India is home to many breathtaking destinations, but few can rival the hidden charm of the North Eastern region. Among its best-kept secrets is the enchanting village of Dong in Arunachal Pradesh. Perched at 1,240 meters, Dong serves as the tri-junction of India, Myanmar, and China, making it a remarkable spot to explore. What truly sets this quaint village apart is its extraordinary geographical position. As one of the easternmost points in India, Dong greets each new day with the first rays of sunlight well before any other place in the country.
Located in the picturesque Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh, and just 7 km from the quaint town of Walong, Dong is nestled along the serene left bank of the Lohit River. This idyllic village is surrounded by a stunning panorama of snow-capped mountains, their majestic peaks standing tall against the sky, while verdant forests blanket the slopes, creating a vibrant contrast that is a treat for the eyes. The air is fresh and invigorating, providing a perfect backdrop for those seeking solace in nature.
It has a historical connection dating back to the British India era. Initially, in 1914, it was part of the Lakhimpur district. The British established the northeast frontier tract to administer the three regions effectively, namely the Central and Eastern section and the Lakhimpur Frontier Tract along the Western section. In 1956, the Dibang Valley was designated as a distinct sub-division overseen by an Additional Political Officer.
Subsequently, in June 1980, it was divided into two separate districts Lohit District and Dibang Valley District. Also, Dong is one of the least inhabited villages according to the 2011 Census of India, and the village has 15 residents across four households, of which six are male, and nine are female. The sparsity of people in the area only adds to the charm of Dong.
Dong is renowned for being one of the first places in India to greet the sunrise. The memorable millennium sunrise was celebrated here on January 1, 2000, attracting visitors from around the world, who came to participate in this global event and embrace the sheer beauty of the moment. As the year comes to an end, the excitement builds as travellers flock to witness this incredible sight. To fully experience this breathtaking moment, prepare for an early start, and be ready to embark on your trek at 2 am. It takes approximately three hours to reach the breathtaking viewpoint, where, at around 4:30 am, you'll witness the sun slowly casting its golden glow across the land. This exceptional opportunity draws a diverse crowd of adventurers, from passionate photographers to nature lovers.
Embark on an unforgettable trek to the Lohit River and experience the awe-inspiring confluence of the Lohit and Sati Rivers. This remarkable location at the tri-junction of India, China, and Myanmar offers a unique opportunity to witness nature's beauty at its finest.
As you stroll down the riverbank, you’ll discover inviting pools of pristine, crystal-clear water—the perfect hot springs for relaxation. Treat yourself by dipping your feet into these soothing waters and experience a rejuvenating escape in nature's paradise.
Consider taking a trip to Kibithu, the district headquarters of Anjaw, situated just 75 kilometers from Hawai. While in Kibithu, don’t miss the opportunity to pay your respects at the Walong War Memorial, a significant site where the Indian Army bravely defended against 4,000 Chinese troops during the Indo-Tibet War. This poignant landmark tells a vital story of courage and resilience that is worth experiencing firsthand.
Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of nature as you embark on invigorating walks through this magnificent landscape. The area boasts expansive open valleys blanketed by a lush carpet of tall grasses and vibrant ferns that sway gently in the breeze. As you traverse this picturesque terrain, prepare to be mesmerised by gorgeous vistas that include waterfalls, aromatic pine trees with their refreshing scent, all set against a backdrop of clear, blue skies. The enchanting Lohit River meanders through the landscape, with its serene waters reflecting the sun’s rays, while charming hanging bridges gently sway above, adding an exciting element to your journey.
For a truly enriching experience, bring along your binoculars to engage in birdwatching. Explore the rich biodiversity of the surrounding forests, where you can observe a myriad of bird species, each with unique colors and melodies. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture the breathtaking landscapes; from the first light of dawn illuminating the horizon to the stunning confluence of the rivers, these moments are perfect for creating lasting memories.
The tri-village area of Dong, Walong, and Kibithu is highly remote, making access to the region challenging due to the lack of infrastructure like roads, hotels, electricity, and water. As a result, tourists are scarce, and day-trippers are the primary visitors. The closest airport is in Dibrugarh, 400 kilometres away from Dong village, requiring additional travel by bus or taxi to Tezu before continuing the journey to Dong. The roads in the region are mostly in decent condition except after Tezu, where broken tarmac, gravel roads, and off-road sections dominate. Travelling in a vehicle with good suspension is recommended, and hiring shared Sumos from Tezu takes approximately 10 hours to reach Dong.
Dong can be ideally visited during the summer months from April to July, but September or October is also a good time.