Visit Shergaon: The Best Tourism Village Of India

Sheragaon, a picturesque village situated in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, has recently witnessed a surge in tourism. It has been awarded the title of "Best Tourism Village of India" in the silver category. The place offers a pleasant climate, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage that makes it an appealing destination to explore, especially from October to March when the Himalayan views are most spectacular. The village is home to several historical monuments and places of interest to visit. It also caters to the adventurous souls with its many activities.

Places To Visit

Explore the various attractions, things to do, and local culture of this quaint village of Arunachal Pradesh.

Zengbu Gompa

Zengbu Gompa is the main Buddhist monastery in the village of Shergaon. Slightly higher up from the village, the monastery is about 200 years old and dexterously maintained by the locals. It is nestled within a forest that is widely protected by the locals. Travellers going to the monument can light a candle in spiritual reverence.

Bomdila Monastery

The Bomdila Monastery, a residence for Buddhist monks and Llamas, was inaugurated in 1965. It is believed to be a replica of the Tsona Gontse Monastery in Tibet. The monastery is of Mahayana Buddhism and features a huge prayer hall and other attractions such as the Buddhist Temple within its premises. It is divided into the Upper Gompa, the Middle Gompla, and the Lower Gompa.

Choskorong Waterfall

Nestled in Shergaon, the renowned Choskorong Waterfall awaits adventurers. It is located just 1.5 km from Valley View English Medium School and is a hidden gem. Here, the Choskorong Kho gracefully plunges over a steep rocky precipice. While the final 150 m of the trek may require a rugged climb, the effort pays off as you arrive at this peaceful haven. Surrounded by dense foliage, the waterfall's crystal-clear waters offer a serene retreat, making the challenging journey worthwhile.

Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary

Inspired by the name of the Red Eagle Division of the Indian Army, the Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary is a birdwatcher's paradise located in the West Kameng District. It is surrounded by Sessa Orchid Sanctuary and Pakhui Tiger Reserve. The place boasts of dwarfing landscapes, vivid wildlife, vibrant flora and much more that will enamour your senses. It is home to about 700 bird species including the rare Bugun Liocichla, Ward’s Trogon, Beautiful Nuthatch, and Wedge-Billed Babbler.

Local Culture

The Shergaon village is home to the Sherdukpen tribe, a group of agriculturists who also engage in hunting and traditional fishing. The Sherdukpen tribe speaks Sherdukpen, a language that possibly has Tibeto-Burman origins. Sherdukpen men wear silk sleeveless cloths along with yak hair gurdam skull-caps and carry Tibetan swords. Women wear collarless sleeveless attire, embroidered jackets, and artistically woven clothing.

What To Eat

In Shergaon, travellers can try the food at Seinthuk Kitchen which is famous for its authentic local food, homely environment, and late night music. You can also check out Food Hut which is famous for their thukpa and thenthuk.

Where To Stay

The best possible way to explore the village and be familiarised with the local culture and cuisine is by staying at homestays. Travellers can check out the Red Berry Riverview Heritage Homestay, Yongee Retreat, or Tulip Valley Homestay for lodgings.

How To Reach

Air: Shergaon‘s nearest airport is Tezpur Airport situated at 69.7 km.

Rail: The nearest railway station to Shergaon is Asan which is located in and around 44.9 km.

Road:  The easiest way to reach Shergaon from Guwahati is by taxi.