Arguably one of the most scenic states in India, Arunachal Pradesh can be described as every nature lover’s paradise.
With a name that translates to “the land of the dawn-lit mountains,” it is one of the most beautiful frontiers of India in the far northeast corner of the country.
Arunachal Pradesh is dominated by the peaks of the eastern Himalayas, with deep lush valleys carved out by glacier-fed rivers and forests that shelter the rare flora and fauna. There is an endless supply of activities for outdoor adventurers in Arunachal Pradesh – one of the most popular being the seven-lake trek in Dibang Valley.
As the name suggests the seven-lake trek is one of the Himalayas’ best-kept secrets- with a scenic route that touches seven breathtakingly beautiful lakes hidden in the hills of Arunachal Pradesh. Starting from the lush open valleys of tall grasses and ferns, this trek will take you up to an elevation of almost 4000 meters into the glaciers that feed these mesmerizing lakes and rivers below all-round the year.
Things to do
Perched on the spectacular Dibang Valley, the Seven Lakes Trek is India’s best-kept secrets for outdoor adventures, featuring jaw-dropping views and a challenging trail that connects seven different high-altitude lakes to the north of Anini village over six days. The landscape of the trek changes every day. From grasslands and rain forests, to mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and the base camp, you will experience the beauty of the state through the varied landscapes and diverse terrains.
Emuli Grasslands
The actual trek starts from the Emuli Village, a one-hour drive from Anini town. The trek takes you through a steep climb through the Emuli grassland, with breathtaking views of the lush green Mishmee hills. Once the grassland climb is over, it transitions into a rainforest with moss-covered trees, flourishing flora and fauna, and light mist and fog blanketing the forest.
Trekking through the Rainforests
The next leg of the trek is a long walk through gloomy and mystical rain-forests. The sound of nature and insects echo through the entire trek giving you company in your journey. Although the rain-forests will be comparably smoother but steep terrains are waiting to be conquered. There is a stark difference in the plants and flowers as you lose or gain altitude. Numerous species of plants, small animals and birds can be seen by those who know where to look.
Lake Kahmu-yu
The trek to this lake is a scary one with uncountable ascents and descents along the way. Lake Kahmu-yu is the first one of the seven lakes. As you trek towards the lake, the terrain changes slowly from sloppy forests to rocky mountains demanding technical climbing skills. Take a break to soak in the beauty of the lake, surrounded by colorful flowers and a gurgling tiny water stream. There will be a short trek you will have to take to other lakes.
Lake Emuh-ya
This will be an easy trek compared to the previous ones, with gentle slopes, rolling hills and phenomenal views throughout the journey. You can camp here near the second lake which has a narrow crystal-clear flowing stream, a spurting waterfall and the benevolence of mountains surrounding the area.
Koyombo Lake
Located at an hour’s hike from Lake Emuh-ya, at an elevation of 13,500 feet above sea level is this is a breezy trek through mountainous terrain. As you move upwards, thick mane of foliage fades with patches of green spread abundantly.
Dini Wuya Lake
The most gorgeous alpine lake of all and the most beautiful and largest of all, the beauty of this lake cannot be captured in a few photographs. After climbing a few steep slopes, you will notice that the flora will start to fade away into bare terrain with rocky slopes. At an altitude of 14000 feet.The blue alpine lakes stand between majestic grey mountains, something right out of a fairy-tale.
Che-ne Lake
This lake is said to be a mystical lake and many local hunters say that they have seen it glowing at midnight. After crossing this lake, the next journey will take you to the final lakes: Huhu lakes.
Huhu Lakes
Lakes six and seven are very close to each other. Lake six flows from the crater of one mountain down onto another mountain forming Lake 7. From the top, you can see picturesque views of both lakes.
Who is the seven-lakes trek for?
The trek is ideal for intermediate to expert trekkers, as it is a climb of 5-6 hours a day on average for nine days. Every day you will be climbing either steep uphill or downhill. You will be accompanied by experienced guides and former hunters who know the routes and the history of the area.
Best time for the trek
The best time for the trek is during the winter/ spring months of November to April.
Feature Image Courtesy: Arunachal Pradesh Tourism
In Partnership with Arunachal Pradesh Tourism
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