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About Bhalukpong Fort
Opening hours- 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Prime days and hours- Weekends, Mornings
Suggested Duration- 1-2 hours
Tickets- Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station- Bhalukpong Railway Station, about 2 km
Nearest Bus Stand- Bhalukpong Bus Stand, about 2.2 km
Nearest Airport- Tezpur Airport, about 52 km
The Bhalukpong Fort is a historical monument located in the town of Bhalukpong in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. Built in the 10th century by King Bhaluka, it stands quietly along the banks of the Bharali River with stunning views of the surrounding Eastern Himalayas and Pakke forests. It holds great significance as it served as a strategic military outpost in ancient times, making it one of the most interesting places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh.
As you explore the site, you’ll come across the remains of stone blocks and bricks spread across a small hill slope. A pond and a brick well still exist, offering a glimpse into the fort’s rich history. The place also holds the preserved spots where Bana, the brave grandson of King Bhaluka and a Mahabharata warrior, once lived.
Visit the fort in January to experience the vibrant Nyethidow festival celebrated by the Aka tribe, which fills the area with colours, music, and cultural joy, making your visit both historical and festive.
Bhalukpong Fort Highlights
• Explore the Bhalukpong Fort, built in the 10th century by King Bhaluka, which now stands in ruins as a testament to the region’s historical significance.
• Join the Nyethidow Festival of the Aka tribe, celebrated with traditional music, dance, and rituals in the month of March.
• Discover an ancient brick well and a small pond built within the fort’s boundary, used as a source of water by the locals.
• Walk through the hillside remains where scattered stone blocks and bricks speak of the rich legacy of King Bhaluka and his grandson Bana.
How To Reach Bhalukpong Fort
By car- You can reach the Bhalukpong Fort from Bhalukpong City Centre, which is a 1 km drive via the Chariduar-Tawang Road, taking approximately 5 minutes to reach.
By foot- You can also reach the Bhalukpong Fort by taking a relaxing walk from the Bhalukpong City centre via the Chriduar-Tawang road, which is approximately a 10-minute walk for about 1 km.
Best Time To Visit Bhalukpong Fort
Peak Season- (March to May)
- Weather Insights- Temperature ranging from 23°C to 35°C with pleasant and warm weather.
- Things to do- Enjoy the fun activities such as rafting, boating, and camping.
Moderate Season- (October to February)
- Weather Insights- Temperature ranging from 14°C to 25°C with cold weather conditions.
- Things to do- Participate in the annual Nyethidow festival.
Low Season- (June- September)
- Weather Insights- Temperature ranging from 20°C to 32°C with heavy rainfalls and high humidity.
- Things to do- Stroll through the historical marvel.
Bhalukpong Fort Other Essential Information
Know before you go-
- Don't forget to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) before your trip to Arunachal Pradesh, as the state falls under a restricted area and entry is not allowed without official permission.
- Carry some essential supplies, snacks, and water bottles as facilities along the route are quite limited.
- Visit during the winter season (January to March) to witness the annual festival and carry a camera to capture the vibrant celebrations.
- Don’t leave any garbage in the historical site and cooperate with its cleanliness and maintenance.
Learn about the history
Built in the 10th century by King Bhaluka, the fort once served as a stronghold and played a key role in the early defence system of the area. Though now in ruins, it still holds great significance for the local Bhalukpong community. Scattered stone blocks, old brick walls, a pond, and a brick well can still be seen on the hillside. Some areas within the site are believed to be where Bana, the grandson of King Bhaluka and a warrior from the Mahabharata, once lived. The fort is not just a monument but a testament to the region’s historical and cultural roots.
Immerse in the Annual fest
The Nyethidow Festival is a vibrant cultural celebration held in March, marking the New Year for the Aka tribe of Bhalukpong. Deeply rooted in local traditions, the festival showcases the rich cultural identity of the region through music, dance, and age-old customs. It is one of the most awaited events in Bhalukpong, drawing large gatherings of locals and tourists alike.
Immerse in fun activities
To make the most of your trip, you can enjoy several outdoor activities near the scenic Bharali River. These activities include river rafting, which is a popular choice here, with trained rafters and experienced local guides ensuring a safe and thrilling ride. For those who love to explore on foot, trekking trails around the Bhalukpong Fort offer a mix of nature and history. Boating in the calm stretches of the river and setting up a peaceful campsite near the fort are also great ways to experience the natural beauty of the region. These activities not only add excitement but also create memorable moments in the heart of Arunachal’s serene landscapes.
Tourism Board Alliances
Bhalukpong Fort FAQs
What is Bhalukpong Fort famous for?
Bhalukpong Fort is famous for the archaeological ruins of King Bhaluka, who was the grandfather of King Bana of Mahabharata fame and an ancient ruler of the region. The Bharali flows through Bhalukpong Fort, providing scope for adventure tourism. The historical fort built in the 10th Century AD, situated in the foothills of the region, is also a beautiful picnic spot.
Where is the Bhalukpong fort located?
The Bhalukpong Fort is located in Bhalukpong, a small town in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. Bhalukpong is a significant archaeological site, situated on the eastern reaches of the Himalayas, along the Bharali River. The fort ruins are found on a hillock of 300 feet in height within the town.
Is the Inner Line Permit needed for Bhalukpong?
Yes, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required to visit Sangetsar Lake, as Arunachal Pradesh is a restricted area, and ILPs are needed for non-natives to enter. You can obtain an ILP online or through various government offices and resident commissioners' offices, including those in major cities like Guwahati and Shillong. To obtain an ILP for Arunachal Pradesh, you'll generally need proof of identity (Aadhaar card, PRC, Voter ID, Ration card, Driving license, or Service Identity Card), two recent passport-sized photos, along with your application form.
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