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Pangsau Pass International Festival 2026

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PPIF2026

20-21-22 January 2026

The Pangsau Pass International Festival (PPIF) shall be held in the frontier town of Nampong in Arunachal Pradesh from 20th to 22nd January 2026. The event will incorporate the 80th-anniversary commemoration of World War II, featuring a special “Willy Jeep” ride tracing the historic wartime route from the Hump Museum in Pasighat to Pangsau Pass via Changlang District. The festival has become a major platform for cross-border cultural exchange between India and Myanmar and includes a wide spread of traditional sports, local cuisine, sightseeing and much more.

[Updated on 14/12/2025]

The lake at the Indo-Myanmar border is the crown jewel of PPIF—so enchanting that every visitor finds it hard to leave without visiting the legendary “Lake of No Return.”
Recently, authorities from both nations came together for a coordination meeting, led by HMLA Sri Laisam Simai. It is learnt that Myanmar officials have promised to do everything possible to allow Indian tourists to the lake.
If all goes well, we might just see you there… very soon… coffee by the lake, endless selfies, and long reels. 

Scripting the triumphs of tribal heritage

Pangsau Pass International Festival in Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh, is a grand celebration of diverse cultures, timeless traditions, and the enduring spirit of unity among communities. More than an event, PPIF is a heartfelt tribute to the local people—those who preserve their heritage, welcome guests with warmth, and bring the festival to life with their art, cuisine, music, and stories. The festival seeks to transcend boundaries, showcasing the hidden beauty of enchanting Arunachal and the captivating charm of neighboring Myanmar. Experience the mystique of this vibrant frontier, where the spirit of its people blends heritage and hospitality into an unforgettable mosaic of wonder.

Where culture celebrates life and history speaks loud.

The contagious smiles, curious gazes, warm responses, and amiable attitudes of the people make this region a truly inviting destination to explore. The Pangsau Pass International Festival beautifully unwraps the hidden treasures of this secluded land, offering countless surprises for those who seek the unexplored. The locals are humble, courteous, and rooted in a way of life where honesty and simplicity continue to thrive. Tangsa hospitality is heartfelt and unforgettable—often regarded among the finest in the world—and their traditional delicacies are truly mouth-watering.

PPIF is not just a celebration of culture and ethnicity; it also serves as a solemn tribute to the brave war heroes who lie here in the World War II cemetery, far from their native homes, yet honored with dignity and remembrance.

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.

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Lake of No Return

The Lake of No Return remains an evocative symbol of the interplay between history, Nature, and Myth – a quiet yet poignant reminder of the lives and stories lost in the mist of time.

Lake of No Return

[NEW VENUE LOCATION]

The Hell Gate

Pangsau Pass Festival Venue, the frontier town of Nampong, once a remote and nearly unreachable outpost, became a crucial launch point for Allied counter-offensives against the Japanese Army during World War II. Known as “Hell Gate” for its unforgiving terrain, Nampong stands at the gateway to Pangsau Pass, where the infamous “Valley of Death” begins. Perched at 3,727 feet on the historic Stilwell Road, this rugged route cuts through the Patkai mountain range, marking the last Indian settlement on the Indo-Myanmar border in Arunachal Pradesh. Amid these challenging landscapes unfolded a remarkable saga of courage, resilience, and sacrifice, leaving an indelible imprint on the region’s history.

RESERVE YOUR STAY

Kotwai Serenity Resort Nampong

Call +91 708 535 3477

Rawung Home Stay Manmao

Call +91 873 1978840

Contact

Get in Touch with Organizers

Numbers

Email

PPIF on Facebook for more updates

Festival Hacks

Planning to experience PPIF with a backpack and a spirit of adventure? Here are some practical tips to make your trip smoother, safer, and more enjoyable:

  • Carry a headlamp or flashlight as power cuts can occur.

  • Pack warm socks and layers—nights can get unexpectedly chilly.

  • Use a rain cover to protect your backpack and camera gear.

  • Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste—help keep Arunachal clean.

  • A power bank/portable charger is essential; electricity may not be available round the clock.

  • Insect repellent can be very helpful in forested and riverside areas.

  • Avoid pitching a tent in the woods without local guidance—it’s safest to ask villagers or festival organizers first.

  • Foreign nationals should keep photocopies of passports and visas handy for emergencies.

  • Since accommodation in Nampong and Jairampur is limited, pre-book your hotel, homestay, or campsite well in advance.

  • Respect local culture and traditions. There are no strict rules, but following local customs earns goodwill everywhere.

  • There is one bank and two SBI ATMs in Jairampur/Nampong. ATMs may run out of cash during the festival, so carry enough money for meals, transport, entry fees, and shopping.

  • Health facilities are basic—carry a first-aid kit and necessary medicines.

  • Mobile connectivity is available on BSNL, Airtel, and Jio, but networks may get congested due to festival crowds.

  • The route to Jairampur, Nampong, and Pangsau Pass runs through a well-maintained double-lane National Highway. Traffic etiquette is generally better than many regions—stay patient, give way, and enjoy the ride.

  • Carry photocopies of travel documents (passport/visa) if you’re a foreign visitor.

  • Pre-book accommodation—rooms and tents fill up quickly.

  • Show respect for local culture, food, and traditional attire.

  • Keep sufficient cash; digital payment may not work everywhere.

  • Carry medicines, first aid, and personal essentials.

  • Be patient on the road—traffic increases during festival hours.

  • Support local artisans: buying handicrafts helps sustain village livelihoods.

  • Ask before you click: Do not photograph tribal communities in villages without permission, and avoid taking pictures of government or military installations.

  • Even if someone agrees to a photo, avoid placing hands around women or girls—it’s considered bad etiquette and may offend locals.

  • Do not carry firearms, ammunition, explosives, or toxic materials—these are strictly prohibited.

  • Though Alcohol is tax-free, but avoid excessive drinking. The region is predominantly Christian and Buddhist, and public intoxication is seen as disrespectful.

  • When traveling to Pangsau Pass, never overtake in narrow sections—it disrupts traffic and causes long delays in the mountains.

(Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is collected from festival organizers and other sources, and is intended for general reference only. Please verify details directly with the organizers or official authorities before planning any travel or itinerary. Amazing Arunachal shares this information as received and is not responsible for any changes in dates, schedules, or for any losses incurred based on this information.)