Experience an unforgettable northeast India tribal tour in Arunachal Pradesh, home to 26 tribes and 100 sub-tribes, making it one of India’s most culturally diverse states. Our carefully crafted Arunachal Pradesh tribal tour combines two remarkable experiences: the enchanting Ziro Valley tribal tour and the majestic Tawang circuit, offering an authentic glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.

This immersive 10-day tribal tour North East India adventure begins in the high Eastern Himalayas’ West Kameng region, home to the Monpa people. Journey through the picturesque towns of Bomdila and Tawang, crossing the magnificent Se La pass to reach Tawang, where you’ll find the largest Buddhist monastery in India. As the cultural heart of the Monpa tribe, Tawang offers a unique perspective on Arunachal Pradesh’s tribal traditions.

The second leg of your north east India tribal tour takes you to the fascinating Ziro Valley tribal tour circuit, where you’ll encounter the distinctive Apatani people. Here, immerse yourself in their unique customs, traditional practices, and daily way of life, completing your comprehensive exploration of Arunachal Pradesh’s tribal heritage.

Ziro Valley And Tawang Tour – 10-Day North East Tribal Tour Itinerary

• Day 1 – Guwahati – Bomdila/Dirang
• Day 2 – Bomdila/Dirang – Tawang
• Day 3 – Tawang local
• Day 4 – Tawang – Bum La – Tawang
• Day 5 – Tawang – Bomdila
• Day 6 – Bomdila – Itanagar
• Day 7 – Itanagar – Ziro Valley
• Day 8 – Ziro Valley – Guided Tour
• Day 9 – Ziro Valley – Guided Tour
• Day 10 – Ziro – Tezpur
• Day 11 – Tezpur – Guwahati

Tawang and Ziro Valley – Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Guwahati – Bomdila/Dirang

Our tour begins with our representative meeting you at the Guwahati airport. As we drive through the plains of Assam, leaving the capital city behind, you will notice how the scenery gradually changes around you. The transition from the busy city to the calm Assamese countryside is a welcome change. After a few hours’ drive, you will be at the Arunachal Pradesh check gate from where the beautiful hills of Arunachal begin.

Depending on whether the route we take (OKSRT road or BCT road) to enter Arunachal Pradesh, you will stop for your lunch break either in Assam or at a Tibetian village in Arunachal Pradesh. If taking the OKSRT road, we will also visit the Gyuto Monastery at Tenzin Gang, which will also be our lunch stop, in all probability.

Enjoy the gorgeous scenery all around as you drive – up to either Bomdila or Dirang for the night where you will be hosted at a wonderful local homestay, for the night.

Day 2 – Bomdila/Dirang – Tawang

Wake up in the fresh air of Arunachal Pradesh and head out for a small morning walk. Or, if you want to laze around and appreciate your surroundings, that’s also equally fine. After your breakfast, we will start our journey to Tawang, crossing the mighty Se – La (Pass). But first, we will visit the extremely beautiful TDL Monastery.

As we move ahead from there, we will make multiple stops at the Nyukmadung War Memorial, Jaswant Garh, Se La (top) / tunnel, to name a few. As we proceed through this gorgeous terrain, if your jaw drops every few minutes, don’t be surprised, it is only natural 🙂

By the time you reach Tawang, it should be around evening. Check in to your stay and settle down, it will be your home for the next 3 nights 🙂

Day  3 – Tawang Local Attractions

Your first morning in Tawang, take it easy. Have a relaxed breakfast and then visit the mighty Tawang monastery as your first place to see in Tawang. Walk through the alleyways of the monastery, meet lamas, or just watch them go about their daily routine. Spend time visiting the multiple temples within the compound and most importantly, do not forget to catch one of the most beautiful views of Tawang from the monastery.

With the Tawang monastery done, proceed to visit the Big Buddha and enjoy the surroundings. If you are lightly hungry by then, the Dharma Cafe is a great stop. It offers some of the best food in Tawang and equally great views.

And while you are exploring Tawang, don’t forget to grab the tickets for the Light and Sound show at the War Memorial, for tomorrow evening.

Explore the local market, at your own pace. The rest of the day is free, to help you acclimatize to the high altitude.

Day  4 – Tawang – Bum La – Tawang

Today is going to be one of the most exciting days of your Tawang tour. Today you will drive to the upper areas beyond Tawang. On your way, you will visit some of the most gorgeous lakes of the region. The first stop will be at the PT Tso Lake. Take a walk down to the lake and be lost in its beauty that is hard to put to words.

Then from there, you will head to the India – China border at Bum La and spend some time there. You can see the other side from there and sometimes, even interact with visitors from there. On your way back, take a diversion towards yet another alpine lake, the Sungester Lake, also known as the Madhuri Lake.

The place is maintained by the Indian army and also has a small cafe that serves piping hot maggi and tea/coffee, that you can enjoy while enjoying the cold weather. You will be back in Tawang by late afternoon.

Evening free.

*Please note that this leg is open to only Indians and is not accessible to foreigners.

Day  5 – Tawang – Bomdila

Today, you say goodbye to the Tawang region and start your return journey to the other side of Se La, retracing the route you took from Dirang, a few days back. On your way down, feel free to (again) stop by the majestic Jang Waterfall and spend some time there. Enjoy the drive as you snake your way on the serpentine roads flanked by deep valleys and towering mountains.

The return journey, however, will be slightly different though. Instead of crossing the mighty Se La, this time, you will take the newly constructed Se La tunnel, an engineering marvel in itself.

After a lunch break, you should be in Bomdila by early evening. If there’s still sunlight and you feel like it, head to the Bomdila monastery and explore it.

Day  6 – Bomdila – Itanagar

Wake up to the crisp mountain air of Bomdila. Enjoy a slow breakfast before setting off on a scenic drive to Itanagar, the vibrant capital of Arunachal Pradesh. The road to Itanagar winds through lush green valleys, misty hills, and charming tribal villages. Take photo breaks as and when you want to.

Stop at Bhalukpong, a gateway to Arunachal, to admire the roaring Kameng River. Capture stunning landscapes as you drive past forests teeming with exotic birds and orchids.

Arrive in Itanagar, a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Time permitting, visit the Ita Fort, an ancient 14th-century structure made of bricks, and explore the Gompa Buddhist Temple, perched on a hill with panoramic views. In the evening, stroll through local markets to see traditional Nyishi tribal handicrafts & meat and sample authentic Arunachali cuisine.

Day  7 – Itanagar – Ziro Valley, Journey into Tribal Heartland of North East India

Bid farewell to Itanagar as you embark on a mesmerizing drive to Ziro Valley, home to the indigenous Apatani tribe. The journey takes you through thick forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages.

Pause at Raga, a picturesque settlement, to stretch your legs and witness the rural life of Arunachal. As you get closer to Ziro, the landscape transforms into breathtaking terraced rice fields, interspersed with traditional Apatani houses made of bamboo and wood.

Reach Ziro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage contender, by afternoon. Take a short walk through the charming village lanes, where elderly Apatani women with distinctive nose plugs and tattooed faces greet you with warm smiles.

End the day with a traditional Apatani meal, featuring local delights like pika pila (fermented bamboo shoot pickle) and smoked meat.

Day  8 – Ziro Valley – Guided Tour

Wake up in the serene Ziro Valley, wrapped in mist and surrounded by pine forests. Today, dive deep into the fascinating culture of the Apatani tribe.

Start with a guided walk through Hong Village, one of the largest Apatani settlements. Meet the locals and learn about their sustainable farming techniques, where they grow rice and fish together in flooded fields—a unique eco-friendly practice.

Visit the Ziro Craft Centre, where artisans weave intricate bamboo baskets and hand-spin traditional clothing. Stop by an Apatani home to sip millet beer (Apong) and hear folklore passed down through generations.

In the afternoon, spend some time by the Siikhe Lake.

Wrap up the day with a peaceful sunset at Tarin Fish Farm, where golden hues reflect on the water as villagers return from their fields.

Day  9 – Ziro Valley – Guided Tour, Exploring More Hidden Treasures

Another day to explore the untouched beauty of Ziro Valley. Today’s guided tour takes you deeper into its natural and cultural wonders. Hike through the mesmerizing bamboo forest of Ziro Valley as your guide shares their significance and folklore around the same. Feel the tranquility of the valley as you trek through these pine forests and bamboo groves.

Later, visit the sacred Meghna Cave Temple, a centuries-old spiritual site dedicated to Lord Shiva. The cave’s interiors glow with flickering oil lamps, creating a mystical ambiance.

Enjoy an immersive experience at Hapoli Market, where Apatani farmers sell fresh produce, dried herbs, and handcrafted tribal jewelry.

In the evening, join a traditional Apatani dance session around a bonfire. Witness the rhythmic footwork and soulful chanting that reflect their deep connection with nature and ancestors.

Day 10 – Ziro – Tezpur, Back to Assam’s Cultural Hub

Bid adieu to Ziro Valley and embark on a scenic journey back to Assam. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you descend from the cool mountains to the lush plains.

Arrive in Tezpur, a charming town on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. Time permitting, visit the ancient Agnigarh Hill, steeped in Hindu mythology, offering panoramic views of the river. Stroll through Cole Park, adorned with medieval stone carvings.

In the evening, relax by the riverfront and soak in the vibrant Assamese culture. Savor local delicacies like Masor Tenga (sour fish curry) and Pitha (rice cakes) before concluding this unforgettable North East India tribal tour.

Day 11 – Tezpur – Guwahati

After breakfast, start for Guwahati and reach in about 5 hours or so. The trip ends with a drop-off at your hotel or your Guwahati airport.

This Ziro Valley Tribal Tour offers an unforgettable journey through some of the most unspoiled and offbeat regions of North East India. It’s a perfect mix of culture, history, and nature—ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences.

• A dedicated vehicle with a driver cum guide for the entire stay.
• Accommodation for all nights on a twin-sharing basis in local homestays/monasteries/hotels.
• Breakfast starting day 2 till the last day.
• Local guide wherever required.
• All toll charges as required.
• Inner Line Permit [Indian Citizens]

• • Any personal/sanitary/medical expenses.
  • Any extension in the number of days stay.
  • Food and snacks.
  • Parking & entry fees anywhere.
  • Bum La Permit and vehicle charges. (Costs around Rs.5,500-6,000 per vehicle. To be paid in cash to the tour representative.)

• PAP/RAP for foreign nationals
• Anything that is not mentioned in the ‘inclusions’ section.
• 5% GST.

**Please note that only Indian citizens are allowed beyond Tawang and towards Bum-la. For non-Indian citizens, stay at Tawang will be 2 nights with 1 additional day in the West Kameng region. The specifics will be decided based on the guest’s interest.

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