This is one of India’s most unexplored villages, and it has recently received the prestigious award for India’s Best Rural Tourism Village in 2023. Welcome to Shergaon, or as the locals call it, “Satu” — the magical home of the Sherdukpen tribe in Arunachal Pradesh.
After reaching Guwahati, I rented a bike from Kauwa Bike Rental and set off on my journey towards my favourite place — Arunachal Pradesh. The route was more than scenic; it was spiritual. Somewhere along the way, I came across a boat and learned that Bhutan was just 500 meters away! Imagine that – a different country just across a river. This road, from Balle Mu to Shergaon, runs along the Bhutan border for a long stretch.
As I crossed into Arunachal, the border with Bhutan felt surreal. One river, and everything changes. A 6-hour ride filled with dry fruits (I was observing Ekadashi fast), stunning villages, and peaceful silence brought me to Shergaon village. My first stop was Arbor Tree House Homestay, nestled on a hill with a view that could steal your breath. Warm hosts, treehouse comfort, and a valley view made it an experience to remember.
Table of Contents
A Village Where Nature Breathes Freely
How can I explain the beauty of Shergaon? The village is neat, clean, and consciously follows eco-living. Chainsaws are banned here to protect the forest – yes, you heard that right! Locals cut trees manually to prevent mindless deforestation. And it’s not just people they care for – animals and even fish are treated with respect here.
I discovered a stupa named Mane Khoktang which was built as an act of penance. Why? Because fishing is banned for four days every month to allow fish populations to grow. Some fishermen forgot these days due to the lunar calendar and ended up fishing. As a result, they built this stupa to make peace with nature. This sense of accountability is what makes Shergaon truly inspiring.
The Sherdukpen Tribe – Preservers of Culture
Shergaon is the heartland of the Sherdukpen tribe. Their customs, folk songs, traditional dresses, and even the layout of their houses tell stories of centuries past. Last time I came here, I covered the women’s self-help group working to preserve traditional Sherdukpen attire. Their handmade clothes reflect pride, identity, and ancient knowledge.
This time, I went deeper. I met Lobsang Ji, who told me about the sacred oak forest. Some of the trees here are over 300 years old. Locals believe that if one falls suddenly, it’s a bad omen, a sign the deities are upset. This forest is treated like a temple – no loud noises, no unnecessary cutting.
Architecture That Protects Life and Memories
One of the most incredible parts of Shergaon is its ancient Sherdukpen houses. Three-tiered wonders built without nails or metal. The bottom floor is made of stone for animals, the middle is wood for living, and the top is bamboo for storage. Inside, there’s even a natural fire protection system – the ornament room is packed with soil on top. If there’s a fire, the bamboo burns, soil falls, and extinguishes the fire. Genius!
When you observe closely, you’ll see the wood used in these homes is uneven, split by hand. Every corner of the house reflects patience, skill, and sustainability.
Chilli Pam Monastery & Zengo Gompa – Where Cultures Meet
Just a short walk away lies the peaceful Chilli Pam Monastery. But even more fascinating is Zengo Gompa, which blends Buddhist teachings with Sherdukpen shamanistic traditions. The name Zengo comes from an indigenous deity. Even after adopting Buddhism, the Sherdukpens continue to worship their deities with sacred stones and age-old rituals.
Traditions at Every Step
At the entrance of every Shergaon village, you will see beautifully crafted spiritual gates called Kakalings and Mane stones. These aren’t just for decoration. They protect the village from evil spirits. When someone passes away, prayer flags known as Pohing are hoisted in their memory. These flags flutter with a special seed called Namkuling, chosen because it doesn’t spoil easily and stays fresh like love.
Folk songs in Shergaon often talk about birds carrying messages between separated lovers across the mountains, turning their longing into love stories. Isn’t that poetic?
What Makes Shergaon the Best Rural Village of India?
Shergaon is not just beautiful; it’s meaningful. Here’s why:
- Sustainable living practices (banned chainsaws, controlled fishing)
- Respect for all living beings
- Deep cultural roots through songs, clothes, and beliefs
- Ancient architecture without modern tools
- Harmony between nature and spirituality
It’s not surprising that Incredible India awarded it the Best Rural Tourism Village in 2023.
How to Reach Shergaon Village?
- Nearest Airport: Tezpur (170 km) or Guwahati (270 km)
- By Road: Rent a bike or take a shared taxi from Tezpur
- Permit: Inner Line Permit (ILP) required for entry into Arunachal Pradesh (can be applied online)
Where to Stay
- Arbor Tree House Homestay – Unique stay with views and local meals
- Shergaon Forest Homestay (seasonal availability)
- Other local homestays with warm Sherdukpen hospitality
Best Time to Visit
- March to May: Rhododendron blooms, cool weather
- September to November: Lush greenery post monsoon
- Winter: Snow and freezing beauty
Final Words
Shergaon isn’t just a village. It’s a living museum of traditions, a breathing forest of ancient wisdom, and a soft reminder that we don’t need much to live well. It teaches us to live in balance with nature, respect every creature, and preserve what truly matters.
Isn’t this one of the most beautiful places in India? When are you visiting Shergaon? Until then, keep following ShivaTells for more such untold stories.
Read ShivaTells Stories –
- Chumi Gyatse Falls: Exploring the 108 Sacred Waterfalls of Arunachal Pradesh
- Aji Lamu: The Bridge-Building Dance of Mukto Village, Arunachal Pradesh
Watch Arunachal Pradesh Travel Stories –