Things to do in Arunachal pradesh

Perched at 10,000 feet, the Tawang Monastery (Galden Namgey Lhatse) is the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world after the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Founded in 1680, it is a magnificent citadel of Gelugpa Buddhism.

The monastery houses hundreds of monks. The vibrant thangkas, the massive library of ancient manuscripts, and the 28-foot tall golden statue of Buddha in the main prayer hall are awe-inspiring.

The dawn prayers, with the chanting of monks and the sound of huge drums, create a transcendental atmosphere. The view of the Tawang Chu valley from the monastery courtyard is breathtaking.

Ziro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Tentative site, is home to the Apatani tribe, known for their unique nose plugs and facial tattoos. In September, this tranquil valley hosts one of India's coolest outdoor music festivals.

Set against a backdrop of rolling paddy fields and pine forests, the festival features indie bands from across the globe. The vibe is eco-friendly, with stages built from bamboo.

Visitors camp in tents, drink local rice beer (Opung), and immerse themselves in music and nature. It is a bucket-list experience for culture vultures.

Namdapha is a biodiversity hotspot and one of the few places on earth with four big cat species: Tiger, Leopard, Snow Leopard, and Clouded Leopard.

It involves real trekking through dense rainforests. You camp inside the forest, crossing rivers on bamboo bridges. It is wild, raw, and for the true adventurer.

At 13,700 feet, Sela Pass is the gateway to Tawang. It is covered in snow for most of the year. The Sela Lake (Paradise Lake) located near the summit is stunningly blue and often frozen.

The wind here is fierce and cold. Prayer flags flutter wildly, adding color to the white landscape. It is a place of desolate beauty.

Stopping here for a cup of tea at the army canteen is a ritual for travelers.