simple traditional meal or basic Indian food with no frills but loaded with flavour, the food, on the whole, is wholesome and a delight.
The Abor Country River Camp is perched on the banks of the Siang River.
The nearest airport is the Dibrugarh airport. You can catch a connecting flight to Pasighat or even book cabs and travel by road.
Awoo resort is perched right on the lush and grand Bushthang hills that run down the valley and stretches upto the unspoilt sands of Kameng River. It is this very location amidst the picturesque valley of Dirang in the West Kameng district that guests love about the resort. The traditional appeal and all the elements that come with it is, is a bonus. Built to showcase traditional grandeur, it is carefully designed to blend local extravagance with exotic local surroundings.
The rooms are well- furnished and equipped with modern facilities, includinga 24-hours power back-up. The generous use of wood both in the interior and exterior of the property exudes warmth and style. Every room overlooks the mountains and it is a delight to hear the Dirang River gurgling away musically in the background. The serene can serenate guests who come seeking for tranquility in the lap of nature.
Since Dibang is situated at an altitude of 4910 ft. above the sea level, it is a beautiful hill station looked over by the ethnic Mahayana Monapas that share the roots of their traditions and heritage with those of Western Bhutan. Dirang is located in between Bomdilla and Tawang and due to its lower altitude than Bomdila, the weather is milder and a constant wind blows along the river valley making it a pleasant place to stay. The spectacular natural view of Dirangis also sure to sweep you off your feet and the high peaks and mountains of Dirang are irresistible for mountaineers and trekkers.
Dirang is also a sub-divisional headquarters in the West Kameng District and well known for its hot water springs and apple orchards, apart from its mesmerising natural beauty. Don’t miss the base camp for trekking and bird watching at Mandla or Madla Phudong, which is situated at a distance about 28 km from Dirang.
Do visit the Dirang Dzong, locally known as the “JONG” – the fort at Dirang which was built in 1831 to represent the authority of the King or Chief. The fort is also an important centre of Public Administration and is an important historical monument for the Monpas of Dirang circle.
The other local attractions include the National Yak Research Center (situated half-way between Dirang and Tawang), the regional apple nursery and kiwi farms that are situated across the river valley and one has to cross over through a small bridgeto reach them.The other famed tourist spot is the hot water spring – the water is believed to have curative properties.
The resort has a multi-cuisine restaurant that overlooks the whole Dirang valley and it’s a delight to sit and much what’s on offer. Expect local delicacies and a good selection of Indian and Chinese.
Order your food at least 45 minutes in advance so as to give them time to prepare fresh food for you.
Most often, it’s the location that defines a place. Hotel Gakyi Khang Zhang is one such place. Surrounded by the grand Himalayan Mountains, the best thing about the hotel is indeed the location. It offers the best view of the Tawang valley and the 17th century Tawang monastery, the second largest Buddhist monastery in the world.
The hotel is one of the few good options to check in while in Tawang which does not have too many good hotels. The wood finished rooms are clean and tidy and rather cheerful: c colorful wall that almost matches an equally colorful curtains and bed covers. But it makes sure all amenities are complete to ensure the comfort of guests.
Make sure you do not miss some sights. Wake up a little early and you will be rewarded with the first sunrise of the country. In the winters, you will be treated to the first bit of snowfall in the country, since the ranges are between 6000 ft. to 22,000 ft. above sea level.
But most importantly, do not miss visiting the 17th Century Monastery, where the 6th Dalai Lama was born, the 13th was hidden in 1911 to avoid the Chinese invasion of Lhasa and the present, the14th Dalai Lama, had used this route to flee to India in April 1959. Other attractions include the war memorial and a trip to the Bumla pass; about 37 km from Tawang, where you can explore several other off-beat passes as well. The Bumla pass is the same pass which served as an entry point for the present Dalai Lama entered India while escaping from Tibet.
If you choose to spend some time staying in the hotel, you can be sure of a comfortable stay, thanks to all the modern amenities they have provided: flat screen TVs with a cable connection, room heaters, washrooms with 24/7 running hot and cold water etc. in addition, the hotel also has several other facilities like a doctor-on-call, a travel desk, laundry services, car parking, conference hall, health club, power backup, credit card acceptance and more.
For those who like to squeeze in some good exercise, the Masang gym is equipped with a range of equipments. For the outdoorsy guests, there are several other activities like non-motorised water sports, cycling path, river rafting, picnic sites, nature trekking, lake cruises, gondola rides, fishing, and boating activities available. The more you explore, the more you will get a feel of the local life here, where the culture and the traditions are taken care of by the Monpas.
If you’re travelling for work, you can also hold meetings and conferences in their spacious conference hall that can accommodate between 50 to 150 people.
Hotel Gakyi Khang Zhang also has a farmhouse close-by. Staying over at the farmhouse gives you a peek into the warmth and friendliness of the Tawang people, right in the midst of the beautiful Tawang countryside, where you can soak yourself into the sights and sounds of the village. Try a hand at fishing, surfing and cycling. The farmhouse is an ideal place for a family retreat and a break away from the busy city and metro pollution.
Gayki Toptsang multi-cuisine restaurant gives diners a vast variety to choose from, be it cocktails, light snacks or fine dining. The breakfast buffet along with their quick-fix-meals includes several cuisines including Indian, Chinese and Continental dishes.
The C-Cube Bar is well-stocked and it’s quite a lively place to unwind in the evening. Soft piped music that lifts the mood for a perfect relaxing evening.
10% Luxury Charge applicable on Presidential Suite.
10% Service Charge applicable on Presidential Suite.
For rest of the rooms, 10% Luxury Tax as applicable.
The Heritage Pemaling Resort has the advantage of location. It’s perched at an altitude of 5,000 feet in a valley laden with flowers and greenery along the gently flowing Dirang Chu River. At such a vantage point, all windows of the rooms overlook the valley offering a spell-binding view of the Dirang Valley and the Kameng River deep down below. The property also offers an awesome view of the Sella Peaks, the pass leading to Sella. Sit back in your room and watch the colors of the Sella-Road Cliffs change, through the spacious glass panes. At night, watch the lights of Dirang valley light up deep below and high above, there are ethereal uncanny lights atop the lofty peaks of Sella and the sunrise and sunsets on the peaks are absolutely mind-blowing.
All the 20 furnished rooms come with a small garden laden with blooming seasonal flowers. The reception is large and on a sunny day, sits out and enjoys the view. Well-furnished with modern facilities and amenities, the property is geared to welcome discerning travellers. The well-equipped conference hall is for those looking to host functions or parties.
This area is home to the local inhabitants Mahayana Buddhist Monpas, whose tradition and culture share roots with those of Western Bhutan. Guests can get an insight of their life and walk through sprawling apple orchards, sheep breeding farms and natural hot springs. Considered a centre for adventure sports, so get set to go trekking and hiking. Dirang's prime attractions are Kalchakra and Ngingmapa Monastery, Yak Research Centre,Sangti Valley (winter home for the famous black-necked cranes) and kiwi and apple orchards.
Dining: The in-house restaurant serves local delicacies and the Indian selection is good. Simple, exquisite and homely food served with lots of care and attention make dining an experience.
Set in the scenic Dirang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, Norphel Retreat is a 47-room hotel. Two rooms on the ground floor are reserved for senior citizens, a gesture that tells about the thoughtfulness of the management.
A touch of tradition and class define this property which is set amidst the sprawling kiwi and orange orchard.
Dirang is a tiny hill station in West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh with a rich scope for tourism. The rooms are spacious, well-appointed, and elegant with all amenities to ensure comfort. Well-trained staff are gentle and courteous and only add to the guests’ comfort. The Tibetan architecture of the property is a reflection of all the elements that influences the ethos of the hotel: where a spotless traditional katha, ceremonial scarf, welcomes every guest with love and where service is devotion.
Kick back and enjoy yourself in this modern retreat, perched at a height of 5000 ft. above sea level and surrounded by lush kiwi and orange orchards. On a clear day, you can also enjoy your hot cuppa while feasting on the grand Sela peak.
Along with a slice of nature’s best, the hotel also provides modern amenities in each room, along with a free high-speedWi-Fi connection so you can remain in touch with the rest of the world, in-house dining facilities from breakfast all the way through midnight, and free parking if you’ve come along in your own vehicle. And most importantly, if you’re travelling with your furry buddy, they’re more than happy to accommodate them in the hotel as well.
If you decide to put your adventurous self to test, the hotel provides packages that include outdoor activities like rafting, paragliding, fishing, mountain biking, and trekking. If you choose to simply step out to soak in the sights, do remember to drop in at the Sangti Valley, Chug Valley, and Mandala, amongst others.
For any other help, approach the staff who are always around to ensure you enjoy nothing but the best during your stay with them.
Dining:The in-house multi-cuisine restaurant serves Pan Asian, Continental and Indian cuisine. The chef will be too happy to prepare local food for those who want to sample a dish or two.
Rungkhung, Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh
The nearest airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, Assam. Drive further from the airport to Dirang via Tejpur which is a scenic eight hours drive through forests and villages.
Alternative route would be to drive from Guwahati airport through the Orang National Park for two hours and, further on to Dirang for five hours.
September to June
Overlooking the beautiful landscape and snow-clad mountains of the Himalayan Range, Siphiyang Phong is named after the mountain that has left everyone awed by its beauty and is located in the heart of Bomdila. History stands witness to its might, folk songs tell of its glory and the locals worship it. Bomdila is the headquarter town in West Kameng district, situated 8500 ft. above sea level, perched over a wide ridge that straddles a mountain in the Himalayan ranges, a lofty heaven on earth. The tiny town presents a panoramic view of the snow covered peaks and the picturesque Kameng valley.
The hotel has two meeting rooms and a promising restaurant that serves yummy food. All the 28 rooms are exclusively designed and come in different categories: standard, family and executive rooms spread across four floors. The baby-sitting facility should be boon for those travelling with young ones. There is a doctor-on-call for first time travelers or, for those who are apprehensive of travel sickness and other illness during the stay. The essential services rendered by the hotel for a hassle free stay include front desk, security, backup generator, round the clock room service, laundry, doctor on call, wake-up service, luggage storage, Internet access, parking, travel desk and currency exchange.
The main attractions around this hotel are: Gontse Rabgyaling Monastery (Upper Gonpa), Thub-Chog Gatsel Ling Monastery (Lower Gonpa), Bomdila View Point, R.R Hill Bomdila, Handloom and Textiles Emporium, District Museum and the vast apple & kiwi orchards in this region. For adventurers, it will be of interest to know that a number of treks and hikes into the mountains start from Bomdila. From simple little walking trails to more expert-level treks, Bomdila is at the hub of hiking activity in the Kameng region.
The hotel offers a highly efficient tour & travel desk services. If you plan to further tour the other parts of the North East region of India, the hotel tour specialists will handle your tours and other travel arrangements to the neighboring states of Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram and Sikkim; one of the bio-diversity hotspots in the world. Services can be availed for exchanging currencies, booking flight/railways tickets and cab services.
Foodies are in for a gastronomic treat at the on-site restaurant, which serves mouth-watering delicacies. Expect finest local, regional and international ingredients and beautifully presented where every dish is a distinctive experience. The kitchen relies on healthful cooking methods and uses only freshest of locally grown seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs. For a fresh twist on exceptional fine dining, experience the Siphiyang Phong restaurant. The seasonal menu that showcases unique traditions of the West Kameng region is truly for those discerning travellers who consider food an experience.
Deluxe room: INR 3120/-
There is a facility of inclusion of 'extra bed' – a folding cot or a mattress, on request.
Hotel Tsepal Yangjom is a three-star property in Bomdila, the headquarters of the west Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. It is quite sought-after considering this is one of the better options for tourists who travel all the way seeking tranquility in that part of the country. Nestled in the heart of Bomdila and easily accessible to downtown prime commercial and shopping centres and dining places, it’s recommended for its location and upkeep of the hotel. The rooms are spacious and tastefully done and overlook the lofty mountains surrounding the property.
The different categories of rooms: suites, executive, semi-deluxe, deluxe, standard, economy, corporate family rooms are all well-equipped to ensure comfort. Simple but charming interiors those emphases on the use of polished woodwork exude warmth. The special catering and conference facilitieswill come handy for corporate use and for private functions. There is ample parking space provided for all guests. Other facilities like doctor-on-call or laundry services are meant to make guests comfortable. The hotel is recommended for business and transit travellers to Bomdila. While in Bomdilla, do visit the Bomdila Monastery which is just 1.00 kms from the hotel. The Farms of Dirang is just 5.00 kms and the National Yak Research Centre is about 11.00 kms from Bomdilla. Also, the Tawang monastery is about 0.50 kms which is a must visit.
The hotel has a multi-cuisine restaurant with an in-house chef dishing out good Indian, Chinese and excellent local cuisine.
The Yamne Abor Eco Lodge is a quaint place that beckons you when you are around the Yamne River in Damro. Known for its peace and tranquility, the lodge, also an enterprise of Abor CountryTravels & Expeditions, houses three pretty cottages is surrounded by a lovely forest known for its Gaur, a bison that have been trained to come out in the open with the promise of some salt. Each cottage offers a grand view of the valley and opens up to a large ground big enough for more tents.
The eco lodge is a 40 minute hike from the longest hanging bridge in Arunachal Pradesh. Built from traditional cane and bamboo, the bridge hangs across the Yamne River. Ideal for people who wants to get away from it all and surrender to total tranquillity. Be warm that the faint BSNL signal will only get worse as the night falls.
Once you are stationed here, get deep into the village life. You could also take a trek down the Pasighat and Yingkiong route and arrive at the village inhabited by the Adi Padam tribe and learn about their unique Donyi-Polo culture. Take a bite out of the scrumptious local delicacies and track their daily routines as they move about the place hosting you and getting their chores done with grace and ease.
Freshly-cooked home-style meal with greens and ingredients from the kitchen organic garden. Expect a rare treat, where you can give your inputs when it comes to what you want to eat!
YamneAbor is located in Damroh the home of the Bor Abors 78 kms(4 hours) north of Pasighat
INR 3000 per cottage with breakfast included in the price.
