Dong valley - First Sunrise of India
Dong Valley is a picturesque paradise surrounded by lush forests and iconic mountains, nestled in the far Northeast region of India. It is situated on the left bank of the Lohit river, approximately 6 kms away from the town of Walong in Arunachal Pradesh. Interestingly, it is the first place in the country to receive a ray of sunshine.
Dong is a village near Walong
Dong Valley is a stunning location to witness the sunrise. The trek starts at 3 AM and is challenging, but the reward is worth it. The sun's rays pierce through the clouds around 4:30 AM, creating a stunning display of colors. It's a moment to reflect and appreciate the beauty of nature.
Location and Terrain:
Dong Valley is situated at an altitude of 1,240 meters (4,070 feet) where the Lohit river and the Sati stream meet. It is located in a strategic position near the tri-junction of India, China, and Myanmar, which makes it the farthest point in the east that is accessible to civilians in India.
The terrain of Dong Valley is characterized by steep mountains, lush valleys, and verdant forests. The valley is cut through by the mighty Lohit River, which is a major tributary of the Brahmaputra, creating a stunning landscape. The horizon is dominated by towering peaks, including the prominent Yaang Tepha, which adds to the awe-inspiring panorama.
Team OurGuest was enamoured by this charming village at the extreme easternmost village of India, Dong - a location as unheard of in the offbeat travel circuit. Imagine standing atop a lush hill, surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains, as the first rays of sunlight in India paint the sky in hues of gold and pink. This is the magic of Dong Valley, a remote paradise in Arunachal Pradesh, often called the "Land of the Rising Sun." Our journey to witness India’s first sunrise was an adventure filled with beautiful landscapes, cultural encounters, and a humbling connection with nature.
The Trek to India’s First Sunrise:
The highlight of visiting Dong Valley is the trek to the vantage point where you can witness India’s first sunrise. The trek is approximately 8 km one way and is considered moderate to challenging due to its steep ascent. Here’s what to expect:
Timing: To catch the sunrise, which happens around 4:00 AM in Dong Valley, you need to start the trek around 2:00 AM. This means it is a night hike, so bring a good flashlight or headlamp. This also means that you leave from Walong (the nearest village) by around 1:30 am. It is a good idea to pack some tea in a flask and some biscuits/sandwiches and water for the trek. Please do carry a waste disposal bag where you can dump the packets after consumption and please take it back with you to Walong.
Duration: It takes about 90 minutes to reach the top, depending on your pace. The meadow at the summit offers a panoramic view, perfect for watching the sunrise.
The early start and physical effort are well worth it when you see the sky light up over the eastern Himalayas. The moment the first rays hit the valley is nothing short of magical.
Things to do near Dong Valley:
Dong is a picturesque region that offers a plethora of exciting activities to make your trip unforgettable. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you can explore the rolling hills and lush forests of Dong by going on easy hikes or challenging treks. For those seeking relaxation, there are many hot springs dotted throughout the valley where you can soak in the warm waters and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.
Wildlife lovers can witness the diverse range of flora and fauna in the region, including some of the rarest species of birds and mammals. To experience the unique customs and traditions of the Meyor tribe, one of the oldest and most fascinating communities in the region, you can immerse yourself in their culture.
Moreover, Dong is a stargazer's paradise, with its clear skies and secluded location offering breathtaking views of the night sky.
To get a fulfilling vibe of the mountain life and to immerse oneself in the air of the region, there are several other places in and around Dong that can give you that soul-healing experience. Consider adding the below places to your itinerary.
If you're planning a trip to Dong, there are several fascinating places that you can visit along the way.
One cannot help but be amazed at life in the region where there is no phone connectivity till date, and the locals have walkie talkie radio sets provided by the armed forces, through which they communicate.
Now picture this, when you book a stay or a trip with us for this location, our reservation team will contact a family member of the Homestays at Kibithoo, at a location 30 kms before the village where the last mobile network is available. From here the message is related to the homestay at 5 pm in the evening or a designated time that is decided between the families, via radio.
The truth is, it works! People here are warm, friendly and eager to host travellers in a picturesque and postcard worthy mountainous terrain. We could not but help feel that such locations truly deserve support from travel outfits like us who find experiences and the local community engagement is foremost in the promotion of any region. So much for our fancy technology of direct booking which eventually for this location depends on good old fashioned radio communications :)
We are proud to be partnered with Homestays and guides in this region and continue to push their promotion so that this area can find tourism as a sustainable source of livelihood
Best Time to Visit Dong Valley:
To best time to visit Dong Valley to catch the first sunrise of India is between October to February. November to January is particularly recommended for catching the earliest sunrise. However, be prepared for chilly nights and occasional snowfall during the winter months.
How to reach Dong Valley:
If you are planning to visit Dong village in Arunachal Pradesh, India, it is important to note that the state's unique terrain conditions and poor infrastructure make it difficult to access certain places. However, there are several ways to reach Dong village:
By air, the closest airport is located in Dibrugarh, which is approximately 362 kilometers away from Dong village. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Tezu, and then another bus or taxi to Dong.
If you prefer train travel, you can take a train from Guwahati to New Tinsukia Junction and then take the Tinsukia-Tezu-Walong or Tinsukia-Namsai-Walong route. Local sumos/taxis or buses are available at these locations.
Once you enter Arunachal Pradesh, roads will be your primary mode of travel. You can reach Dong from Tezu by bus or other public transport. However, the journey may take around 9-10 hours and may not be very comfortable.
Travel Tips:
What to Pack: Warm clothing (it gets chilly at night), sturdy trekking shoes, a flashlight, water, snacks, and a camera to capture the sunrise. A power bank is handy, as electricity can be unreliable.
Accommodation: Basic guesthouses and homestays are available in Walong. Book in advance, as options are limited. Camping is also an option for the more adventurous.
Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly and seek permission before photographing locals or their homes. Be mindful of the sensitive border area and follow any instructions from army personnel stationed nearby.
Physical Preparation: The trek requires moderate fitness. If you’re not an experienced hiker, do some light training beforehand to build stamina.
Permit Requirements for Dong Valley Visit:
As Dong Valley is close to the international border, Indian travelers need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), obtainable online or through local authorities in Arunachal Pradesh. Foreign travelers require a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
Therefore, it is important to make provisions for your journey and plan accordingly. If you are planning to visit Dong Valley, it maybe a good idea to have a look at our sample Dong Valley Itinerary.
Written by Karma Thutop Chechutharpa: Bridging Cultures Through Travel
Karma, a seasoned traveler with a deep love for Sikkim's rural charm, returned home in 2017. Co-founding OurGuest, he leverages his experiences across India, Nepal, and Bhutan to curate authentic travel journeys. Beyond adventure, Karma champions rural tourism. Through OurGuest's stories, he empowers local homestays and fulfills his childhood dream of becoming a writer, all while sharing the magic of Northeast India.