10 Most Famous Festivals To Enjoy In Arunachal Pradesh

In India’s northeast lie the enchanting Seven Sisters, each blessed with spellbinding natural beauty. Travellers from across the globe journey here to witness their charm and lose themselves in landscapes that feel straight out of a dream. No, this isn’t the opening of a fairytale—it’s an introduction to a region that’s every bit as magical. And if you’ve guessed it already, the seven sisters are the seven northeastern states of India. The fairyland we’re exploring today is the largest among them—Arunachal Pradesh.

While every northeastern state deserves a spot in a travel guide to Northeast India, Arunachal Pradesh stands out for one special reason—its vibrant and culturally rich festivals. Home to numerous tribal communities, the state proudly preserves a mosaic of traditions, lifestyles, and heritage. Its agricultural, spiritual, and cultural festivals beautifully celebrate this diversity. So, without further delay, let’s explore the 10 most popular festivals of Arunachal Pradesh.

As you read through, don’t forget to plan ahead—book your flights to Itanagar, Tezu, Along, or Pasighat, and secure your accommodation early to make the most of your journey.

# Siang River Festival

Celebrating communal harmony and promoting eco-tourism, the Siang River Festival is one of Arunachal Pradesh’s most lively events. During this time, the region comes alive with colour, warmth, and infectious energy, making it a wonderful period to visit the state. Adventure lovers are especially in for a treat, as the festival features exciting activities like boat races, elephant races, river rafting, hot air ballooning, and paragliding. Cultural performances, handicraft displays, and handloom exhibitions add to the charm. A unique highlight is Didi, a traditional mock war game of the Mishmi community. The festival is best experienced in Tuting, Yingkiong, and Pasighat, some of the finest destinations in Arunachal Pradesh.

# Pangsau Pass Winter Festival

A relatively new addition to the festival calendar, the Pangsau Pass Winter Festival was first celebrated in 2007 and has quickly gained popularity. Held every January in the town of Nampong, this three-day winter festival showcases folk songs, traditional dances, and vibrant cultural performances. Visitors can explore exhibitions featuring handloom products and handicrafts from across India. What makes this festival particularly special is the participation of artists and performers from neighbouring Myanmar, offering a beautiful blend of cross-border cultures.

# Loku

Loku is a winter festival celebrated by the Nocte tribe to mark the end of the cold season. The three-day celebration begins with the preparation of traditional food and attire. A key ritual involves adolescents of the tribe performing ceremonial practices, after which everyone joins in joyous dancing and singing to folk tunes. The festival also provides an opportunity for families and friends to reconnect, making it both festive and intimate.

# Ziro Festival of Music

If music speaks to your soul, the Ziro Festival of Music is an event you simply cannot miss. Spanning four days, it is Arunachal Pradesh’s largest and most happening music festival. Alongside soulful local folk music, the festival hosts renowned national and international artists. Music enthusiasts from around the world gather in Ziro to soak in the melodies set against a stunning natural backdrop.

# Solung

Agriculture plays a central role in Arunachal Pradesh’s economy, and this is reflected in its many harvest festivals. Solung, celebrated by the Adi community, is among the most significant and longest harvest festivals in the state. Observed for nearly ten days during the monsoon, it involves ritual performances, grand feasts, and lively singing and dancing. Spending time here during Solung offers not just enjoyment but deep insight into the traditions and beliefs of the Adi people.

# Boori Boot

Another important harvest festival, Boori Boot, is celebrated by the Hill-Miri tribe in February. The festival emphasises unity and togetherness, transcending boundaries of caste, religion, age, and gender. Lasting three days, it begins with a special puja performed by the high priest, followed by community celebrations filled with music, dance, and social bonding.

# Nyokum

Celebrated annually on 28th February, the Nyokum Festival is observed by the Nyishi tribe to pray for prosperity and harmony within the community. The high priest conducts sacred rituals, after which people come together to sing and dance. Holding hands and forming circles, participants sway rhythmically to traditional folk songs, symbolising unity and togetherness.

# Losar Festival

Already a popular tourist destination, Tawang becomes even more captivating during the Losar Festival, celebrated in February or early March for 8 to 15 days. Marking the Tibetan New Year, Losar is observed by the Monpa tribe with deep devotion. The festivities begin with thorough house cleaning, followed by hoisting religious flags, reciting holy scriptures, lighting butter lamps, and offering prayers for a prosperous year ahead.

# Dree Festival

The Dree Festival, celebrated by the Apatani tribe, is a religious event centred on agricultural prosperity. People worship deities such as Tamu, Danyi, Metii, and Harniang, offer sacrifices, and take oaths to protect crops and plants. The rituals are performed near paddy fields, with the location changing each year based on the high priest’s decision.

# Sanken

Concluding our list is Sanken, a widely celebrated festival observed across Arunachal Pradesh from 14th February for three days. Marked with immense enthusiasm, people bathe the idol of Lord Buddha, offer prayers, and beat traditional gongs and drums. The rest of the celebration is all about relaxation, joy, and togetherness, as people take a break from daily routines to sing, dance, and revel in the festive spirit.