The remote and misty landscapes of the Dibang Valley have finally stepped into the national spotlight. On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the picturesque town of Anini in Arunachal Pradesh was conferred the prestigious “Best Emerging Adventure Destination” award. This recognition was presented at the 17th Annual Convention of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) held in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. For a region once considered inaccessible, this award marks a turning point in its journey toward becoming a global adventure hub.
Read More: Tripura Signs MoUs with Patanjali Yogpeeth Trust for ₹400 Crore Investment
A National Honor in Srinagar
The award was presented by the Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, to the District Tourism Officer (DTO) of Anini, Lamwang Aran. The convention brought together tourism experts, tour operators, and government officials from across India. During the ceremony, Anini was praised for its commitment to a “responsible and sustainable” model of tourism.
According to DTO Lamwang Aran, this honor is a testament to the collective efforts of the state’s Tourism Department, local stakeholders, and the indigenous Idu Mishmi community. By focusing on eco-sensitive growth rather than mass tourism, Anini has successfully protected its fragile Himalayan ecosystems while opening its doors to the world. Consequently, the Anini adventure tourism award is seen as a victory for community-led conservation.
Why Anini is the New Frontier for Adventure
Anini is located on a small plateau between the Dri and Mathun rivers. It serves as the gateway to some of the wildest terrains in the Eastern Himalayas. The region’s sudden rise in popularity is driven by its exceptional trekking routes, which offer an authentic “off-the-grid” experience.
The Flagship Treks
The Seven Lakes Trek is currently the crown jewel of the region. This 35–40 kilometer journey takes trekkers through glacial basins and rugged mountain ridges reaching nearly 13,000 feet. Since its formal introduction in 2019, hundreds of domestic and international trekkers have completed the route.
Similarly, the Aeyo Valley Trek has gained national fame. This seven-day trail follows ancient hunting corridors used by the Idu Mishmi people for generations. It offers a deep dive into dense coniferous forests where lucky adventurers might spot the endangered Mishmi Takin. These routes have transformed Anini from a quiet border town into a sought-after destination for high-altitude enthusiasts.
Sustainable Growth and Local Empowerment
One of the key reasons Anini won the Anini adventure tourism award is its focus on the local economy. The development of new trails has created a sustainable “value chain” for the residents.
- Trained Manpower: The region now has a pool of certified mountain guides, porters, and cooks.
- Wildlife Interpreters: Local experts provide insights into the rich biodiversity of the Dibang Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Cultural Storytelling: The Athupopu trek offers a spiritual journey, connecting visitors with the folklore of the Idu Mishmi tribe.
The government has also improved road connectivity, making the long journey from Dibrugarh or Tinsukia much more comfortable for travelers. Furthermore, the inclusion of Anini in the “Frontier Highway” project ensures that infrastructure will continue to improve without compromising the town’s serene character.
Anini’s Recent Accolades
| Award Year | Category | Organization |
| 2023 | Silver: Best Offbeat Destination | Outlook Traveller |
| 2024 | Gold: Best Offbeat Mountain Destination | Outlook Traveller |
| 2025 | Best Emerging Adventure Destination | ATOAI (National) |
Conclusion: Meaningful Travel over Mass Tourism
The recognition at the National Tourism Convention proves that travelers today value depth over volume. Anini offers a rare chance to stand where the silence is vast and the beauty feels unclaimed. As the town prepares for a surge in visitors following this Anini adventure tourism award, the focus remains clear: to preserve the magic of the Dibang Valley for generations to come.
Whether you are looking to conquer high-altitude lakes or simply sit among the clouds, Anini is no longer a hidden secret—it is India’s premier emerging frontier.
Read More: Himanta Sarma’s nuclear warning after Bangladesh remarks