Arunachal Pradesh in July – How to Plan, A Detailed Travel Guide and Itinerary

Temperature and Precipitation

High-altitude Areas (Tawang, Bomdila):

Temperatures in these areas range between 10°C and 20°C. Rain is always a welcome relief from the hot temperatures, while the foggy environment only enhances the beauty of these locations.

Mid-altitude areas (Ziro, Dirang):

The climate is moderately warm during the day, slightly above 15°C, and at night, not exceeding 25°C. This is also because the presence of green vegetation and trees and the general ambience surrounding these regions are often blessed by rain.

Low-altitude areas (Itanagar, Pasighat):

The weather is also good, with temperatures varying between 20 and 30°C. The level of humidity is well above the norm within these regions, but the rain actually lowers the temperatures.

Weather Highlights

Lush Greenery:

The monsoon rains brighten the view of the places, and the valleys, forests, and meadows become green.

Fresh Air:

The bad weather washes the dust and other pollutants, thus making the air fresh, adding to the overall experience.

Waterfalls and Rivers:

When it rains more than before, we are given magnificent sights of waterfalls and full rivers.

Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati and Transfer to Itanagar

Arrive in Guwahati, Assam and be transferred to Itanagar (approx. 7-8 hours drive). Enjoy the scenic journey through rain-washed landscapes.

Upon reaching Itanagar, check in to your hotel. Then, explore the local markets and enjoy the monsoon ambience.

Day 2: Itanagar Sightseeing

Dedicate the day to Itanagar sightseeing. Visit Itanagar Fort, Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, and Ganga Lake. In the evening, return to the hotel and rest.

Day 3: Itanagar to Ziro

After a lovely breakfast at the hotel, leave for Ziro (approx. 4-5 hours’ drive). Upon reaching your hotel in Ziro, check in and visit local Apatani tribal villages. Later in the evening, head back to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 4: Ziro Exploration

In Ziro, visit Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, which is vibrant and green during the monsoon. After a lovely day at the sanctuary, return to the hotel and enjoy a traditional Apatani dinner.

Day 5: Ziro to Dirang

Get transferred to Dirang (approx. 7-8 hours’ drive). Enjoy the scenic drive through rain-washed landscapes. Upon your arrival in Dirang, check in at the hotel and visit Dirang Dzong. Enjoy your time at the hot water springs there.

Day 6: Dirang to Tawang

Leave for Tawang today. Drive via Sela Pass because the pass is misty and surrounded by lush greenery in July. At the pass, visit Sela Lake, which is serene and full during the monsoon. You can also visit the Jaswant Garh War Memorial on the way.

Day 7: Tawang Sightseeing

In Tawang, visit Tawang Monastery and Nuranang (Jang) Waterfall. Also, tour the local markets and enjoy the cultural atmosphere.

Day 8: Tawang Cultural Exploration

You can also visit the Urgelling Monastery and Tawang War Memorial in Tawang. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, and by evening, return to the hotel and rest.

Day 9: Tawang to Bomdila

On Day 9, leave for Bomdila (an approximate 6-7-hour drive). Check into the hotel and visit Bomdila Monastery. Remember to explore Bomdila Viewpoint and the local markets.

Day 10: Bomdila to Bhalukpong

From Bomdila, you will be transferred to Bhalukpong (an approximate 4-5 hour drive).In Bhalukpong, visit the Tipi Orchidarium to see the blooming orchids, which are especially vibrant during the monsoon. Check into the hotel and relax by the Kameng River.

Day 11: Bhalukpong to Guwahati and Departure

It’s time for your departure today. So, after breakfast at the hotel, drive back to Guwahati (approx. 5-6 hours).

If time permits, visit Kamakhya Temple and then reach the Guwahati airport for your flight home.

Activities and Attractions:

Tawang Monastery:

Tawang Monastery is one of the largest monasteries in India. Despite the rainy season, the weather remains tranquil, making it a beautiful place for a spiritual retreat. It is very mystical to visit this place when the sky is full of mist and the rain is dripping down.

Sela Pass:

While travelling to Sela Pass is comparatively difficult, it is best to visit in July. The pass, most of the time covered by mist, gives a daring touch and a thrilling sightseeing.

Nuranang Falls:

Other people call this waterfall as Jang Falls but the right name is Nuranang Falls and it becomes all the more beautiful in the month of July, when the monsoon boosts up the flow of water.

Ziro Valley:

Monsoon season also adds a beautiful look of green paddy fields to Ziro Valley and gives the tourists a wholesome, serene environment to enjoy.

Mechuka Valley:

Mechuka Valley becomes more beautiful during the monsoon, with its hills covered with fresh green and streams flowing, making it ideal for natural lovers and photographers.

Cultural Festivals

Dree Festival:

The Dree Festival of the Apatani tribe in Ziro Valley is another important agricultural festival celebrated to appease the gods to bless and protect the annual yields and consequently prevent famine. Some of the cultural practices performed during the festival include dances and songs and preparing various meals special to the region. It is a colourful display of the culture of the Apatani people and the kind of traditional life that tourists can catch a glimpse of.

Tuluni Festival:

Another festival named Tuluni is also a festival of Sumi Naga, and it generally occurs in July. The various functions of this festival mean that this particular festival is celebrated during the new harvest, at the end of the planting season. Focusing on songs and dances, it is also expressed through feast activities. This aspect of Sumi tradition involves the preparation of rice beer and special traditional foods, which are offered to friends and families as a demonstration of gratitude. Tuluni offers a feel and ambience of the tribal culture to those who wish to be associated with Arunachal Pradesh’s tribal roots.

Trekking and Hiking

Monsoon Treks:

Trekking in Arunachal Pradesh during monsoons is indeed a thrilling affair because it is highly adventurous, though involving certain risks. This makes the hike one-of-a-kind since the trails and surrounding terrain are likely to be wet and overgrown with green vegetation.

Tips for Monsoon Treks:

Routes:

Stick to known trails during the monsoon, such as the Mechuka Valley Trek and the Ziro Valley Trek, to avoid the difficult sectors that could prove risky.

Preparation:

Carry waterproof clothing properly, ankle-high trekking shoes, insect repellent, and a basic first aid kit.

Safety:

Trekking should be done during a sunny day to minimize getting stuck in the wet land and to be careful of landslides. Be sure to find out the weather conditions before hiking; if you can, consult with locals who are more familiar with the area.

Wildlife Watching

July is also good for wildlife tours as the rainforest along with wildlife sanctuaries receive a boost with the rains.

Namdapha National Park:

Trekking and wildlife enthusiasts must visit Namdapha National Park, which hosts a diverse fauna and flora population. The monsoon produces a rich form of vegetation and wildlife, which makes the place the best attraction for wildlife lovers.

Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary:

When one visits the sanctuary in July, there is a lot of greenery, and it is also a good time to observe hornbills, elephants, and other wildlife. The overhanging vegetation and flowing rivers enhance the mysterious expeditions of wildlife.

Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary:

Famed for its birding, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary offers great opportunities to watch birds during the monsoon season. Despite the ravaging rains, birdwatching is fruitful as one can sight very special and exotic species.

Packing:

Waterproof Gear:

July means the monsoon, which, although unlikely to pose threats to your life, means unpredictable heavy showers; therefore, bring along a good waterproof jacket or coat with pants as well as an umbrella.

Light but Warm Clothing:

Although it may still be monsoon season, the highs and lows can fluctuate even more in the higher terrain areas. Layering is essential—you need to bring lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics for warmer daytime and warm layers for night.

Insect Repellent:

Higher levels of moisture and humidity could also lead to the breeding of mosquitoes and other insects. It is advisable also to carry adequate insect repellent to help curb the bites that can cause blemishing and also lead to diseases such as malaria.

Sturdy Footwear:

Wearing waterproof hiking boots with a proper grip sole is highly advised. The ground gets slippery during rainy seasons and, in some parts, becomes marshy, so wearing comfortable shoes with strong grip is very important.

Waterproof Bag for Electronics:

It is also recommended to keep items like electronics, documents, and others that might get damaged easily in waterproof bags or pouches.

Road Conditions:

Expect Roadblocks and Delays:

During the rainy season, the transport network can be trapped by landslides and sometimes become ineffective. Always make sure the road is clear before commencing your journey and that you are in plenty of time consideration.

Travel with Patience:

Due to unforeseen traffic on the roads, it is pertinent to be patient. Be ready for the disruptions that might occur in your learning process, and always have backup strategies.

Permits:

Arrange Permits in Advance:

This makes acquiring the required permits to travel in Arunachal Pradesh slightly time-consuming during this season of the year. Obtain ILP or PAP from the concerned district authorities beforehand to avoid being caught up in bureaucratic formalities at the last moment.

Local Guidance:

Hire Local Guides:

The help of local guides during this time is extremely beneficial during the monsoon season. They have the knowledge of the terrain and prevailing weather patterns to give invaluable advice on the safest route to avoid dangerous areas and respective cultural practices.

Safety Advice:

Local guides may also assist in finding some of the safe parts in the event of a slide or rained-off areas in the course of the journey.

Health Precautions:

Carry a Basic Medical Kit:

Among the things to pack are first aid items such as bandages, anti-bacterial wipes, analgesics, tablets for motion sickness, and all personal medications.

Stay Hydrated:

The weather is usually humid, so, drink a lot of bottled or purified water to help manage your health.

Be Cautious with Food and Water:

To prevent food-borne diseases, do not use tap water, only consume water in a sealed bottle or water that has reached boiling point, and don’t eat at uncertain restaurants. This may be particularly true during monsoon season, as these problems might be more prevalent.

Stay Informed About Local Health Advisories:

For your own safety, be aware of any health concerns or outbreaks that are present locally and take measures necessary to protect yourself.

Lush Greenery and Scenic Beauty

Vibrant Landscapes:

During the monsoon season, Arunachal Pradesh turns into a green belt in the country, as most of it is covered with green vegetation. The weather is also ideal since the hills and valleys are adorned with green vegetation; thus, it is a perfect time for nature and photography lovers to take a natural beauty tour.

Full Waterfalls and Rivers:

July is recommended for watching the waterfalls and rivers in their full force. The enhanced water volume during the monsoon season provides beautiful sights, as seen from the Nuranang Falls and other waterfalls in the area.

Unique Monsoon Experience

Mystical Atmosphere:

The monsoon climate increases the rate of foggy and misty occurrences, which gives the landscape a mysterious feeling compared to other climate types. Thus, places such as the Tawang Monastery and the Sela Pass look more natural and spiritual than they actually are.

Refreshing Climate:

The rain is also good for controlling the heat and lowering the temperatures, bringing much-needed relief from the heat experienced in the plains. The good climate has made the exercises outside the house more enjoyable due to the clean air.

Rich Biodiversity

Flourishing Flora:

The high rainfall results in the growth of plant life – flowers grow and spread, covering the grounds; the natural parks/sanctuaries are even more beautiful and bio-diverse.

Less Crowded Tourist Spots

Peaceful Exploration:

The low number of tourists is due to the monsoon season, which means people get to spend more time. Most prefer to take holidays during this time to avoid crowded places. This would enable me to appreciate the aesthetic value of the Arunachal Pradesh scenery with tolerance to disturbances posed by crowds.

Better Deals on Accommodation:

During the period, discounts can appear on the packages that tourists select, so tourists should expect to spend less during the off-peak season.