Guwahati/Shergaon/Sangti Valley/Lumla: Amitava Bhattacharya, a seasoned media professional with over three decades of experience in some of India’s leading media houses, is currently on a nine-day exploration tour of Arunachal Pradesh along with his former colleagues from The Times of India group.

Adding a unique dimension to his journey, Bhattacharya travelled from Kolkata to Guwahati aboard the Vande Bharat Sleeper — an experience in itself as it is the only sleeper version of the Vande Bharat currently operational in the country. The overnight journey blended speed with comfort, offering a glimpse into Indian Railways’ evolving long-distance travel experience before he headed towards the Himalayan terrain of Arunachal Pradesh.

Bhattacharya, who spent over 25 years with The Times of India group and rose to become Regional Head (East), later served as Regional Head (East & North) of Hindustan Times and also worked with Zee TV during his distinguished career. Known for his strategic leadership and strong connect with regional markets, he is now taking time to explore the natural and cultural richness of India’s Northeast.

The Arunachal leg of the journey began with a stay at Shergaon, a serene hamlet in West Kameng district known for its pine forests, apple orchards and traditional wooden houses. The peaceful surroundings offered the group a refreshing break from urban life.

On the second day, the team travelled to Sangti Valley, celebrated for its sweeping landscapes, yak pastures and tranquil riverside settings. The valley’s pristine charm has increasingly drawn travellers seeking offbeat destinations in Arunachal Pradesh.

On the third day, they departed from Sangti Valley early in the morning and undertook a long but scenic drive through the mountains, finally reaching Lumla late in the evening. En route, they visited the picturesque Sela Lake, paid homage at the Jaswantgarh War Memorial, and stopped at the breathtaking Jung Falls. The journey through winding roads, snow-clad peaks, cascading waterfalls and expansive valleys offered them an immersive experience of Arunachal’s raw and unspoiled beauty.

Accompanying Bhattacharya on this trip are Angshuman Dey and Debashish Mukherjee, both former Branch Heads of The Times of India for the Northeast India and Odisha sectors respectively. The reunion of the former colleagues amidst the Himalayan backdrop has blended professional camaraderie with shared memories from their years in the media industry.

In the coming days, the group is expected to explore Tawang and Bumla Pass – locations known for their cultural importance and strategic significance along the Indo-China border.

Their visit once again highlights Arunachal Pradesh’s growing stature as a tourism hotspot, offering travellers a unique combination of natural splendour, heritage, and strategic landmarks.