Balipara Tea Country to Dirang
Your options
Ways to make the journey
6 h
From the tea country the road runs north to Bhalukpong, the Assam–Arunachal border, where permits are checked. It then climbs through subtropical forest along the Kameng river, past Tenga, to Bomdila at about 2,400 m, before descending to the Dirang valley. We use an SUV with an experienced mountain driver.
Varies
Helicopter services in Arunachal have operated at times on certain sectors, but schedules are unreliable and not suitable for planning. Check current status before you travel.
Worth a stop
- Bhalukpong permit gate
- Tipi orchid area
- Bomdila monastery
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How long is the drive from Balipara to Dirang?
About 6 hours for 175 km, including the permit check at Bhalukpong and a lunch stop. The road climbs to Bomdila at about 2,400 m before descending to Dirang. Landslides can cause delays from June to September.
Where are Arunachal permits checked?
At the Bhalukpong check gate on the Assam–Arunachal border, and sometimes at points further along the road. Carry your eILP or Protected Area Permit and original ID. Bhalukpong is reported to have QR scanners for eILPs.
Is the road from Bhalukpong to Bomdila safe?
It is a mountain road with sharp bends, steep sections and occasional landslides, especially in the monsoon. With an experienced local driver and a good vehicle it is safe in the dry season. Check current status before you travel.
Can I go from Balipara to Tawang in one day?
It is possible in about 10 to 12 hours, but we do not recommend it. Overnighting at Dirang breaks the journey and helps with acclimatisation before Tawang at about 2,670 m.