Dambuk: Journey to the orange land is an adventure.

Image credit-NDTV Food

Embarking on a journey to Dambuk in the Lower Dibang Valley, India's 10th-least populous district, unfolds as an adventure itself. The expedition commences with a flight from Delhi to Guwahati, followed by a mini-bus journey to Arunachal Pradesh's capital, Itanagar. The festive ambiance greets the travelers with star-lit trees, setting the stage for an exploration into the heart of Dambuk, renowned as the land of oranges.

As the journey progresses, an SUV traverses through tea estates in Assam, marking the transition into the challenging terrains of Arunachal Pradesh. The route becomes an off-roading spectacle, with modified Gypsies and Jeeps navigating the rugged landscape, participating in the JK Tyre Orange 4x4 Fury championship—a captivating element of the Orange Festival of Adventure & Music.

Upon conquering the demanding terrain, the arrival in Dambuk unveils its enchanting orange orchards. Isolated during the monsoon, residents resort to elephant rides, underscoring the region's unique accessibility challenges. The Orange Festival showcases not only off-roading prowess but also a vibrant cultural celebration.

Amidst the festivities, participants race on riverbeds, tackling steep hillsides and challenging climbs. The author, given an ATV, maneuvers through the terrain to reach a humble hut accommodation. The immersive experience includes navigating a mirror-less routine, reflecting the mastery of locals in personal grooming without visual aids.

The festival atmosphere extends beyond the rugged adventures, featuring music performances and a diverse culinary experience. While traditional hut meals consist of rice, lentils, and vegetables, the festival introduces culinary delights like hot dogs with fried chicken from a food truck, adding a flavorful twist to the gastronomic journey.

The itinerary continues with river rafting, initially met with nervous anticipation by a non-swimmer. Equipped with a life jacket and helmet, the experience transforms into an exhilarating escapade. The river journey covers a distance of 12 km, offering both the thrill of rapids and the tranquility of the scenic surroundings.

The festival's highlight culminates in a performance by Swedish guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen, injecting energy into the air, even for those not traditionally fans of heavy metal music. The cultural immersion, adventure, and music contribute to an unforgettable experience in the heart of Dambuk.

As the expedition concludes, the return journey sparks reflections on the stark contrasts between the festival's wilderness and the comforts of home. The transition from the cold hut to a well-built house highlights the unique charm of the adventure. The author expresses a sentiment of nostalgia, already missing the wake-up calls from chirping birds and the echoes of modified vehicles.

For those considering a winter visit to Dambuk, the author shares practical advice—arm yourself with a tent, woolens, torch, raincoat, and essentials like salt or a lighter, as blood-sucking leeches emerge during rainfall.

In essence, the journey to Dambuk transcends mere travel; it becomes a saga of exploration, cultural immersion, and personal discovery. The festival's amalgamation of adventure sports, music, and culinary delights offers a holistic experience, showcasing the resilience of the land and its people in the face of unique geographical challenges. Dambuk emerges not just as a destination but as a narrative of daring escapades, cultural vibrancy, and the enduring spirit of a community nestled in the northeastern border state's land of oranges.