Lohit River

Lohit River is the farthest east tributary of Brahmaputra River. The river originates from the Tirap Phasi Ranges located in the Eastern Tibet and then enters India via Kibithu – a small town lying at the border post. The river after entering the country travels through Mishmi Hills of Anjaw and then move towards Lohit district.

The river travels all along from Tibet to Arunachal Pradesh for about two hundred kilometers, before merging in Brahmaputra River, Assam. Turbulent and uncontrolled are the terms used for this river. The name “Lohit” is derived because of its vigorous nature. The valley of Lohit is a wonderful green place that is densely forested. The majority of the surrounding areas are alpine vegetation that gives way to the sub-tropical forests.

Course

Lohit River before merging into Brahmaputra River in Assam travels for about two hundred kilometers through the red laterite soils of the Lohit Basin, therefore, it is given the name “the river of blood”. From here on, the route snakes up and the river has no other company than sky touching mountains. This feisty river playing constant consort all the way to Walong and beyond, the banks of Lohit River are the treasure houses of various medicinal herbs and plants.

Lohit river is Arunachal Pradesh’s primary river that rises from the eastern Tibet and travels all long to the Arunachal Pradesh before merging in the Brahmaputra River. The course of Lohit River in Tibet signifies its origin or its upper course. The total length of the river is 2677 km. The river has a long course through the flat and dry regions of Tibet before it breaks into Arunachal Pradesh, India. The water current in the river remains soothing throughout the year. The geology of Lohit River points out to be the productive alluvial plains of the river basin. The surrounding towns of Lohit River are Singphos where migrants of Burma have made their home here.

Tributaries

Lohit River is the sole waterway that gushes from Tibet to Arunachal Pradesh and there are no specific tributaries of this river. The river is said to be the principal tributary of Brahma Putra, Assam.

Climatic Characteristics

Lohit River basin experiences three marked seasons Monsoon from July to September, winter from October to January and summer from April to June.

Because of the high elevation, the region of the basin near the river experiences moderate rainfall which gradually changes to humid warm climate as the river proceeds towards Arunachal Pradesh, thereby entering into India. The surrounding regions of the river after entering Arunachal Pradesh progressively change the tropical climate.

Present scenario

Arunachal Pradesh’s government has described it as a vital river for its water supply and energy security. The hydroelectric projects of the Ministry of Environment and Forests of Government of India have been recently approved. According to the basin studies, Lohit River basin is amongst those river basins in Himalayas where massive plans of building large dams and developing hydropower are being rolled out.

More on Lohit River

Lohit River is the famous destination for Kayaking. The river is mostly used for training by Indian Army till date and now majorly used for various water adventure activities. The river is meant for the river rafters who are looking to have a moderate level adventure expedition. The water flow is soothing, amateurs can easily have fun crossing the medium sized rapids. Today, this river rafting activity is widely carried throughout the year and numerous tourists’ not just residents of India, but foreigners also participate to experience the pleasure to undertake kayaking in the river.

How to Reach

Lohit River flows from the high Himalayas in China and makes its way in India at its extremist eastern state Arunachal Pradesh. The state borders China and Tibet and getting to its easternmost point is no easy task. This region has the sketchiest driving conditions.

There is no rail transportation due to hilly terrain, but you can reach your destinations through nearby rail heads. Furthermore, if you wish to fly here, the nearest airport to Itanagar is Lilabari in Assam which is about 65 km away. 

Views

Lohit River plays a significant role in socioeconomic aspects of the state. Being the principal river of Arunachal Pradesh, it largely contributes towards the drinking water supply, agriculture and energy needs. The river is famous for carrying out various water sport adventures.

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