For your next holiday, why don’t you plan a trip to this sleepy village in northeast India?
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Tucked away in the remote folds of Arunachal Pradesh’s Anjaw district lies a tiny hamlet that holds a celestial distinction — Dong village, the first inhabited place in India to witness the sunrise each day. For travelers seeking offbeat adventures, untouched landscapes, and a brush with the extraordinary, Dong offers a rare blend of natural beauty and poetic symbolism. (Image: Pexels)
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Perched at an altitude of around 1,240 meters, Dong is located near the tri-junction of India, China, and Myanmar. Thanks to its extreme eastern location, the village greets the sun nearly an hour before the rest of the country. (Image: Pexels)
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The phenomenon is so striking that locals and visitors alike hike up a nearby hill in the pre-dawn hours just to witness the first golden rays spill over the Eastern Himalayas, a moment that feels both spiritual and surreal. (Image: Pexels)
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Reaching Dong is no small feat, and that’s part of its charm. The nearest town is Walong, about 7 km away, which is accessible via Tezu or Hayuliang. From Walong, travelers must trek through rugged terrain and cross the pristine Lohit River to reach Dong. The hike is moderately challenging but richly rewarding, offering panoramic views, dense forests, and a sense of complete detachment from the modern world. (Image: Pexels)
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What to Expect
– Sunrise Trek: The highlight of any visit is the early morning trek to the sunrise viewpoint. Most travelers begin the climb around 3:30 AM to catch the first light around 4:30 AM.
– Local Culture: Dong is home to the Meyor tribe, known for their warm hospitality and deep-rooted traditions. Staying in local homestays offers a glimpse into their way of life.
– Natural Beauty: Surrounded by misty hills, bamboo groves, and the glistening Lohit River, Dong is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. (Image: Pexels)
– Sunrise Trek: The highlight of any visit is the early morning trek to the sunrise viewpoint. Most travelers begin the climb around 3:30 AM to catch the first light around 4:30 AM.
– Local Culture: Dong is home to the Meyor tribe, known for their warm hospitality and deep-rooted traditions. Staying in local homestays offers a glimpse into their way of life.
– Natural Beauty: Surrounded by misty hills, bamboo groves, and the glistening Lohit River, Dong is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. (Image: Pexels)
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Best Time to Visit: October to April, when the skies are clear and the mornings crisp. (Image: Pexels)
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Permits Required: As Arunachal Pradesh is a protected area, Indian citizens need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), while foreign nationals require a Protected Area Permit (PAP). (Image: Pexels)
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Pack Smart: Warm clothing, trekking shoes, and a flashlight are essential for the sunrise hike. (Image: Pexels)
NOTE – This article was originally published in News 18 and can be viewed here
