Arunachal Pradesh, located in the northeastern part of India, is a state that is known for its natural beauty and diverse culture. The state is home to many indigenous tribes, each with their unique traditions and customs. One of the best ways to explore the state is by taking a road trip, and that’s exactly what four women bikers did.
The bikers, who call themselves the Bikernis, set out on a 10-day road trip through Arunachal Pradesh, covering a distance of over 1,500 kilometers. The Bikernis, who are all experienced riders, wanted to explore the state and its people and promote tourism in the region.
Their journey began in Guwahati, Assam, from where they rode to Bhalukpong, the gateway to Arunachal Pradesh. From there, they made their way to Tawang, a town located at an altitude of 10,000 feet. The road to Tawang is a challenging one, with narrow roads, steep climbs, and sharp turns. However, the stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and the pristine lakes made it all worth it.
In Tawang, the Bikernis visited the famous Tawang Monastery, which is one of the largest monasteries in India. The monastery, which was built in the 17th century, is an important center of Buddhist learning and houses several ancient scriptures and artifacts.
After spending a few days in Tawang, the Bikernis rode to the town of Dirang, which is known for its natural hot springs. They also visited the Dirang Dzong, a fort that was built in the 17th century to protect the town from invaders.
From Dirang, the Bikernis made their way to the town of Ziro, which is known for its scenic beauty and the unique Apatani tribe. The Apatani tribe is known for its distinctive facial tattoos, which are considered a mark of beauty. The Bikernis spent a day with the Apatani tribe, learning about their culture and traditions.
The next stop on their journey was the town of Daporijo, which is located on the banks of the Subansiri River. The town is known for its natural beauty and the Tagin tribe, which is one of the major tribes in the region. The Bikernis spent a day with the Tagin tribe, learning about their way of life and their unique customs.
From Daporijo, the Bikernis rode to the town of Pasighat, which is located on the banks of the Siang River. The town is known for its scenic beauty and is often called the “gateway to Arunachal Pradesh.” The Bikernis spent a day exploring the town and interacting with the locals.
Their final stop on their journey was the town of Roing, which is located in the Lower Dibang Valley district. The town is known for its natural beauty and the Idu Mishmi tribe, which is one of the major tribes in the region. The Bikernis spent a day with the Idu Mishmi tribe, learning about their culture and traditions.
Throughout their journey, the Bikernis faced many challenges, including rough roads, unpredictable weather, and language barriers. However, they were determined to complete their journey and explore the beauty and diversity of Arunachal Pradesh.
Their journey through Arunachal Pradesh was not just a road trip but a cultural exchange. The Bikernis interacted with people from different tribes and learned about their cultures and traditions. They also promoted tourism in the region, which has the potential to generate income for the local communities.