India’s earliest Sunrise Point: Witness India’s First Dawn at Dong Village situated at 1,240 metres above Sea Level

Arunachal Pradesh’s hidden gem where the sun rises before anywhere else in India

For travellers seeking a start to the year that blends nature, culture, and adventure, Dong village in Arunachal Pradesh offers a truly rare experience. Nestled at the eastern edge of the country, this remote Himalayan hamlet is the first place in India to witness the sunrise—often as early as 4:30 AM in winter.

Why Dong is Special

Identified by the Indian Science Congress in 1999 as India’s earliest sunrise point, Dong is perched at 1,240 metres above sea level near Walong. The village, home to fewer than 20 households, lies at the confluence of India, Myanmar, and China, giving it both geographical and cultural significance. 

Every New Year, the Arunachal Pradesh Sunrise Festival is celebrated here, symbolising new beginnings.

Landed in Walong, Anjaw district, and will be heading towards Dong – the place where the first Sun Ray touches Indian soil.

To boost tourism and create new opportunities for adventurers & nature lovers, I am delighted to announce that from this year onwards we will be hosting a… pic.twitter.com/8nC6UpnZY8

— Pema Khandu པདྨ་མཁའ་འགྲོ་། (@PemaKhanduBJP) September 6, 2025

What to Expect

• A trekker’s delight: Tourists often start a climb around 3 AM to reach a nearby peak in time for dawn.
• Breathtaking landscapes: Surrounded by pine forests, snow-capped peaks, and the Lohit River, the scenery is both serene and dramatic.
• Cultural immersion: Dong offers a glimpse into the lives of the Meyor tribe, where you can savour authentic cuisine and learn about their traditions.

How to Reach Dong

• Nearest Railway Station: Tinsukia (120 km away).
• From Tinsukia, take a taxi or bus to Tezu, and then continue onward to Walong.
• From Walong, a short trek leads you into the Dong Valley.

Permits Required

Because Dong lies close to the India-China border, permits are mandatory:

• Indian Citizens: Need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), available online through the Arunachal ILP portal.
• Foreign Nationals: Must obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP), issued via registered tour operators with approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Children under 14: Do not need an ILP if accompanied by a permitted adult.

Remote, scenic, and steeped in tradition, Dong offers more than just a sunrise, it offers an awakening. Watching India’s first dawn here is as much about the journey as the destination.