Mahindra Mojo North East Trail Diaries: Day Nine

Jun 6, 2017
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The 2017 calendar of the Mahindra Mojo Trails starts with a visit to the pristine trails of the North East and we are one of the lucky ones to be on it. The twelve-day ride takes us to some of the most remote and desolate locations of India. A rest day in Menchukha is just what the doctor ordered

Menchukha is an isolated town in Arunachal Pradesh that lies in a valley of the same name. The picturesque town is situated at a height of 6000 feet above sea level. A place of unparalleled beauty, the town is surrounded by green meadows with a river running through the town. It has hills on all sides and beyond that are large snow-capped mountains.

The proximity of this town to the Indo-China border has kept it somewhat out of reach for civilians but tourism is beginning to wake up here, with cosy homestays popping up all over. The name ‘Menchukha’ has an interesting meaning. In local dialect, ‘Menchukha’ means ‘medicinal water. That makes sense as the place feels like medicine for the soul. There is a different kind of peace and solitude in this valley.

When in Menchukha, you can stroll alongside the Yargyapchu river and collect the perfectly round stones that make up its river banks. The more adventurous kind can take a dip in its cold frigid waters. You can also head to the Indo-China border 29 kilometres away but you will require a permit to do so. In Menchukha, you can visit the Gurudwara maintained by the army guys and eat and serve at the langar. Or you can visit the local market to check out the region's handicrafts.

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While the area remains remote in terms of access, with the only way being the road from Aalo, the North East government is proposing a helicopter service from Guwahati to the local army airstrip. Till that happens, Menchukha is the perfect place to go if you crave seclusion.