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

Temperature Overview

High Altitude Areas (Tawang, Bomdila):

The climate is mild, with temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 20 °C. The rain introduces a cool freshness to the air that has a refreshing touch.

Mid-altitude areas (Ziro, Dirang):

These areas have relatively warm temperatures between 15–25°C. The climate is mild, but the humidity might be high because the region gets the monsoon.

Low Altitude Areas (Itanagar, Pasighat):

The weather is relatively mild with occasional tropical showers, the average range between 20 and 30°C.

Weather Highlights

Lush Greenery:

During the monsoon season, areas become green, and Valleys, forests, and meadows often look especially rich after monsoon rains.

Fresh Air:

Depending on the month, the weather is also characterised by fine and pure air. Especially after the rains, which makes the atmosphere even more enjoyable.

Waterfalls and Rivers:

The increased rainfall causes many waterfalls to have much water and numerous rivers to flow full, offering stunning views.

Tawang Monastery:

This largest Monastery in India is a cocoal of Tibetan Buddhism and does not miss a visit. Enticed by the beauty of its environment, the monsoon rains play a great part in the overall soothing and scenic experience.

Explore Ziro Valley:

This awesome June landscape, located in Ziro Valley, sprawls and contains terraced rice fields. Tribal villages of the Apatani provide tourists with a real flavour of cultural tourism.

Soak in the Beauty of Sela Pass:

Sela Pass, at an elevation of 4,170 meters, is one of the captivating beauty spots of Arunachal Pradesh. It is especially visible in June since mists surround the pass, and snow stretches as far as the eyes can see, while Sela Lake is quiet and calm.

Explore Sangti Valley:

Sangti Valley is another relatively less explored place. It is situated almost 35 km from Dirang and offers a beautiful view of the valley dotted with fruit trees and stunning green meadows. Famous for nature, camping, trekking, and bird watching, especially in the monsoon period for waterfalls, it’s the best place for tourism.

Visit Dirang:

Dirang is another fabulous place famous in Arunachal. It is known for its cool climate, lush green apple trees, and hot water springs. The Dirang Dzong, a fortress that was built, has become a tourist attraction, as has the National Research Centre on Yak.

Cultural Festivals

Ambubachi Festival:

The Kamakhya Temple Festival in Assam is known as the Ambubachi Festival, a famous festival of Arunachal Pradesh devotees. This is an annual menstruation festival in honour of the goddess Kamakhya, and the rituals include chanting and massive flocking of devotees. Some of the ethnic practices include the monsoon rains, another element that makes the occasion more spiritual.

Trekking and Hiking

Bailey Trail Trek:

Stretching from Tawang to West Kameng, this historical trail is especially suitable for adventure gurus. It traverses through the onset of the temperate forests, the montane grasslands and shrublands, and the legacy of the historic trading routes. June gets wet when you are trekking because it is raining, but on the other hand, it is good to see green vegetation and beautiful flowers.

Talle Valley Trek:

Located near Ziro, the trek encompasses a variety of flora, such as shrubs, sandalwood, and cocus-wood, and animal life as it passes through forests of Rhododendrons, oaks, maples, and bamboos, open meadows, crystal-clear waterfalls, etc. As the monsoon descends, the valley’s beauty peaks—wildflowers bloom, and streams begin to flow.

Mechuka Trek:

Located in the West Siang district of Arunachal, this is one of the most unknown valleys. This trek allows one to cross through untouched terrain, the habitats of nomadic communities, and spectacular scenery. June is a little rainy, hence the beautiful scenery, foggy hills, and greenery all over during the trekking.

Tips for Monsoon Treks:

Preparation:

The traveller should be physically fit before trekking, considering the pathway would be slipper during the monsoon season.

Gear:

Carry waterproof clothes, steep trekking shoes, raincoats, or any other waterproof materials. Rain covers can be carried in backpacks, but it is recommended that the backpacks be of good quality.

Safety:

Pick a local guide who understands the routes and can safely lead you through the paths. Also, limit exposure to areas with water on the ground. There might be chances of falling trees or landslides, so be aware of that as well.

Health:

Drinking a lot of water and always ensuring that you have your prescription drugs is a must. Stay protected from leeches and insects; dressing appropriately and applying the needed repellents is safer.

Wildlife Watching

Namdapha National Park:

This area, currently identified as one of the fifty-two global biodiversity hotspots, is home to wildlife such as the snow leopard, clouded leopard, and red panda. During this season, the influence of the monsoon can be seen throughout the forest area as the canopy of the forest is full-grown and the wildlife is most active.

Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary:

Pakke is a prominent tourist spot for the dazzling birds and is home to the tiger reserve site. The rains give the forest an aesthetic feel that tourists can easily see. Travelling during this period, you will find various types of birds and other warm wild animals here.

Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary:

Eaglenest is a renowned place for birdwatching, with the highest number of bird varieties in the Western Hemisphere. The sanctuary still hosts Bugun liocichla and many other birds needed for the population. The terrain and climate reveal the beauty of a forest during the monsoon rains, giving a perfect backdrop for shooting wildlife.

Tips for Wildlife Watching:

Best Time:

It is advisable to go early in the morning and late evening, as many birds can be seen leaving or returning to their nest.

Guides:

Having a local guide who knows the park well and its wildlife products will improve your experience of the park, as you are assured of a higher probability of encountering more wildlife.

Gear:

You should take binoculars, a good camera with a zoom lens, and a field guide to assist you in identifying different kinds of bird species.

Safety:

The dos and Don’ts of Birding include not approaching any wildlife within thirty feet, not engaging in any prohibited behaviours as outlined by the sanctuary, and not disturbing the habitat or wildlife.

Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati and Transfer to Bhalukpong

Arrive in Guwahati, Assam, and drive to Bhalukpong (approx. 5-6 hours drive). Bhalukpong offers beautiful monsoon views. Upon reaching Bhalukpong, check in at the hotel and relax. Explore the banks of the Kameng River and enjoy the monsoon ambience.

Day 2: Bhalukpong to Dirang

In Dirang, visit the Tipi Orchidarium to see the blooming orchids, especially vibrant during the monsoon. Later, leave for Dirang (approx. 4-5 hours drive). Upon your arrival in Dirang, check in at the hotel, rest, and visit Dirang Dzong.

Day 3: Dirang to Tawang

On day 3, you will leave for Tawang via Sela Pass (approx. 6-7 hours drive). In June, the Sela Pass is misty and surrounded by lush greenery and hence the drive will be mesmerising. On the way, you can also visit the Jaswant Garh War Memorial. By evening, reach your hotel in Tawang.

Day 4: Tawang Sightseeing

Begin your Tawang sightseeing with a visit to the Tawang Monastery. In June, the monastery is surrounded by lush monsoon greenery. Later, explore Nuranang (Jang) Waterfall, which is at its most spectacular during the monsoon. In the evening, take a stroll around the local markets and enjoy the cultural atmosphere.

Day 5: Tawang Cultural Exploration

In Tawang, participate in local cultural activities, explore the town, and spend the day at your leisure. Towards the evening, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Tawang to Ziro

After a lovely breakfast at the hotel, leave for Ziro (approx. 8-9 hours drive). This long drive will take you through scenic routes with lush monsoon landscapes. By evening, reach your hotel, complete the check-in formalities, and stay overnight.

Day 7: Ziro Exploration

After a lovely breakfast at the hotel, visit Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, which is vibrant and green during the monsoon. Spend the day there and explore the landscape and local culture. At night, return to the hotel and enjoy a traditional Apatani dinner.

Day 8: Ziro to Guwahati and Departure

Drive back to Guwahati (approx. 7-8 hours). Upon your arrival, visit Kamakhya Temple if time permits. Depart from Guwahati airport.

Packing Essentials:

Rain Gear:

For those brief showers, pack rain gear and waterproof shoes or boots to avoid getting wet in the rain.

Clothing:

During the day dress light and have moisture-wicking clothing. Try and avoid anything bulky since it is normally warm. But for the night, pack something warm.

Health Precautions:

Medication:

Always include medicines for pain relief, fever, cold, or flu. Considering it is the monsoon season, the flu might affect your health. Also, other minor ailment medications and prescription drugs are always safer to carry along.

Insect Repellent:

Certain diseases carried by mosquitoes and other flying insects might be more common during the monsoon. To avoid bites, use insect repellent.

Water Purification:

If you are going hiking or exploring areas that don’t provide potable water, carry water purification tablets or a portable water filter with you.

Travel and Road Conditions:

Road Safety:

During monsoon season, the roads can be wet and muddy, and some areas are especially vulnerable to landslides. Be very careful while driving, and it is advisable to engage an experienced driver who knows the tricky zones around.

Vehicle Preparation:

If you plan on self-driving, you must have a well-maintained car with correctly-treaded tyres and effective wipers. These travel accessories are essential, so make sure you have a toolkit and a spare tyre within reach.

Local Transport:

The impact of the weather might compromise existing transport systems in urban areas. Make your schedules somewhat less rigid and fix the margin for any chance of meeting.

Permits and Documentation:

Inner Line Permit (ILP):

To travel and take photographs in Arunachal Pradesh, you will have to obtain the ILP. Obtain it online or from recommended offices that deal with such legal documents at least a month from your travel date.

Identification:

Always carry photocopied copies of your identification documents and permits because there are so many checkpoints where you will be required to produce those documents.

Lush Green Landscapes

Rejuvenated Scenery:

During the monsoon, the vegetation cover turns green, and flowers blossom, making the area very colourful.

Full Rivers and Waterfalls:

June is known as the month when rivers and waterfalls reach their full capacity, offering excellent scenic and photo opportunities and nature tours.

Refreshing Climate

Cooler Temperatures:

The monsoon rains help to cool the weather and make it more comfortable and suitable for some activities, especially when they occur on higher ground.

Crisp Air Quality:

The rains make the air fresh, cool and beautiful, thus adding to the beauty of the trip.

Unique Monsoon Activities

Monsoon Treks:

Trekkers planning to trek during the monsoon should expect slippery terrain, but areas like Bailey Trail Trek and Talle Valley Trek are good places to go trekking, where one gets to see rain-washed greenery and many water bodies full of water during the monsoon.

Bird Watching:

Since February, many more active birds have been around. The ideal season to view these birds is during the monsoon period. Tourism sites such as Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary and others provide ideal locations to see different types of birds.

Fewer Tourist Crowds

Serene Exploration:

June is usually the last of the tourist season because of the monsoons, making it the best time for a vacation with little crowds at these places of interest.

Better Accommodation Options:

In this case, excess accommodation supplies itself as it is easier to find a place to stay, especially when the rates drop and there are fewer tourists.