Ziro is a small hill station (at an altitude of 5754 ft above the sea level) near Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh. It is known for its native inhabitants called Apa-tani tribes. Ziro is a city known for agriculture (rice fields) and sericulture practiced by these Apa-Tani tribes. It is a popular spot in Arunachal Pradesh tourism. Apa-Tani tribes are non-nomadic tribes living in Ziro. They are specially known for their eco-friendly cultivation of rice and fish. Apatanis are one of the rarest tribes cultivating wet rice cultivation all through the year using irrigation and water channels. These people have their own governing system called Bulyang. Ziro is well connected to Itanagar by road. Direct buses are available from Itanagar. Flights are connected till Tezpur in Assam. Tezpur is about 216 km from Itanagar. One can even reach from Lilabari airport that is situated in North Lakhimpur. From Itanagar you can take private taxis till Ziro. Nearest railway station is in North Lakhimpur in Assam. Ziro gets direct buses from Guwhati also. Outsiders need inner line permit. Ziro, situated on Apa-Tani plateau is a challenge for trekkers. Pine and bamboo mangroves on slope hills, green paddy fields, and fish farms are the main attractions. One would get to have a glimpse of the customs and culture of Apa-tani tribes. Apatanis use traditional irrigation system. It would be ideal if you take part in their festivals (January, March and June) to get more details about the tribe. The UNESCO has wished to identify the Apa-tani tribes as belonging to the ?World Heritage site? tag looking at their unique style of farming. Tally Valley is another important spot near Ziro which is situated at about 30 km from Ziro. The valley is known for wide range of flora, orchids, and ferns.
