Nestled along the shores of River Siang, Yingkiong is a base camp for Arunachal Pradesh’s Upper Siang District and attracts a large number of tourists who enjoy adventure sports and nature from all over the country and the world as well. The lush green landscape of the small valley and its scenic tranquility make for a perfect getaway in Yingkiong. Along with its captivating sights and enthralling greenery, Yingkiong is also popular for its rich cultural legacy which is distinct from the usual social quirks and incredibly warm. From a tourism perspective, nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts flock Yingkiong to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities like angling, bird watching, mountaineering, treks, etc. Here’s a travel guide to help you find your way in and around Yingkiong.

There’s a dearth of public transport options available when traveling to Yingkiong. The best way of reaching Yingkiong would include taking a flight or train, followed by a long road trip of about 3-5 hours in hired cabs.

By Air:

Since there’s no direct flight connection between Yingkiong and major Indian metros, traveling to Yingkiong can be a long drawn adventure that’s best explored by taking a flight to Dibruagarh, which is the closest domestic air terminal and about 280km from town. Further, there’s a helicopter service facility between Guwhati-Naharlagun and Guwahati- Yingkiong via Pasighat (on Wednesdays) with the onward journey from the airport/helipad by taxi.

By Train:

The closest train station is in Murkongselek which is roughly 155 km from Yingkiong, while the Dibrugarh Train Station is about 260km from Yingkiong and is served by Arunachal Express Train. From the train station, you can travel to Yingkiong by taxi/cab with a number of private and state-owned transport alternatives available additionally.

By Road:

The road connectivity to Yingkiong is well-accessible and there are ample bus services that ply on the route from different neighboring cities like Guwahati, Pasighat and more. Yingkiong is also accessible by road to different urban cities in the state and to Assam as well, despite the road conditions being somewhat challenged. It is best to hire vehicles like a Jeep, Gypsy, Sumo or Innova for comfortable travels.

Getting Around:

Even though there are transport alternatives available in plenty in the state, Yingkiong isn’t directly accessible by public transport and is best explored in cabs or auto-rickshaws for local tours and visiting close by areas. You can also ride a bike and enjoy road trips in and around Yingkiong.

Summer (March – June):

With a warm summer and average temperature oscillating between 31°C and 26°C, most visitors flock Yingkiong during summers, which is the second busiest time of the year to enjoy outdoor activities. There are a variety of adventure sports you can engage in like camping, treks, hiking, river rafting and more.

Monsoon (July – September):

Yingkiong’s monsoon is as heavy as the rest of the state during which the town receives heavy rainfall, making life and commuting difficult due to the weather conditions. With an average rainfall of 3.31cm from July through September, the town may be endowed with lush greens and scenic beauty galore during the season, but travel’s best avoided during this time.

Winter (October – February):

Winters in Yingkiong is one of the best times to visit here as it is quite pleasant and refreshing. With an average temperature of 22°C-10°C during the day, evenings and night get rather chilly in town and it is wise to carry your woolens to avoid catching the winter chill. Yingkiong would be at its natural best to enjoy trekking expeditions and nature walks from October through February.

Nature Expeditions:

Abundant with captivating views and ample enthralling trails, Yingkiong’s popular for a variety of outdoor activities that include trekking tours, nature strolls and more. For those who thrive on physical activities, the Yingkiong-Jengging-Pasighat trek is one of the most-sought after activities for a thrilling experience, while the River Siang invites visitors to explore fishing and angling activities.

Sightseeing Excursions:

From its extensive rapids that invite passionate adventurists to engage in white water rafting, Yingkiong has a number of tourist attractions like the Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary, Divine Mercy Church to Mouling National Park, Dubung & Nirbung Waterfalls that are equally inviting and captivating. At the Mouling National Park, you can look forward to some up close and personal encounters with Hoolock Gibbons, Tigers, Wild Water Buffalos, Elephants, Barking Deer, Python and Red Panda.

Cultural & Festive Events:

Yingkiong is a popular tourist destination in the Upper Siang District and houses some of the major tribes here that include Adi, Mishmi, Memba and Khamba, also known to be the oldest settlements in the North-East region that have maintained their ancient culture and traditions alive till date. Their unique customs, religious practices and local festivals invite visitors from all over the state and country to join the celebratory fervor, dance performances, and delectable food fests, leaving with fond memories.

Pretty much as the entire state, Yingkiong’s food includes rice and other local delicacies a staple diet for its populace. Cooked over coal in a shell, rice is eaten differently here, with a distinct flavor and fragrance. Some of their most popular eats include Thukpa, a noodle soup with Tibetan Flavors, available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian portions. Momos are the next bestsellers that’s popular in the region, available right from a roadside eatery to a posh restaurant with fillings of vegetables, chicken, pork, etc. You should also try Apong, a local brew made of aging rice, handmade and preservation free. It is quite light and very popular amongst locals and visitors alike. Tekseng Restaurant on the lower market road, Jiji Shopping Complex, Hotel Paljor are some of the places to explore eating out in Yingkiong.

Arunachal Pradesh is a hub for rich craftsmanship and is renowned for ornaments, a widely applied craft, with cane and bamboo coming in second. You can explore beautiful artifacts, handicrafts made of bamboo and cane, jewelry, cane belts, smoking pipes and baskets when shopping in Yingkiong or its neighboring areas. Another popular craft in the region is pottery. You can visit Itanagar, Pasighat markets and a number of government emporiums for your shopping sprees. The Buddhist Thangkas and Apatani Jackets are a sure-shot keepsake to take back home.