Ziro Valley Tour

• Post breakfast at the hotel, get transferred to the capital city – Itanagar. Start your day early today, to reach the next destination in time.
• Drive Guwahati to Itanagar | Travel to the capital city of Arunachal Pradesh.
• Explore Ita Fort. Ita Fort in Itanagar town, is one of the most important historical sites in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, India. The name literally means “Fort of bricks” (brick being called “Ita” in the Assamese language).
• Visit the Jawaharlal State Museum. Discover some interesting insights into the history and culture of Arunachal Pradesh at Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum, established in the 1980s. The museum complex houses an interesting collection of various artefacts and scriptures that throw light on the tribal culture and the natural heritage of the state.
• Visit Gompa Buddhist Temple. Take a plunge into a world full of divinity at Gompa Buddhist Temple in Itanagar, which is the centre for Buddhist culture in the region. It is a perfect site to undertake a dual experience of spirituality and culture study in Itanagar.
• Visit the Craft Centre and Emporium in Itanagar. During your visit to the capital city you will be hooked by this place experiencing the unique collection of local artefacts. Craft Centre and Emporium is always vibrating with tourists and this popular tourist attraction is stacked with great collections such as conventional cane and bamboo products, wall paintings depicting ancient local stories and a unique collection of local traditional costumes made from natural vegetables and herbal dye yarns, which you can shop.
• Enjoy your dinner at RE Fresh Restaurant on the Banks of the Dikrang River, is one of the best places to eat in Itanagar which offers a truly surreal dining experience amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. Its picturesque location and thatched-roof setting create an ideal atmosphere, perfect for indulging in innovative dishes crafted from fresh meats and seasonal vegetables. (*Travellers Choice).
• Overnight stay at the hotel in Itanagar.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Cygnett Inn Trendz
2. Waii International Hotel
3. The Elite Resort Itanagar
4. Biirii Resort

• On this day, post early breakfast, start your travel towards Ziro village, located in the North of Itanagar. Upon arrival in Ziro Valley, surround yourself with the ethereal natural as well as cultural landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh.
• Check in to your hotel in Ziro Valley. Get ready to explore Ziro Valley.
• Visit Pechi Putu, this unique village done the utilisation of land and resources, combined with the unique cultural traditions of the Apatanis and their enduring relationship with their environment, has put Ziro on UNESCO’s World Heritage tentative list. This expanse of open ground with wonderful views of the surrounding where the submerged rice fields met a mudbank, millet was sown on the raised bunds, fish were reared. NOTE: Every year, in September, the Ziro Festival of Music is held on this hill. That year too it had taken place over four days, attracting crowds and musicians from all over the country.
• Visit Baro Village, which calls the home of Ziro, the home of the Apatani people. There is a legend recounted in Ralph Izzard’s book, The Hunt for the Buru, which describes the ancient Apatani migration and the establishment of the original villages in Ziro. Interact with the locals and admire their unique tattoos, which is a part of their tradition.
• Look down from the height of Pechi Putu, the landscape, once lush and green, had by October turned to rust and gold. Where the submerged rice fields met a mudbank, millet was sown on the raised bunds. Where the water channels meandered through the paddy lots, fish were reared.
• Visit Hong Village, largest Apatani villages, the tribe welcomes visitors to observe their time-honoured lifestyle, interact with the elders who are the real keepers of the traditions, check out handicrafts and learn more about the Apatani culture. Explore the traditional houses of the Apatani people built there which are made of bamboo. These bamboo houses are one story. Some houses are built on the ground and some on a high platform. Adjacent to most of the houses is a farm and a small pond in which fish farming takes place. This technique of growing millet along with paddy in the fields is not seen anywhere else. Experience hands on farming in the fields in Hong Village.
• Visit Hong Basti, you will find a huge wooden platform called Lapang. This platform has a lot of importance and it is considered a very sacred place. In simple words, you can understand that the village panchayat is held here and every decisions are taken here. People also celebrate the festival collectively here. In front of the houses in Hong Basti, you see standing wooden T-shaped pillars known as Babo. These pillars represent the clan. The entire community gathers to raise Babo during the annual festival.
• Visit Hong Village, and take a local wine making tour with Naara Abba. In this tour, guided by our wine technologist Fillipe, you will be walked through the process of fermentation, aging and mixing of different sorts of wines. You’ll have the chance to be part of the wine-making process. Book Your Tour (Contact: +91 82570 00019 | +91 94360 48828).
• Overnight stay at the hotel in Ziro Valley.

HOTEL RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Lempia Ude
2. Hotel Blue Pine
3. Hotel Anne Ziro

HOMESTAY RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Siiro Homestay
2. Ziro Putu Homestay

• After early breakfast at the hotel.
• Take a guided village walk tour of Ziro Valley with Prachurjya Deka. (Contact: +9706707082).
• Visit Dutta Village lies just a short drive from Ziro, enveloped by a peaceful environment along with hill slopes cascading with terraced rice fields. It is inhabited by Nyishis who are known for their fine handloom textiles as well as colorful handicrafts, at Dutta, one can meet skilled weavers who have preserved centuries old weaving methods to create magnificent patterns reflecting their surroundings’ natural beauty.
• Visit Bamin Village, is situated on the outskirts of Ziro is a perfect example of Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural mosaic owing to its mixture of Apatani plus Nyishi influences. In this village are ancient stone monoliths known as menhirs which were put up to commemorate ancestors’ names or what happened in their history books. Experience bird watching in Bamin Village, as it is a refuge for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with its verdant environs attracting various avian varieties that include the endangered white-winged wood duck. The village paths meander through thick woods as well as bamboo corpses that lead to hidden points from where one can see amazing sunrises and sunsets in a landscape of peace found only in the Eastern Himalayas.
• Visit Yachuli Village, is an attractive town situated on the fertile banks of the Subansiri River. It is known for its terraced rice fields whose sparkling appearance appears like an emerald carpet beneath blue sky. Yachuli reveals Verulam farming practices which involve many crops such as maize, millet and rice grown nyishi style using traditional methods passed down from generation to generation.
• Enjoy a traditional authentic Nyishi cuisine at the homestay Smti Joram Ania (Contact: 9856077860). (*Travellers Choice).
• Explore traditional fishing trips or walking along hiking trails nearby through dense forests full of wild animals are things a visitor may do.
• Overnight stay at the hotel in Ziro Valley.

• Post breakfast in the morning, head out to explore the Ziro Valley.
• Visit Hapoli Town, often called New Ziro, is the administrative capital of the area but maintains a distinct charm. Hapoli, unlike the traditional villages surrounding it, has modern amenities and cultural heritage blended in one place. The town has small cafes as well as markets for visitors to taste bamboo shoot curry, smoked pork and freshly brewed tea from plantations around.
• Visit Tarin Fish Farm, is a unique high-altitude fish farm located in the picturesque valley of Ziro in Arunachal Pradesh, India. The farm has around 74 ponds and out of which 46 numbers are nursery ponds, 16 are rearing ponds and 12 are stocking ponds. The area was of approx. 200 kilometers of the fish farming and recently known as paddy cum fish cultivation where the Apatanis used to practices the farming. This sustainable practice not only optimizes land use but also creates a symbiotic environment for both fish and rice cultivation.
• Enjoy your lunch at Momo Magic Café, quick Service Restaurant Chain serving hot scrumptious food with Best ingredients that too at Affordable Price. (*Travellers Choice).
• Visit the Hapoli market, is an interesting place to see unusual items that are a part of the local cuisine. Dried rats, frogs, meat steaks, ferns, Tapyo salt, bamboo shoots and a variety of local herbs can be seen in the stalls. Vendors selling handmade items of cane and bamboo are also available in the market as such tools are used by the villagers for their daily domestic use. Most items are packed in leaves and people carry them off in wicker baskets.
• Visit District Museum at Hapoli Library, is a relatively new attraction in Ziro. It showcases the cultural artefacts of the Apatani people and has small collection of old and rare photographs. The anthropological collection provides a good insight to the diverse tribal cultures of Arunachal Pradesh. It is also a good source of information for the culture enthusiasts.
• Visit Hapoli, also serves as a convenient base for exploring the nearby Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary that houses many different plants and animals including endangered species like clouded leopard and red panda. Eco-tourists can take guided walks through thick forests and alpine meadows with cascading waterfalls and panoramic views along their way. Points to Remember: Timing: 6:00 Am to 6:00 Pm. Duration: 4-6 Hours. Entry Fees: Indian tourists: INR 20-50 per person, Foreign tourists: INR 100-200 per person. Best Time to Visit: October to April.
• Enjoy your dinner at Hapoli Hilltop restaurant, offers an exceptional combination of local flavors and modern methods of preparation. The entire menu shows the cultural richness of this region with Apatani dishes like Pehak (smoked pork), Tibetan momos and also continental foods among others being available. You cannot miss visiting Hapoli Hilltop if you love eating. (*Travellers Choice).
• Overnight stay at the hotel or Abasa Homestay Siiro in Hapoli Village.

• After early breakfast at the hotel.
• Visit Dolo Mando, is a hill on the west side of Ziro on the Daporijo road. You can walk along the clear path, you’ll be surrounded by green plants. You might even see some local birds and butterflies. The highlight of Dolo Mando is undoubtedly the panoramic vista that unfolds before you upon reaching the summit. The entire valley stretches like a verdant tapestry, with the villages of the Apatani tribe scattered across the area. These unique places are a dream for photographers. It’s a peaceful place where you can enjoy nature’s beauty.
• Visit the Siddheshwar Nath Temple, the largest Shivling which has the world’s tallest natural Shivling. ‘Shivling’ is the abstract representation of Hindu deity Shiva.
• Enjoy lunch at Siiro Restaurant, sitting on top of the hill that overlooks the quiet Siiro River provides a peaceful environment for eating while enjoying the view of nature. This menu is composed of a number of traditional dishes from Apatanis together with other modern ones prepared for different kinds of tongues. One can take pleasure out of having original Apatani Thukpa or eating various continental dishes while marvelling at the amazing landscape. (*Travellers Choice).
• Visit Greener Pastures, contribute to sustainable tourism by engaging in eco-friendly activities and supporting the local community. Visitors can stay at homestays, which help preserve Apatani culture and provide families with a sustainable livelihood. Visitors can participate in initiatives like recycling, keeping the environment clean, and supporting local artisans by purchasing handloom and handicraft products made by Self-Help Groups. Additionally, you can volunteer with Ngunu Ziro, helping with education, nature conservation, and biodiversity monitoring, including butterfly protection, contributing to the valley’s ecological balance and cultural preservation.
• Visit the Ziro Craft Emporium. This place is an insightful place to see the local arts and crafts of the Apatani Tribe. The craft emporium is witness the making of various handicrafts like carpets, fabric and articles made from cane, wood and even metal. Baskets are made for the use in the kitchen storing livestock and in farming. The crafts centre has a small retail section where you indulge in supporting the local handicrafts of Ziro Valley by buying few products. Buy handloom fabrics or the local skirts, hand woven carpets and handmade baskets.
• Must explore and see the Apatani women weaving handloom at the Crafts Emporium in Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh. The emporium has a handloom section where you can watch women weave the traditional Gale, a colorful skirt worn by Apatani women.
• Drive back to hotel and enjoy the nature of this serene place. Enjoy dinner at Ziro Puto Restaurant is a hidden culinary treasure trove offering some of the most exquisite dishes with a panoramic view over Ziro Valley below it. The restaurant specializes in indigenous Apatani cuisines whose taste takes clients through different cultures present within this area making sure that such dishes like Bamboo Shoot Fry and Millet Beer satisfy the tastes of those who are well-informed on good meals provided that they belong to Apatani tribe. (*Travellers Choice).
• Overnight stay at the hotel in Ziro Valley.

Tezpur

• After early breakfast in Ziro Valley, proceed towards Tezpur. Today, most of your time will be spent on roads through the beautiful valley and rolling hills.
• Visit Mahabhairab Temple for Darshan. The Mahabhairab Temple stands tall as an embodiment of Shiva’s divine presence in Tezpur. Believed to be established by King Banasura in the pre-historical times, the temple boasts a powerful Shivling, attracting devotees throughout the year. The site has undergone several renovations over centuries but has maintained its spiritual significance. Pilgrims flock here during Shivratri and other auspicious days dedicated to Lord Shiva. Visiting this temple not only offers spiritual solace but is also a chance to witness the architectural and cultural evolution of temples in Assam.
• Enjoy lunch at Chakh-Le (Veg Food Cart), is one of the popular Local Eateries in Tezpur, known for its delicious vegetarian offerings. The menu at Chakh-Le features a variety of vegetarian delights that showcase the rich flavours of the region. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty sabzi (vegetable curry) served with fluffy rice or crispy pakoras (fritters) paired with tangy chutney, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Food Must Try: Paneer Kathi Roll, Dahi Puri, Vegetable Fried Rice, Chole Bhature (*Travellers Choice).
• Visit the Meghna Cave Temple around 5000 years and it was rediscovered in the year 1962. Located at an altitude of 300 feet, the temple offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Majestic mountains, dense forests presenting lush greenery to your eyes and the beautiful river flowing below give you the most wonderful experience. You will be at a loss for words to describe the immense beauty of the place. Set your camera in motion so that you will be able to relive the memories on your return.
• Visit the District Museum of Tezpur one of the 12 district museums in Assam, the District Museum Tezpur, is located in the heart of the city of Tezpur. Established on 16th March 1986, the museum houses over 500 exhibits, including sculptures, manuscripts, olden traditional metal inscriptions and traditional art and craft from various communities.
• Visit Agnigarh, is provides a panoramic view of the great river and Tezpur. Basically, it’s a hillock on the bank of river Brahmaputra is the site of legendary romance of princess Usha (the only daughter of King Bana) and Anirudha, grandson of Lord Krishna. Usha was kept on this hillock which was surrounded by fire. Recently Agnigarh has been developed as a beautiful park. It has a series of sculptures depicting the mythology, open-air stage, and waterfall. Keep your camera ready for photos of the iconic sculptures and scenic views.
• Take a Tezpur Tea Garden Tour at Addabarie Tea Estate, will be on offer in the afternoon at the Tea Tasting Session. You can learn about the intricate process of tea making “from plucking leaves to the final packaging. These tours often include a walk through the tea bushes, watching the tea plucking, a visit to the factory and insight into the fermentation, drying, and grading processes. Indulge in some tea tasting sessions to distinguish between different flavours.
• Enjoy your dinner at Silver Spoon, features you with the diverse selection of dishes that showcase the finest ingredients and culinary techniques. Whether you’re craving succulent seafood, tender meats, or flavourful vegetarian options, there’s something to please every palate at this Fine Dining in Tezpur restaurant. Food Must Try: Tiramisu, Risotto, Stuffed Mushrooms, Tenderloin Steak. (*Travellers Choice).
• Overnight stay at the hotel in Tezpur.

• Start your day early and have a hearty breakfast. Later, board your transfer to Guwahati.
• Your amazing tour comes to an end, once you are dropped in Guwahati at your desired location.
• The Ziro Valley Tour Ends.