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Day 7 – Kitpi to Shergaon: Tunnels, Monasteries & Cultural Treasures

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Overview: Day 7 began early as we departed from the quaint village of Kitpi, embarking on a long drive towards Shergaon. Unlike Day 3 when we crossed the snow-laden Sela Pass, this time we opted for a more modern route—the recently inaugurated Sela Tunnel. At an elevation of 3,000 metres (9,800 ft), the Sela Tunnel is a marvel of engineering and a game-changer for the region. It holds the distinction of being the world’s longest twin-lane tunnel at this altitude and forms a critical link between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, ensuring year-round connectivity to Tawang. The twin tunnels—Tunnel 1 (980 m) and Tunnel 2 (1,555 m)—are connected by a 1.2 km link road and significantly reduce travel time while avoiding the treacherous winter conditions of the Sela Pass, located 400 metres higher. This strategic infrastructure project, executed under BRO’s Project Vartak, not only supports civilian mobility but also strengthens defence logistics along the Indo-China border. One can’t help but m...
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From Sacred Caves to Whispering Waterfalls – A Spiritual Day in Zemithang & Beyond - Day 6 of Arunachal trip

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Overview: Our sixth day in Arunachal Pradesh began with the serenity of Zemithang , a quaint village embraced by rolling hills and crisp mountain air. Just a short stroll from our homestay, we found ourselves drawn to a quiet cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva . Tucked into the rocks and shrouded in mist, the cave housed a natural Shivalinga radiating a deep spiritual energy. It was the perfect way to start the day—introspective, peaceful, and humbling. Shiva temple at Zemithang After breakfast, we checked out and began our journey to  Kinzamane , a place not just beautiful but also deeply etched into history. It was here, in 1959, that  His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama  first stepped onto Indian soil during his dramatic escape from Tibet. Disguised as a soldier, he traversed the treacherous mountains for days on foot and horseback, accompanied by trusted officials and family. At Kinzamane stands a  sacred tree , believed to have miraculously grown from the very sta...
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High Altitude Dreams – Bumla Pass, Sangestar Tso, and Zemithang: Day 5 of Arunachal Pradesh trip

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Overview: Our fifth day in Arunachal Pradesh was a soul-stirring journey through sacred spaces, snowy landscapes, hidden meadows, and vibrant festivals. Every turn of the road brought with it a new wonder. A Spiritual Morning: Tawang Monastery and Buddha Statue The day began with an early start in Tawang town, where we first completed the formalities of collecting the special permit needed to visit Bumla Pass. With the paperwork done, we made our way to the majestic Tawang Monastery , the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world. Perched dramatically against a backdrop of soaring mountains, the monastery is a living center of spirituality, home to monks, ancient scriptures, and stunning murals. Walking through its prayer halls, feeling the peace in the air, and hearing the gentle hum of chants was an experience that centered us for the adventure ahead. After that, we visited the towering Buddha statue of Tawang , standing tall and serene amidst the clouds. Overl...
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A Warm Embrace in the Eastern Himalayas: Our Stay at Kitpi Kee Homestay near Tawang

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Overview: Kitpi, a peaceful village near Tawang, unfolded before us like a dream. But what made it truly memorable was our stay at Lham Norbu ji’s homestay — a place where warmth, tradition, and modern comfort meet. Kitpi Landscape From the moment we arrived, we were embraced with unparalleled hospitality. Norbuji greeted us with a glass of locally brewed wine made from ragi and barley. It wasn’t just a drink — it came with a beautiful ritual. According to local custom, the yak butter added on top of the wine forms a pattern that reveals something about the person it’s offered to. Watching this unfold inside their traditional wooden home felt like stepping into a living piece of folklore. Lham Norbu's house in Kitpi Traditional Tawang Wine Way to Attic After the welcome, we climbed up to the attic — a hidden treasure trove! Norbuji has lovingly preserved old vessels, cookware, and crockery that once belonged to his ancestors. He’s turned it into a mini museum, keeping the spirit...
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