Famous for its Buddhist culture and heritage architecture, Itanagar is a vibrant capital of Arunachal Pradesh. Being the first place in India to witness the sunrise, Itanagar is also known as The Land of Dawnlit Mountains. Blossoming at the foothills of the Himalayas, Itanagar got its name from Ita Fort, a magnificent historical monument of the city. Enveloped by dense green forests, snow-clad peaks, plateaus, and deep river valleys, the city invites visitors from far for its mesmerizing and unexplored beauty. Well-connected to other North-Eastern towns by road, Itanagar has one exclusive mode of transport from Guwahati to reach here is the Pawan Hans Helicopter Service. Its culture has an influence of the Tibetan way of living and is quite apparent in the food, costumes, and rituals. The city is home to a large population of Nyishi tribe, the largest ethnic group in the state who follow Buddhism One must visit to experience the pious beauty of the capital.
Time to visit
October to April are the best months to visit Itanagar as the weather is very pleasant. Summers, especially June could be a little hot, still manageable. Monsoons are also pleasant. Among the major festivals celebrated here are Torgya in January, Losar in February/March and Choekhor in October.
How to reach
By flight
The nearest airport to Itanagar is located at Lilabari in Assam (67 km) and is well connected to all major cities like Guwahati, New Delhi, Kolkatta, etc. Pawan Hans also provides helicopter service between Guwahati and Itanagar thrice a week.
By road
Bus service from Guwahati to Itanagar is excellent. All kinds of buses are available. Arunachal State Transport connects Itanagar with other North East cities in India. Itanagar is also connected by NH 52A which connects it to the rest of India.
By train
There is no direct rail connectivity to Itanagar as of now. The nearest railway station is in Naharlagun which is 15 km from Itanagar and Harmuti, approximately 34 km away from Itanagar. You can take a taxi once you touch down at Harmuti railway station.
Local transport in Itanagar
Your hotel can arrange for a cab for you most of the times and that is by far the most convinient way to commute within the city.