The Rise of Solo Travel and the Precautions That Matter

Nowadays, solo travelling has become more popular than ever. Many people now choose to explore the world on their own, as they seek the freedom to plan their own journey, learn more about themselves, and meet new people along the way. Solo travel allows you to go at your own pace, make your own decisions, and enjoy experiences that are truly personal and meaningful.

However, travelling alone also means taking full responsibility for your safety and well-being. Without a travel companion, you need to stay more alert and be well-prepared. From choosing the right destination to keeping important documents safe, solo travellers must take a few extra steps to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Why is Solo Travel Gaining Popularity?

Solo travel has witnessed a steady rise in popularity in recent years, with more people choosing to set off on their own rather than wait for company. Several key factors have contributed to this growing trend, making it a preferred choice for many. They include:

1) Greater Personal Freedom

Travelling alone allows individuals to plan their journeys exactly as they please. Solo travellers have the flexibility to follow their own schedule, make spontaneous changes, and visit places that truly interest them. This sense of freedom leads to a more tailored and fulfilling travel experience.

2) Journey of Self-Discovery

For many people, solo travel goes beyond exploring new destinations; it is also about understanding themselves better. Facing unfamiliar situations alone helps build resilience and self-confidence. It often reveals personal strengths and boundaries that may not have been recognised before, making the experience deeply transformative.

3) Break from Everyday Life

Modern life can be overwhelming, with constant responsibilities and social expectations. Travelling solo offers a rare chance to step back, enjoy solitude, and recharge mentally. The quiet and space away from daily distractions give travellers time to reflect and reconnect with themselves.

4) Symbol of Independence and Empowerment

Solo travel has become a powerful expression of independence, particularly among women. With improved access to safety resources and a supportive community of solo adventurers online, more women are choosing to explore the world on their own. It stands as a confident step towards self-sufficiency and freedom.

5) Remote Work Has Changed Travel Habits

The shift to remote working, especially after the pandemic, has blurred the lines between work and travel. Many professionals now take advantage of their flexible schedules by working while on the move. This has made solo travel more practical and attractive, allowing people to explore new destinations without taking time off from their jobs.

What Precautions Should Solo Travellers Always Take?

Taking the right precautions ensures not only your safety but also a smoother and more enjoyable journey. Here are some essential steps every solo traveller should follow:

1) Do Thorough Research Before You Go

Before booking your ticket, take time to gather as much information as possible about your chosen destination. Read travel blogs, explore online forums, and ask for advice from seasoned solo travellers. Learn about local customs, health risks, weather conditions, transport options, and the political situation.

2) Choose Safe and Well-Reviewed Accommodation

Your accommodation should be a place where you feel safe and at ease. Research various options and pick what suits your comfort level—be it a private holiday rental or a lively hostel. While private properties offers solitude, hostels often provide a social environment where you can meet fellow travellers. Always read reviews and prioritise properties with high safety ratings.

3) Check Visa Requirements Thoroughly

For any solo international trip, understanding visa requirements is essential. While many countries provide a visa on arrival for Indians, making last-minute travel more accessible, solo travellers must be especially careful.

Travelling alone means there is no backup if things go wrong at immigration. Always check the most recent visa rules, allowed duration of stay, required documents, and entry conditions well in advance.

4) Carry Emergency Cash

Running out of money is stressful, especially when you are travelling alone with no one to turn to for help. Keep a small stash of emergency cash in a separate location from your main wallet. This ensures you have a backup in case of theft or loss. Carrying an additional credit card exclusively for emergencies is also a smart move.

5) Keep Digital and Physical Copies of Important Documents

When travelling solo, especially on international trips, it is vital to be prepared for any situation involving lost or stolen documents. Always keep both digital and printed copies of key documents, including your passport, visa, travel insurance policy, flight tickets, accommodation details, ID cards, and emergency contact numbers.

6) Limit the Items You Carry Around

Although it is not always realistic to travel without valuables, try to avoid taking them out with you during daily outings. Keep gadgets, documents, and other essential items locked safely in your accommodation. Only carry what is necessary for the day to reduce risk and stress.

7) Stay in Touch with Family and Friends

Your loved ones will naturally be concerned when you are away. Keep them updated about your location and activities. Share your itinerary with someone you trust before leaving and check in regularly. This helps ensure your safety and provides peace of mind to those at home.

8) Engage with Other Travellers Cautiously

Just because you are travelling solo does not mean you need to stay alone the entire time. Meeting new people can enhance your journey. Utilise hostels, travel apps, online communities, or local tours to connect with others. However, beware: scammers often target solo tourists by pretending to be friendly.

9) Spend Wisely, But Do Not Compromise on Safety

While it is tempting to cut costs, never do so at the expense of your safety. It is often worth paying extra for a safer neighbourhood, secure transport, or reliable travel insurance. Being adequately insured means you are better prepared to deal with unexpected emergencies.

10) Prioritise Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is an essential requirement for anyone travelling alone. It covers unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, baggage loss, passport loss, and emergencies. Solo travellers, without the safety net of a companion, benefit greatly from the protection that travel insurance offers.

11) Know Your Limits and Respect Them

Pushing yourself too hard can lead to risky situations. Avoid drinking excessively, do not venture out when you are too tired, and never attempt activities that are beyond your ability, such as swimming in deep waters if you are not confident. Being cautious helps prevent accidents and ensures a safer trip.

Travelling solo provides unparalleled independence, opportunities for self-development, and memorable experiences. Nevertheless, with that freedom comes the responsibility to remain alert and well-prepared. By choosing to follow the above-mentioned tips, you can enjoy your trip with confidence.

Most importantly, never overlook the importance of travel insurance, as it provides essential support in unexpected situations. With the right precautions in place, your solo journey can be both safe and truly rewarding.

Linya Homestay at Aalo: Traditional Galo Tribal Home Experience

A holiday in Arunachal Pradesh is special in many ways. The mind blowing nature (with lush forests, rich biodiversity, mighty rivers and the stunning Eastern Himalayan mountains), the rich tribal culture and the delicious food make your trip to Arunachal Pradesh a dream experience. If Central Arunachal Pradesh - Ziro, Daporijo, Mechuka, Lamang, Tuting or Pasighat happens to be in your itinerary, you might be passing through Aalo (Along). This town located at the confluence of the Sipu and the Siyom rivers is an ideal place to get introduced to everything Arunachal.

During my road trip through Central and Eastern Arunachal Pradesh, I stopped at Aalo while heading towards Mechuka. At Aalo, I stayed at this lovely homestay called Linya Homestay. This review is based on my recent experience of staying with them.



Highlights of staying at Linya Homestay in Aalo:

1) Staying with a local Galo tribal family: Linya homestay is run by a lovely Galo tribal family where 3 generations of women manage the entire show. The family were very hospitable, helped us with guidance and sightseeing inputs, opened their kitchen and dining hall to us and shared loads of their tribal culture and traditions with us.



2) Great location: The Linya homestay is located right in the middle of a residential locality in Aalo town and is situated right above the Sipu river. The home is located right in the middle of a huge space that includes a large parking area, a huge flower garden, a large vegetable garden, a small poultry farm and steps that lead you to the Sipu river. A short ten minute drive from the homestay takes you to Cozy, a local hotspot located at the confluence of the Sipu and the Siyom rivers. This place is perfect for those evening sun downers and dinner.



3) Traditional Galo tribal dining experience: At the Linya homestay, you have the option to eat with the homestay family in their traditional bamboo based dining area that consists of a bamboo floor, fireplace in the centre of the room, low level seating and decorated with traditional hats, bags, knives and other equipment used in their daily lives. This dining experience coupled with their home made rice beer and delicious home cooked food is one of the top highlights of staying here. It is not often that you get invited into the private dining space of the home owners, share their food and beer and have a fabulous conversation with them about their traditions, culture, festivals and so much more. Meals are on a chargeable basis and the prices are reasonable.



4) Simple and lovely rooms: Linya homestay has 6 to 8 double bedrooms with attached bathrooms and a dormitory for drivers. Some rooms are bigger than the others, but all the rooms are neat, cosy and comfortable. Hot water facility is there in the bathrooms and each room comes with a shared sit out where you can enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee while admiring the mountain landscapes. They also offer free wi-fi facility in their rooms. The rooms cost between INR 2500 and INR 3500 per room per night.



5) Very safe facility with CCTVs and security personnel: Linya homestay has a large parking area where you can park your two and four wheelers in a safe environment. There is a huge gate that is locked during the night and the homestay dogs guard during the night along with the watchmen. The large secure area also makes it a great place to go for those post dinner walks without worrying about dark spaces and stray animals.



Overall, Linya homestay is a fabulous place to stay in Aalo during your Arunachal Pradesh trip. The traditional setup is a must experience. Such cultural exchanges are one of the top things to experience during your Arunachal Pradesh holiday.

How to make bookings at Linya homestay:



If you are booking on your own, you can reach out directly to the homestay owners at 8731803677 or 8126143734. If you are going through a travel agent or a travel company, you can also request them to book your accommodation at Linya homestay.

Best season to visit:



The best season to visit Aalo would be between October through April. This is when the weather is pleasant, the surroundings are lush and the rain is minimal, thus allowing you to indulge in water activities.

May and June will be warm and humid and June through September will be full of heavy monsoon rains that can close mountain roads anytime.

How to reach there:



The nearest airport would be Pasighat airport, 102 kms away, but the airport with the best connectivity would be Dibrugarh (at 200 kms away). The nearest railway station would be Dibrugarh railway station (about 200 kms away).

Buses ply between Aalo and Silapathar and also between Aalo and Pasighat, though they might ply only a few times every day. The fastest way would be to hire your own mode of transportation and drive through these beautiful mountain roads.

Nearby tourist attractions:



1) Cozy and the Siyom River Bank: For a relaxed evening by the riverside

2) Pasighat: Beautiful town by the Siang river that is known for its riverside, rafting and wooden hanging bridges

3) Likabali Tea Estates: Vast stretches of tea estates before the landscape shifts from plains into mountains

4) Daporijo: Scenic town and cultural hub in the upper subansri district of Arunachal Pradesh

5) Majuli Island: The largest river island in Assam, a heritage site and that serves as a hub of Assamese neo-Vaishnavite culture

6) Ranaghat Bridge near Pasighat: Mesmerizing view of the Brahmaputra river

Top tourist attractions of Arunachal Pradesh:



1) Emuli Grasslands: Gateway to the hidden seven lakes trek of Arunachal Pradesh

2) Traditional wooden hanging bridges of Arunachal Pradesh

3) Mayodia Pass: Arunachal Pradesh’s high altitude gem

4) Anini: Gorgeous hill station of India

5) Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary: Land of waterfalls and mini Switzerland in India



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

10) Breathtaking Western Arunachal Pradesh: A place full of natural riches



11) Dirang: Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden magical world

12) Tawang: India’s true shangri-la

13) Sela Pass: A high altitude Himalayan wonderland

14) Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary: Birdwatcher’s paradise in the Himalayas

15) Heavenly Sela lake in the Eastern Himalayas of India



16) Thukje Chueling Ani Gompa: Buddhist monastery run by nuns

17) Tongpen La View Point: A Himalayan vista

18) Jung Falls: A sensational setting

19) The serene and majestic Tawang Gompa

20) Tawang War Memorial: Honoring the unsung heroes of the 1962 India – China war



21) Tak-Tsang Gompa or T Gompa: As serene as it gets

22) Penga Teng Tso: A high altitude Himalayan lake

23) Ugyenling Monastery: Birth Place of the 6th Dalai Lama

24) Sangetsar Lake: Abundance of Himalayan vistas

25) Tenga Valley: Tucked amidst the Eastern Himalayas

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

Cycling from Kallidaikurichi to Brahmadesam: Soak in Oodles of Rustic Tamil Nadu charm

Gorgeous ancient temples, lush paddy fields, banana plantations and tuber farms, quiet village roads with cows, buffaloes and goats giving you company, the Thamirabharani river and its tributaries and smiling locals are what you will find on this rustic cycling route between Kallidaikurichi and Brahmadesam in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. This rustic part of the country offers excellent routes for cycling if you can handle the humidity and/or if you can start early in the morning. Previously, I had written about the scenic and rustic cycling route between Kallidaikurichi and Manimuthar Dam and cycling through the backyards of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. Both these cycling routes are closer to the mountains of the Western Ghats and the route is mostly green and full of coconut groves and paddy fields. This cycling route form Kallidaikurichi to Brahmadesam is a bit away from the mountains, though you can still see the mountains as you ride between these two villages.



The cycling route would be Kallidaikurichi –> Ambasamudram –> Gowthamapuri –> Brahmadesam. On your way back, you can either opt for a detour via Kovilkulam to see another bridge on the Gadananathi river or you can opt for the temple route of Thiruvaliswaram Valisvara Temple and Mannarkoil Rajagopalaswamy temple. Both these detours will take you back to Ambasamudram via two different routes and you can then return to Kallidaikurichi.

This route takes you past umpteen irrigation canals, large swathes of paddy fields, ponds, lakes, pretty little villages and colourful temples. Brahmadesam to Kallidaikurichi distance would not be more than 8 kilometers, but there are more than enough places where you can stop for a pit stop or to explore the attractions in detail.



The highlights on this route would include:

1) Kallidaikurichi Thamirabharani river banks where you can enjoy a swim and a bath

2) Kallidaikurichi paddy fields, the kannadigan canal and the Brahmin agraharams with their many temples. You can cycle through the different streets to get a flavour of the Brahmin culture and the rich agraharam houses

3) The Thamirabharani river bridge between Kallidaikurichi and Ambasamudram

4) Kasibanathaswamy temple, the Ambai Periyakoil Padithurai and the line of trees on either side of the road. This entire stretch is an extremely popular movie shoot location

5) Banana plantations at Gowthamapuri

6) 10th century Brahmadesam Kailasanathar Temple, a top attraction on this route

7) Gadananathi River banks and bridge at Brahmadesam

8) 10th century Valiswara temple at Thiruvaliswaram

9) The Magnificent 10th Century Mannarkoil Rajagopalaswamy Temple with an ashtanga vimana



Do carry a pair of pants or a veshti (dhoti) which you can wear over your cycling shorts in case you plan to visit any of the temples (shorts aren’t allowed in most of the temples). Most of the temples close by 9 or 9:30 AM, so you should plan your trip accordingly.

A typical plan would be to start at sunrise so that you can catch the sunrise colours at the Thamirabharani river banks or at the Thamirabharani river bridge. You can also experience the morning life of the village people with their swimming, praying, meditating and other temple activities and agriculture work. You can have a simple breakfast of idli, vadai, sambar with filter coffee at Hotel Gowri Shankar and then head towards Brahmadesam. As you have had breakfast, you can stop at all the places for photographs or for chats with locals. The Brahmadesam Kailasanathar temple closes at 10:00 AM in the morning, so if you reach by 8 AM, you will get a good couple of hours to explore the temple at leisure. Do not miss to taste the temple prasadam (usually pancha mirtham or curd rice). As the sun goes up, you can head to the Gadananathi river for a swim or just to watch the locals go about their chores.

If you plan to visit Mannarkoil temple or the Thiruvaliswara temple, make sure to have an early breakfast and reach them before 8 AM as both places close by 9 AM.



In addition to your cycling helmet, do carry a cap, a pair of sunglasses, a bottle of water or may be two bottles of water, a couple of energy bars and a spare set of pants or dhoti for your temple visits.

If you feel hot and thirsty, do indulge in some red tender coconut water (locally called sevva elaneer) and sugarcane juice (during certain months of the year). Vehicular traffic will be minimal and can be found only between Kallidaikurichi and Ambasamudram. Once you cross Ambasamudram, only the odd motorcycle, bus or tractor will cross you on the village roads.



The best season to embark on this cycling route would either be between June and August or between November and February. This is when the weather would be pleasant, the water bodies full, the farms at their active most and the terrain will be lush green.

Cycling from Kallidaikurichi to Brahmadesam is a great way to explore this offbeat part of rural Tamil Nadu and soak in all of its rustic charm. And as there is hardly any incline between these villages, people of most ages and fitness levels would be able to enjoy this cycling experience.



Other nearby tourist attractions:

1) Mekkarai to Achankovil to Konni: Heavenly motorcycle route through pristine forest

2) Mekkarai: One of Tamil Nadu’s prettiest villages

3) Kambhavurutty Falls: Scenic waterfall holiday destination of Kerala

4) Manalar Falls: The herbal jungle waterfall of Kerala

5) Achankovil Sastha Temple: Ancient healing temple located in the pristine forest of the Western Ghats

6) Rosemala View Point: Gorgeous motorcycling route inside Shendurney wildlife sanctuary, Kerala

7) Ottakkal Weir View Point: Lovely pit stop on the Thenmala – Kollam highway

8) Palaruvi Falls: Kerala’s herbal waterfall that falls like milk from the sky

9) Aryankavu Sastha Temple: Ancient temple located in the sacred forests of the Western Ghats

10) Vintage Pathimoonu Kannara Bridge: Colonial charm of the Indian Railways

11) Punalur Suspension Bridge: Historical gem of Kerala

12) Lesser Known Kerala Mountain Railways: Treat for nature lovers

13) Thenmala Dam: A monsoon pit stop view

14) Courtallam: The herbal bath holiday destination of Tamil Nadu

15) Sunderapandiapuram: Of lovely Brahmin agraharam houses, sunflower fields, windmills and mountain views

16) Puliyarai View Point: Scenic pit stop on the Tenkasi – Kerala highway

17) Sivasailam Temple: 1000 year old temple surrounded by the lush mountains of the Western Ghats

18) Sivasailam: One of the wettest places during the North East monsoon in India

19) 13th century Kasi Visavanathar Temple at Tenkasi

20) Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple: World’s richest Hindu temple

21) Shanghumugham Beach: The tranquil and divine beach of Thiruvananthapuram



22) Thiruparappu Falls: Gorgeous monsoon spectacle near Kanyakumari

23) Mathoor Aqueduct and Hanging Bridge: An offbeat wonder nestled in the mountains near Kanyakumari

24) Kappil Beach: Sandy beauty hemmed in between the sea and the backwaters

25) Varkala Beach: The stunning cliff beach of Kerala where you can wash away all your sins

26) Meenmutty Falls inside Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary: A beautiful tropical jungle trail

27) Ponmudi: The offbeat hill station of Kerala with a 360 degree mountain panorama

28) Manjolai: The unknown hill station gem of India

29) Thenmala Forest: Offbeat nature and wildlife getaway

30) Nalumukku: The wettest place of India during the North East monsoon

31) Kudrevetty: The gorgeous windy station of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

32) Manimuthar Falls: The herbal waterfall inside a tiger reserve

33) Agastyar Falls: A gorgeous waterfall on the Thamirabharani river

34) Oothu: The quaint little hill station of Tamil Nadu

35) Kakkachi: The highest point inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

36) Scenic Iron Bridge of Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve: Pristine nature overloaded

37) Karaiyar Dam: Offbeat wildlife and nature holiday destination in India’s deep south

38) Hidden pristine waterfall inside Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve

39) 1000 year old Papanasanathar Temple: Where you can wash all your sins away

40) Iruttu Kadai Halwa: Icon of Tirunelveli

41) Nellaiappar Temple: A 7th century cosmic dance wonder

42) Pattamadai Pai: GI tagged beautiful handwoven mats from a tiny Tamil Nadu village

43) Thamirabharani River Delta: A motorcycle route full of rustic gorgeousness

44) Tiruchendur Murugan Temple: Sea shore magic

45) Garuda Sevai from the agraharams of Kallidaikurichi

46) Festival of Thiruvathirai from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

47) The Festival of Karthigai Deepam from a traditional Tamil Nadu village

48) The exotic tropical fruits of Puliyarai

49) Kallidaikurichi Adi Varaha Temple Chariot Festival: Grand cultural spectacle in rural Tamil Nadu

50) Kallidaikurichi Anaicut: Gorgeous picnic spot nestled in the lap of nature

Traditional Wooden Hanging Bridges of Arunachal Pradesh: A Photo Story

You will feel a rush of adrenaline when you walk over these hanging bridges. Fast flowing Himalayan rivers, lush greenery and tall mountains greet you on these wooden hanging bridges that sway with your every step and where you can feel even the slightest change in wind velocity over the valley. Some of these are hand woven using bamboo, some of them are built using local wood, using metal or a combination of wood and metal. Most of these bridges are mainly meant for pedestrians, but a few of them allow bicycles and motorcycles too. The main purpose of these traditional wooden hanging bridges is to connect the main roads with the remote tribal villages, especially when the rivers are full of water and carry with them strong currents. They are not for the faint-hearted (us tourists), but for the locals, it is the only way they can access the other villages and the cities, so they seem to have learnt the art of crossing it with heavy loads even in the most rowdy of weather. These hanging bridges are steeped in rich tribal history and local folklore too. These are the traditional wooden hanging bridges of Arunachal Pradesh. Each village in every district of this large Indian state seems to have their own version and they are a must-see and must-experience on your holiday to Arunachal Pradesh. The iconic ones are the ones at Boleng, Damro and between Zido and Tuting, but each of the ones below are special and a must experience for all those visiting Arunachal Pradesh.

During my recent holiday to central and eastern Arunachal Pradesh (Lamang, Mechuka, Anini, Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaho and more), I came across many of these suspension bridges. This photo story aims to share these bewitching handing bridges of Arunachal Pradesh with you. Hope you like them and I hope it entices you to add them to your Arunachal Pradesh holiday itinerary.

Above photo: I spotted this elderly local gentleman as he was walking on the wooden hanging bridge of Mechuka. This bridge spans the Yargyup Chu river and it is quite long. It is in fairly good condition as locals still use it for daily commuting and on a good day, one can see the snow capped peaks of the Himalayas while walking on this bridge, thus making for a spectacular photo or video.



Above photo: Mechuka is famous for its traditional wooden suspension bridges that span the Yargyup Chu river. While some of them are in disrepair, this one was in great condition and was being used by the locals. While some people stop to soak in the sights while crossing the bridge, I find comfort in crossing it and then admiring the surroundings as the bridge seems to sway with every small breeze and human step taken.



Above photo: Another hanging bridge of Mechuka, but not in great condition, but locals still use it. It certainly didn’t confidence to me and my friend.



Above photo: A misty and rainy scene from Mechuka’s wooden hanging bridge. During the rains, the wooden planks slip with each step, there is hardly any visibility at the center of the river and the cold winds add to the challenge. Overall, an adventurous experience in crossing this bridge.



Above photo: This dilapidated wooden bridge spans a small stream that joins the Yargyup Chu river and that is on the way from Mechuka to Lamang. It is a very short bridge, but missing a lot of wooden planks in it.



Above photo: I spotted this suspension bridge on the way from Along to Mechuka. It was over the Siyom river and it connected to a remote tribal village on the other side of the river and completely cut off from civilization without this bridge, especially during the rains.



Above photo: This gorgeous hanging bridge is over the Lohit river in the Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh. I spotted this bridge on the way to Kaho, the first village of India. A waterfall greets the entrance to the hanging bridge from the main road.



Above photo: This wooden hanging bridge is one of the best places to enjoy the emerald view of the Lohit river in the eastern part of Arunachal Pradesh. This bridge is the only way to reach the tribal village on the opposite side of the main highway connecting Tezu with Kaho. And because of this, it was in excellent condition and made for an adventurous walk.



Above photo: Mechuka is one of Arunachal Pradesh and India’s best hill stations. Unfortunately for me, it was grey, cloudy and rainy during my 4 day visit, but I am definitely planning to visit some other time to see all its gorgeous valleys and snow capped peaks from its wooden hanging bridges. Some of the photos taken from this hanging bridge are absolutely stunning where the water below is bluish-green, the skies are blue, the surrounding nature is lush green and the mountains in the background are all snow capped.

Exploring Andhra Pradesh: Journeys Worth Taking

When you start thinking about traveling across Andhra Pradesh, it’s not the ticket booking process that comes to mind first, but the road itself. The drive—or bus ride, in most cases—becomes part of the experience. The state’s highways wind through coastal plains, temple towns, and stretches of farmland that change with every district.



APSRTC, the state’s transport backbone, happens to make these journeys accessible to almost anyone. Once your ticket booking is done online, the rest of the trip is about soaking in what the route offers—whether it’s the bustle of Tirupati’s pilgrims or the quiet charm of Araku’s valleys.

Andhra Pradesh by Road: A Landscape of Variety



Traveling through Andhra Pradesh means seeing a state that feels like several regions rolled into one. In the north, Visakhapatnam greets you with beaches like Rushikonda and heritage spots such as Kailasagiri Hill. Move inland, and you hit lush green hills that lead to Araku Valley, famous for its coffee plantations and waterfalls.



Further south, the dry plains around Kurnool and Anantapur (with the iconic temples at Tadipatri and Lepakshi) remind you that the state’s geography isn’t uniform—it’s dramatic. Coastal towns like Machilipatnam and Kakinada offer glimpses of fishing life and colonial relics, while temple towns such as Srikalahasti and Tirupati add a spiritual rhythm to the journey.

And in the middle lie the fertile plains of the Godavari and the Krishna rivers, the cultural hubs of Rajahmundry and Vijayawada, the serene backwaters of Konaseema and the eye catching Gandikota canyon over the Pennar river.



According to the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC), domestic tourist arrivals in 2023 crossed 221 million, making it one of India’s top five states for domestic travel.

Top Routes to Experience by Bus

Route	Approx. Distance	Highlights	Suggested Travel Time
Vijayawada – Visakhapatnam	350 km	Coastal views, fresh seafood, historic cityscape	6–7 hours
Hyderabad – Tirupati	560 km	Temple pilgrimage, forested roads near Srikalahasti	Overnight (8–9 hours)
Visakhapatnam – Araku Valley	120 km	Ghat roads, coffee plantations, Borra Caves	3–4 hours
Guntur – Kurnool	300 km	Countryside, farmlands, Rayalaseema cuisine	6 hours
Vijayawada –Konaseema	190 km	Krishna River bridges, scenic paddy fields, Backwaters of Godavari River	4 hours

Most of these routes are served by regular APSRTC services, which means you can pick a bus type that suits your comfort level and budget.

The Journey, Not Just the Destination



Traveling across Andhra Pradesh gives you a sense of time that trains or flights can’t. The view outside your window isn’t static—it evolves every hour. The journey from Vijayawada to Vizag begins with crowded bus stations and ends with the sight of waves brushing against the highway.

The Visakhapatnam–Araku stretch is a standout. It’s a narrow, curving ghat road, dotted with roadside stalls selling bamboo chicken, a local delicacy. Fog often drapes the valley in early mornings, making the ride feel cinematic. According to a report by The Hindu (2023), Araku Valley saw a 35% year-on-year rise in visitors, driven largely by improved road connectivity and public transport options.



And then there’s Tirupati. Pilgrims boarding the Hyderabad–Tirupati route often start in silence and end their journey with chants. The long road builds anticipation. APSRTC runs hundreds of these daily services, ensuring round-the-clock access to one of India’s busiest temple towns.

Why Road Travel Still Matters



While air travel between Andhra cities is growing, road journeys remain the state’s backbone. They’re cheaper, more accessible, and connect smaller towns untouched by airports. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), Andhra Pradesh maintains over 123,000 kilometres of roads, of which 4,500 km are national highways.

That scale explains why buses remain popular. As per APSRTC’s annual operational report (2023), the corporation serves nearly 44 lakh passengers every day, covering both urban commutes and long-distance routes.

Planning Your Trip

If you’re mapping out a trip across Andhra Pradesh, start by deciding what kind of experience you want—spiritual, scenic, or cultural. For temple visits, routes linking Hyderabad, Tirupati, and Srikalahasti are reliable. For nature and quiet, Araku, Konaseema and Lambasingi are unmatched.

Book early through redBus for APSRTC services, especially during festivals and long weekends. You’ll find options ranging from Express to Ultra Deluxe, with the choice to select seats and check live schedules.

Service Type	Description	Ideal For
Express	Basic service, affordable	Short trips
Deluxe	Comfortable seating	Families
Ultra Deluxe	Air-conditioned coaches	Long-distance
Amaravati / Garuda Plus	Premium seating, Wi-Fi in some buses	Overnight travel

Closing Thoughts



Andhra Pradesh isn’t just a state to pass through—it’s one to experience at road level. Booking your seat online takes minutes, but the memories you’ll make on those routes last much longer. The scent of the sea in Visakhapatnam, the mist over Araku, or the temple bells of Tirupati—each journey carries a story.

The value of travel here lies in slowing down just enough to see the details, to let the journey itself become part of the reason you went.

Note: Some of the pictures in this article have been borrowed from wikipedia.org under the creative commons license. Each photograph has been linked to its host page on wikipedia.org.

Mayodia Pass: Arunachal Pradesh’s High Altitude Gem

It is a spectacular winter holiday destination in the Himalayas. It’s forests offer some of the best birdwatching opportunities in Arunachal Pradesh. It is the gateway to the offbeat hill station of Anini and the Switzerland of India – Dibang wildlife sanctuary. I am talking about the 8,711 feet high Mayodia pass that is located in the Dibang valley district of Arunachal Pradesh.



Mayodia, which translates into ‘Peak of the Mayu mountain’ in Idu Mishmi, is a winter wonderland that is extremely popular with the locals and domestic tourists for snowfall and the white panoramas. This destination offers a beautiful mix of snow capped peaks, lush green valleys and dense forests. Add to it, the zig-zag narrow roads and the diverse flora and fauna and you have a full blown adventure destination.



While most visitors consider Mayodia pass as a pit stop on their way to Anini, Dibang wildlife sanctuary and Emoli grasslands, Mayodia pass deserves more and can easily offer you enough for a 2 day holiday. During the non snowfall season, you can indulge in trekking, hiking, birdwatching, photography and good ‘ol relaxation. And if you happen to visit during the winter months, you can indulge in snow games and any winter sports while spending those cold winter nights huddled near a fire with a hot brew in your hand.



Mayodia and its entire surroundings will blow your mind with its gorgeous views. The only thing to keep in mind are its narrow, slippery roads that can become tricky and slushy after a few days of rain. Otherwise, Mayodia pass is a great place to visit in Arunachal Pradesh and offers the perfect entrance to the hidden Anini valley and the absolutely surreal Dibang wildlife sanctuary. This is a part of Arunachal Pradesh that is worth all the effort that you take to reach there.

Best season to visit:



Mayodia’s best tourist season is between November to March when there is snow everywhere and it turns into a winter wonderland. However, do travel in vehicles that are equipped to handle the snow and slippery roads.

Summer months from March through June offer good visibility, cool weather and easy road access. This is the best time to travel deeper into the Dibang valley and is a fabulous time for birdwatching.

The monsoon months from June to September offer the most tricky conditions with heavy rainfall, landslides and unpredictable road condition, but this is also the time when the entire state of Arunachal Pradesh including Mayodia pass and Dibang valley district is dressed in fresh green and is full of water bodies.

How to reach there:



The nearest airports are Tezu (105 kms away), Pasighat (148 kms away) and Dibrugarh (190 kms away). But, it is Dibrugarh airport that has the best connectivity. The closest international airport is Guwahati airport, about 670 kms away.

The nearest railway station is Tinsukia, about 163 kms away. It is well connected with Guwahati and the rest of the country. Dibrugarh railway station is another good option.

The nearest bus station would be Roing, about 60 kms away.

If you wish to explore the region, it is best to have a vehicle of your own as bus connectivity is there, but only a few buses ply on this route every day.

Where to stay:



There are a few resorts, guest houses, homestays and birding camps in and around Mayodia pass where you can stay. But, the bulk of the accommodations can be found either at Roing or at Anini.

Where to eat:



At Mayodia pass, there is just a small tea shop where you can find some simple snacks and hot beverages. For proper food, you will have to head towards Anini and find a highway dhaba either before Hunli or at Hunli. For something more elaborate, you will have to go to Roing or Anini.

Other popular tourist attractions of Arunachal Pradesh:

1) Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary: Mini Switzerland of Arunachal Pradesh

2) Anini: Hidden hill station of Arunachal Pradesh

3) Ranaghat Bridge near Pasighat: Mesmerizing view of the Brahmaputra river

4) The world of Rhododendrons between Mechuka and Lamang

5) Arunachal Pradesh’s Kaho: The first village of India

6) India’s Last Cafe: Gorgeous pit stop enroute Lamang, Arunachal Pradesh

7) Lamang: Unknown snow covered paradise of India

8) Dirang: Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden magical world

9) Sela Pass: A high altitude Himalayan wonderland

10) Eaglenest Wildlife Sanctuary: Birdwatcher’s paradise in the Himalayas

11) Tongpen La Viewpoint: A Himalayan vista

12) Tawang: India’s true Shangri-la

13) The serene and majestic Tawang Gompa

14) Tak-Tsang Gompa or T Gompa: As serene as it gets

15) Jung Falls: A sensational setting

16) Sangetsar Lake: Abundance of Himalayan vistas

17) Penga Teng Tso: A high altitude Himalayan lake

18) Ugyenling Monastery: Birth place of the 6th Dalai Lama

19) Sangti Valley: A valley in heaven

20) Golden Pagoda at Namsai: Divine Buddhist Landmark of Arunachal Pradesh

21) Emoli Grasslands: Gorgeous grassland trek with a 360 degree mountain panorama

22) Aatih Acheso: Land of waterfalls

23) Mechuka: A stunning Himalayan hill station with dense forests and rich Buddhist culture