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Five-Day Sunrise Festival Opens in Dong, India’s Easternmost Village

The event promotes sustainable tourism with a pledge to “leave no trash, leave no trace.”

Overview

  • Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu inaugurated the festival in Dong Valley on December 29.
  • The program runs through January 2, 2026 with cultural performances, nature walks, guided treks, river activities, eco-camping, village tours, photography expeditions, workshops, folk art sessions, and local food showcases.
  • Opening ceremonies featured traditional Meyor rituals invoking the spirits of the forest and mountains and offering prayers to the deities.
  • Organizers present the festival as a community-driven platform celebrating Dong’s status as the first place in India to witness the sunrise.
  • Officials outline a decade-long vision to expand the event while creating livelihoods for local entrepreneurs under strict environmental principles.