Arunachal Pradesh

Rate this post

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh fire. (“Dawn-Lit Mountain Province”) is a state in northeastern India. It was created by the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) and India declared it a state on February 20, 1987. Itanagar is its capital and largest city. It connects the Indian states of Assam and Nagaland in the south. It shares international borders with Bhutan to the west, Myanmar to the east, and a 1,129 km disputed border with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region to the north, at the McMahon Line. Arunachal Pradesh is claimed by the Chinese as part of the Tibetan Autonomous Region. China annexed parts of Arunachal Pradesh in 1962 and later withdrew its forces.

According to the 2011 census of India, Arunachal Pradesh has a population of 1,383,727 people and an area of ​​83,743 square kilometers (32,333 sq mi). With only 17 people per square kilometer, it is the most populous state in India. It is an ethnically diverse state, with Monpa in the west, Tani in the center, Mishmi and Tai in the east, and Naga in the southeast of the state. About 26 main tribes and 100 sub-tribes live in the state, including Nocte, Adi, Nyshi, Singpho, Galo, Tagin, and Apatani. The Mishmi tribe consists of three tribes, namely Idu-Mishmi, Digaru-Mishmi and Miju-Mishmi.

Arunachal Pradesh

History

Arunachal Pradesh

Ancient history

Very little ancient history is known for the remote areas in the northwest corner and the area bordering today’s Assam.

Arunachal Pradesh

Check out the Anjaw region near the border of India and China Losar is celebrated by the Monpas of Arunachal Pradesh, Tibetans, and Ladakhis Gaonbura is commonly found in Arunachal Pradesh and China.
The northwestern part of this region came under the Monpa kingdom of Monyul under Tibet which flourished between 500 BCE and 600 CE. Monpa and Sherdukpen also preserve the historical records of the existence of the chieftains in the northwest.

According to Tibetan history, Monyul was a Gongkar Gyal, a descendant of an exiled Tibetan ruler named Lhase Tsangma, brother of the Tibetan king Ralpacan who arrived at Monyul in or before 837 CE. A son of Gongkar Gyal became the ruler of the Trashiyangtse district of Bhutan and Gapde Tsan, another member of the clan was the ruler of the Khorwong valley in the town of Thembang (now West Kameng district, Arunachal Pradesh).

Arunachal Pradesh

Thembang dzong was built in the 12th century, a type of dzong found in Bhutan and Tibet.
Later, the second son Gongkar Gyal Wongme Palde, who returned to Tibet because of the poverty of Khorwong Valley, returned to Monyul to be its ruler. Rgyal rigs written in 1668 or 1728 contain records of taxes collected. Taxes were paid in the form of coins, food, or livestock from the area around today’s Kameng and Tawang. The Monpas (Tibetan: མོན་པ) known to the Chinese as Monbas were responsible for trade between Assam and Tibet and held the Koriapar Dooar in the Sonitpur district of Assam. Chief Monpa is subordinate to the ruler of Tawang, who in turn is subordinate to the Tibetan or Ganden Phodrang in Lhasa. The Tibetan government in Lhasa appointed Tibetan officials called Gellongs to oversee the Monpa village leader. The chief of Monpa who is in charge of Duar is called Tsorgon, a letter created in the 16th century. According to Tibetan historical texts, the land of Arunachal Pradesh, known as Lhoyu, came under the control of the Tubo Kingdom or the Tibetan Empire in the seventh century CE.

Arunachal Pradesh

Medieval period

Arunachal Pradesh, though relatively less documented compared to other regions of India, has a rich history dating back to the medieval period. During this time, the region witnessed the rise and fall of several tribal kingdoms and the influence of various external powers.

Arunachal Pradesh

One of the prominent medieval kingdoms in Arunachal Pradesh was the Mon Kingdom. The Mon people, also known as the Monpa, inhabited parts of present-day Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan. They established a feudal system with chieftains ruling over small territories. The Mon rulers were known for their military prowess and their resistance against external invasions.

In the 13th century, the Ahom dynasty, originating from present-day Assam, began expanding their territory into Arunachal Pradesh. The Ahoms gradually annexed several Mon territories and established their dominance over the region. They introduced administrative reforms and built forts to consolidate their rule.

During the medieval period, Arunachal Pradesh also served as a corridor for trade between India and Tibet. The region was part of the ancient trade route known as the “Tibetan Tea-Horse Trade Route,” through which commodities like salt, wool, tea, and horses were exchanged between India and Tibet.

Arunachal Pradesh

The arrival of Tibetan Buddhism in Arunachal Pradesh during the medieval period had a profound impact on the cultural and religious landscape of the region. Monasteries and Buddhist stupas were built, and Buddhist teachings flourished, influencing the indigenous belief systems of the tribal communities.

The medieval history of Arunachal Pradesh is also marked by sporadic conflicts between rival tribes and external powers vying for control over the region’s resources and strategic locations. However, despite these challenges, the tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh maintained their distinct cultural identities and traditional ways of life.

Overall, the medieval period in Arunachal Pradesh was characterized by the emergence of tribal kingdoms, the influence of external powers, the spread of Buddhism, and the development of trade routes. This period laid the foundation for the cultural diversity and historical heritage that define Arunachal Pradesh today.

The British government 

In 1912-1913, the British Indian government established the North-East Frontier Territories. It was divided into three tracts, which were later called the Ballipara Frontier Tract, the Lakhimpur Frontier Tract, and the Sadiya Frontier Tract. In 1913-1914, representatives of the de facto state of Tibet and Britain met in India to define the boundaries of “external Tibet” (in relation to China). British administrator Sir Henry McMahon drew the 550-mile (890 km) McMahon Line as the boundary between British India and Tibet, placing Tawang and other areas within British India. The Tibetan and British delegations drafted the Simla Agreement including the McMahon Line, but the Chinese delegation did not sign it. The Treaty of Simla denied other benefits to China as it refused to subscribe to them. The Chinese position is that Tibet does not belong to China and cannot sign a treaty, so the treaty is invalid, like the Anglo-Chinese (1906) and Anglo-Russian (1907) conventions. British records show that a condition for the Tibetan government to accept new territory was for China to accept the Simla Convention. As Britain did not receive recognition from China, the Tibetans considered the McMahon Line unsafe.

Arunachal Pradesh

At a time when China was not strong in Tibet, the line did not face a serious challenge. In 1935, Olaf Caroe, Assistant Secretary of State, “discovered” that the McMahon Line was not drawn on official maps. The Survey of India published a map showing the McMahon Line as an official territory in 1937. In 1938, twenty years after the Simla Conference, the British finally published the Simla Accord as a bilateral agreement and the Survey of India published a detailed map showing the McMahon Line as the boundary of India. In 1944, the British established an administration in the area, from Dirang Dzong in the west to Walong in the east.

Geography 

Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh, often referred to as the “Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains,” is a state in Northeast India known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and diverse culture. Here’s a brief overview of the geography of Arunachal Pradesh:

Location: Arunachal Pradesh is situated in the northeastern part of India, bordered by the states of Assam and Nagaland to the south and southeast, respectively. It shares international borders with Bhutan to the west, China (Tibet Autonomous Region) to the north, and Myanmar to the east.

Arunachal Pradesh

Terrain: The geography of Arunachal Pradesh is characterized by its rugged terrain, with the eastern Himalayan ranges dominating the northern part of the state. This mountainous region is home to some of the highest peaks in the eastern Himalayas, including Kangto, Gorichen, and Namcha Barwa. The southern part of the state consists of densely forested hills and valleys, with the Brahmaputra and its tributaries flowing through the plains.

River Systems: Arunachal Pradesh is crisscrossed by numerous rivers and streams, which play a vital role in the state’s hydrology and ecosystem. The major rivers include the Brahmaputra, Kameng, Subansiri, Siang (Brahmaputra in Tibet), Dibang, Lohit, and Tirap. These rivers not only provide water for irrigation and hydropower generation but also support diverse flora and fauna.

Arunachal Pradesh

Biodiversity: Arunachal Pradesh is considered one of the biodiversity hotspots of India, with its rich flora and fauna encompassing a wide range of ecosystems, including tropical forests, alpine meadows, and montane grasslands. The state is home to numerous endemic species of plants and animals, including the elusive snow leopard, red panda, and Mishmi takin.

The geography of Arunachal Pradesh reflects its natural beauty, ecological significance, and cultural richness, making it a fascinating destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Climat

Arunachal Pradesh, located in the northeastern part of India, features a diverse climate influenced by its varied topography, ranging from the Himalayas in the north to the plains in the south. The state experiences four distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, autumn, and winter.

Arunachal Pradesh

Summer in Arunachal Pradesh, from April to June, is characterized by warm temperatures, with daytime highs ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) in the lower elevations. However, temperatures tend to be cooler in the higher altitudes due to the moderating effect of altitude.

The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall to the region, particularly in the foothills and lower elevations. The state receives a significant amount of rainfall during this period, which is essential for the lush greenery and biodiversity of the region. The higher mountain regions receive less rainfall but may experience occasional showers and thunderstorms.

Autumn, from October to November, is characterized by mild temperatures and clear skies, making it an ideal time to visit Arunachal Pradesh. The weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), providing comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Winter, from December to February, brings cooler temperatures to Arunachal Pradesh, especially in the higher elevations. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) in the lower regions, while temperatures can drop below freezing in the mountains. Snowfall is common in the higher reaches of the Himalayas, adding to the scenic beauty of the region.

Culture

Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in the northeastern corner of India, boasts a rich and diverse cultural tapestry shaped by its ethnic diversity, ancient traditions, and breathtaking landscapes. The culture of Arunachal Pradesh is a reflection of its people’s deep-rooted connection to nature, spirituality, and community. Here’s a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Arunachal Pradesh:

Arunachal Pradesh

Ethnic Diversity: Arunachal Pradesh is home to more than 26 major tribes and numerous sub-tribes, each with its own unique customs, languages, and rituals. The major tribes include the Nyishi, Adi, Galo, Apatani, Monpa, and Mishmi, among others, each contributing to the state’s cultural mosaic.

Arunachal Pradesh

Traditional Attire: The diverse ethnic groups of Arunachal Pradesh are known for their colorful traditional attire, adorned with intricate patterns, beads, and ornaments. Men often wear woven jackets, called ‘Gale’ or ‘Gale-Maphi,’ along with dhotis or trousers, while women don vibrant skirts, blouses, and shawls, embellished with traditional motifs.

Festivals and Celebrations: Festivals play a vital role in the cultural life of Arunachal Pradesh, providing an opportunity for communities to come together, celebrate their heritage, and showcase their traditional arts and crafts. Some of the major festivals include Losar (Tibetan New Year), Nyokum Yullo, Solung, Mopin, and Si-Donyi, each marked by vibrant rituals, dances, music, and feasting.

Music and Dance: Traditional music and dance are integral to the cultural identity of Arunachal Pradesh, with each tribe having its own distinctive forms of expression. War dances like ‘Popir’ and ‘Roppi’Religion symbolize valor and bravery, while agricultural dances like ‘Buiya’ and ‘Ponung’ celebrate the harvest season. Bamboo flutes, drums, cymbals, and indigenous instruments accompany these performances, creating a rhythmic and melodious ambiance.

Cuisine: The cuisine of Arunachal Pradesh reflects its diverse ethnic influences and reliance on local ingredients. Staple foods include rice, fish, meat (pork, chicken, and beef), and bamboo shoots, cooked with aromatic herbs and spices. Local delicacies like ‘Apong’ (rice beer), ‘Thukpa’ (noodle soup), ‘Momos’ (dumplings), and ‘Pika Pila’ (fermented bamboo shoot chutney) offer a unique culinary experience.

Arts and Crafts: Arunachal Pradesh is renowned for its traditional arts and crafts, including handwoven textiles, bamboo and cane products, wood carvings, pottery, and intricate beadwork. Skilled artisans preserve these ancient crafts, passing down their techniques and designs through generations, and showcasing their craftsmanship at local markets and festivals.

Religion and Spirituality: The people of Arunachal Pradesh follow a diverse range of religious beliefs, including indigenous animistic traditions, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Christianity. Monasteries, temples, and sacred sites dot the landscape, serving as centers of spiritual devotion and cultural heritage.

Religion

According to the 2011 Indian Census, all religions of Arunachal Pradesh.

  • Christian: 418,732 (30.26%)
  • Hindus:  401,876 (29.04%)
  • Other: 362,553 (26.20%)
  • Buddhists: 162,815 (11.77%)
  • Muslims: 27,045 (1.95%)
  • Sikhs: 3,287 (0.24%)
  • Jain: 771 (0.06%)

In 1971, the percentage of Christians in the state was 0.79%. This increased to 10.3% by 1991 and by 2011 it had crossed 30%.

Languages

Arunachal Pradesh, located in northeastern India, is known for its linguistic diversity, with a wide variety of languages spoken by its diverse population. Some of the major languages spoken in Arunachal Pradesh include:

  • Nyishi: Spoken primarily by the Nyishi tribe, one of the largest ethnic groups in Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Adi: A language spoken by the Adi people, one of the major tribal communities in the state. It has several dialects, including Padam, Pasi, Minyong, and Bokar.
  • Apatani: Spoken by the Apatani tribe, primarily in the Ziro Valley region of Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Gal o: The language of the Galo tribe, predominantly spoken in the West Siang district.
  • Monpa: Spoken by the Monpa people, particularly in the Tawang and West Kameng districts. It is also spoken in neighboring Bhutan.
  • Sherdukpen: Spoken by the Sherdukpen tribe in the West Kameng district.
  • Mishmi: Includes several languages and dialects spoken by the Mishmi people, such as Idu, Digaru, and Miju.
  • Nocte: Spoken by the Nocte tribe, primarily in the Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Singpho: Spoken by the Singpho people, mainly in the eastern part of the state.
  • Tangsa: A group of closely related languages spoken by the Tangsa people in eastern Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Nishi: Similar to Nyishi, Nishi is spoken by the Nishi tribe in parts of Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Khamti: Spoken by the Khamti tribe, particularly in the Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Bangni: Spoken by the Bangni tribe in the Lower Dibang Valley district.
  • Bugun: Spoken by the Bugun tribe in the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary area.
  • Wancho: Spoken by the Wancho tribe, primarily in the Longding district.

These are just a few examples of the diverse linguistic landscape of Arunachal Pradesh, which comprises many more languages, dialects, and tribal languages spoken by various ethnic communities across the state.

Arunachal Pradesh all-district

Arunachal Pradesh, one of the northeastern states of India, is divided into several districts. Here is a list of all the districts in Arunachal Pradesh:

  1. Tawang
  2. West Kameng
  3. East Kameng
  4. Papum Pare
  5. Kurung Kumey
  6. Kra Daadi
  7. Lower Subansiri
  8. Upper Subansiri
  9. West Siang
  10. East Siang
  11. Siang
  12. Upper Siang
  13. Lower Siang
  14. Lower Dibang Valley
  15. Dibang Valley
  16. Anjaw
  17. Lohit
  18. Namsai
  19. Changlang
  20. Tirap

Transportation

Transportation in Arunachal Pradesh, located in the remote northeastern part of India, is primarily characterized by road networks and air travel due to the challenging terrain and limited railway connectivity. Here’s an overview of transportation options in Arunachal Pradesh:

Roadways: Arunachal Pradesh is connected to the rest of India by a network of national and state highways, although road conditions vary from well-maintained to rugged and challenging. The arterial road connecting Arunachal Pradesh to the rest of the country is National Highway 13 (NH13), also known as the Trans-Arunachal Highway. State highways and district roads provide connectivity within the state, facilitating transportation between towns and villages.

Public Transport: Public bus services operated by the state government and private operators are the primary mode of public transportation in Arunachal Pradesh. These buses ply on designated routes connecting major towns and villages across the state. Shared taxis, locally known as “sumos” or “taxis,” are also popular for short-distance travel and can be found at bus stands and taxi stands in towns and cities.

Taxis and Private Vehicles: Taxis and private vehicles, including cars, jeeps, and motorcycles, are commonly used for transportation, especially in remote areas where public transport is limited. These vehicles can be hired for point-to-point travel or for sightseeing tours to popular tourist destinations.

Helicopter Services: Due to the challenging terrain and limited road connectivity, helicopter services play a crucial role in providing air transport services to remote and inaccessible areas of Arunachal Pradesh. Helicopter services operated by the government and private operators connect major towns and villages, providing essential transportation for residents, tourists, and emergency medical services.

Airports: Arunachal Pradesh has a few airports, including the Lilabari Airport in Assam, which serves as the nearest airport for accessing certain parts of Arunachal Pradesh. The state government has also undertaken initiatives to develop airports within Arunachal Pradesh, such as the Pasighat Airport and the Tezu Airport, to improve air connectivity and promote tourism and economic development.

River Transport: In some areas of Arunachal Pradesh, especially in the plains along the Brahmaputra River, river transport is used for ferrying goods and passengers between towns and villages. However, river transport infrastructure is limited compared to road and air transport options.

15 best tourist attractions in Arunachal Prades

Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in the northeastern part of India, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and rich biodiversity. Here are 15 of the best tourist attractions in Arunachal Pradesh:

  1. Tawang Monastery: One of the largest monasteries in India, Tawang Monastery is a revered Buddhist site and offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. more…
  2. Sela Pass: Located at an altitude of over 13,000 feet, Sela Pass offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, frozen lakes, and picturesque landscapes. more…
  3. Bomdila Monastery: Situated in the town of Bomdila, this monastery is known for its serene ambiance, intricate architecture, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. more…
  4. Namdapha National Park: As one of the largest protected areas in the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, Namdapha National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard. more…
  5. Ziro Valley: Known for its picturesque landscapes, rice fields, and indigenous Apatani tribal culture, Ziro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts. more…
  6. Dirang Valley: Surrounded by lush greenery, gushing rivers, and snow-capped peaks, Dirang Valley offers opportunities for trekking, bird-watching, and exploring the unique tribal culture of the region. more…
  7. Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary: Formerly known as Pakhui Tiger Reserve, this sanctuary is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with a chance to spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and various bird species. more…
  8. Gorichen Peak: The highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh, Gorichen Peak offers thrilling trekking experiences and breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges. more…
  9. Sangti Valley: Famous for its scenic beauty and apple orchards, Sangti Valley is an ideal destination for camping, bird watching, and experiencing the local culture. more…
  10. Parshuram Kund: A sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus, Parshuram Kund is believed to be the spot where the sage Parshuram washed away his sins. It attracts thousands of devotees during the Parshuram Mela. more…
  11. Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered Hoolock Gibbon, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. more…
  12. Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its rich birdlife, including the rare and endangered Bugun Liocichla, Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and wildlife spotting. more…
  13. Sela Lake: Located near Sela Pass, this mesmerizing high-altitude lake remains frozen for most of the year and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. more…
  14. Mechuka Valley: Tucked away in the remote corners of Arunachal Pradesh, Mechuka Valley is known for its stunning landscapes, Buddhist monasteries, and warm hospitality of the Memba tribe. more…
  15. Ganga Lake (Gyakar Sinyi): Also known as Gyakar Sinyi, Ganga Lake is a serene water body surrounded by lush forests, offering opportunities for boating, picnicking, and nature walks. more…

Map of Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh

 

 

 

 

Leave a Comment