Covering an area of 83,743 sq. km, Arunachal Pradesh is the largest of the seven states constituting the north eastern part of the country. A state full of hilly terrain and an abundance of dense forests, thinly populated Arunachal Pradesh lies in the extreme east of India. The rivers have created broad valleys in the state. The mighty river Brahmaputra enters Arunachal territory from Tibet and flows into Assam. One of the wettest states of India, Arunachal receives as much as five hundred centimetres of rainfall. This accounts for the large number of rivers and lakes in the state apart from dense forests. The main rivers of the state are Kameng, Subansiri, Siang, Lohit and Tirap. Arunachal as a tourist destination is most ideal for those who love adventure filled holidays in high altitudes and thick forests. 
Known as the 'Land of Dawn-lit-Mountains', the rays of the morning sun kiss Arunachal first of all Indian states. Perched on top of low flat hills, capital Itanagar offers a serene ambience and has a lovely climate. The Buddhist temple and Jawaharlal Nehru Museum are among the best attractions of Itanagar. Tawang is a picturesque hill station located in very high altitudes. A place with a breathtaking beauty, Tawang also has one of the biggest monasteries of India. The monastery has an 18 feet high gilded statue of Gautam Buddha. The monastery is a treasure trove of Tibetan Buddhist culture. Parasuramkund near Itanagar is a major pilgrim centre of Arunachal. People from all over India visit this place of pilgrimage to take a holy dip in the lake which is believed to cleanse all sins of the past.
With a dazzling array of flora and fauna, beautiful rivers and lakes, every place of Arunachal has something to offer to tourists. Other attractions of the state are Bomdila, Tipi, Ziro, Daporijo, Along, Pasighat, Roing, Anini, Tezu, Hayuliang, Namsai, Miao and Changlang. It may be mentioned that charming Arunachal also boasts of over 500 varieties of orchids.
The climate of Arunachal is moderate. There is a sharp fall in temperature during winters. The state also experiences snowfall during winters.
Arunachal Pradesh is another north eastern state with a rich composite culture. There are over 20 major tribal groups speaking their own language, following their own traditions and celebrating their own festivals. The handicraft and handloom items of Arunachal are also unique in nature. Made largely of cane, bamboo and wood, the exquisite products have a distinct stamp of the state.
Arunachal Pradesh does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Lilabari in Assam located at a distance of 67 kms from state capital Itanagar. Helicopter services from Guwahati to Naharlagun are also available. Through roadways, Arunachal Pradesh can be entered from Tezpur in Assam. Regular bus services are available from Guwahati and Tezpur to the state. Tourists desirous of visiting Arunachal shall have to obtain an Inner Line Permit from the Arunachal Government office at Delhi or Itanagar. |
