Mechuka

Mechuka lies at about 1,830 metres in a broad flat-floored valley near the Tibetan border, with the Yargyap Chu running across it and pine-covered ridges on both sides, which makes it unusually open for Arunachal, where most valleys are narrow and forested. The Samten Yongcha monastery on a spur above the village belongs to the Mahayana tradition and is said to be around four hundred years old. The Memba are the main community, culturally close to Tibetan groups across the border. The road in from Aalo is long and rough, and the valley remained effectively closed to visitors until relatively recently.

History

Before the 1950s the valley was known as Pachakshiri, and the name Menchukha is said to mean "medicinal water of snow" in the local language. Before the modern road was built the only access was by an airstrip used by the Indian Air Force to bring in supplies, and the Memba people traded with Tibet, exchanging mithun for salt and medicines, with horses as their main transport (Wikipedia, Mechuka).

What you'll find

• The open valley - a broad flat floor with the river across it.
• Samten Yongcha - a monastery of around four hundred years on the ridge.
• The Memba villages - communities culturally linked across the border.
• The pine ridges - forested slopes enclosing the valley.

When to go

October to April for clear weather; the monsoon brings landslides that close the road for days. Winter is cold with occasional snow. The drive from Aalo takes most of a day.

Practical notes

An Inner Line Permit is required and foreign nationals face additional restrictions near the border. The road is rough and long. Accommodation is homestays and small guesthouses with limited facilities.

Nearby

Aalo lies east; the Tibetan border is north.