Ziro Valley
Ziro Valley, in Arunachal Pradesh, is a picturesque paradise that has long been a favorite town as a World Heritage Site. Home to the Apatani tribe, the valley is filled with lush green paddy fields. Its stretch of green grasslands form an ideal location to hold picnics or enjoy outdoor camping, especially in the hillock known as Ziro Puto.
Although most people visit Ziro just for its scenic locales, the valley also houses a number of major attractions such as the Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Hapoli- the center of all the town’s activities, and the Siddheshwarnath Temple that contains a natural Shiva linga discovered about a decade ago.
The food in Ziro, albeit bizarre, is a must-try for adventurous souls. While its bamboo-chicken is a delicious tribal preparation, the local preparations of silkworms and rats might be an interesting option to try.
One of the most interesting things to do in the valley would perhaps be to attend the Ziro music festival, an outdoor music festival held in the Ziro Valley. It is one of the most eco-friendly music festivals in the band, with a strict zero-plastic policy and stages made entirely of bamboo. The four-day festival brings together performers both of national and international repute.
Ziro is not directly connected by air or rail but must be reached through neighboring towns and cities, such as Guwahati. The best time to visit Ziro is during the summer months when the weather remains pleasantly cool. For those interested in attending the music festival, however, September is the month to visit.