Day 126 - Itanagar

Itanagar ,capital of Arunachal Pradesh, has a rich mixture of archaeological sites of great historical value and built up resources and institutions of great socio-cultural significance.It is located in the shadow of the Himalayan ranges, which has snow covered peaks on the north-eastern side. On the other hand, the widespread stretch of the plains of the Brahmaputra River adjoins the city from the southern side.The city is also identified as Mayapur, erstwhile capital of the Jitri dynasty, established in the 11th century. Itanagar, is one of the two regions of the 'Land of Dawn Lit Mountains', the other being Naharlagun.


How to reach here:

By Air: The nearest airport to Itanagar is located at Lilabari in Assam, which is nearly 67 km away from Itanagar. This airport is well connected by flights from Guwahati.

By Rail: Harmuti in Assam is the nearest rail-head, which is nearly 52 km away from Itanagar.


Best time to visit: Throughout the year.


Languages spoken: Assamese, English, Bengali.


Must eat: Panch Phoron Taarkari, Misa Mach Poora, Bamboo Shoot Fry.


Famous Restaurants:  Bhishmak Restaurant.


Places you must visit:

Ita Fort is one of the renowned ancient marvels of the region, located in the middle of the capital complex in Papum Pare district. Constructed by Ahom rulers and identified as root of the city, the region is named after this fort. Spread over an area of 45 cubic metres, the historic fort gives the testimony of stone work.The structure built during 14th and 15th century features three gates on various sides, known as Eastern, Western and Southern gates. Around 8 million bricks and 45,000 man-days were consumed for the construction of testament that was the guardian to the kingdom in yesteryear.







Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum is an informative attraction, which displays contrasts of yesteryears. Managed by government, the art center features various woodcarvings, musical instruments and textiles from the past.An extensive gamut of handicrafts, reminiscent of traditional Arunachal, grabs attention of the visitors. Moreover, archaeological findings are exhibited in a separate section at the museum.In the museum, there is a workshop of Handicraft section, where one can witness traditional cane manufacturing procedure and progress. Along with the art gallery and workshop, there is an informative library that houses an extensive collection of books.


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Buddha Temple  was sanctified by Dalai Lama, standing in the town with serene surrounding of hills in the backdrop. Positioned at Buddha Vihar, the shrine can be seen from distant places due to its massive yellow-golden roof.The contrasting green carpets around the shrine are the highlights of temple. Buddha Temple features sculpture of Lord Buddha along with religiously important Buddhist articles of worship.The major attraction for tourists is the sculpture of Lord Buddha, which depicts a peaceful meditating position. Along with the worship place, there are dense woods and majestic  mountains.









Polo Park is a beautiful botanical park located in Naharlagun region. The park has evolved as a major tourist attraction as it features a wide collection of flowers and orchids. Thickets of cane are the highlights of the park.



Ganga Lake, also known as Gyakar Sinyi, is one of the chief tourist spots of the city.  The beautiful water body enthralls visitors with its peaceful environment, imposing surroundings of lush green mountains and crystal clear water.Nestled in the shadows of Himalayas, the lake features primeval vegetation, towering groves and stretches of orchids. Rich in flora, the lake comprises ferns and bamboo plants.








The Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary in Itanagar is a  delight of biologists and tourists, expansive reserve features a various trees and foliage. One of the chief sources to maintain ecological balance, the sprawling sanctuary provides habitat to contrasting species such as macaque, capped langur, hoolock gibbon and slow loris.Some of the rare species which include antelopes, mittan, serow and goral are also housed in the reserve. On the safari, tourists can spot the musk deer, Himalayan black bear, red panda and porcupines. This is one of the favored locations for bird watching, as it features around 400 species of birds.
 





Rupa  is a tiny hill station on the river Tenga is a panoramic place to visit while on a tour to Itanagar. Take a winding tour of the flat area on the top for panoramic views of the valley below full of lush greenery and scenic views. The most amazing aspect is that the whole area is still untouched by mankind while verdant woods surround the whole region. This picturesque hill station gives you ample opportunity to enjoy the scenic tribal Shertukpen villages.

Parshuram Kund is a lake situated near Tezu. This is a famous Hindu pilgrimage centre. During Makar Sankranti, thousands of pilgrims attend the fair and take a dip in the holy water as bathing here is believed to wash off one’s sins. 

Malinithan is situated in the foothills of West Siang, the old granite images of Hindu deities were found in Malinithan.






Bomdila, a town at an altitude of about 2800 meters  known for its scenic beauty. Bomdila has a famous Buddhist monastery and a museum of folk arts.