Namdhapa National Park, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh India

Itanagar is an enchanting capital city of the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. Sited amidst the foothills of majestic Himalayas, this city has gradually evolved as a thriving tourist destination in northeast region of India. Itanagar comes under the administrative district of Papum Pare and is situated at an average altitude of 440 m above the sea level. Featuring a soothing and pleasant climate all around the year, Itanagar happens to be a round the year destination for tourists. Itanagar is also referred to as "the Land of Dawn lit Mountains" due to its geographical location. Itanagar is blessed by Mother Nature and being at the foothills of Himalayan Ranges; the city offers breathtaking views of the valley and natural landscapes. Thus, it attracts hundreds of nature lovers and tourists (including domestic as well as foreigner).

Being a capital and prominent tourist destination, Itanagar is well linked with other cities of India through roadways and airways. There is a regular helicopter service that connects Itanagar to Guwahati, which in turn, has a full-fledged airport connected to the rest of the states of India. The nearest railhead is 33 kms away. After de-boarding from the train, you need to take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Itanagar. Like some of the other northeastern cities of India, Itanagar also has a rich history which dates back to the 11th century BC when it was the capital of Mayapur during the reign of Jitari Dynasty. Later, during the 14th and 15th century, a historical fort namely Ita-Fort was built. The city has been named after this fort. Post independence, on April 20, 1974, Itanagar was made the capital of Arunachal Pradesh.

Itanagar houses numerous people from numerous locations of India but they all are living with peace and harmony with each other. Therefore, Itanagar is often referred to as "Mini India" of the east. Itanagar's culture is very much influenced by Tibetan traditions which can be seen in its people's costumes, food and even rituals. The most prominent factors of the economy of Itanagar are farming and agriculture, although tourism is taking a speedy move in that context as well. Some of the major tourist attractions that you should never miss whist in the city are Ita Fort, Ganga Lake or Gyakar Sinyi, the Namdhapa National Park, Buddhist Monastery, Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Museum and Indira Gandhi Park. If you are a shopperholic, Itanagar would be nothing less than a paradise, for the city offers authentic and genuine handicrafts.

 The Namdapha National Park is a combination of various species of trees and shrubs. The park is covered with wet tropical rain forest, which has thick lush green undergrowth. With more than 150 species of timber it is a botanist’s dream destination. Rare and endangered orchids, and famous medicinal herbs grow in the park.