The Bailey’s Trek-Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most spectacular and picturesque treks of the North-east. An ancient trade route that once connected India-Tibet and Burma (now Myanmar), this moderate level trek will take you across beautiful alpine meadows, quaint Monpa villages, pristine pine, oak and rhododendrons forests, crystal clear lakes, natural hot water springs, glacial rivers, and stunning mountain views.
The Bailey trail is named after the Lt. Col. F. M. Bailey and Capt. H.T. Morshead, British officers who were commissioned to survey the Arunachal – Tibet border during 1911 -12. Later on, this information was used by Sir Henry McMohan, to draw his famous McMohan line in 1914 and during the Sino-India War of 1962, the Chinese army used this route to attack India.
The highlight of the Bailey trek is the 4550 meters Tse la Pass and the Gorichen (6,538 m), Kangto (7,090 m) mountains. During the trek in Arunachal Pradesh, you will also get a chance at bird watching and visit the 2nd Oldest Buddhist Monastery at Tawang, Bumla Pass & the magnificent Tsongatser lake aka Madhuri lake.
When to go for Bailey’s Trek Trail
- The best time to undertake the Bailey trek is from September till May.
Age Requirement for Bailey’s Trek
- All travelers must be at least 18 years old. Those under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Things to keep in Mind
- Please try to reach Guwahati /Tezpur (from where the journey begins) at least a day in advance.
- It is also advisable to keep a few buffer days in hand since at times the weather can be a bit unpredictable, hence delays due to the bad weather can happen.
- Most roads in Arunachal Pradesh aren’t in good shape especially the ones that lead to Tawang, especially from Bomdila onwards, so be ready for some bumpy and uncomfortable ride.
- Mobile phone networks can be sporadic or may not work at all, so please inform your near and dear ones about your whereabouts whenever possible.
- An Inner Line Permit and a Protected Area Permit is required by every tourist visiting Arunachal Pradesh so please make sure to collect the same from either of these cities- Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati or Tezpur airports.
To get an idea of what the trek look’s like, check the Bailey’s Trail Expedition itinerary.