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The forests are fresh, the rivers run clear, and the skies stretch wide in every direction. Among the best choices for summer travellers are the places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh in May, when road conditions improve and the weather stays gentle across the hills. This is the month when both adventure and quiet exploration are possible, from the high mountain valleys to the deep, forested sanctuaries. Several regions begin to bloom again, revealing bright orchids, green trails, and colourful tribal settlements.
Top Places To Visit In Arunachal Pradesh In May
This is the list of places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh in May, from lush valleys to peaceful monasteries, for exploring Northeast India.
1. Mechuka Valley
Photo: Quentin Talon & Mario Geiger / Wikimedia Commons
In the West Siang district, Mechuka Valley is one of the most remote yet enchanting places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh in May. This high-altitude valley lies close to the Indo-Tibet border and remains hidden behind steep forested slopes and winding rivers. By May, the harsh cold eases, making it an ideal time for road travel from Aalo or Pasighat. The Siyom River flows right through the valley, bordered by wooden houses on stilts, alpine meadows, and isolated Buddhist monasteries.
Nearest Airport: Dibrugarh Airport (500 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Murkongselek Railway Station (360 km)
Entry Fee: Inner Line Permit ₹150 per person
Timings: Open throughout the day
2. Namdapha National Park
Photo: Aparajita Datta / Wikimedia Commons
Set deep in the Changlang district, Namdapha National Park is one of the richest forest landscapes in India. It is also one of the most thrilling places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh in May. In May, before the monsoon arrives, the forest trails are dry, river levels are manageable, and wildlife sightings are more likely. The park shelters some of the rarest species found in the eastern Himalayas, including the red panda and, hoolock gibbon. Birdwatchers visit for sightings of great hornbills and white-bellied herons.
Nearest Airport: Dibrugarh Airport (160 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Tinsukia Railway Station (140 km)
Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indian nationals, ₹200 for foreign visitors
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
3. Sangti Valley
Photo: Anu007bora / Wikimedia Commons
The Sangti Valley is one of the lesser-known yet beautiful places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh in May. During May, the skies stay clear, and the days are pleasantly warm, making it an ideal time for nature walks. Rhododendrons and wildflowers line the narrow footpaths, and local sheep graze across wide, open pastures that lead to hidden village hamlets. You can stroll across traditional wooden bridges, observe the Black-necked cranes’ nesting grounds or explore nearby farms and orchards. Local homes occasionally open their doors to guests, offering a chance to experience Monpa hospitality.
Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport (330 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Bhalukpong Railway Station (160 km)
Entry Fee: Inner Line Permit ₹150 applicable
Timings: 24*7
4. Tuting
Photo: Vishal Manke 88 / Wikimedia Commons
Far in the Siang district lies Tuting, a secluded Himalayan settlement close to the Indo-Tibet border. Among the more remote places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh in May, it offers unmatched scenery and cultural simplicity. The Siang River flows clear and strong, drawing river rafters and peace seekers alike. The route to Tuting itself passes through dense forests and hanging bridges. The village is home to the ancient Jedu Waterfall and the Gelling Monastery, a spiritual outpost perched on the slopes above. The local Memba community welcomes travellers with warm smiles and simple homestays.
Nearest Airport: Pasighat Airport (410 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Murkongselek Railway Station (385 km)
Entry Fee: Inner Line Permit required
Timings: Accessible throughout the day
5. Ziro Valley
Photo: Arunachal2007 / Wikimedia Commons
Set in the Lower Subansiri district, Ziro Valley offers a calm, highland landscape surrounded by forested ridges and layered paddy fields. It is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh in May. The villages are home to the Apatani community, who are known for their unique traditions, including facial tattoos and sustainable wet rice farming. May is a good time to move between villages like Hong and Hari on foot. Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, located nearby, holds narrow trails through bamboo groves where rare orchids begin to flower at this time of year.
Nearest Airport: Lilabari Airport (120 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Naharlagun Railway Station (115 km)
Entry Fee: Inner Line Permit ₹150
Timings: 24*7
6. Bumla Pass
Photo: Tabish q / Wikimedia Commons
The Bumla Pass is one of the most dramatic places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh in May. It stays closed for much of the year due to heavy snowfall, but by mid-May, the roads are cleared and the pass becomes accessible from Tawang with the proper permits. The pass itself holds strong historical significance, having served as a route during the 1962 war. Visitors need to obtain a special permit through the Tawang District Commissioner’s office, and local taxis arranged through approved operators are allowed to go up.
Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport (330 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Bhalukpong Railway Station (285 km)
Entry Fee: Protected Area Permit mandatory
Timings: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM (weather-dependent)
7. Dambuk
Photo: ephemeral lens / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
In the Lower Dibang Valley district, Dambuk is between the Siang and Dibang rivers, surrounded by thick forests and farmland. The roads that often turn rough during the rains stay manageable this month, and the countryside remains lush without becoming difficult to reach. The Adi tribal community lives across this region, and the villages are known for hospitality and traditional life. May brings in cool breezes from the river, and the orange groves are full of fragrance, even though harvesting season ends in winter.
Nearest Airport: Dibrugarh Airport (170 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Murkongselek Railway Station (150 km)
Timings: Daytime visits only
8. Tawang Monastery
Photo: Trideep Dutta Photography / Wikimedia Commons
In the Lower Dibang Valley district, Dambuk is between the Siang and Dibang rivers, surrounded by thick forests and farmland. The roads that often turn rough during the rains stay manageable this month, and the countryside remains lush without becoming difficult to reach. The Adi tribal community lives across this region, and the villages are known for hospitality and traditional life. This is also a good time to visit nearby Roing and Bhismaknagar without the usual rush or weather-related delays.
Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport (330 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Bhalukpong Railway Station (285 km)
Entry Fee: Inner Line Permit required
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
9. Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Ruta Badina / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Pakke Tiger Reserve, lies in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas and remains one of the most ecologically vibrant places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh in May. The sanctuary is known for its thriving birdlife, dense sal forests, and sightings of rare mammals like clouded leopards, barking deer, and Malayan giant squirrels. The Seijosa range is the most visited part, where entry is allowed for day treks and guided forest walks. May offers birdwatchers a chance to see great hornbills, green pigeons, and serpent eagles in clear visibility.
Nearest Airport: Tezpur Airport (100 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Bhalukpong Railway Station (90 km)
Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indian tourists, ₹200 for foreign tourists
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
10. Aalo
Photo: Mousourik / Wikimedia Commons
Aalo, located in the West Siang district, is one of the most approachable places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh in May for travellers looking for a balance between natural landscapes and cultural experiences. The town is set at the confluence of the Siyom and Sipu rivers and is known for its green surroundings and the warm hospitality of the Galo tribe. May is a good time to walk across the cable suspension bridges that link river islands and small settlements to the town centre. One of the main stops is Patum Bridge, which offers wide views of the river valley.
Nearest Airport: Dibrugarh Airport (280 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Murkongselek Railway Station (250 km)
Timings: Open all day
Travelling through Arunachal Pradesh in May offers open routes, calm weather, and access to both high passes and deep valleys. From the peaceful paths of Ziro to the wild edges of Namdapha and the stark silence of Bumla, each stop adds a different note to the journey. Explore more packages offered by TripXL for an unforgettable experience at your favorite destinations.
Cover Photo: goldentakin / Wikimedia Commons
