You only live once but if you do it right, once is enough

The Journey Begins: Roing

Our trekking group, comprising some of my closest friends, embarked on an exhilarating journey from Roing to Mehao Lake in Arunachal Pradesh. Having previously conquered treks in Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, our shared passion for mountains, their culture, and escaping the city hustle brought us together once again. Roing, was a four hour drive from Dibrugarh airport in Assam. We crossed state borders at Santipur to enter Arunachal from Assam.

We camped for the night at Roing, our base for the upcoming trek. The evening was filled with reminiscing about past adventures, savoring local delicacies, sharing drinks, and an early bedtime to ensure we were refreshed for the trek ahead.

The Ascent: From Roing to Mehao Lake

Section 1: Roing to the Forests of Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary

The trek began at dawn, with all of us geared up and ready. Our guide provided a brief overview of what to expect, although, in hindsight, there were critical details we should have clarified. Notably, the presence of leeches due to the recent rains, temperature, and moisture, was a challenge we weren’t adequately prepared for. Leeches thrive in wet, humid conditions, often clinging to plants and moist ground, making them a frequent nuisance in such environments.

As we embarked on the trail, the path led us through dense banana plantations, gradually giving way to the lush greenery of Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary. The initial stretch, though marked as easy, quickly revealed its true nature with the steep ascent and uneven terrain.

Section 2: River Crossings and Tough Terrain

The journey took us across multiple river crossings, each presenting its own set of challenges. The rivers, swollen from recent rains, required careful navigation to avoid slips and falls. The wet, unorganized trekking path added to the difficulty, with muddy patches and slippery rocks making progress slow and strenuous.

Despite the challenges, the beauty of the surrounding forest kept our spirits high. The rich biodiversity of Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, with its vibrant flora and fauna, offered a breathtaking backdrop to our trek.

Section 3: The Ascent of 1,200 Meters

As we ascended further, the trek became increasingly demanding. The elevation gain of 1,200 meters tested our endurance, and the unpredictable weather added an extra layer of complexity. The late monsoon period of October brought sporadic rains, making the trail even more treacherous.

The leeches were an ongoing battle. Without proper preparation, we found ourselves constantly checking for these persistent parasites. To protect yourself from leeches, it’s essential to wear long socks, and check your body frequently. Unfortunately, our lack of preparation made this part of the journey particularly uncomfortable.

The Destination: Mehao Lake

Finally, after a grueling 17 kilometers and 8 hours of trek time, we reached Mehao Lake, situated at an elevation of around 3,000 feet. The lake, covering an area of about 4 square kilometers, was a sight to behold. Its pristine waters, surrounded by dense forests, provided a serene and tranquil setting, making the arduous trek worthwhile.

Reflections and Tips

Reflecting on the journey, the trek from Roing to Mehao Lake was anything but easy. The combination of steep ascents, challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and leeches made it a true test of endurance. However, the camaraderie of my friends and the stunning natural beauty made every challenge worthwhile. It reinforced our love for the mountains and the thrill of exploring the unknown. For those seeking a true wilderness experience, this trek offers an unforgettable journey through one of Arunachal Pradesh’s most stunning landscapes.

Tips for Future Trekkers:

1. Prepare for Leeches: Wear long socks, use insect repellent, and regularly check your body.
2. Weather Readiness: Be prepared for rain and wet conditions, especially during the monsoon season. Suggestion would be to go post monsoons to enjoy the experience.
3. Research Thoroughly: Don’t solely rely on the guide; do your own research and clarify any concerns before starting the trek.
4. Physical Fitness: Ensure you are physically prepared for the demanding terrain and significant elevation gain.