Arunachal Pradesh
Introduction

Located
at the northeastern tip of India, the state of Arunachal Pradesh has the
eminence of being among the most picturesque holiday retreats of India. For
a traveller or a holidaymaker, it's both mysterious and magical. The scenic
peaks, rambling rivers, lush green forests and the beautiful plateaus are
equally enchanting both for adventure enthusiasts and nature-lovers. Once
here, you will always find abundant options to keep your days adventurous
and flavoursome.
Climate
The climatic conditions of the state show variance with change of altitude.
Areas lying close to the Tibetan border experience an alpine climate. The
middle Himalayas have a temperate climate while the areas of the
sub-Himalayan region experience a humid sub-tropical climate. The annual
rainfall in the state ranges between 2,000 and 4,000 mm. Most of the state's
rainfall occur between May and September.
Important Cities & Towns
Itanagar, the capital of the state, is one of the most prominent places in
the state. Named after a centuries-old fort, it is also a must-visit
destination for tourists. The state comprises of 16 districts in all. Its
important towns include names like Naharlagun, Tawang, Bomdila, Rupa,
Bhalukpong, Seppa, Ziro, Daporijo, Along, Pasighat, Yingkiong, Roing, Tezu,
Namsai and Khonsa.
People & Culture

On
the ground of socio-religious affinities, the people of the state can be
classified into three cultural groups. The Monpas and Sherdukpens believe in
the traditions and disciplines of the Mahayana Buddhism. Therefore, you will
observe a number gompas (Buddhist temples) in the villages where these
tribes reside. The Membas and Khambas, inhabiting the high mountains, are
also known to follow the same traditions mentioned earlier. The Khamptis and
the Singphos, however, follow the traditions of the Hinayana sect of
Buddhism. The worshippers of Sun and Moon God make up the second cultural
group. The group includes Adis, Akas, Apatanis, Bangnis, Nishis, Mishmis
etc. The third group includes the Noctes and Wanchos. The state folks have
also proved to be good craftsmen and household industry has enough
significance here. So, before you get back home, you can load your bags with
countless items of art and craft as souvenirs.
Famous Travel Attractions
One will always find a plentiful supply of attractions in the state of
Arunachal Pradesh. You can start your sightseeing at Itanagar itself, with
attractions like Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, the legendary Ganga Lake,
the Raj Bhawan etc. Bomdila, hidden away at an altitude of 8,500 ft, is home
to a number of colurful gompas set against magnificent backdrop of the
Himalayas. At Tawang, you would like to visit the 400-year-old monastery
which is also the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama. Parashuram Kund,
Bhismaknagar, Malinithan and Akashiganga are important sites in terms of
Hindu mythology. Wildlife lovers too have a lot of options of spotting
numerous species of mammals, birds and reptiles at the sanctuaries and
national parks of the state.
Air/ Rail/ Road Links
Tezpur (190 km from Bomdila) and Lilabari (67 km from Itanagar) in Assam
serve as the closest convenient airports. There are regular flight services
from Kolkata to Tezpur. Rangapara and Harmuti (33 km from Itanagar) are the
important railheads connecting to the different key destinations of the
state and outside. The Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Corporation runs
regular buses connecting to different parts of the state and its
neighbouring states.