The Himalayan Chronicles of Anini: Embracing Wilderness through the Seven Lakes Trek

Introduction: The Land Less Traveled

Wedged between the rugged eastern ranges of the Himalayas, the Anini Seven Lakes Trek in Arunachal Pradesh, India, is a treasure trove of natural splendor, shrouded in legends and tales. Despite its surreal beauty, it remains surprisingly untouched, offering trekkers an unmatched experience of wilderness and tranquility.

The Prelude: Gateway to Adventure

The journey begins from Anini, a quaint little hamlet located at an altitude of 1,968 meters. Known as the ‘Land of the Dawn-lit Mountains’, its serene ambiance and the welcoming local tribal culture lay a charming foundation for the forthcoming expedition.

The Trek: A Quintessential Wilderness Experience

The Anini Seven Lakes Trek is an 8-day sojourn into the wilderness, venturing through dense jungles, crossing rushing rivers and scaling verdant hills. The trail is diverse and demanding, characterized by its steep slopes, slippery paths and unexpected shifts in weather. Despite these challenges, every step taken in this untamed terrain is rewarded with mesmerizing landscapes that blur the lines between reality and reverie.

The Lakes: Teardrops of the Himalayas

A Symphony of Seven

The centerpiece of the Anini Seven Lakes Trek is, without a doubt, the series of spectacular alpine lakes encountered along the way. Each unique in their charm, they offer trekkers a refreshing perspective at every stage of the journey.

Lake 1: The Welcoming Marvel

The first of the seven lakes is a modest, mirror-like body of water surrounded by lush forests. This early taste of the beauty that awaits serves as a welcoming beacon to the adventurers and sets the tone for the spectacular sights to come.

Lake 2 and 3: Twin Wonders

The second and third lakes, often referred to as the “twin lakes,” are situated close to each other, their crystalline surfaces mirroring the sky above and the dense greenery around them. The sight of these two lakes nestled close together amidst the Himalayan expanse is a memorable visual treat.

Lake 4: The Enchanted Mirage

The fourth lake, the largest of the seven, is often swathed in a delicate mist, which imparts it a dreamy, ethereal quality. On a clear day, the reflection of the snow-capped peaks on its expansive surface creates an awe-inspiring spectacle.

Lake 5: The Solitary Serenity

The fifth lake, isolated from its siblings, sits amidst a panorama of rolling hills. A place of serene solitude, it offers an opportunity for introspection amidst the grandeur of nature.

Lake 6 and 7: The Summit Jewels

The sixth and seventh lakes, located at the highest points of the trek, are often frozen in the colder months, offering trekkers an opportunity to witness a dramatic landscape of ice and snow. The sight of the sun’s rays glittering on their frozen surfaces against the backdrop of towering peaks is a sight that imprints itself on the memory.

Geographical Splendor: A Visual Ode to Nature

The lakes are not the only highlights of the Anini Seven Lakes Trek. The ever-changing terrain provides a continuous feast for the eyes. Trekking trails weave through rhododendron forests in full bloom, adding a dash of vibrant colors to the verdant landscape.

Mountain passes en route offer panoramic views of the snow-clad Himalayas, their majesty accentuated by the play of sunlight and shadows. The raw, untouched beauty of this landscape serves as a reminder of nature’s grandeur and our humble place within it. The Anini Seven Lakes Trek is a geographical marvel that paints a beautiful picture of the Himalayan landscape. The journey from one lake to another, amidst the myriad elements of nature, is like traversing through an ever-changing canvas, each scene more captivating than the last.

Fauna and Flora: A Canvas of Biodiversity

While the Anini Seven Lakes Trek is best known for its pristine lakes and awe-inspiring vistas, its diverse wildlife and plant life also make this expedition a naturalist’s paradise.

Wildlife Extravaganza

Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, this area is home to a spectacular array of animal life. The dense forests that envelop the region are teeming with diverse species. Lucky trekkers may spot elusive creatures such as Himalayan Black Bears, Red Pandas, and even clouded leopards. Smaller mammals like the Himalayan Tahr, musk deer, and flying squirrels also inhabit these woods, making every turn in the trail an opportunity for a wild encounter. The avian diversity is no less fascinating. Bird lovers will delight in the melodies of the Great Hornbill, Blyth’s Tragopan, and the Hill Myna. The region also hosts several rare species, including the Bengal Florican and White-winged Duck, making it an ideal destination for birdwatching.

Bountiful Botany

The botanical diversity of the Anini Seven Lakes Trek is as captivating as its fauna. The trail winds through dense forests of pine, oak, and fir, alongside patches of bamboo and ferns, offering a refreshing green canvas to the trekker’s eyes. Spring and summer trekkers are in for a special treat, as the hillsides and forests burst into a riot of colors with blooming rhododendrons, orchids, and primulas. Arunachal Pradesh is home to over 500 species of orchids, many of which can be found along the Anini trek, making the journey a botanist’s dream.

The trek also allows you to discover various medicinal herbs used by the local communities, providing a fascinating insight into traditional healing practices. Not to forget, the rare and elusive blue Vanda, a type of orchid that only grows in this region, might just catch your eye if you tread carefully. In essence, the Anini Seven Lakes Trek’s flora and fauna make it a vibrant and diverse biosphere, and every encounter, whether big or small, adds a unique touch to this unforgettable journey.

Safety and Sustainability: Journeying Responsibly

Though Anini’s natural beauty is enchanting, the journey is not without its challenges. Proper acclimatization is crucial due to the high-altitude terrain, and precautions must be taken to prevent altitude sickness. It’s equally important to trek responsibly, leaving no trace behind, preserving the pristine nature for future generations.

Cultural Exchange: A Glimpse of Tribal Life

Engaging with the Idu Mishmi Tribe

One of the most enriching aspects of the Anini Seven Lakes Trek is the opportunity to interact with the Idu Mishmi tribe. Predominantly inhabiting the lower Dibang Valley, they are one of the indigenous communities of Arunachal Pradesh. Stopping at local villages en route allows trekkers to witness their simple, self-sufficient lifestyle that’s harmoniously intertwined with nature. Idu Mishmis are renowned for their intricate handloom and handicraft skills. Their vibrant, patterned textiles tell a story of their deep connection with the natural world, often reflecting motifs of animals, plants, and spiritual symbols. It’s not uncommon for visitors to leave with a locally crafted souvenir, a memento of their cultural immersion.

Religious and Spiritual Elements

While the tribe predominantly practices Donyi-Polo, a form of animism, traces of Buddhism and Hinduism are also found. This fusion of faiths is evident in the numerous sacred sites you encounter on the trek. From ancient stone carvings to sacred groves and age-old monasteries, each landmark offers a glimpse into the spiritual beliefs of the locals. One such sacred site is the Athupopu Social Centre, a traditional meeting place for the Idu Mishmi tribe. Visiting this site offers trekkers an understanding of the tribe’s social customs, rituals, and community decision-making processes.

Local Cuisine

The culinary experience is another highlight of the trek. The Idu Mishmi tribe’s food primarily consists of locally sourced, organic ingredients. Staple dishes include rice, meat, and a variety of leafy greens. Bamboo shoots, a regional delicacy, are prepared in numerous ways, each variant offering a distinct flavor. This is a chance for trekkers to sample authentic North Eastern cuisine, unique and full of flavor.

Celebrations and Festivals

If you plan your trek during one of the tribal festivals, you’re in for a treat. The Reh Festival, the most significant tribal celebration, takes place in February and involves a series of rituals, dance, and music performances. This festival, which seeks blessings from the divine for prosperity, offers an immersive cultural experience. The Anini Seven Lakes Trek is more than a physical journey; it’s a cultural voyage that allows you to connect with the traditions and lifestyle of a vibrant, indigenous community. The trek, through its cultural exposure, leaves a lasting impression, providing an enriching addition to the breathtaking natural beauty encountered on the journey.

The Route: From Dawn to Dusk

Getting There

The Anini Seven Lakes Trek begins from the small town of Anini, nestled in the lower Dibang Valley of Arunachal Pradesh. This remote town is accessible via road from the state capital, Itanagar. It’s a long but scenic journey as you traverse the lush landscapes of the eastern Himalayas. Alternatively, you can reach Roing by flight to Dibrugarh in Assam, followed by a four-hour drive. From Roing, shared taxis and buses frequently ply to Anini.

Trek Itinerary

Day 1 begins with a drive from Anini to the starting point of the trek at Emuli, a journey that takes about an hour. Here, surrounded by dense forests and the music of the chirping birds, your unforgettable trek commences.

Days 2 and 3 of the trek pass through dense forests, rolling meadows, and steep slopes, leading to the first three of the seven lakes. The trails are well marked, but the terrain can be challenging, with steep climbs and descents. It’s advisable to have a local guide to ensure you stay on the right path.

Day 4 and 5 take you to the last four lakes, each nestled in the lap of majestic mountains. The trail gets a bit more strenuous here, with steep, rocky paths. The high altitude can cause shortness of breath, but the stunning panoramic views make it worth every pant.

On Day 6, you make the return trek to Emuli. Day 7 marks the end of your journey, with a drive back to Anini.