Kundao Tso: Where India Begins, and Belongs

Far beyond the busy cities and mainstream roads, in the easternmost corner of India, lies a place that is untouched by time — Kundao Tso. Nestled high in the hills of Arunachal Pradesh, near the quiet border village of Kibithu, this serene lake holds not just water, but a quiet truth: this land, this beauty, this silence — it has always been an integral part of India’s rich heritage.

The journey to Kundao Tso is long and winding, about 250 km from Tezu, but every mile tells a story. Through misty roads and mountain passes, you reach a land where the sun first rises on Indian soil. It’s here, at this tranquil lake, that you feel something deeper — a connection not just to nature, but to the soul of the nation.

Nearby stands the Walong War Memorial, built in memory of the Indian soldiers who fought during the 1962 Indo-China war. Their courage wasn’t just about defending borders — it was about protecting the very essence of a land that has always been part of India’s heritage and history. The silence at the memorial speaks of both pride and sacrifice, echoing through the hills.

But Kundao Tso is not only shaped by history. It is alive with life and belonging. The Meyor tribe, one of India’s proud indigenous communities, calls this region home. Their traditions, language, and way of life are rooted deeply in the land. Their stories are not separate from India — they are a part of its living culture. Their prayers rise with the morning mist, just as they have for generations. There are no big hotels or tourist crowds here. Just open skies, warm smiles, and the kind of peace that stays with you long after you leave. Whether you’re a traveler, a writer, or someone from Arunachal rediscovering your roots, Kundao Tso offers more than just views — it offers clarity.

So come. Stand where India wakes first. Watch the sunrise break over still waters. Feel the wind move through a land that doesn’t ask to belong — because it always has. Because in Kundao Tso, the land doesn’t just reflect the sky. It reflects India — quietly, proudly, magnificiently.

🧭 How to Get There

• Nearest Town: Tezu, the district headquarters of Lohit district, Arunachal Pradesh.

• Distance: Kundao Tso is approximately 250 km from Tezu, via Hayuliang and Kibithu.

• Route: From Tezu, take the road towards Hayuliang and continue to Kibithu, India’s easternmost village. From there, Kundao Tso is a short journey further ahead.

• Permits: Indian nationals do not require permits. Foreign nationals must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Arunachal Pradesh.

• Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November, when the skies are clear and roads are accessible.

Rare Flower Species found in Arunachal - Biodiversity blooms in Dibang Valley!

Somewhere in Arunachal, the quiet corners of the forests still hold secrets. In the remote Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh, one such secret has just come to light—a rare and beautiful plant species named Cremanthodium Kalaiselviae, discovered by botanist Dr Vikas Kumar, head of CSIR-Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR-IHBT). This rare discovery in today’s time shows us the rich ecosystem that Arunachal Pradesh is home to and reminds us of the urgency to protect and preserve it!

It is no secret that Dibang Valley, in Arunachal, is home to some of the rarest and un-discovered species of flora and fauna. Home to stunning landscapes and remote untouched ecosystems, the valley has long been a treasure trove for Botanists & Researchers to unravel the mysteries of Arunachal. Dr Vikas Kumar, a renowned Botanist whose passion for conservation and botanical exploration has driven his illustrious career, put together a team and after conducting extensive field study, ventured into the valley's dense forests. They were greeted by hundreds of types of flowers, but it was Cremanthodium Kalaiselviae that stood out. Eureka!

Cremanthodium Kalaiselviae is a part of the Daisy family (Asteraceae), the same family that includes sunflowers and marigolds. Here are some of the characteristics we know so far:

The flower is yellow in colour and bell-shaped.

It grows in cold, mountainous environments, typically above 4,000 meters (13,000 feet).

It grows low to the ground, like many alpine flowers that need to survive cold winds and snow.

Its petals are arranged in a drooping pattern, which helps protect it from harsh mountain weather.

Dibang Valley, part of the Eastern Himalayas, is home to many rare species of plants and animals. Its rich biodiversity is a treasure, but it is also delicate and under constant threat. Human activities like deforestation, hunting, pollution and unplanned development have a major impact on the valley’s wildlife and plant life. Climate change is making things worse by disrupting weather patterns and threatening species that are sensitive to temperature and rainfall changes.

Dibang Valley - Nature's Paradise in Arunachal

But there is still hope. Each one of us can make a difference with small, everyday actions. Simple steps like using less plastic, recycling, saving water and electricity, and planting native trees can go a long way. When we care for nature, nature cares for us.

The story of Cremanthodium Kalaiselviae is a reminder of the untapped wonders that still lie hidden in the folds of our planet. Dr Vikas’s discovery is a beautiful reminder that nature still has surprises left for us. But it also carries a responsibility—to preserve, to conserve, and to pass on these gifts to the next generation.

Siang River: The Divine River and Arunachal's Heartbeat

The Siang River isn't just a body of water, it’s the lifeblood of Arunachal Pradesh, a force that shapes the land, the people and the culture. Known as the Brahmaputra once it enters Assam, the Siang flows with a silent power that speaks to the soul. As it winds through the pristine beauty of Arunachal Pradesh, the river becomes a symbol of the region’s unspoiled charm and vibrant spirit. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adventure, a peaceful retreat, or a deeper connection with nature, the Siang River promises an experience that will stay with you forever.

The Siang’s story begins near Mount Kailash in Tibet, where it is known as the Yarlung Tsangpo. Here, it begins its long journey eastward, traveling over 1,000 kilometers and around the Namcha Barwa peak, the river marks its arrival in Arunachal Pradesh—a land rich with culture and beauty. As the Siang River enters Arunachal Pradesh, it divides the area into four major districts, that have an essence of their own and are worth exploring:

East Siang: Home to Pasighat, one of Arunachal’s oldest towns, East Siang offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Siang. Activities like rafting and exploring local tribal cultures, are some of the To-Dos here!

Siang District: Located in the heart of the Siang belt, local communities live in harmony with the river, their stories woven into its currents. Enjoy river-based activities here like fishing and local village visits.

West Siang: In this picturesque district, famous attractions like the Tadi Bridge, offer visitors a perfect vantage point to appreciate the river’s mighty flow while capturing a moment of peace.

Upper Siang: As the river climbs higher, it enters Upper Siang, a remote and untouched part of Arunachal. Along is famous for its trekking opportunities, deep gorges, the chance to experience the unspoiled beauty of Arunachal Pradesh, offering an authentic escape into the wild.

As the Siang flows into Assam, it meets the Dibang and Lohit rivers, forming the mighty Brahmaputra. The journey of the Siang doesn’t end here—it stays with you, reminding you of the rugged, untainted beauty that first captured your heart, in the hills. Whether you’re into thrilling white-water rafting, hiking in the hills, or simply soaking in the serenity of the river’s banks, there’s something here for every type of traveller. Nature lovers will find joy in the lush forests and diverse wildlife that the Siang nurtures, while those interested in culture will be drawn to the stories and traditions of the indigenous communities that call the river home.

How to Get There

The nearest airport to the Siang River is Dibrugarh Airport in Assam, about 100 km from Pasighat, Arunachal Pradesh. Flights from major cities like Guwahati, Kolkata, and Delhi are available.

For those traveling by train, Tinsukia Junction (200 km from Pasighat) is the closest major station, with connections from Guwahati or other cities.

Road access is also possible from Guwahati, about 500 km away, with buses and taxis offering scenic routes through Assam and Arunachal.