Exploring the Untouched Beauty of Sangti Valley in Arunachal

Yearning for a tranquil escape from the chaos and hustle-bustle of city life? Look no further than Sangti Valley.

Let the tranquil valley embrace you in its serenity, and bid adieu to the hustle and bustle of urban life. A retreat that’s sure to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. 

Nestled in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, Sangti village is a hidden gem situated by the pristine Sangti river (Sangti Chu) in the West Kameng district. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush green forests it is a delight to the eyes.

As you enter the valley, you will feel the serene air, hear the burble of the calm river and witness the majestic view of the mountains giving you an absolute feel of paradise. 

Habitant of Valley

In the idyllic Valley, you’ll find the Monpas, followers of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition. So it’s obvious to see some Gompas and Buddhist prayer flags.

As you wind along the narrow roads that hug the mountainside, you’ll glimpse the tranquil Sangti river flowing by and horses grazing in the verdant meadows. People mostly rears horses, sheeps and cows for the household needs.

The valley is also suitable for certain cultivation. The locals cultivate an array of succulent fruits like oranges, kiwis and apples, and the fields are blooming with sweet corn out of which they mainly make flour.

Best time to visit Sangti Valley

The weather in Sangti Valley can be quite chilly, especially during the winter months, when temperatures can plummet to as low as negative 12-15° C at late nights. The daytime would be however more comfortable with temperatures around 5-10°C.

But don’t let that deter you! By August, the temperatures rise to a pleasant 23-25°C

during the day, although nights can still be brisk, hovering around 10-12°C.

The summer time could be a little too exhausting given the temperature and the humidity. The temperature hovers around 20-40°C during the summer. 

The best time to visit this valley is during the spring (March – June), when the trees are ablaze with golden hues, and the air is crisp and refreshing.

It’s the perfect time to soak in the stunning vistas of the valley, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the mountain paths, or simply bask in the peaceful ambience that makes Valley such a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts.

Also the post-monsoons will be pleasant to make your trip more cozy and comfortable. The months of October-April would be ideal.

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Where to stay in Sangti Valley ?

Sangti offers a lot of options for your comfortable stay. There are plenty of friendly homestays, cozy campsites by the Sangti river. You can also pitch your own tent by talking to the owner of the local area.

Many visitors choose to stay overnight in Dirang town due to its better internet connectivity and communication facilities. The lovely town boasts a wide variety of hotels that cater to different budget ranges, making it a great choice for travelers. 

In addition, there is a government PWD Inspection Bungalow in Dirang that provides an affordable option for those on a tight budget. While the quality of accommodation may not be top-notch, it’s a good deal for the price you pay.

Things to do in Sangti Valley

1. A click at the Sheep Farm

Upon entering the Valley, you’ll come across a cluster of modern-looking huts that may appear to be a resort to some. However, these structures are actually a stunningly crafted sheep farm. 

It’s common for people to halt here for a quick photoshoot, but if you have the opportunity, do take the time to explore the farm. It is a government-run facility that also serves as a research center, and offers breeding and shearing services.

2. Look for Black Necked Cranes

The black-necked crane holds a special place in Buddhism, and is a migratory bird that typically arrives in Valley around November or December and stays for a month or two. 

Unfortunately, due to the growing number of tourists and picnickers, the number of cranes migrating to the valley and their length of stay has significantly decreased. Let’s all do our part to preserve the natural habitat of these beautiful birds and ensure their continued presence in this stunning valley.

3. Visiting the Thupsung Dargyeng Ling 

A sacred place of worship and learning nestled in the heart of Himalayan village of Dirang. The temple and learning institute is dedicated to the study of Tibetan Buddhism. 

The name of the temple “Thupsung Dargyeng Ling”, meaning “Place of flowering of the Buddha’s speech” was bestowed by His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, which adds to its significance. 

Visitors can immerse themselves in the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism and witness the unique blend of traditional and modern Tibetan architecture that reflects the institute’s commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Places to visit around Valley

Just a short 13 km drive away from the charming town of Dirang lies the serene Valley. From Dirang, you can set off on an adventure towards the magnificent Sela Pass and Tawang. 

Dirang itself is a quaint town, surrounded by beautiful countryside and full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here’s a list of a few places which you can explore within and around Dirang.

1. Dirang Dzong

Step back in time and discover the Dirang Dzong, a remarkable fort built in the 17th century to safeguard Bomdila from rival states. This incredible structure served as a jail and even played a role in World War history. 

Perched atop a hill, it features four stories of fortified stone slabs supported by sturdy wooden logs. Don’t miss the entrance gate, adorned with stunning local architectural designs that will capture your imagination.  

Back in the days, the Dzong was a hub for making crucial decisions, and it also housed a prison cell for offenders. With just an intricately carved opening for ventilation, the cell was hardly accommodating.

2. Mandala Top 

Perched on a lofty elevation of approximately 10,000 feet in the majestic Himalayas, Mandala Top or 108 Manes/stupas is a relatively new attraction that has garnered rave reviews from both locals and tourists alike.

As a spiritual pilgrimage site, the sense of peace and tranquility you experience upon arrival is unparalleled. The stunning collection of 108 religious manes/stupas is an impressive sight and makes for the perfect day trip while you’re in the area.

The sacred Mantra-adorned Manes are arranged in a manner that allows visitors to circumambulate them, reciting or meditating on the sacred mantra 108 times.

It is believed that the chanting of this sacred mantra 108 times promotes meditation, encourages compassion and tolerance, and eliminates negative emotions such as greed and anger.

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3. Thembang Heritage Village 

Thembang Village, located at an altitude of 2300m, is a 12th-century fortified village that has been nominated for the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. The community is known for its respect and commitment to maintaining the ecological richness of the area. 

The construction of the Thembang Dzong (Fort) and its gates follows the tradition of the Monpa people, using composite stone masonry and wood architecture.

Ornamental features such as carved stone blocks, mani walls, traditional wood carvings, paintings, and manuscripts can be seen as murals and graffiti along the houses and ancient ruins.

4. Natural Hot Spring

Indulging in the hot water spring on the way to Tawang from Dirang is an experience of utmost relaxation and rejuvenation. The water is highly enriched with sulphur, making it extremely therapeutic and curative in nature. 

This natural hot spring is renowned for its medicinal properties, which can alleviate various health concerns. It is no surprise that this hot water spring attracts a large number of visitors from all corners of India.

However it’s been sometime that this hot spring has been abandoned. Before visiting, it’s advisable to check with the locals about its current status

How to reach Sangti valley?

Before you head out, it’s important to know that a pass is required to enter Arunachal Pradesh, even if you are an Indian citizen. No worries though, as getting a pass is a breeze – you can apply online and receive it in a day or two, or simply obtain one at the entry gate.

Consider Dirang as your first stop. This hidden gem is easily accessible from various directions and serves as the perfect base camp for your adventure into the Valley.

  1. By Air: The nearest airport to Valley is Salonibari Airport in Tezpur, Assam. After arriving at the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Dirang Valley, which is approximately 200 km away.
  1. By Road: The road to Valley is a scenic delight, with the breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayas, verdant forests, and gurgling rivers. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Tezpur or Bhalukpong to reach Valley via Dirang.

    The newly completed NH13 road has opened up a spectacular route for visitors traveling to Valley from Guwahati via Udalguri and Bomdilla to Dirang. As you journey along this highway, be prepared to be left awe-struck by the stunning views that stretch out before you.
  2. By Rail: The nearest railway station to Sangti Valley is Bhalukpong Railway Station. However tourists consider traveling till Tezpur Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. After arriving at the station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Dirang, which is approximately 200 km away.

FAQ

Q: How can I reach Sangti Valley from Dirang?

A: Valley is approximately 13 km from Dirang town. You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Dirang to reach Valley. The road to Valley is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the mountains and valleys.

Q: How can I reach Sangti Valley from Guwahati?

A:  There are two possible routes that you can take from Guwahati. Valley is approximately 315 km via Bhairabkunda, Udalguri. If you take up this route you will need to hire a private vehicle as public transport is not very accessible. 

If you take the route via Tezpur, Valley is about 360 km away from Guwahati. To get there, you can take a bus from ISBT Guwahati to either Tezpur or Bomdila and then hire a private taxi. Alternatively, if you prefer to rent a car, it’s better to do so from Guwahati.

Q: What is the distance between Sangti Valley and Tawang?

A: Valley is approximately 142 km from Tawang. The road from Valley to Tawang is scenic and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys. You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Tawang from Dirang Valley.

Q: How can I reach Sangti Valley from Bomdila?

A: Bomdila is approximately 45 km from Valley. You can hire a private taxi or take a shared sumo from Bomdila to reach Valley. The road is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the mountains and valleys.

Final thoughts on Sangti Valley

In conclusion, Valley is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a unique and offbeat travel experience. With its stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and unique features, it is truly a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

If you’re planning a trip to Tawang, make sure to add Sangti Valley to your itinerary. The valley is just a short distance from Dirang and provides a perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

With its unique features, such as the sheep farm and the black neck crane, the valley provides a refreshing change of pace from other more well-known tourist destinations.

However, it is also important to remember the importance of responsible tourism when visiting Valley or any other place in general. As more and more tourists visit the valley, it is vital to ensure that we preserve its natural beauty.

Travelers should be mindful of their impact on the environment and the local community, and make an effort to contribute positively to the local economy. By doing so, we can ensure that the valley remains an enchanting destination for future generations to enjoy.

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