Shergaon

Shergaon, Arunachal Pradesh - Discover the Heart of Sherdukpen Country

Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Shergaon is a hidden gem in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of around 6,000 feet (1,828 meters), this picturesque village is surrounded by apple orchards, pine forests, and snow-capped mountains. Known for its vibrant Sherdukpen tribal culture, rich history, and serene landscapes, Shergaon is the perfect stopover for travelers journeying between Bomdila and Tawang.

In 2023, Shergaon was recognized as one of the Best Tourism Villages of India (Silver category) by the Ministry of Tourism, making it one of the most authentic rural tourism destinations in Northeast India. 

Why Visit Shergaon?

Shergaon is more than a stopover on the way to Tawang. It is a destination worth slowing down for.

The village offers an opportunity to experience Sherdukpen culture, Himalayan village life and the natural beauty of Arunachal Pradesh away from the crowds of more established tourist destinations.

Walk through traditional villages, meet local families, explore orchards and forests, visit monasteries or simply enjoy the peaceful mountain surroundings from a local homestay.

For travellers looking for offbeat places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh, Shergaon offers a particularly rewarding combination of culture, nature and community-based tourism.

Things to Do in Shergaon:

There is plenty to experience in and around Shergaon:

• Explore traditional Sherdukpen villages and wooden houses
• Experience Sherdukpen culture, food and local traditions
• Visit Buddhist monasteries and sacred sites
• Walk through apple and kiwi orchards
• Explore pine forests and mountain trails
• Visit Choskorong Waterfall
• Go birdwatching in the surrounding forests
• Discover the biodiversity around Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary
• Enjoy traditional local food and village hospitality
• Experience Shergaon's festivals and community traditions

Shergaon's cultural and environmental initiatives are particularly noteworthy. Traditional practices continue to play an important role in protecting the area's forests and wildlife, while community organisations work to preserve local culture and introduce younger generations to their heritage.

Experience Sherdukpen Culture

One of the biggest reasons to visit Shergaon is the opportunity to experience the Sherdukpen way of life.

The community has preserved distinctive traditions, architecture, food, festivals, music and crafts. Visitors can learn about local customs, explore traditional homes and, when the timing is right, experience festivals such as Kro-Chheykor, which celebrates Sherdukpen traditions through dance, music, food and traditional attire.

Staying with a local family makes the experience even more meaningful, allowing travellers to experience Shergaon not simply as a sightseeing destination but as a living Himalayan community.

Shergaon and Nature

Shergaon's forests and surrounding mountains make it an excellent destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The nearby Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is particularly renowned for its exceptional birdlife and biodiversity.

The landscape changes dramatically with the seasons, from lush green forests and orchards to crisp winter landscapes and clear Himalayan views.