Located about 43 km from Bomdila on the way to Tawang, Dirang is a small town in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. The beautiful hilltown is located on the bank of the Kameng River, which is also known as Jia Bharali in Assam. The town of Dirang is situated at a height of 4900 feet. Dirang recently came into the limelight of tourists as it is located in between Jorhat of Assam and Tawang of Arunachal Pradesh. It is an overnight destination for the people visiting Tawang. Several tourists make a pit stop in Dirang while going to Tawang or other places while returning.
Best Time To Visit Dirang
Dirang is nestled in a quiet valley and its altitude above sea level is relatively low. Hence, the weather here remains pleasant throughout the year and tourists can visit any time of the year.
History of Dirang
Built in the 17th century, Dirang Dzong or Dirang Fort was used to protect Bomdila from the neighboring states. During the world war period, the fort was used as a shelter, and during the infamous Vietnam War, the fort was used as a jail.
Places To Visit In Dirang
Dirang is very famous among locals and tourists. It is one of the popular places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. If you are traveling here, then do explore these tourist places in Dirang.
1. Dirang Dzong
This region is highly influenced by Bhutan and it can be seen in local Dirang Dzong. The 150 years old Dzong and some of the surrounding houses are believed to be more than 500 years old. To enter the Dzong, you will have to climb the stone staircase. An excellent view from the Dzong will leave you speechless.
2. Hot Water Spring
On the way to Tawang, just 1 kilometer away from Dirang, you will find a staircase that leads to this Hot Water Spring. To reach the Hot Spring which is considered to be a holy place, you have to follow the stairs for about 500 meters. The hot water springs are famous for having medicinal properties as the water of this spring is rich in sulfur content. A dip in this spring can have a magical effect on a tired body.
3. Yak Research Centre
Located around 31 kilometers away from Dirang, the National Research Centre on Yak also has a yak farm at Nyukmandung above the main road. The center conducts research on several problems related to the production of Yak products. Tourists can visit the center but have to take permission from authorities.
Places To Visit Around Dirang
Known for being the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama and famous for many beautiful and important monasteries, Tawang is located at a height of about 3048 meters. The quaint town of Tawan has many sceneries to make your trip a picturesque one. However, the town’s significance for Buddhist monks defines the area. With the Tawang Monastery being the most popular one and extremely sacred for the Buddhists, Tawang is the go-to place for monasteries. This place will leave you in awe with its natural beauty wrapped in the scent of spirituality. While you are in Tawang, don’t forget to treat your tastebuds to the area's unique and scrumptious cuisine.
2. Bomdila
The beautiful town of Bomdila will offer you all an area in this terrain should, with the majestic Himalayas bestowing their shadow upon the town. Wrapped around in a cool breeze and pleasant climate, Bomdila offers a number of spots such as temples and wildlife sanctuaries other than views and sceneries making the area a visual treat for the eyes. Bomdila is home to both Hindu and Buddhist temples. A number of apple orchards and The Eagle Nest Wildlife Sanctuary are some of the other places to visit in Bomdila. Trekking, hiking, and arts and crafts are quite popular in the region in which visitors can indulge themselves.
The town is surrounded by forest and the Kameng River flowing through it makes the town even more attractive. Visitors can indulge in activities such as trekking, hiking, fishing, and camping. The Pakhul game sanctuary can be visited to see elephants, tigers, and barking deer along with several birds.
How To Reach Dirang
Dirang is a small town in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh that can be reached by bus easily. From bus, taxi, and air, there are several options for transportation. Here’s how you can reach Dirang.
- Nearest metropolitan city - Kolkata
- Nearest airbase - Gopinath Bodoi International Airport
- Nearest railhead - Tezpur Railway Station
- Distance from Kolkata - 1213 Kms
By Air
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport at Guwahati is the nearest airbase to Dirang town. The airport is well-connected with other major airports of India and foreign countries.
- Distance from Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport - 311 Kms
Here is a list of Indian cities from where flights are available To Reach Dirang
By Train
Tezpur is the nearest railhead to Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh. Hiring a taxi to cover the remaining distance is the best option to reach Dirang.
- Distance from Tezpur Railway Station - 200 Kms
By Road
From Bomdila, Dirang can be reached easily. Also, Dirang is well connected through a wide network of roads with several other cities and towns of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Distance from Bomdila - 42 Kms
Frequently Asked Questions About Dirang
Q1. In which Dirang is located?
Ans - Dirang is located in the Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh.
Q2. What to see in Dirang?
Ans - Other than natural wonders, visitors can see Dirang Dzong, Hot Water Spring, and Yak Research Center in Dirang.
Q3. What is Dirang valley famous for?
Ans - Dirang Valley, located in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, India, is famous for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities. Here are some highlights of what Dirang Valley is famous for:
- Scenic Beauty: Dirang Valley is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, characterized by lush greenery, meandering rivers, cascading waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks of the Eastern Himalayas. The valley offers mesmerizing views at every turn, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
- Hot Springs: One of the main attractions of Dirang Valley is its natural hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the warm waters while enjoying the serene surroundings.
- Dirang Dzong: This ancient fortress monastery, dating back to the 17th century, is a significant cultural and historical landmark in Dirang Valley. It serves as a center for Buddhist teachings and offers insights into the region's religious and architectural heritage.
- Apple Orchards: Dirang Valley is known for its picturesque apple orchards, where visitors can witness the beauty of blooming apple trees and even participate in apple-picking during the harvest season. The valley's fertile land and favorable climate make it ideal for apple cultivation.
- Trekking and Adventure Sports: The surrounding mountains and valleys of Dirang offer excellent opportunities for trekking, hiking, and adventure sports such as river rafting and paragliding. Enthusiasts can explore scenic trails, pristine lakes, and remote villages while enjoying adrenaline-pumping activities.
Q4. What fruit grows in Dirang Arunachal Pradesh?
Ans - In Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh, one of the prominent fruits grown is apples. Dirang Valley is known for its picturesque apple orchards, where visitors can witness the beauty of blooming apple trees and even participate in apple-picking during the harvest season. The valley's fertile land and favorable climate make it ideal for apple cultivation. Besides apples, other fruits such as oranges, kiwis, and strawberries are also grown in the region, contributing to its agricultural diversity.
Q5. What is the distance between Bomdila and Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh?
Ans - The distance between Bomdila and Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh is approximately 42 kilometers.
Q6. What is the height of Dirang?
Ans - Dirang, located in the breathtaking wilderness of Arunachal Pradesh, stands as an unexplored gem waiting to be discovered. Situated at an elevation of 4910 feet above sea level and merely 42 kilometers away from Bomdila, this serene village captivates visitors with its untouched beauty. Serving as a stopover for tourists en route to Tawang from Assam, Dirang offers a tranquil retreat amidst picturesque landscapes and cultural richness, promising an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking solace in nature's embrace.
