Emuli Grasslands: Gateway to the Hidden Seven Lakes Trek of Arunachal Pradesh
This serene and beautiful destination is ideal for nature lovers and trekkers. It offers an unforgettable adventure in one of India’s most scenic and remote regions. It is an unspoiled highland meadow with lush, green grasslands, colourful wild flowers and stunning mountain backdrops of the Eastern Himalayas. It is the starting point for an exciting high altitude journey through the Mishmi hills to seven glacial lakes. I am talking about Emuli Grasslands that is located in the Dibang valley of Arunachal Pradesh.
The journey to Emuli grasslands begins at Emuli village where you can park your car and start trekking uphill. As you start climbing, you will notice the Mathun river to your right and it pretty much keeps you company from down below as you crisscross your way to the top. Every now and then, flat stretches appear that allow you to catch your breath and admire the vistas surrounding you. Unlike most of the hills in this region, this route is full of grasslands owing to the high speed of winds that blow here through the year. These high winds only allow short to tall grasses to grow here, unlike other parts where thick evergreen and coniferous forests grow. As you reach the top, these grasslands give way to the forests that are typical of Arunachal Pradesh. It is the Emuli top that is the starting point for the trek to the seven glacial lakes that include Dini, Chene and Huhu.
The trek can be classified as easy to moderate, but it can get tough during the rainy season when the trail gets slippery on the sharper inclines. It is best to go with a local guide who will take you on the correct trail. And do remember to carry some water and snacks with you as you will certainly need some food supplies during the trek. A good pair of walking boots, sunglasses and a warm layer is recommended.
Emuli grasslands is more than just a gateway to the seven glacial lakes. It offers an escape to an untouched world that is home to rich biodiversity with snow capped mountain views, tranquil atmosphere and dancing wildflowers and grass. Whether you are a trekker, a nature lover or simply a traveller, you will definitely fall in love with this soul-stirring paradise in a remote corner of Arunachal Pradesh.
Best season to visit:
Emuli grasslands is at its prettiest best during the wet months from June through November. During this time, the trail can be a bit slushy and slippery. I went during March and during this time, the trail was nice and hard, but the views were of dry grass and most of them had been flattened by the wind.
How to reach there:
The nearest airport would be Tezu, about 300 kms away, but the nearest airport with the best connectivity would be Dibrugarh, about 390 kms away. The nearest large railway station would be Dibrugarh, about 390 kms away.
If you are traveling by bus, you will have to travel first to Roing and then to Anini before finally making your way towards Emuli.
If you are traveling by road in your own vehicle, you will take the scenic route from Roing to Anini via Mayodia pass and then turn left towards Emuli. Once you cross Emuli village, do keep an eye out for a signboard that shows you the trekking path. At the trekking path, park your vehicle, carry your gear and starting hiking to the top. The trek to the top of Emuli grasslands should take you anywhere between two and four hours depending on your fitness. Beyond that lies the starting point for the seven lakes trek.
Where to stay:
The nearest place to stay would be Anini, about 24 kms away (or 40 minutes away). At Anini, you can find homestays, guest houses and resorts that cater to a wide variety of budgets.
If you are planning on camping at Emuli, you should either plan to carry your camping equipment (tent, sleeping bags, etc.) or ensure that your trekking group has some accommodation plan for you.
Where to eat:
The nearest and the best place to eat would be Anini were you can find both snacks and proper meals. If you are planning on doing the long trek, it is best to carry your food supplies with you or ensure that your trekking group takes care of it for you.
Other nearby tourist attractions:
1) Traditional wooden hanging bridges of Arunachal Pradesh
2) Mayodia Pass: Arunachal Pradesh’s high altitude gem
3) Anini: Gorgeous hill station of India
4) Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary: Land of waterfalls and mini Switzerland in India
5) Ranaghat Bridge near Pasighat: Mesmerizing view of the Brahmaputra river
6) The World of Rhododendrons between Mechuka and Lamang
7) India’s Last Cafe: Gorgeous pit stop enroute Lamang, Arunachal Pradesh
8) Lamang: Unknown snow covered paradise of India
9) Arunachal Pradesh’s Kaho: The First Village of India
