Chasing the sun at Dong Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Witness the first rays of sun that falls on India
Dong Valley is known as one of the easternmost inhabited regions of India and is best known for its early sunrise views and remote mountain setting. This Dong Valley tour package from Dibrugarh is designed for travelers who want to experience the symbolic and scenic significance of the region through a carefully planned journey. The itinerary focuses on reaching Dong Valley at a realistic pace, allowing travelers to experience the landscapes and surroundings without rushing through long travel days.
Short Summary
| Starting From | Dibrugarh | Ending at | Dibrugarh |
| No of days | 5 | Number of nights | 4 |
| Night stays at | Wakro (1 nights) Walong (2 nights) Wakro (1 night) | ||
Dong Valley Tour Itinerary Overview
The Dong Valley tour itinerary is centered around long but scenic road journeys through eastern Arunachal Pradesh. Travel days are planned with sufficient buffers to accommodate road conditions and weather variations. Rather than extensive sightseeing stops, the itinerary emphasizes reaching Dong Valley comfortably and experiencing the region's quiet and remote atmosphere. This makes the tour suitable for travelers who value the journey as much as the destination.
Itinerary of Dong Valley Trek
Day 1: Dibrugarh to Wakro (200 km / 4 hours)
Arrive at Dibrugarh Airport or New Tinsukia Railway Station by 10 AM. Our driver will meet you, and start the drive towards Namsai in Arunachal Pradesh. Visit Golden Pagoda at Namsai, which is the largest monastery in the region. The style of these monasteries in this region are different than the Tibetan monasteries. Here, it resembles more of Thailand / Myanmar style monasteries. After exploring the region, drive further to have lunch by the riverside (on rather on the river). It is a one if its kind experience. Later drive to Wakro. Check-in to a homestay for overnight stay.
Day 2: Wakro - Parashuram Kund - Walong (200 km 7-8 hours)
Today we start early to visit Parashuram Kund. This picturesque small town has huge religious significance, but is also stunningly beautiful. The Turquoise blue water of Lohit River surrounded by high mountains on all sides is a sight to remember! Legend goes that Sage Parashuram killed his mother on his father's orders, and cleansed himself in this “Kund” after taking a dip here. Later, continue our drive by the river to Walong, the first small village of Eastern part of India from where you can see China with naked eye.
Day 3: Walong - Kaho - Kibbithu - Walong
Today is the day you can explore the easternmost part of India. We start our day by visiting a 1962 War Memorial. This is built at a place where Chinese army had intruded Indian land, but was bravely stopped by Indian Army during the 1962 war. After paying respects, we will visit Tilam Hot Springs. Later we drive to Kaho, which is the first Indian village, right next to the border of China. Explore the town and get a glimpse of China from different parts of the village. Later, drive to Kibithu, another border village. View the water of Lohit River arriving fresh from China. After an exciting day, it's time to drive back to homestay and relax.
Day 4: Trek to witness the first rays of sun in India: Dong Valley
A hectic day today. Wake up midnight and go for a trek (of 2 hours) via the Dong Hanging Bridge. We start our 2-2.5 hour trek from Dong at 2 am, and reach the peak by 4 am. This steep trekking trail can become tiring, take your time but reach the peak before the sunrise. Once you are on the top, set up a bonfire to keep yourself warm until you wait for those first rays of sun. While the peak is surrounded by higher mountains on all sides, you can view the first rays of sun on Indian soil, falling on a mountain exactly opposite of you. If you visit during winters, you can see the snow capped mountains shining in golden colour. As the sun raises slowly, you can trek further to neighbouring hills. Later, trek back to homestay for heavy breakfast. Freshen up, pack your bags and we now drive back all the way to Wakro. Check-in to a homestay.
Day 5: Wakro - Dibrugarh (200 km - 4 hours)
Drive back to Dibrugarh as our awesome trip comes to an end. Get ready to share your story of visiting a unique place with your friends and family as we drop you at Dibrugarh (hotel/airport/railway station).
Dibrugarh to Dong Valley Distance and Travel Route
Dibrugarh serves as the primary entry point for Dong Valley travel due to its rail and air connectivity. The journey from Dibrugarh to Dong Valley involves extended mountain drives through remote terrain and is typically spread across multiple days. Travel duration depends on road conditions, weather and local accessibility. Proper planning is essential, which is why Dong Valley tours are designed with realistic travel schedules rather than compressed itineraries.
Why Dong Valley Is Called the Land of the First Sunrise
Dong Valley is often referred to as the place where sun rays can be witnessed earlier than most parts of India. Located in the far eastern region of Arunachal Pradesh, the valley offers a symbolic experience rather than a typical sightseeing attraction. Travelers visit Dong Valley to witness the early morning light over the mountains and to experience the sense of remoteness that defines the region. Please note that there is no sunrise view, but you only get the view of first sun rays* falling on India.
Scenic and Cultural Experience of Dong Valley
Beyond the view of first sun rays on India, Dong Valley offers quiet surroundings, mountain landscapes and small settlements that reflect the region's remote lifestyle. The experience is subtle and immersive rather than activity-driven. Travelers should approach the tour with an appreciation for simplicity, natural scenery and minimal tourist infrastructure.
Can Dong Valley Be Covered in a Short Trip?
Many travelers enquire whether Dong Valley can be covered in a very short duration. Due to the long travel distances from Dibrugarh and the mountainous road conditions, Dong Valley tours require careful scheduling and adequate travel days. Attempting to shorten the itinerary often results in rushed travel with limited time at the destination. A well-planned itinerary allows travelers to experience Dong Valley without unnecessary fatigue.
The itinerary mentioned here is the minimum number of days (5 days) required to cover Dong Valley.
Who Should Choose the Dong Valley Tour
This tour is best suited for travelers interested in symbolic destinations, remote travel and scenic road journeys. It appeals to offbeat travelers, photographers and those interested in exploring lesser-known regions of Arunachal Pradesh. Travelers expecting multiple sightseeing attractions or luxury experiences may find the tour minimalistic.
Adventure-focused travelers can extend their Dong Valley trip by adding the Glaw Lake trek, which introduces a forest trekking experience to the itinerary.
Best Time to Visit Dong Valley
The best time to visit Dong Valley depends on weather conditions and road accessibility. Seasonal planning plays an important role in ensuring safe travel and clear visibility. Tours are scheduled during periods that support comfortable driving conditions and scenic experiences.
It is good to avoid peak monsoon season (July/August) as the road conditions deteriorate due to heavy rains.
Permits and Travel Requirements for Dong Valley
An Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indians or Protected Area Permit (PAP) for foreigners is required for travel to Dong Valley in Arunachal Pradesh. Permit assistance and documentation guidance are provided as part of the tour planning process to ensure smooth entry and uninterrupted travel.
Important Information for Dong Valley Tour
Dong Valley is a completely offbeat tour. It is not a regular tourist destination. Hence you may not get all the comforts that you are typically used to at other tourist locations
Homestays will be basic but will be neat and clean. There are very minimal homestays, and even lesser good ones. So there is not much of a choice for better homestays. However, you will be amazed by the friendly nature of the hosts.
You will not see the sunrise view from Dong, but you will see the first rays of sunlight falling on Indian land!
You will be out of mobile network for most part of this tour. Please inform your loved ones that you are about to explore the most beautiful part of India, and hence you will not be reachable for few days!
