Scripting the triumphs of tribal heritage: Pangsau Pass International Festival 2025

Join us in 2025 for the Pangsau Pass International Festival in Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh—a celebration of diverse cultures, rich traditions, and the enduring spirit of unity among communities. The PPIF aspires to transcend borders, unveiling the hidden beauty of enchanting Arunachal and the allure of captivating Myanmar. Experience the mystique of this vibrant region, where heritage and hospitality blend into an unforgettable tapestry of wonder.

20th, 21st & 22nd January, 2025

The contagious smiles, the curious gazes, the cordial responses, and amicable attitudes towards strangers are intact and thriving, which makes this place an ideal destination to visit and explore.

The Pangsau Pass International Festival unearths the magnificent things of this secluded place. It has so many things in reserve for the people who adore surprises. The locals are naive and courteous. Honesty and simplicity still survive in this part of the world. The Tangsa hospitality is overwhelming and one of the best in the world. The local delicacies are mouth watering.
PPIF is not only about ethnicity or culture but it’s also a medium to pay our tribute to those war heroes who lies here in the World War II cemetery- far away from their native home.

Festival Highlights

A digital camera falls short of capturing the true magic and spirit of the festival, leaving its story only half-told and its song unfinished. To truly understand the festival’s allure and feel the soul of Arunachal Pradesh, one must experience it first hand—immersing in its rhythms, breathing in its beauty, and witnessing the charm of this hidden region for oneself.

Pangsau Pass Festival Venue

The frontier town of Nampong, once a remote and nearly inaccessible outpost, became a vital launch point for Allied counter-attacks against the Japanese Army during World War II. Known as "Hell Gate" for its perilous terrain, Nampong leads to Pangsau Pass, where the infamous "Valley of Death" begins. Perched at 3,727 feet along the historic Stilwell Road, this rugged path winds through the Patkai mountain range, marking the last post on the Indo-Myanmar border in Arunachal Pradesh. Here, amidst challenging landscapes, a crucial chapter of courage and sacrifice unfolded, leaving an indelible mark on the region's history.

Location

Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh

Dates

20th, 21st & 22nd January, 2025

Reserve Your Stay

Sometimes ordinary moments offer the most extraordinary moments of life and linger in our memories like the freshest of fragrances.

JTL - Jairampur
Rawung Home Stay : Kamlao

Contact Organizers for Festival Inquiries

Reach out for details about Pangsau Pass International Festival 2025.

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  • The festival venue, Nampong, is located at the far tip of the Indo-Myanmar border. Since this is an offbeat location and shares an international border, there are some essential "Dos and Don'ts" every tourist should follow. Be sure to review them before planning your trip to Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh, for the best festival experience.

  • Nampong is easily accessible from all directions and is well-connected by highways to the Tinsukia railway station and Dibrugarh airport. Travelers can reach Nampong via the Digboi/Margherita route or take the Kakopathar/Mahadevpur bypass route.

  • January days are moderately cold, but nights can be chilly, especially if it rains. Pangsau Pass, with its dense forests and high-altitude roads, is always colder than Nampong. It's best to carry proper woolens to stay comfortable in all conditions.

  • Rice is the staple food throughout Northeast India, and rice-based dishes are popular here as well. Tangsa cuisine is known for being highly hygienic and organic. During the festival, numerous food stalls will offer a variety of delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. If you’re staying at a homestay, sampling the local cuisine will be a memorable experience.

  • Arunachal Pradesh is designated as a restricted area in India. Foreign visitors need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter, while Indian nationals require an Inner Line Permit (ILP). During the festival, organizers offer an instant ILP facility at all entry points. Visitors can also download the festival ILP online, which includes permission to visit Pangsau Pass. Bringing pre-filled forms allows for quick stamping at entry points, saving valuable time.

Festival Hacks

★★★★★

If you’re a backpacker planning an adventure, here are a few extra tips:
  • Bring a headlamp and flashlight for potential power outages.

  • Pack warm socks for chilly nights.

  • Use a rain cover for your backpack to protect your gear.

  • Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste and help keep Arunachal clean.

  • A portable battery pack is essential, as power may not be available 24/7.

  • Insect repellent can be very helpful.

  • Avoid pitching a tent in the woods without first consulting a local for guidance and safety.

  • Foreign visitors are advised to carry photocopies of their passport and visa for any emergencies.

  • Accommodation options in Nampong and Jairampur are limited; it’s best to book your guesthouse, homestay, or tent in advance.

  • Be respectful of the local culture. While there are no strict rules, observing and following local customs is recommended.

  • Jairampur and Nampong have only one bank and two SBI ATMs, which may run out of cash or experience issues during the festival. It’s wise to carry enough cash for entry fees, food, accommodation, and shopping.

  • Health facilities in the area are basic, so bring a first-aid kit and any essential medications.

  • Mobile connectivity is available through BSNL, Airtel, and Jio, but networks may become congested due to the high influx of users during the festival.

  • Jairampur, Nampong, and Pangsau Pass are connected by a well-maintained double-lane National Highway, and local traffic etiquette is generally better than in other parts of the country. Please be patient and stay in your lane during busy times.

Dos

Don'ts

  • While the PPIF offers fantastic photo opportunities, avoid photographing tribal people outside the festivities without permission, especially in villages. Also, do not photograph government buildings, including military installations.

  • Do not carry firearms, ammunition, or any toxic materials, as these are strictly prohibited.

  • Although alcohol is tax-free, it's best to exercise caution. In this predominantly Christian and Buddhist area, alcohol consumption is generally discouraged and may be seen as poor etiquette.

  • When traveling to Pangsau Pass, stay in your lane and avoid overtaking. Breaking the traffic flow could lead to long delays.