Sunrise Festival This New Year

Dong in Arunachal to Host First-Ever Sunrise Festival This New Year

Sep 08, 2025
2minutes read

Itanagar: This New Year, Arunachal Pradesh will welcome visitors with a brand-new celebration as Dong, the country’s easternmost village, gets ready to host the first-ever Sunrise Festival. The event will be held from December 29, 2025, to January 2, 2026.

Situated in the Anjaw district, Dong is known as the first place in India to witness the sunrise each day. The festival is being launched to highlight this unique identity while also promoting tourism and supporting the local economy.

Celebrating the First Light

Sunrise Festival

The highlight of the festival will be guided treks to watch the first rays of the New Year’s sun. Tourists will also be treated to cultural performances by local tribes, reflecting the traditions and heritage of the region.

Local Crafts and Flavours

Visitors will have the chance to explore handicraft stalls and taste traditional cuisine prepared by local communities. These events are expected to give artisans and farmers an opportunity to showcase their skills and earn from the growing flow of travellers.

A Push for Border Tourism

Chief Minister Pema Khandu has said that the festival will strengthen Arunachal’s position as a unique tourism destination. “Dong symbolises the first light of India. Through this festival, we want people to experience its beauty and cultural significance,” he noted.

Adventure with Sustainability

Along with cultural programmes, the festival will encourage eco-tourism through camping, trekking, and nature-based experiences. Organisers say the event will be designed to preserve the environment and promote responsible travel.

Getting There

The nearest airport is in Dibrugarh, Assam. From there, travellers can drive to Walong before trekking to Dong. The journey is not easy, but the reward—watching the country’s first sunrise—is an unmatched experience.

The Sun Rise Festival is expected to bring a new wave of travellers to Arunachal Pradesh, offering them an inspiring start to the New Year while opening fresh opportunities for local communities.