The lush greenery and misty hills of East Siang District in Arunachal Pradesh lies a region where tradition, spirituality, and nature blend harmoniously. This area is renowned for the vibrant Solung Festival of the Adi tribe, an agricultural celebration filled with rituals, songs, and tribal unity. Alongside, the Buddhist temples of Pasighat provide a peaceful retreat for spiritual seekers and visitors alike. This guide combines cultural insights, travel logistics, local experiences, and practical information for those planning to explore this lesser-known gem of northeast India.
About
The Solung Festival is the most significant festival of the Adi tribe in Arunachal Pradesh. Celebrated annually from 1st to 3rd September, it marks the beginning of the harvest season. The term "Solung" is derived from "So" (Bros fontalis/Mithun, the main animal sacrificed during the festival) and "Lung" (meaning group or herds of Mithun). The festival involves rituals, traditional dances, and songs aimed at seeking prosperity, a bountiful harvest, and the well-being of domestic animals
Description
A peaceful and culturally rich temple situated beside the highway in Pasighat, offering a serene setting for meditation and prayer.
Reflects traditional Buddhist architecture, prayer flags, and holy scriptures.
Used by both local Buddhists and travelers for spiritual connection.
Speciality
Quiet ambiance, traditional rituals, and teachings of Lord Buddha.
A community hub for peace, learning, and seasonal prayer gatherings.
Temple Address and Location
Address: Pasighat, East Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Latitude & Longitude: 28.0667° N, 95.3333° E (single line)
Temple Timings & Services
Timings: Open generally during daylight hours (6:00 AM to 6:00 PM).
Sevas: Regular prayers, meditation sessions, and community services are held. Larger events coincide with Buddhist festivals like Buddha Purnima.
Travel Facilities
Bus Routes to Temple
From Itanagar: Direct APSTS buses, 10–12 hrs.
From Dibrugarh: Reach Murkongselek, then drive to Pasighat.
From Guwahati: Buses to Dibrugarh or North Lakhimpur, then local transport.
Train Routes to Temple
Nearest Station: Murkongselek (MSK) – ~38 km from Pasighat.
Trains: Lachit Express, Intercity Express from Guwahati/Dibrugarh.
Local taxis or buses connect to Pasighat from the station.
Airways to Temple
Nearest Airport: Pasighat Airport (IXT) – direct flights from Guwahati and Dibrugarh (under UDAN scheme).
Alternate Airports:
Dibrugarh (DIB) – ~160 km.
Lilabari (IXI) – ~140 km.
Food Facilities
Restaurants and dhabas serving:
Traditional Arunachali cuisine (bamboo shoot curry, smoked meat)
Tibetan-influenced dishes (Thukpa, Momos, Zan)
Local rice beer "Apong"
Stay Facilities
Available accommodations in and around Pasighat:
The Serene Pasighat
Pane Hotel – Contact: 08259025129
Aane Hotel – Located in main market
Government circuit houses & guest houses
Nearby Transportation Hubs
Nearest Railway Station: Murkongselek (MSK) – 38 km
Nearest Airport: Pasighat Airport
Nearest Bus Station: Pasighat APSTS Bus Depot
Nearby Cities
Itanagar – 260 km
Dibrugarh (Assam) – 150 km
North Lakhimpur – 140 km
Nearby Temples & Attractions
Dangoria Baba Temple – 5 km from Pasighat
Daying Ering Wildlife Sanctuary – 13 km
Sirki Waterfall – 10 km from Pasighat
Siang River Banks – For evening walks and boating
Preferable Visiting Season
Best time: October to April
Festival time: September 1st–3rd
Avoid: June–August (heavy monsoons)
Shopping – What is it Famous For?
Handwoven Textiles: Traditional Adi shawls and garments
Bamboo & Cane Handicrafts: Baskets, trays, home decor
Tribal Jewelry: Beads and ornaments
Local Produce: Organic tea, honey, and spices
Festival Market: Unique craft stalls during Solung Festival
Quick Tips for Visitors
Carry cash – digital payments may not be widely accepted.
Respect local customs and dress modestly at temples and during festivals.
visiting East Siang District offers a truly unique experience, one that connects you with the rhythm of tribal traditions and the serenity of Buddhist spirituality. The Solung Festival provides a front-row seat to the Adi people's deep respect for nature and community, while the Pasighat Buddhist temple invites introspection and peace. With accessible transport links, warm hospitality, authentic cuisine, and vibrant marketplaces, Pasighat is both a cultural and spiritual retreat.Whether you're an adventurer, culture enthusiast, or spiritual traveler, this region promises memories as rich and colorful as the festival itself. So pack your bags, time your trip with the festival calendar, and get ready to experience Arunachal’s eastern frontier like never before.
