New Delhi: Welcoming the New Year with India’s first sunrise is no longer just a dream for travellers. Arunachal Pradesh is set to host its first-ever Sunrise Festival at Dong Valley from December 29, 2025, to January 2, 2026, turning the country’s easternmost sunrise point into a cultural and travel experience. Located in the remote Anjaw district near the India-China-Myanmar tri-junction, Dong village is known as the first place in India to witness sunrise and is home to the indigenous Meyor tribe.
While the festival itself promises ceremonies, performances and adventure activities, Dong Valley also offers far more to explore. Snow-capped mountains, pine forests, historic sites and remote border villages surround the region, making it an ideal destination for travellers who want to go beyond the festival and experience Arunachal Pradesh at its raw, untouched best. Here is the detailed guide to visiting the Dong Valley in Arunachal Pradesh.
Complete guide to Sunrise Festival at Dong Valley
1. What to expect from Sunrise Festival at Dong Valley
The five-day Sunrise Festival is a community-led celebration designed to mark India’s first sunrise of the New Year. Artists, explorers, scholars and travellers from across India and abroad are expected to take part in the event.
The festival programme includes traditional sunrise rituals, cultural performances by communities from different parts of Arunachal Pradesh, guided treks, nature walks, river activities, eco-camping, village tours, photography expeditions, workshops, folk art and craft sessions, and showcases of local food.
A strong focus has been placed on sustainable tourism. The festival follows the theme No Trash, No Trace, No Excuses, encouraging responsible travel and eco-friendly practices. A sunrise pledge will also be administered on January 1, reinforcing the message of conservation and respect for nature.
2. Why Dong Valley stands out
Dong is a small yet striking village located about 7 km from Walong on the left bank of the Lohit River. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and dense pine forests, the valley is known for its calm, almost spiritual atmosphere. Dong gained global attention during the millennium sunrise on January 1, 2000, when visitors from across the world gathered here to witness the first sunrise of the new millennium.
Today, the village is connected by an iron-floored suspension footbridge across the Lohit River, making access easier while adding to the scenic appeal of the journey. The Dong Valley remains largely untouched, offering travellers a rare sense of peace and isolation.
Key attractions in and around Dong Valley
1. Sunrise at Dong Valley
Witnessing India’s first sunrise is the main attraction. Visitors usually begin a short pre-dawn trek to the sunrise viewpoint, where the first rays of sunlight illuminate the valley and surrounding mountains.
2. Walong War Memorial
Located close to Dong, the Walong War Memorial pays tribute to Indian soldiers who fought in the 1962 war. The site holds historical significance and offers a reflective pause during the journey.
3. Dong hanging bridge
The suspension bridge over the Lohit River offers sweeping views of the valley and the fast-flowing river below, making it one of the most photographed spots in the area.
4. Mishmi tribal villages
Exploring Dong and nearby villages allows travellers to experience the everyday life, culture and cuisine of the Meyor and Mishmi communities.
5. Lohit River Valley and trekking trails
The Lohit River valley offers serene landscapes, while trekking routes towards villages like Mipi or Hunli provide lush scenery and quiet exploration opportunities.
Dong village and nearby places to explore
1. Anini
Anini, the headquarters of Dibang Valley district, is often called the “Switzerland of the East” for its mist-covered mountains, pristine rivers like Dri and Mathun, and untouched forests. The region is rich in Idu Mishmi culture and wildlife, including the Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary.
2. Kibithu
Kibithu, one of India’s easternmost inhabited villages, is located in Anjaw district near the border with China. It is known for its scenic beauty, strategic importance and its location where the Lohit River enters India.
3. Siko Dido Waterfall
Situated on the Aalo to Mechuka road in Shi Yomi district, Siko Dido Waterfall plunges over 200 feet and is known for its powerful roar and misty surroundings, especially during the monsoon season.
4. Nuranang Falls or Jung Falls
Located in the Tawang district, Nuranang Falls drops nearly 100 metres and is known for its natural beauty, local legends and the shooting of the Bollywood movie Koyla.
5. Sela Pass and Madhuri Lake
These high-altitude Himalayan landmarks near Tawang are known for snow-covered landscapes and sacred lakes. Special permits and warm clothing are essential when visiting.
6. Mechuka Valley
Mechuka is an offbeat Himalayan destination near the Indo-Tibetan border, known for alpine meadows, the Siyom River, ancient monasteries and the culture of the Memba and Adi tribes.
7. Sangti Valley
Located near Dirang, Sangti Valley is known for its fruit orchards like kiwi and apple, forests, the Sangti River and winter sightings of migratory black-necked cranes.
Where to stay in Dong village
There are many options available for accommodation in and around Dong. Staying in homestays allows visitors to experience local hospitality and culture more closely.
- Dong Resort
- Dongsari Homestay
- Fareast Home Stay
- Mayor Home Stay
- Dong Village
- Wangdi’s Resort
- Dong PWD Guest House
How to reach Dong Valley
By air
The nearest airport is Tezu, located about 200 km from Dong.
By train
The closest railway station is Tinsukia in Assam, approximately 300 km away.
By road
From Tezu or Tinsukia, travellers must continue by road via Walong to reach Dong village.
The Sunrise Festival at Dong Valley is more than a New Year celebration. It is an invitation to explore India’s eastern frontier, understand its cultures and experience landscapes that remain largely untouched. For travellers willing to journey beyond the festival grounds, Dong Valley offers a deeper, quieter and unforgettable side of Arunachal Pradesh.
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