7 Lakes Arunachal Trek - A Peek into Mishmi.s Heaven
Known as land of dawn lit mountains, Arunachal is known for eco diversity hotspots, incredible trails lush green valleys and steep mountains are a great way to explore, experience the natural beauty and wonders of far eastern Himalayas. The seven lakes trek will take you to one of Himalaya’s best kept secrets – seven stunning beautiful high altitude lakes hidden in the Mishmi hills of the frontier of India will sure amaze you !
Vishwanath Radhakrishna
Though our flight was out of schedule...We reached Mohanbari on time.
Though dark clouds loomed over the horizon - Rain gods were merciful...
Though we had an ILP, no soul enquired about it.
We were on the way to Roing, for me, the name sounded like a model of an aircraft. My assumption was wrong. No, it's the name of a small town in Arunachal Pradesh.
Having savored the beauty of the 7 great lakes of Kashmir, I was captivated by the Awesome 7 lakes of Arunachal too.
You guessed it right. The very reason for being here was for much awaited 7 Lakes trek in Dibang valley.
After spending a night in Mito's homestay, we headed towards Anini, located 240 km away. The long winding serpentine scenic Journey through Mayodia Pass located at 2700 m, thereon passing through villages of Hunli, and Estalin brought us a small hamlet Anini - Gateway for Dibang Valley.
The journey through thick forest cover and by riverbed was exhilarating. As the sumo came to halt, I was bowled by the neverending picturesque scenic beauty of rolling velvet hills. I fell in love with the landscape, it was love at first sight - A wonderful feeling indeed !.
A flight of steps brought us to a strategically located Mishmi traditional hut facing the hills which were our home. After savoring the freshly cooked organic Mishmi meal, with Ajipu - Cucumber, Roasted Ambo - Corn with Adeepu -Beans by our host beside the fireplace. Looking at the star-studded sky we retired for the day.
We woke up at 4 am to the chirping birds. After a relaxed breakfast, we headed to explore Mishmi hills!
We followed the below itinerary from Anini. for 7 Lakes Trek
Day 3: Anini to Imungu to Camp 1 Known as Aniku
Duration : 4 hours.
Altitude: 2,500 m
Distance: 25kms (drive via Emuli ), thereafter, trek
Chain of Hills shrouded, with passing clouds, pine trees welcomed us. After a briefing, from the road head, we followed Mahol.
The hilltop camp was inviting us.
We stopped now and then admiring the views. The trail was in a riot of colors, with blue, pink, purple, and white flowers in bloom. A grasshopper in vibrant colors was a delight to watch !. The cool breeze never tired us. We climbed the slope's 30-degree gradient to 80 degrees. The last stretch was a transition from open grasslands to rainforests. After a 4-hour climb, we reached our first camp Aniku overlooking hills.
Note:
The whole stretch including grassland is the dwelling place of a small black fly called Damdim / Tits/ Known as Thayo in Idu Mishmi. Though you feel sweaty, make sure to wear full sleeves and apply Odomos gel while trekking to protect yourself from bites. It did not spare a single member. All were bitten all over exposed hands/legs and it’s super itchy.
We sat gazing at the horizon, the blue mountains, the setting sun, and the blazing western sky aflame with vibrant colors. All soon began to captivate us. Silence gripped us!.
Soon we could hear the sound of beetles reaching a crescendo, the sound of music was soothing !. We sat below the tarp, and hot soup was served followed by an early dinner. Soon it was dark. The star-studded sky was exciting to watch, cozily sleeping in the tents.
Day 4 Camp 1 to Camp 2 Hut Camp
Altitude 3400 m
Duration : 6 hours
We woke up call of chirping birds, as the day breaks early in the hills.I could notice dew drops on the pine glittering in the sunlight.I peeped through the tent, a stunning heavenly landscape of Mishmee hills was before us. We stood on the ridge and witnessed the moving clouds, the tall grass swaying in tune with the blowing wind. It was truly an epiphany, just the right feeling of being at the right time.
Looking at the hills, Beta Mito began to murmur a song cutting wood from his machete in Idu Mishmee gleefully.
Eni ke KaJi yaNe agiya
Athu bindo mama eye eye kamba kando
Athu bindo mama aju aju, ashipi, andho kando
Nanu praviDha
Wherever i see there are hills and gorges surrounding me. How long might have almighty taken to create these marvelous things? The waterfalls, flowers, and forest.....
I am in love with you!
From here the trail was through Himalayan pine, Rhododendron, walnut, oak, and chestnut forest. The lichen, the dense green clumps of moss-grown profusely on the bark of trees and bamboo thickets. We were cautioned about the venomous Bosombo, vipers, and black bears on the prowl. I could even see a few fresh and old scats of cats on the trail.
At certain hidden vantage points, I could see distant hills, Brango, Mipi Village with the assistance of Mito, who was always ready to assist us.
Although, the rainforest trek is comparatively smooth, with oxygen levels but there are steep terrains waiting to be traversed. While climbing the slushy slopes through slopes, I could see a green snake moving at a lightning speed and disappearing into bushes.I myself cautiously moved forward and peeped into thickets. A ray of sunlight lightened the dark environs, I could spot it. I was transfixed. Mito identified and mentioned it as Bosombo - A Bamboo Viper that is sighted during the trail.
Whereas later, through a few herpetologists I came to know that it was Pseudoxenodon macrops, commonly known as the large-eyed bamboo snake or the Chinese false cobra, is a species of venomous rear-fanged snake endemic to Asia.
The evergreen rainforest was a sight to behold.For me the ubiquitous mushrooms are grown on barks of trees, moss, underneath cracks and crevices of rocks - Colourful, in various shapes and sizes were alluring. Few were even glowing dim light.
The pretty patterns on them were truly nature's work of art. One should witness these minute wonders of nature during the monsoon.
Stopping eventually captures these wonders in myriad forms. Hearing the stories of Mito and tribal encounters in the wild. It took almost 6 hours to reach the hut, which served as a shelter for the night.
I was very inquisitive and willing to see the Red Pandas in their Natural Habitats. Craning my neck to sight these in action or sleeping cozily on the branches.
I could sight a few terrestrial orchids grown on the barks of trees, glowing in the sunlight and as if welcoming me.
The rest of the members reached after an hour, the whole valley was glowing in the diminishing light with blue sky in the backdrop.
After a really long trek, a world deep in the forests awaited with the cutest log chalet was our home for the night.
Day 5: Camp 2 to Lake Kamo Uyea (3730 M)
Duration : 6 Hours
The stretch from here was bit strenuous, the trail became worse with slippery slopes to traverse. Few complained of muscle cramps and a long walk. I could see a black giant squirrel or Malayan giant squirrel (Ratufa bicolor) moving around in lightning speed. Though I could capture a few pictures, it was out of focus.
I was standing on a precarious ridge balancing myself, I could listen to the cackles and shrill sound of woodpeckers. Soon I could spot this reddish brown hyperactive bird looking for its prey.I was able to see it moving and capture it In no time in disappeared and flew away under the canopy.
rufous-bellied woodpecker and White Wagtails
After a steep climb we reached a clearing, from where we got to see a glimpse of first lake. From here, reaching lake was tedious, and appearances were deceptive.
Hopping on boulders, and traversing slopes using ropes, and tree makeshift ladders was a balancing feat.
We had a bird's view of along lake from rocky outcrops. Pine trees reflected in glistening water, Sight of tents above the lake, was a relief. Porters had reached the campsite and had pitched tents in advance., Mountain goats gracing gracefully was a memorable sight to behold!
Camping overlooking the lake, and playing of light during sunset was something, words would be short to explain.It was cold, we occupied the tents, fell asleep at 5 pm….
Day 6: Base Camp Trek to Lake Emu Uyea,
Altitude 12900ft
Our guide mentioned, that approach to lakes is either ascending or descending the slopes.The lakes are separated by chain of mountains kissing the sky.
We started early, it was the mountain behind our campsite to traverse. We gently climbed it slowly and after 1 hour of climb, the bliss of Mishmi hills was rewarding.
After descent and climb, we reached the Basecamp by afternoon. Much awaited lake 2 was before us, camping beside the lake was an exhilarating experience.
The campsite generously promises an abundance of nature – a gurgling waterfall for company, a narrow crystal clear flowing stream next to the camping ground, and the towering mountains encircling all sides guarding the site. We dashed into lake for kayaking, the gentle breeze and water droplets kissing us soothing.No one dared to take a dip in the waterfall, as it was bone-chilling cold!
As the light diminished, the sky lit up with stars and the soothing feeble sound of the stream against the silence. The camp was our home under the stars for 3 nights to explore the other lakes.
Day 7: Excursion to Lake 3 Chenni Uyea and Lake 4 Dinni Uyea. Overnight Stay.
Duration : 4 Hours
After breakfast in the morning, we marched ahead with excitement and started our hike to the 3rd lake – Koyombo Lake located at 13500 ft. It was a relaxed 1-hour hike to the lake but cannot explain the thrill of the sharp narrow ridge and the challenges it gave me. The route was through mountainous terrain with no tree line, only patches of velvet green spread abundantly. All our stress disappeared at the sight of the lake. After witnessing the 3r rd lake, and spending valuable time overlooking it. We gently bowed to the creator, for being mercy on us. I tiptoed, from rocky outcrops and made my way to 4 th lake – Dinu Lake, also the most gorgeous alpine lake of all.
A quintessential experience overall.
Day 8: Excursion to Lake 5 Huhu Uyea, Lake 6 Assi Uyea and Lake 7 Achanga Uyea.Overnight Stay.
Duration : 6 Hours
Looking at us, our guide Mahol told us that last day would be a hectic and challenging day for all. As we need to visit Lake 5, Lake 6 and last lake 7 in a stretch. Few gasped for breath indeed !.Armed with pack lunch and water we hit the trail
We started our climb and reached lake 5 (Che – ne Lake). Mahol told that the lake is known to have mystical powers. Mahol who had been here many times told that only few visited last 2 lakes, as its very remote and reaching them is tiring for the fittest.
After crossing the mystical alpine lake at 13600 ft, next was to summit the final Twin lakes (Huhu 1 and Huhu 2). Lake 6 flows from the crater of one ridge and flows down into another mountain forming lake 7. From the top, both lakes are visible adjacent to each other. After summiting the 6t and 7 it was quite a satisfying moment,
We congratulated each other and thanked our Mipi and Mito without them it was impossible to dreams come true.
After spending some time, we started descending down along the mountain ridge with the 5thh lake in parallel. Though the legs were hesitant to move forward we reached the campsite before I was dark.
Day 9: Trek back to Hut Camp. Overnight Stay.
After a sumptuous breakfast, we bid goodbye to base camp, descending down Enroute to lake 1 from there to camp 2 – The log hut was favorite, for all. Sitting and chatting around the fireplace is something to cherish.
It was an exhausting walk, though it was a descent, Previous day showers had made the trail slippery. Somehow battling the rocky mountains and holding onto ropes I managed to reach the campsite by evening. Braving the cold, difficult terrain other members reached before it got dark.All were dog tired, we were served a hot dinner.It rained heavily in the night.
Day 10: Trek down to Imungu.Transfer to Anini. Overnight Stay
For few, the last day was a nightmare, because of the descent and for few no walk after that, as it was the last day.
However we started after breakfast, we all got ready to move down. It was an easy and smooth walk through the rainforest. One of the staff Beta Mipi were always ahead
We enjoyed the straight gentle walk through the rainforest, Although the rainforest part was quite the leisure walk, but the steep slope of Emuli Grassland was a killer descent. Our hiking poles helped traverse the slopes.
As we climbed down, the sight of the road motivated us to push further and little faster.It rained a bit and we were totally drenched, as weather is unpredictable in mountains.
As I made it to the road where the cab awaited to transfer us to Anini, I screamed my lungs out. It was a happy, proud, and overwhelming moment. I did it!! I finally made it to Seven Lakes Trek and back.
Day 11: Stay at Anini and Leisure.
After a traditional breakfast, we walked out to explore Anini Village life The shops selling local gear was closed, as it was Friday. We could see few locals dressed in traditional attire armed with Machete. The region is known for varied species of butterflies, which included cruisers, blue pansy, Tussar Silk Moth, Common Peacock, Zemoros Flegyas - Punchinello Grey Pansy, wanderer… few Butterflies endemic to dibang valley – Arunachal.
Back to hut, we were fortunate to taste local drink both Yuchi and Jule made out of rice. The sticky rice, bamboo shoot, lentils served was a perfect meal.
Day 12: Journey from Anini to Roing.
Day 13: Journey from Roing to Tinsukia.
We took an ASTC bus leaving at 9:30 am and reached Tinsukia by 1:00 pm. After a unanimous decision we decided to spend few for days in wild environs, finally headed towards Dibru Saikowa National Park…!!!
Best time to visit
June/ July - Though you expect rain, the trail is studded with Rhodendrons/Flowers
August – You can sight orchids/Only Few species of flowers in bloom.
September – Though skies are clear.No seasonal flowers
Know about the trek essentials to carry
Since you visiting a remote place with basic amenities, it is better to go armed with essential items.
The trekking terrain are unlike other Himalayan treks. It is through remote thick rainforest Although it can be graded as a moderate – hard level trek, it requires prior preparation and endurance. Also, packing your rucksack with essentials for the Seven Lakes trek is a topmost requirement.
§ Gumboot – This is a must because the terrains are extremely slushy and muddy. The regular trekking shoes do not work.If you don’t have one, you can at Roing market.
§ Odomos – It is a must to keep away the Damdims or tits. Apply it regularly / Carry a mixture of Mustard oil mixed with Dettol.
§ Raincoat – Windcheater and Pant Waterproof (avoid Ponchos as it is difficult to manage walking wearing a poncho in the terrain and bush walk)
§ Full sleeve T-shirts/Trek pants is must to keep you warm and avoid insect bite.
§ Warm clothes as per requirement
§ Tiffin box /Mug/ Water bottle reusable
§ Headlamp/Torch with spare batteries
§ A light backpack with good back support
§ A sun cap
Note : Follow the thumb rule – Less Luggage / More Comfort
Network and ATMs
Carry a BSNL Mobile SIM with you. ( NO other network Airtel / Jio / Vodafone works here)
Carry cash / Don’t rely on ATM,s / Phone pay/G Pay
Online portal to procure Inner Line Permit ( ILP ) to visit Arunachal Pradesh. Carry a print out with you.
For booking contact - 09740360365
