Friday, September 29: Exploring Nature's Wonderland
Begin your adventure in Pakke Kessang by immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds this enchanting destination. In the morning, embark on a thrilling trek to Pakke Tiger Reserve, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Explore the lush forests and keep an eye out for rare species like the Bengal Tiger and the hornbill. After a rewarding morning of wildlife spotting, rejuvenate with a picnic at Pakke Lake, basking in the serene surroundings.
Pakke Tiger Reserve: INR 500 (entry fee), 4 hours
Pakke Lake: Free, 1 hour
For the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Bhalukpong, a quaint town nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. Explore the Orchid Research and Development Station, which showcases a stunning collection of exotic orchids. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Kameng River, breathing in the fresh mountain air. As evening approaches, indulge in the local cuisine at a traditional restaurant in Bhalukpong, savoring the flavors of Arunachal Pradesh.
Orchid Research and Development Station: INR 100 (entry fee), 2 hours
Walk along Kameng River: Free, 1 hour
Dinner at a local restaurant: INR 500, 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Nature's Delight. This cozy cafe offers a variety of healthy options such as fresh fruit bowls and avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, visit Curry House and indulge in their authentic Indian cuisine. From flavorful curries to aromatic biryanis, this restaurant is a delight for your taste buds. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Riverside Grill. Located by the river, this restaurant offers a picturesque setting and a diverse menu featuring grilled specialties and seafood. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Bhalukpong is the Sunrise Cafe, known for its delicious continental breakfast options and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 rupees per person.
For lunch, head to the Green Valley Restaurant, which offers a wide variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Their signature thukpa and momos are a must-try. Average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
In the evening, dine at the Hilltop Restaurant, known for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Indulge in their delectable traditional Arunachal Pradesh cuisine and enjoy live music performances. Average cost for a meal is about 400 rupees per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Hilltop Café, a charming restaurant offering a delicious spread of local and continental breakfast options. Indulge in their freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, visit The Bamboo Grove, a quaint restaurant nestled amidst bamboo groves. Enjoy their flavorful assortment of traditional Assamese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For dinner, dine at The River's Edge, a riverside restaurant famous for its delectable seafood delicacies. Savor their mouthwatering grilled fish while enjoying the picturesque view of the river. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Saturday, September 30: Exploring Tribal Culture
Immerse yourself in the rich tribal culture of Pakke Kessang on your second day. Start your morning with a visit to Basar, a picturesque town renowned for its Galo Tribal Museum. Spend a few hours exploring the comprehensive exhibits that showcase the history, art, and lifestyle of the local tribes. Engage in interactive sessions and learn about the unique customs and traditions preserved by the Galo tribe.
Galo Tribal Museum: INR 50 (entry fee), 3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Kora Kora for a hearty meal. With its cozy ambiance and delicious food options, you can enjoy a satisfying breakfast here. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, try The Red Bamboo Shoot. This restaurant offers a range of local dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at The Bamboo Hut for a delightful dinner experience. This restaurant serves a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and continental, ensuring there's something for everyone. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Restaurants
Café Delight: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Delight. They offer a variety of freshly baked pastries, flavorful omelettes, and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Tribal Delights: For lunch, head to Tribal Delights where you can savor the traditional flavors of Pakke Kessang. Indulge in their hearty thukpa, fragrant bamboo shoot curry, and tender smoked pork. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Yamcha House: Enjoy a memorable dinner at Yamcha House, a charming restaurant known for its delectable dim sum and mouthwatering Chinese dishes. Try their steamed dumplings, crispy Peking duck, and flavorful fried rice. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Tashi for a traditional Tibetan meal. They serve delicious momos and butter tea, and the average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try the local cuisine at Nai Pafe Vegetarian Restaurant. They offer a variety of vegetarian dishes like thukpa and dal fry, and the average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in a feast at Zangto Pelri Restaurant. They specialize in Bhutanese and Indian dishes, and the average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the afternoon, continue your cultural exploration by attending a traditional dance performance at the Aalo Donyi Polo Yelam Kebang. Marvel at the vibrant costumes, rhythmic music, and captivating dance moves that bring the tribal heritage to life. After the performance, take a leisurely stroll in the beautifully landscaped Donyi Polo Park, enjoying the tranquility it offers.
Aalo Donyi Polo Yelam Kebang: Free, 2 hours
Donyi Polo Park: Free, 1 hour
As evening approaches, visit the lively local market in Along, where you can browse through a variety of traditional handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Interact with the locals and savor the flavors of street food delicacies. End your day by witnessing the mesmerizing sunset over the Kameng River, creating a lasting memory of your time in Pakke Kessang.
Local Market in Along: Cost varies, 2 hours
Watching sunset over Kameng River: Free, 1 hour
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those seeking off the beaten path experiences, don't miss the opportunity to visit Tippi Orchid Centre, which houses a remarkable collection of indigenous orchids. Take a boat ride along the pristine Siang River for a breathtaking experience. Explore the small tribal villages surrounding Pakke Kessang, such as Bagra and Nafra, to witness the local way of life and interact with friendly villagers who will warmly welcome you into their homes. These hidden gems provide a deeper insight into the region's culture and showcase the unspoiled beauty of the area.