Sunrise Festival to be Celebrated in Arunachal Pradesh

Easternmost village of India

Dong village, located in Anjaw district of Arunachal Pradesh, holds the distinction of being the first place in India to see the morning sun. The settlement stands at about 1,240 metres altitude and lies close to the meeting point of India, China, and Myanmar. Its natural setting offers both scenic beauty and cultural richness.

Static GK fact: Arunachal Pradesh is popularly known as the “Land of the Rising Sun” due to Dong’s sunrise visibility.

Launch of the Sunrise Festival

The state will witness its maiden Sunrise Festival from 29 December 2025 to 2 January 2026. This five-day event will combine traditional cuisine, folk culture, adventure activities, and eco-tourism. Local communities will showcase their heritage, making the festival a new attraction for those seeking nature and cultural experiences.

Static GK fact: Anjaw became a separate district in 2004 after its division from Lohit.

Boosting tourism and culture

The festival was introduced by Chief Minister Pema Khandu as a step to position Arunachal Pradesh as a vibrant tourist destination. By using Dong’s unique sunrise appeal, the government aims to bring more travelers to the state. Artisans, performers, and entrepreneurs will gain new platforms to highlight the traditions of the region.

Static GK Tip: Arunachal Pradesh has international borders with Bhutan, Myanmar, and China.

Better transport and connectivity

Accessibility to the Northeast has improved in recent years, especially with the expansion of the UDAN regional air connectivity scheme. Visitors can reach Dong through Tezu and Dibrugarh airports or via Tinsukia railway station in Assam. Enhanced infrastructure is expected to encourage more participation in the festival and strengthen long-term tourism.

Static GK fact: The UDAN scheme was launched in 2016 to make air travel affordable and expand regional connectivity.

Strategic and developmental relevance

Dong’s proximity to international borders adds to its strategic importance. At the same time, the festival is expected to contribute to the local economy by supporting entrepreneurship, handicrafts, and cultural preservation. The event underlines Arunachal Pradesh’s efforts to transform its remote regions into hubs of tourism and development.

Static GK Tip: Arunachal Pradesh achieved statehood in 1987, becoming India’s 24th state.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table