High Altitude Kayaking: The Seven Lakes Trek of Dibang Valley

The Seven Lakes, or the Seven Siblings, run in the picturesque Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh. The region is often compared to a pristine paradise among nature enthusiasts and thrill seekers. Lush, dense forests, snow-capped mountains and tranquil landscapes characterise the Seven Lakes of Dibang Valley. Among the Seven Siblings are the Mehao Lake, Hirdyachal Lake, Talley Valley Lake, Ganga Lake, Dibru-Saikhowa Lake, Deopani River and Roing Lake. It is a site best suited for trekking and camping, where each of the seven rivers has a distinct personality.

The high-altitude kayaking expedition to the Seven Lakes of Dibang Valley takes its travellers to some of the least explored secrets of the Himalayas. Beginning at the lush green carpets of tall grass and ferns, the trek goes as high up as 13,000 ft in altitude, which washes away the tiredness with a soul-refreshing view of the glaciers that enrich the seven rivers throughout the year. During early spring, travellers will find the valley dotted with wildflowers.

Travellers’ Reports

A recent explorer of the place, Ankit Gandhi, expressed his awe at the sublime experience of kayaking at 13,000 ft, “The still water reflected the shadows of large boulders, creating a mesmerising and almost hallucinatory effect.” Similar to Gandhi are the views of his co-explorer Nisarg Behera, who said, “I was overwhelmed with ecstasy and would forget to paddle and just float and gaze at the beauty around me… humbled and immersed in the nature of the mesmerising landscapes of the Upper Dibang Valley."

Gandhi also added, "The place is so untouched by human hands that it is a somewhat eerie experience, especially when kayaking alone.” While for Behera, the water was crystal clear, and the mist from the waterfall "cleansed his mind."

Know Before you Go

High-altitude kayaking is challenging as it entails a rather tricky stretch of trekking to get there. The trek begins at the Dibang Valley and stretches up to the Mishmi Hills at 15,000 ft. Backpacker Ankit did not fail to remark on the “mystical beauty of the Mishmi Hills and discover the hidden gems of the Himalayas.” The trek is arduous as it is a remote location with minimum to no network reception, harsh terrains, and rampantly changing weather conditions. It involves permits and restrictions as the place is situated at a sensitive border area. It is also prone to natural and wildlife hazards.

Places to Explore Nearby

Roing

The town of Roing is located in the lower valley of Dibang. It is a picturesque town that serves as the gateway to the Dibang Valley. Around Roing, travellers can also explore Mayudia – an exquisite hill station offering breathtaking panoramas. Sally Lake is another attraction where people can picnic and enjoy the fresh air. The archaeological site of Bhismaknagar, which dates back to the 8th century, is also accessible from Roing.

Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary

At the Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, travellers can bask along Mehao Lake and immerse themselves in the rich flora and fauna of the sanctuary. The fauna is diverse, with tigers, marbled cats, slender loris, musk deer and red pandas, among others.

Lake Kamo Uyea

Within the trekking expedition, travellers will encounter the magnificent Kamo Uyea at 12,300 ft. Travellers will also come across the Emu Uyea, Chennai Uyea, Dinni Uyea, Huhu Uyea, Assy Uyea and Achanga Uyea on the trek. These lakes make for a once-a-lifetime spectacle with their baffling serenity and crystal-clear water.

How to Reach:

Air: The nearest airport to Dibang is Mohanbari, at 40 km.

Rail: The nearest railway station is Murkeongselek Railway Station, 323 km from Anini.

Road: The place is accessible from Dibrugarh–Tinsukia–Sadiya Ghat route through the National Highway 37.