New Delhi: Arunachal Pradesh, the state in Northeast India, is a beautiful place and a popular tourist destination. It is one of the least densely populated states in the country, and is an ethnically diverse place. The state is primarily a hilly tract nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. The region has several rivers including those from the higher Himalayas and Arakan and Patkoi Ranges which finally drain into the Brahmaputra River.
There are several places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh, like the Sela Pass, Bumla Pass, Tawang Buddhist Monastery, Sangti Valley, Nuranang Falls, and Pasighat. According to reports, this northeastern state has established itself as the premier destination for adventure travel. Among the hidden gems of the state is the Nimok Pung. In this article, we will learn more about the lesser-known place in Arunachal Pradesh which can boost the state’s tourism.
Nimok Pung: The hidden gem of Arunachal Pradesh
Nimok Pung, located in Subang village in Tirap district, is a stunning natural wonder holds significant cultural and historical significance to the locals. It is an unusual saltwater well located on top of a hillock and its unique properties makes it a prime candidate to boost the state’s tourism.
The uniqueness of Nimok Pung lies in the fact that its water is saline, which is very unusual in respect to the region. This saltwater spring is unlike the other freshwater wells in the area and has been a vital lifeline for the Nocte tribe community for centuries. It has provided salt to the region over the years and also to other parts of Arunachal Pradesh. The processed salt was used in daily life and during the times of barter system, people would trade it for other vital commodities like lentils and oil.
Thanks to its role as a source of salt, this ancient well has been a cornerstone of village life and has become interwoven into the culture and economy of the communities of the place. Villagers resorted to “sumkoakin nocte”, an intricate technique which is a traditional method involving great effort and time to extract the salt. The trading of the salt did not just boost economy but also played a key role in social gatherings that strengthened community ties.
The well is also considered as a sacred place as elders often remember how their forefathers believed that Nimok Pung’s salt had remarkable properties, including the ability to protect against disease and to ward off illnesses. The well, bearing a cultural significance of the region, has received attention in recent times, highlighting its ability to boost the tourism of Arunachal Pradesh. While Wangki Lowang, the state minister for environment has enthusiastically expressed his desire to promote this hidden treasure, locals reportedly believe that the government need be to take more active steps to make Nimok Pung a tourism hotspot.
Nestled in Arunachal Pradesh’s Tirap district, Nimok Pung is a unique saltwater spring holding immense cultural and historical significance for the Nocte tribe. Its saline water, unusual for the region, served as a vital resource for centuries, facilitating trade and strengthening community bonds. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge