Bailey Trail historic high‑altitude trek - Arunachala Pradesh

The Bailey Trail Historic High‑Altitude Trek in Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most remarkable trekking routes in the Eastern Himalayas. Traced originally by Lt. Col. F. M. Bailey and Capt. H. T. Morshead, this trail follows ancient trade and military routes that connect deep valleys, towering passes, and remote Monpa villages. It offers trekkers an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and untouched mountain landscapes.

About

Bailey Trail is a historic high‑altitude trekking route in Arunachal Pradesh, originally explored by Lt. Col. F. M. Bailey and Capt. H. T. Morshead during the early 20th century. It follows ancient trade and military paths through remote mountains and valleys.

Description

The trek runs from Lagaam (near Dirang) to Mago (near Tawang), crossing multiple high passes such as Tche La (~4,714 m), Porshing La (~4,200 m), and Tcheri La (~4,500 m). The trail offers panoramic views of Mount Gorichen, Kangto, Nyegi Kangsang, and Takpa Shiri, alongside alpine lakes, Monpa tribal villages, and historic 1962 Indo‑China war sites.

Specialty

Multiple high mountain passes above 4,000 m.

Spectacular Himalayan peaks and glacial lakes.

Rare cultural experiences with Monpa & Brokpa tribes.

Historic 1962 war bunkers and ancient trade route heritage.

Address

Starting point: Lagaam Village, near Dirang, West Kameng district, Arunachal Pradesh

Ending point: Mago Village, near Tawang

Location (Longitude & Latitude in single line)

27.7° N, 92.7° E (approximate central coordinate of trek route)

Visiting Timings

Trek duration: 9–14 days (≈7 days walking)

Best hours: Trekking during daylight (6 AM – 4 PM daily on trail)

Travelling Facilities

Road: Guwahati → Bhalukpong → Dirang → Lagaam

Rail: Train to Bhalukpong, then road

Air: Fly to Guwahati, then road transfer

Food Facilities

Trekking agencies provide simple vegetarian meals.

No restaurants along the trail.

Stay Facilities

Tents at campsites during trek.

Homestays / guesthouses at start or end points (Dirang, Tawang).

Nearby Visiting Places

Thembang Heritage Village

Bomdila Monastery

Tawang Monastery

Sela Pass

Nearby Railway Station

Bhalukpong Railway Station (nearest rail link)

Nearby Airport

Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati

Nearby Bus Station

Dirang / Bomdila bus stations (regular buses from Tezpur, Guwahati)

Bus Routes to Trek

Guwahati → Tezpur → Bomdila / Dirang → Lagaam

Train Routes to Trek

Rangiya → Bhalukpong → Road to Dirang / Lagaam

Airways to Trek

Guwahati Airport → Road to Bhalukpong → Dirang → Lagaam

Preferable Visiting Season

February–April (pre‑monsoon, rhododendrons bloom)

September–November (post‑monsoon, clear skies)

Nearby Shopping Famous For

Monpa handicrafts (handwoven textiles, bamboo crafts)

Local produce (apples, walnuts, honey)

The Bailey Trail Historic High‑Altitude Trek is not just a challenging expedition, but a journey through time, culture, and pristine nature. Ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking an offbeat route, it rewards every effort with stunning Himalayan panoramas, historic footprints, and authentic tribal hospitality. It remains one of the most captivating adventures in Arunachal Pradesh for those ready to explore its hidden heights.