Arunachal Pradesh truly is home to some of the most beautiful and stunning places in the world. With myriads of attractions ranging from heritage, culture, religion, and arts, to impeccable landscapes and vistas, they never fail to surprise. Pasighat is one such place in Arunachal with its distinct ethnic diversity and stunning geographical features.

Being the oldest town in the state, Pasighat is a beautiful place surrounded by quaint hill stations, majestic mountains, sparkling waterfalls, and gorgeous hanging bridges on rivers. The mighty Siang which flows through the heart of the place is the centre of attraction. Pasighat was established in the year 1911 by the British and soon became the gateway to east Arunachal. According to historians, the British army wanted to take over Pasighat to get control of the great Abor Hill regions.

Pasighat is home to many beautiful places, from picturesque landscapes to wildlife sanctuaries; you name it, and you'll find it in this charming town. If we are asked to name the best tourist spots in the town, we land up in a spot of bother as it is difficult to pick.

The most visited place is Bodak, which holds a breath-taking view of the river Siang and the mesmerising landscape. If we head a little further, there is another favourite spot for tourists as well as locals, known as Pongging View Point, which is situated on the confluence of two prominent rivers Siang and the Yamne. The name came into being as from this point, the beautiful Pongging village is clearly visible, a view that will compel you to visit this lovely village. There is a hanging bridge at that point, which is the only pass to Pongging village.

If we travel further towards Bodak, one has to cross the famous Raneghat bridge, which is over the river Siang. Tourists always stop to admire the breath-taking view from here. I will say that it is more of an evening place in Pasighat where people always love to come here during sunset to beat the summer heat and enjoy the evening serenity. It is one of the favourite picnic spots in the region. 

Many will agree with me that Pasighat has one of the best hangout places by the side of the rivers. You can do everything from sitting quietly and admire nature, to camp, trek etc. on the banks of the Siang River, Sile Korong, and Sibo Korong.

Sirki waterfall is another popular spot in Pasighat located about 10 km from the main town. The best time to visit this waterfall is during the rainy season when one can witness the real beauty and force of the waterfall.

Pasighat also has religious places of importance, one of which is the Dangaria Baba Shiv Mandir near Raneghat. If you happen to be in Pasighat at the end of the year, you must visit this mandir, when the “Bum Bum Bole Mela” is organised with religious fervour and enthusiasm.

Those who have a keen interest in wildlife can visit the Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary, which is located around 60 km from Pasighat.

Pasighat is one of the few places in Arunachal that can be reached by road as well as by air.

By Air: If you are travelling from other states, you need to reach Guwahati first. From Guwahati airport, one can take a flight to Pasighat. The regional airport in Pasighat is now available for commercial purposes as well. Flights from Dibrugarh are also available to reach Pasighat.

By Rail: The nearest railway station from Pasighat is Murkong Selek Station in Jonai Assam. Public transport such as Tempo, Autorikshaw, Tata Magic etc. is available for hire.

Note: If you are from outside Arunachal Pradesh, you must get an Inner Line Permit. You will get those from Ruksin Police Station or one can also apply for eILP. To apply, visit www.arunachalilp.com