Nestled in the magnificent Eastern Himalayas, Sangti Valley is located in West Kameng in Arunachal Pradesh. The valley experiences year-round pleasant weather, sometimes enhanced by mild winter snowfall. With orchards full of orange, kiwi, apple, apricot, and other fruits, the valley is a sight to behold. Unspoiled forests and swift-moving rivers cascading down the hillsides embellish the landscape. In addition, the black-necked cranes that move to this valley's farms in the winter months find refuge in Sangti Valley.
Things To Do And See
A Birdwatching Paradise
A birdwatcher’s paradise, Sangti Valley is located about 7km from Dirang. Surrounded by the lofty peaks of the Eastern Himalayas, this picturesque valley is the place to be on early winter mornings for spotting black-necked cranes that migrate here in November and December from China. But the valley has much more to offer than just birdwatching.
Nature Trails And Orchards
Surrounded by orchards laden with apples, kiwis and oranges, the valley is the epitome of beauty. Small villages line the road, and wild horses and domesticated cows can be seen. The serene environs and the stunning view of the valleys will leave you spellbound for hours.
Explore A Monpa Village And A Fort
Located just 12 km away at Dirang is a Monpa village, home to the 185-year-old Dirang Dzong (or the old fort). Said to be a formidable complex during its heydays, today only the ruins of its stone walls remain. The fort complex, however, offers splendid views of the surrounding area. Its architecture reflects the building style typical of Monpa houses to this day. Some of these stone houses are said to have been built 500 years ago. The Monpas are a nomadic tribe living in Tawang and West Kameng. Read more about them here.
Explore The Bomdila Gompas
This nearby town of Bomdila (49km) is home to three monasteries: Upper Gompa, Middle Gompa and Lower Gompa. The Lower Gompa stands at the beginning of the Bazaar Line. Beyond the Bazaar, the road becomes less pucca, and begins to climb uphill, leading to the Middle Gompa, dramatically located on the face of a hill and visible from miles away. The Upper Gompa lies further up the road from the Bazaar.
Where To Stay
There aren't too many accommodation options in Sangti Valley. It is best to base yourself in Dirang. Book yourself into Norphel Retreat, a 47-room hotel or Pemaling Lords Inn. Or try a homestay.
Getting There
The airport in Guwahati is well-connected with flights. The nearest and best-connected railhead is at Guwahati. For the onward journey, travel by road. West Kameng has good road connectivity to towns like Bomdila, which has daily bus services to Tezpur, Guwahati, and Itanagar.