Along

In the map of India, the town of Along can be seen in the extreme north eastern fringe of Arunachal Pradesh. A small, clean and naturally beautiful tourist destination in the West Siang district, Along hosts numerous hotspots. This quaint little town is set in a wide open valley blessed with amazing surroundings, hilly terrains and two crystal clear rivers Sipu and Yomga. These two rivers merge at a point with panoramic views in the backdrop. Travellers choose this place amongst many other tourist places of the northeast India, owing to the calm and serene ambience which is apt for anyone to unwind the tired mind and soul. This travel guide will unfold many more facts and tourist information about this charming Arunachal town.

Situated at an altitude of about 300 m., Along is the district headquarters to West Siang. The languages spoken here are Assamese, English, Bengali, Tani, Digaru, Miju and Nepali. Covered with lush green plantations, it is also known for its breeding farms. Tribal villages of Tapi, Bam and Darka are among the interesting places in the close proximity. Tourists who love adventure can indulge in activities like river rafting, hiking, angling and trekking. Summers in Along can be very hot and monsoons bring heavy rainfall.

Throughout the year

Some of the must visit places at Along are: Ramakrishna Ashram: This place was founded by Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa, Swami Vivekananda and Sharada Mata. An apt place for meditation and related research and studies, the ashram displays many items related to its founders. Hanging bridge: This bridge is located on the Siang river and offers stunning views in Along. Made of cane and bamboo with a length of around 60 to 70 m., the bridge connects to various tribal villages. One can enjoy the adventurous sports like hiking and fishing in these villages. Kazu Village: The residents of this village belong to Adi tribe. This quaint little village has abundant natural beauty and the lifestyle of the villagers is unique and interesting. The longhouse architecture is worth having a look. Entry and photography in this village needs prior permission. Kane Wildlife Sanctuary: Located close to Along, this sanctuary spreads on an area of 55 sq. km. with diverse flora and fauna. The anim

Along has some good eating venues serving local cuisine like laksa stock, koat pitha, poora mach, bamboo shoot fries etc. The staple cereal is rice and people primarily prefer fish preparations like fish stew, fish fried rice and so on. You can also get some continental food at selected eateries. Coffee Pizza Day is a popular hang out place in Along.

Along is extremely popular for its bamboo and cane items. The local shops here sell a range of decorative items and souvenirs made from wood and bamboo, while woven carpets are also popular. Masks from papier mache or wood are commonly sold here and you can also buy exotic tribal jewellery items like bead ornaments. Items worth buying in Along are cotton bags, bamboo mugs, cane vessels, shawls, jackets, shirts, skirts and carvings.

Along has its own airport, but with limited air connectivity. Only few helicopter services are operative. The nearest functional airport is at Lilabari (about 250 km. away). The airport has regular flights from Guwahati and Dibrugarh. Silapathar Railway Station in Assam (about 147 km. away) is the closest rail access point. Excellent road connectivity makes Along conveniently accessible by buses and private vehicles as it is located on National Highways 52 and 229. Local sightseeing in Along becomes easy if you hire a taxi, though some places can be accessed on foot.

Other attractions of Along include Kamki Hydropower dam, Donyi Polo Temple, river rafting at Silom River, orange orchards and Patum Bridge.

According to our tourist guide, your tour to Along remains incomplete if you miss the paces near this idyllic town, which give equal joy as the attractions of Along. Mithun and Jersey Cross Breeding Farm (about 25 km.): These two farms are one of the prime attractions for the tourists of Along. These farms presently work on the possibilities of artificial insemination of animals for the genetic improvement of farm animals. Darka Village (about 19 km.): Darka Village is situated in the same district as Along. Attractions include Sipu River, Hiri River and Hisum River, agricultural wealth, dense forested areas and Mopin Festival. Lilabari (about 200 km.): Located in the North Lakhimpur District of Assam, this town is famous for Buddhist monasteries like Tawang Monastery and many adventure activities. It is also known for beautiful shawls and artefacts.

Other places of tourist interest near Along are Ziro, Bomdila, Itanagar and Tawang.