Begin your journey in the picturesque town of Tawang. In the morning, visit the famous Tawang Monastery, the largest monastery in India, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Spend the afternoon exploring the scenic beauty of Tawang at Shonga-tser Lake, also known as Madhuri Lake, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the lively Tawang Market, filled with local handicrafts, textiles, and delicious street food.
Tawang Monastery: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Shonga-tser Lake: Estimated cost: INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Tawang Market: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Tawang is Cafe Subz. They serve delicious sandwiches and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Orchid Restaurant. This restaurant offers a wide variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
If you're looking for a place to have dinner, try Sher-e-Punjab Restaurant. They serve mouthwatering Punjabi cuisine with a touch of local flavors. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Friday, September 29: Ziro
On the second day, head to the enchanting town of Ziro. Begin your morning with a visit to Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot a variety of flora and fauna amidst lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Ziro Puto market, famous for its local handicrafts, organic produce, and traditional cuisine. End your day with a visit to Kile Pakho, a mesmerizing viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Ziro Valley during sunset.
Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost: INR 50, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Ziro Puto Market: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Kile Pakho Viewpoint: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Ziro, a cozy little cafe known for its delicious homemade pastries and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, visit Ziro Kitchen, a popular restaurant that serves a variety of mouthwatering local dishes, including the famous Apong fish curry. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
For dinner, try out Hapoli Restaurant, a charming eatery that specializes in traditional Arunachal Pradesh cuisine. Don't miss their signature dishes like the Bamboo Shoot Fry and Momo Platter. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Saturday, September 30: Dirang
Embark on a scenic drive to the charming hill town of Dirang. Begin your day by exploring the ancient Dirang Dzong, a fortress-like structure offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley. In the afternoon, visit the hot water springs of Dirang, known for their therapeutic properties. Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Sangti Valley, home to rare bird species and breathtaking landscapes.
Dirang Dzong: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Dirang Hot Water Springs: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sangti Valley: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café Himalaya, a cozy cafe with a laid-back atmosphere and a menu filled with delicious breakfast options like pancakes, omelettes, and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit Lungta Delicacy, a popular restaurant known for serving authentic Tibetan and Bhutanese cuisine. Enjoy their mouthwatering momos, thukpa, and traditional rice dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at The Dragon's Den, a vibrant restaurant offering a fusion of Chinese and Indian flavors. Indulge in their delectable dishes like sweet and sour chicken, butter garlic prawns, and spicy noodles. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, October 1: Bomdila
Continue your journey to Bomdila, a serene hill station nestled amidst the Himalayas. Begin your morning with a visit to the impressive Bomdila Monastery, known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings. Explore the craft emporium, where you can find exquisite traditional crafts and handloom products. In the afternoon, hike to the Bomdila Viewpoint, offering breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped mountains. End your day with a visit to the Upper Gompa, a peaceful Buddhist temple.
Bomdila Monastery: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Craft Emporium: Estimated cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Bomdila Viewpoint: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Upper Gompa: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Himalayan Cafe which offers a variety of delicious breakfast options such as freshly baked pastries, omelettes, and pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try the local favorite, Tenzin's Kitchen, known for its authentic Tibetan and local cuisine. Enjoy dishes like thukpa, momos, and traditional rice bowls. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Orchid Restaurant, a popular establishment serving a wide range of Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes. Indulge in their flavorful curries, sizzlers, and grilled delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, October 2: Itanagar
On the final day of your itinerary, visit the vibrant capital city of Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar. Begin your morning with a visit to Ita Fort, a historical fort known for its archaeological significance and stunning views of the city. Explore the Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of the state. In the afternoon, take a peaceful stroll through the Indira Gandhi Park and admire the lush green surroundings. End your day by visiting the Ganga Lake, a serene spot for boating and picnicking.
Ita Fort: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum: Estimated cost: INR 10, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Indira Gandhi Park: Estimated cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Ganga Lake: Estimated cost: INR 25, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Taste of Arunachal, a cozy cafe known for its delicious local delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try The Orchid Restaurant, which offers a variety of authentic Arunachali dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Naga Kitchen for a memorable dinner experience. This restaurant specializes in traditional Naga cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Arunachal Pradesh, don't miss the opportunity to visit the picturesque village of Sangti, located near Dirang. This offbeat destination offers breathtaking landscapes, apple orchards, and a chance to witness the migratory black-necked cranes during winters. Another hidden gem is the Sela Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and frozen lakes. Locals also recommend visiting the Namdapha National Park, known for its rich biodiversity and hiking trails.