GETTING THERE
Travel to a different world
Tucked away in the high Himalayas, Zemithang is as rewarding as it is remote. The road to the valley of cranes, forests, and monasteries winds through dramatic mountain passes and pristine landscapes.
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From Tawang
Distance: 90–100 km by road
Travel time: 4–4.5 hours
Shared vehicles run daily between Tawang and Zemithang. Private cars or SUVs can be hired for more flexibility.
Routes: There are two main routes:
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Via Lumla: This is generally considered the more accessible route and is often open when others are closed.
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Via Sangetsar Lake (Madhuri Lake): This route is more adventurous but often has very bad road conditions, is isolated, and can be closed, especially in winter. Check local conditions before attempting this route.
Travel Tips
The journey depends on weather and road conditions, so it is best to start early in the day.
Roads in this region can be steep, winding, and occasionally affected by landslides or snow. Hiring a local driver familiar with mountain routes is strongly recommended.
Visitors should get their Permit before planning their trip. (See section below)
From anywhere in the world
Fly to Assam and then travel by road to Zemithang
The nearest airports are in Assam - in Tezpur and Guwahati.
Fly to Salonibari Airport, Tezpur (393 km) or Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati (511 km).
From either airport, onward travel requires a combination of road journeys through Assam and into Arunachal Pradesh.
Process to apply
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Online: Apply via the Arunachal Pradesh government’s eILP portal (https://eilp.arunachal.gov.in/).
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Offline: Available at the Resident Commissioner’s offices in major cities or Deputy Commissioner offices within Arunachal Pradesh.
Cost
INR 300 for upto 3 days
INR 500 for 3-14 days
Documents
Valid ID proof and passport-sized photographs.
Inner Line Permit
Mandatory permit required for all Indian citizens (except natives of Arunachal Pradesh) to enter the state.
Protected Area Permit
Mandatory permit required for all Foreign Nationals to enter Arunachal Pradesh.
Apply for the Protected Area Permit (PAP)
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Must be arranged through a registered tour operator in Arunachal Pradesh.
Note:
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Permits are issued for a limited duration and must be valid for the entirety of your visit.
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Copies of your permit may be collected at multiple checkpoints along the route, so carry a few extra printouts.
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Apply well in advance to avoid delays in travel plans.
