Mandala Top Arunachal Pradesh

The Mandala Top is a popular trekking destination in Arunachal Pradesh, India. It is located in the Mechuka Valley of West Siang district, at an altitude of around 6,200 feet (1,890 meters) above sea level. The trek to Mandala Top is known for its breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges, lush green forests, and the Mechuka Valley.

The trek to Mandala Top is moderately difficult, and it takes around 4-5 hours to reach the top from the base camp. The best time to visit Mandala Top is during the months of October to April when the weather is clear and pleasant. However, due to heavy snowfall during winters, the trek is closed from December to February.

Mandala Top is also known for its cultural significance as it is believed to be a sacred place for the local Monpa tribe. The Monpas worship the deity Mandala, and it is said that the top of the mountain is where the deity resides. Therefore, visitors are advised to respect the local customs and traditions while trekking to Mandala Top.

About 108 Small Stupas

108 Mandala Top is a spiritual destination located in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is a series of 108 small stupas, which are arranged in a circular pattern and represent the 108 beads of a mala or Buddhist prayer beads. The stupas are adorned with colorful prayer flags and offer stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

To reach 108 Mandala Top, you need to trek from the village of Kaza, which is the largest town in the Spiti Valley. The trek takes about 2-3 hours and is moderately challenging, with steep ascents and descents. It is advisable to hire a local guide or join a trekking group to navigate the trail and ensure your safety.

Once you reach 108 Mandala Top, you can explore the stupas, offer prayers, and take in the breathtaking views of the Spiti Valley. The best time to visit 108 Mandala Top is during the summer months from May to October when the weather is favorable for trekking and exploring the outdoors.

History

Arunachal Pradesh, where Mandala Top is located, has a rich and diverse history. The region has been inhabited by various tribes and communities for centuries, including the Monpa, Adi, Apatani, and Nyishi tribes.

During the medieval period, Arunachal Pradesh was a part of the Ahom Kingdom, which was a powerful kingdom in the Brahmaputra Valley of present-day Assam. The Ahom rulers controlled much of the region until the arrival of the British in the 19th century.

In 1914, the British colonial government established the North East Frontier Tract, which included present-day Arunachal Pradesh. The region remained a part of British India until India gained independence in 1947.

After India’s independence, Arunachal Pradesh became a part of the state of Assam. However, the people of Arunachal Pradesh had a distinct identity and culture, and they demanded a separate statehood. In 1987, Arunachal Pradesh became a separate state of India.

Today, Arunachal Pradesh is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse communities. The state attracts tourists and adventure enthusiasts from all over the world, who come to explore its pristine forests, snow-capped mountains, and unique cultural traditions.

Things to do

There are many things to do in and around Mandala Top and the Mechuka Valley in Arunachal Pradesh. Here are some of the top activities you can enjoy:

1. Trek to Mandala Top: The trek to Mandala Top is a popular activity for adventure enthusiasts. The trail offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the Mechuka Valley, and takes you through lush green forests and rugged terrain.
2. Visit the Monpa Villages: The Monpa tribe is the predominant tribe in the Mechuka Valley. You can visit their traditional villages to learn about their unique culture and way of life.
3. Explore the Mechuka Valley: The Mechuka Valley is known for its stunning natural beauty. You can explore the valley on foot or by bike, and take in the picturesque landscapes, including the Yargyap Chu River.
4. Visit the Samten Yongcha Monastery: The Samten Yongcha Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located in the Mechuka Valley. It is a popular attraction for visitors who want to learn about Buddhism and see its beautiful architecture.
5. Attend the Mechuka Adventure Festival: The Mechuka Adventure Festival is an annual event held in November, which features adventure activities, cultural programs, and traditional sports. It is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and meet people from all over the world.
6. Go Fishing: The Yargyap Chu River is a popular spot for fishing. You can catch a variety of fish, including trout and carp, and enjoy a relaxing day by the river.
7. Enjoy Local Cuisine: Arunachal Pradesh is known for its delicious and unique cuisine. You can try local dishes like Thukpa, Momos, and Zan.

How to reach

To reach Mandala Top in Arunachal Pradesh, you need to first get to the town of Mechuka, which is the nearest settlement. Here are the different modes of transportation you can take to reach Mechuka:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Mechuka is the Dibrugarh Airport in Assam, which is about 180 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Mechuka.
2. By Road: You can reach Mechuka by road from various cities in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. The town is connected by a network of state highways and national highways.
3. By Rail: The nearest railway station to Mechuka is the Dibrugarh Railway Station in Assam, which is about 190 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Mechuka.

Once you reach Mechuka, you can start your trek to Mandala Top. The base camp for the trek is located near the town, and you can hire a local guide to take you to the top. Alternatively, you can also explore the Mechuka Valley and the surrounding areas by hiring a bike or a car.

How to get from Dirang to Mandala Top

Dirang is a town located in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, which is about 200 km away from Mandala Top. Here are the different modes of transportation you can take to reach Mandala Top from Dirang:

1. By Road: The most convenient way to reach Mandala Top from Dirang is by road. You can hire a taxi or a private car from Dirang to Mechuka, which is the nearest town to Mandala Top. The drive takes about 8-10 hours, and the route takes you through some beautiful landscapes and scenic views.
2. By Public Transport: You can also take a public bus from Dirang to Aalo, which is the nearest town to Mechuka. From there, you can take another bus or a shared taxi to Mechuka. The journey can be a bit tiring and time-consuming, but it is an affordable option.
3. By Helicopter: If you want to reach Mandala Top quickly and easily, you can also take a helicopter from Dirang to Mechuka. The helicopter service is operated by the Arunachal Pradesh government, and it takes only 30-40 minutes to reach Mechuka. However, the service is subject to weather conditions and availability.

Once you reach Mechuka, you can start your trek to Mandala Top. The trek takes about 4-5 hours, and you can hire a local guide to take you to the top. Alternatively, you can also explore the Mechuka Valley and the surrounding areas by hiring a bike or a car.

Mandala top Opening and Entry fee

Mandala Top is a natural attraction and does not have an official opening and closing time. However, it is best to start your trek early in the morning to avoid trekking during the hottest hours of the day. The trek to Mandala Top is accessible during the summer months from April to October when the weather is favorable.

There is no entry fee for visiting Mandala Top as it is located in a public area. However, if you plan to trek to Mandala Top, you may need to obtain a permit from the local authorities, which is mandatory for all visitors to the Mechuka Valley. The permit can be obtained from the DC Office in Aalo, the district headquarters of the West Siang district. The permit fee varies depending on the duration of your stay and the places you plan to visit. It is advisable to check the latest information on the permit requirements and fees before planning your trip to Mandala Top.

Where to Stay

There are several options for accommodation in and around Mandala Top and the Mechuka Valley in Arunachal Pradesh. Here are some of the popular choices:

1. Homestays: Homestays are a great way to experience the local culture and hospitality. You can stay with a local family in their traditional house and enjoy home-cooked meals. There are several homestays available in the Mechuka Valley, which offer basic amenities like clean bedding, shared bathrooms, and hot water.
2. Guesthouses: Guesthouses are another popular choice for accommodation in the Mechuka Valley. They offer basic amenities like clean rooms, attached bathrooms, and hot water. Some guesthouses also have a restaurant that serves local cuisine.
3. Campsites: If you are an adventure enthusiast, you can also choose to camp in the wilderness around Mandala Top. There are several campsites available, which offer tents and basic facilities like toilets and showers.
4. Resorts: There are a few resorts located in the Mechuka Valley, which offer comfortable accommodation with modern amenities like attached bathrooms, hot water, and Wi-Fi. They also have a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine.
5. Hotels: There are a few hotels located in the nearby town of Aalo, which offer comfortable accommodation with modern amenities like attached bathrooms, hot water, and Wi-Fi. They also have a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine.

It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, as the availability of rooms can be limited.

FAQ

Sure, here are some frequently asked questions about Mandala Top and Mechuka Valley:

1. What is the best time to visit Mandala Top?

The best time to visit Mandala Top is during the summer months from April to October when the weather is favorable for trekking and exploring the outdoors.

• Is there an entry fee to visit Mandala Top?

No, there is no entry fee to visit Mandala Top as it is located in a public area. However, you may need to obtain a permit from the local authorities to trek to Mandala Top.

• What are the permit requirements for visiting Mandala Top?

All visitors to the Mechuka Valley, including Mandala Top, need to obtain a permit from the local authorities. The permit can be obtained from the DC Office in Aalo, the district headquarters of the West Siang district. The permit fee varies depending on the duration of your stay and the places you plan to visit.

• What is the duration of the trek to Mandala Top?

The trek to Mandala Top takes about 4-5 hours, depending on your fitness level and the weather conditions.

• What are the accommodation options in the Mechuka Valley?

The Mechuka Valley offers several accommodation options, including homestays, guesthouses, campsites, resorts, and hotels. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, as the availability of rooms can be limited.

• How do I reach Mechuka from Guwahati?

You can reach Mechuka from Guwahati by taking a flight or train to Dibrugarh, and then hiring a taxi or taking a public bus to Mechuka. The journey takes about 8-10 hours, depending on the mode of transportation.