Khonsa: A Serene Hill Station in Arunachal Pradesh
Khonsa is a small hill town surrounded by the Himalayas in the Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh. It is located at a height of 1,215 meters above the sea level. The landscape is adorned with streams, dense woodlands, and snow-covered peaks, enhancing the overall beauty of the place. It shares its borders with Myanmar to the east and Assam to the south. The nearby forests are full of diverse plant and animal life, making it a perfect destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
When to visit Khonsa
It can be visited throughout the year as it enjoys a mild and pleasant climate. But, the best time to fully appreciate the beauty of Khonsa is during the months of October and November.
How to visit
By Air- The nearest airport is located in Dibrugarh in Assam. From Dibrugarh bus and taxi services are available and it usually takes around 3 hours to reach Khonsa.
By Train- The nearest train station is located in Naharkatia in Assam. From there bus and taxi services are easily available and it takes around 2 hours to reach Khonsa.
By Road- Khonsa is well connected to the Major cities through road. Visitors can travel from Guwahati to Dibrugarh or Tinsukia using bus services. From Dibrugarh or Tinsukia, daily bus services are operated by the Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Service (APSTS) to reach Khonsa. Additionally, there are many private taxis and buses available for this route.
Things to do
Visit Khonsa Museum: It offers a glimpse into the culture and way of life of the Khonsa people. It showcases traditional items that reveal the tribal lifestyle, such as swords and other weapons. The museum also displays handwoven textiles and artifacts from various parts of India.
Visit Kheti and Lajo Village: Kheti and Lajo are two villages in Khonsa that provides an image of the culture and traditions of the past. In these villages, visitors can see places with human skulls, which were collected during a historical practice known as headhunting.
Nature Walks and Treks: Visitors can explore the stunning natural beauty of Khonsa by taking nature walks or treking through the lush forests and picturesque hills.
Wildlife Watching: The area is rich in wildlife. Visitors can go for wildlife watching and try to spot animals like tigers, leopards, red pandas, and various bird species. It is mandatory to take a guide for the visitors.
Cultural Experiences: Visitors can experience the vibrant culture of the Noctes and Wancho tribes by attending festivals, and cultural events to get the knowledge of their traditions and culture.
Exploring Local Cuisine: Visitors can try the local cuisine and savor traditional dishes prepared by the locals. It is a great way to experience the flavors of the region.
Interact with Locals: Visitors can engage with the friendly locals to learn about their way of life.
Conclusion
Khonsa’s appeal lies in its natural beauty and lively traditions, where every moment is delightful. The untouched landscapes, with hills and forests, provide a serene setting. The vibrant local culture adds a sense of excitement and authenticity. It offers memorable experiences that stay with the visitors.
