How to Reach

How to Reach

Naharlagun is the gateway to Arunachal Pradesh, offering excellent road, rail, and air connectivity. It is just 14 km from Itanagar, making it the most accessible town in the state. Whether you're traveling by train, bus, or flight, here’s how you can reach Naharlagun

 By Air (Nearest Airports to Naharlagun)

Naharlagun does not have its own airport, but travelers can fly to nearby airports and then continue by road.

1️⃣ Hollongi Airport (Itanagar Airport) – 30 km from Naharlagun

✔ The closest airport to Naharlagun.
✔ Opened in 2022, with flights from Guwahati, Kolkata & Delhi.
✔ From Hollongi: 1-hour taxi ride to Naharlagun (₹800-₹1500).

2️ Lilabari Airport (Assam) – 50 km from Naharlagun

✔ Limited flights from Guwahati & Kolkata.
✔ From Lilabari: 1.5-hour drive to Naharlagun via taxi.

3️ Guwahati Airport (Assam) – 330 km from Naharlagun

✔ Best option for frequent flights from major Indian cities.
✔ From Guwahati:

• Train to Naharlagun (6-8 hours).
• Bus or shared taxi to Naharlagun (8-10 hours).

 Best Option: Fly to Hollongi Airport (Itanagar), then take a taxi to Naharlagun.

 By Train (Direct Rail Connectivity to Naharlagun)

Naharlagun has one of the only railway stations in Arunachal Pradesh, providing direct train connections to major cities.

 Naharlagun Railway Station (NHLN) – 2 km from the town center

✔ Direct trains from New Delhi, Guwahati & Kolkata.
✔ Major Trains to Naharlagun:

• Arunachal Express (New Delhi – Naharlagun) – 40 hours.
• Donyi Polo Express (Guwahati – Naharlagun) – 6-8 hours.

 From Naharlagun Railway Station:
✔ Taxis & auto-rickshaws available to town center (₹100-₹300).

 Best Option: Take the Donyi Polo Express from Guwahati for a comfortable journey.

 By Road (Best Way to Reach Naharlagun)

Naharlagun is well-connected by road to Assam and other parts of Arunachal Pradesh.

 Road Route from Guwahati to Naharlagun

 Route: Guwahati → Tezpur → Banderdewa → Naharlagun
 Total Distance: 330 km
 Travel Time: 8-10 hours

 Bus & Shared Taxis

✔ APST (Arunachal Pradesh State Transport) Buses from Guwahati to Naharlagun.
✔ Private buses & shared Sumos (SUV taxis) available from Guwahati, Tezpur, and Itanagar.

 Best Option: Take a Sumo (shared taxi) from Guwahati (₹700-₹1200 per person) for a faster journey.

 Important Travel Permits (ILP & PAP) for Naharlagun

Since Naharlagun is in Arunachal Pradesh, travelers must have special permits before entry.

 Inner Line Permit (ILP) – For Indian Citizens

✔ Mandatory for all Indian tourists visiting Arunachal Pradesh.
✔ Apply online: Arunachal Pradesh ILP Portal
✔ Required at Banderdewa Checkpost (Assam-Arunachal Border).

 Documents Needed:
✅ Valid Government ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID, etc.)
✅ Passport-size photo

 Protected Area Permit (PAP) – For Foreign Tourists

✔ Required for all foreign nationals visiting Arunachal Pradesh.
✔ Available from:

• Ministry of Home Affairs, New Delhi
• Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs)
• Arunachal Pradesh government offices
  ✔ Minimum of 2 people must travel together (solo foreign travelers not allowed).

 Documents Needed:
✅ Valid passport & visa
✅ Passport-size photo

 Best Way to Reach Naharlagun (Recommended Travel Plan)

1️ Fly to Hollongi Airport (Itanagar) – Nearest & most convenient.
2️ Take a taxi (1 hour) to Naharlagun.
3️ If coming from Guwahati, take the Donyi Polo Express (train) or a shared taxi.

 Best Time to Travel to Naharlagun

✔ October – April: Best for sightseeing, cultural experiences & outdoor activities.
✔ Avoid Monsoon (June – September): Heavy rainfall can cause landslides & travel delays.