Ziro

Picturesque Ziro is 200 km from Itanagar. Situated on the Apatani Plateau (in the lower Subansiri region) and surrounded by pine mantled hills all around, it is spectacular. Well connected by bus to Daporijo (home of the Tagin and Miri tribes) the district headquarters of upper Subansiri, it's a tourist's delight with its dazzling landscapes and tribal culture. Make a point to visit Tarin, the high-altitude fish farm, the famous whispering pine grove and the craft centre. From a hilltop, catch the first rays of dawn lighting up the stunning emerald patchwork quilt of nature.

A visit to an Apatani tribal home is a must. The Apatanis are one of most advanced and intriguing of Arunachal's tribal people. Both men and women tattoo themselves and the women are distinctive with their great nose plugs {daf) made of bamboo and face tatoos. It has now been banned. The Apatanis grow rice by terrace farming; they also have created an indigenous irrigation system which is unique amongst the Arunachal tribals.

The Apatani village comprises of long rows of houses with a fertility totem in front of each one. In their cooking, they use an indigenous herbal salt that's rich in iodine. Living in perfect harmony with nature, for every tree they fell. five fresh saplings are planted.


The weaving skills of their women are legendary as can be seen from the wonderful Jikhe pattern, woven jackets and intricately patterned Jilang shawls. The men are skilled in metallurgy and bamboo craft.

Driving down to picturesque Along (the district headquarters of West Siang) and on to Pasighat. on the road that hugs the Subansiri river is pure delight.

The 5754 ft. high town is almost a level valley enclosed on all sides by pine-clad low stooping hills. This area, also called Apatani Plateau, is famous for Paddy-cum-Fish culture. Daily bus services available from ltanagar (150 km) and Lilabari (100 km&.)

Getting There
Nearest airport is Tezpur and Ulabari by Indian Airlines and NEPC Airlines.

Nearest railhead is North Lakhimpur by Arunachal Express from New Bongaigaon.

Direct buses are available from Itanagar and North Lakhimpur.

Where to Stay
Inspection Bungalow, Circuit House.
Reservation Authority Deputy Commissioner, Lower Subansiri District, Ziro. Phone: (037892) 255


Excursion
Tarin Fish Farm (a high altitude fish farm), Pine and Bamboo graves, villages, indigenous method of rice cultivation, craft centre.

Festivals
Nyokum on February 26. Dree on July 5. Ideal for Trekking and Hiking. Clothing Woollens in winter and Cottons in summer.

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General Information & Accomdation info on Ziro city of Arunachal Pradesh - India