Mechuka

Mechuka also known as Menchukha is a small town nestled 6,000 feet (1,829 m) above sea level in the Mechuka Valley of Arunachal Pradesh. Mechuka is fast becoming a popular offbeat tourist destination for the people who are looking for peace and tranquility due to its untapped bounties of scenic beauty, exotic tribes, gentle hills and snow-capped mountains and River Siyom (locally known as Yargyap Chu). The name Menchukha is derived from MEN CHU KHA which in local language means medicinal snow water as it is believed that the melted snow water from the mountain peaks has medicinal values.

The major tourist attraction here is a 400-year-old Samten Yongcha Buddhist Monastery. Dedicated to the Mahayana sect of Buddhism the monastery is located at a hilltop in the westernmost part of Menchukha. Numerous ancient statues can also be found here which signifies the historical and cultural importance of this serene valley

Places of interest around Mechuka:

Samsen Yongcha monastery: Built in the 14th century, it is older than the revered Tawang Monastery. Located on a hilltop at the village’s western edge, this ancient monastery has beautiful statues of Guru Padmasambhava and fascinating masks of mythological figures that are used during the Chaam dances (a lively masked and costumed dance associated with some Tibetan Buddhist festivals).

The Samden Choling Gompa: This new is situated on a hill top overlooking the town. The peaceful Gompa, gives unparalleled views of the town.

The trek to the Mechuka La (Menchukha La): The Menchukha La is one of the many surrounding mountains where a hike to the top can give a person the bird’s eye view of Mechuka town. This trek is famous for the huge MENCHUKA Sign that is inscribed at the top of the mountain as the Los Angeles HOLLYWOOD Sign. The trek starts from the Bumjipanga bridge, outside the main town. It takes around 3 1/2 hours to reach there. Halfway through the trek the town of Mechuka can be seen without any hindrance.