Mistakes tourists make when they are travelling to Arunachal Pradesh

Top Mistakes to Avoid When Traveling in Arunachal Pradesh:

Arunachal Pradesh is one of India’s most enchanting and offbeat travel destinations—home to lush valleys, vibrant tribal cultures, and majestic Himalayan landscapes. However, due to its remoteness and lack of mainstream tourism infrastructure, many travellers unknowingly make mistakes that can hamper their experience. Based on years of conducting tours and custom holidays in Arunachal, we've compiled the most common errors and how to avoid them:

Trying to See Too Much in Too Little Time

Arunachal Pradesh is vast and topographically diverse. Travelers often try to cram too many locations into a single itinerary, leading to rushed travel and fatigue. Take your time and focus on one region at a time to truly enjoy what the state offers.

Not Booking in Advance for Anini or Chigu Resort

Anini is remote with limited homestays. Due to unpredictable road conditions, travelers may arrive late, only to find their accommodation unprepared. Always pre-book your stay in Anini or Chigu Camp to avoid last-minute disappointments.

Not Refueling at Roing Before Heading to Anini

There are no petrol pumps between Roing and Anini. Make sure to fill your fuel tank at Roing before heading further north to avoid being stranded.

Failing to Pre-Book During Holiday Season in Tawang

During the October festive season (Diwali/Puja), Tawang sees a surge of visitors. Good hotels and homestays are limited, so booking well in advance is crucial if you’re visiting during peak season.

Choosing the Wrong Airport for Your Itinerary

For Western Arunachal (Tawang), flying to Donyi Polo Airport in Itanagar is much more efficient than flying to Guwahati, reducing your road journey by about 4 hours. For Eastern Arunachal (Ziro, Anini, Mechuka), the best access is via Dibrugarh Airport.

Traveling to Tawang in Deep Winter Without Caution

Tawang becomes heavily snowbound in winter, and road access may be blocked. Always check road conditions before planning a winter trip.

Underestimating the Cold Weather in the Himalayas

Especially in places like Tawang, travelers often arrive without proper winter gear, risking illness and discomfort. Always check the forecast and pack accordingly.

Not Starting Early for Mechuka

Roads to Mechuka are currently under construction with heavy highway cutting work. To avoid delays or getting stuck, it’s best to start your journey early in the morning. In most cases, you should halt one night at Aalo, before leaving early morning next day for Mechuka.

Ignoring Inner Line Permit (ILP) Requirements

Indian travelers must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Arunachal Pradesh. Skipping this crucial step can lead to being denied entry at checkpoints.

Foreigners Not Applying for a PAP

Foreign nationals require a Protected Area Permit (PAP), which is typically issued for 10 days (with a 7-day extension possible). Always apply in advance through a registered tour operator.

Not Checking IMD Weather Alerts

The weather in Arunachal can change rapidly. It's always wise to monitor IMD (India Meteorological Department) alerts before and during your travel to avoid disruptions.

Traveling Without Airtel or BSNL SIM Cards

Mobile connectivity is limited in Arunachal. Only Airtel and BSNL work in most regions, and often only in 2G/3G. Carrying both increases your chances of staying connected.

Not Pre-Booking for Remote Areas

Remote destinations like Anini, Dong Valley, and Tawang lack ample accommodation options. Always book well in advance, especially during high season.

Visiting Namdapha National Park Without Confirming Dates

Namdapha National Park is only open seasonally (typically October to April). Always check with authorities before planning your trip.

Assuming Everyone in Arunachal Has Similar Culture or Cuisine

Arunachal is home to 26 major tribes and 110 sub-tribes, each with their own language, customs, and cuisine. Don’t expect everyone to resemble the Apatani of Ziro or Monpa of Tawang—embrace the rich diversity.

 

Expecting Restaurants on Remote Routes

In Eastern Arunachal, development is minimal and eateries are scarce. Always have a hearty meal at your homestay or hotel before setting out for the day.

Hiring Random Taxis Without Local Advice

Taxi fares can be inflated if booked from generic stands. Use trusted travel agents or local contacts to hire vehicles at fair rates and ensure safety.

Final Thoughts

Arunachal Pradesh rewards the prepared and patient traveler. Its remoteness, raw beauty, and tribal richness make it one of India’s last true frontiers—but only if you avoid these common pitfalls. By planning thoughtfully and respecting local nuances, your journey through Arunachal will be not only seamless but also unforgettable.

Written by Omanso Tayang

Omanso, an avid backpacker with an engineering background from Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, returned to his home state after completing his education in Chennai & NERIST. Passionate about promoting the lesser-known destinations, Oman has traveled across most parts of Arunachal to find unique locations like Anini, Dong Valley, Namsai etc. When not exploring, Oman enjoys camping, trekking, dancing and going on culinary adventures. (62 words)

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