Mechuka is a town in the valley of the same name of Siyom river in Shi Yomi district of Arunachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 6,000 ft, the valley was earlier known as Pachakshiri. Located just 29 km from the Indo-Tibet border (McMahon Line), Mechuka separates India from its northern neighbor. It is just 47 km from Tata, the district head office, and 187 km north of Aalo. The word Mechuka/Men-chu-Kha stands for medicinal water of snow. This is why the valley is also known as the land of medicinal water. Mechuka is the home to Memba and Adi people.
Mechuka holds a great historical and religious significance. The main religions that are practiced in Mechuka include Tibetan-Buddhism, Christianity, and Donyi-Poloism. Mechuka is famous for its untouched natural beauty, snow-capped mountains, and evergreen pine forests. The picture-postcard views of the valley will make you fall in love with the unmatchable beauty of this place.
Mechuka is an adventurous destination that is famous for activities like mountain biking, paragliding, etc. From bamboo bridges to vast meadows and Buddhist monasteries to waterfalls, there are many places to explore in Mechuka. It is not just the sceneries that make Mechuka an amazing destination but also the very warm and welcoming locals.
What To See the picturesque Mechuka?
The Mighty Siang:
Siang is the local name for the Brahmaputra. Originating from the icy cold glacial springs of the Mansarovar lake near Mount Kailash in Tibet, it is the main tributary of the mighty Brahmaputra. It is connected to the Yarlung Tsangpo, the largest river in Tibet.
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Samsen Yongcha Monastery:
One of the oldest monasteries in the country, Samsen Yongcha Monastery, was built in the 14th century. It holds great significance for the Buddhist community in the region. Located atop a hilltop at the western edge of the village, the ancient monastery is famous for the statues of Guru Padmasambhava and fascinating masks of mythological figures. These masks are used during the Chaam dances.
Bamboo Bridges:
Bamboo Bridges are integral to the identity of Arunachal, not just Mechuka. Siang river has many tiny hamlets on its east connected to a road on the river’s west through narrow bamboo bridges. There are several wooden bridges in Mechuka that are tied to rocks on either end. Crossing the river using these wooden bridges is an experience in itself. One can also try their hands at river rafting.
The Majestic Sunrise:
Arunachal is the land of the rising sun. You can plan to stay at one of the homestays in the village. One should not miss the majestic sunrise view while staying in one of the homestays next to the river. You will get a lot of opportunities to click memorable pictures while in Mechuka.
The Hanuman Face:
The Hanuman Face is actually a monkey-like face on a mountain rock associated with Lord Hanuman. The interesting thing about the structure is that it hasn’t been manually carved but made naturally. It is a place of religious significance for the tribal people and the Hindus in the region.
Cascading Waterfalls:
Mechuka is also the home to several waterfalls. One of the most popular waterfalls in the village is in Taposthan, where Guru Nanak stayed to Tibet. Guru Nanak stayed at two places- Gurudwara and Taposthan. The Indian Army takes care of the Gurudwara. Taposthan is surrounded by vast meadows and towering mountains.
New Gompa:
New Gompa or the Dzogchen Samten Choeling Monastery is another popular spot in Mechuka. It is the home to a 10 feet statue of Guru Lhuhe Rigzin. The Gompa is situated at a significant height and provides a bird’s eye view of the entire region. The Gompa is an important place for the local Buddhist population.
Exploring the Dorjeeling Village:
Yes! You read it right. It’s Dorjeeling, not Darjeeling. Darjeeling is a picturesque village located across the Yargepchu river, just 5km from the town. The small wooden houses and vast meadows are a specialty of the village. The village can be easily explored in a few hours. You can explore the village and return to your homestay by night.
