Architecture of Arunachal Pradesh

13 MINUTE READ

What will you read in this blog about Arunachal Pradesh architecture –

1. Let’s Know About Arunachal
2. Medieval Architecture of Arunachal
3. Vernacular Architecture of Arunachal
4. Modern Architecture of AP
5. Famous Architecture of AP
6. Places to Visit in Arunachal
7. Concluding Lines!

Enjoy reading!

Let’s Know About Arunachal!

Arunachal Pradesh, nestled in the northeastern Himalayas of India, is a living tapestry of architectural heritage deeply intertwined with its natural landscape and cultural richness. From the intricate bamboo craftsmanship of the Great Hornbill Gate to the majestic Tawang Monastery, the state’s architecture reflects a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. The region’s indigenous communities, like the Apatani, Galo, and Singpho, have long practiced sustainable construction using bamboo, cane, and timber, while modern structures embrace these materials with contemporary design principles. Each architectural marvel stands as a symbol of cultural pride and highlights the region’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Medieval Architecture of Arunachal

Arunachal Pradesh showcases a rich architectural heritage influenced by its unique geography, diverse tribal communities, and religious traditions. The medieval period witnessed the construction of remarkable monasteries, forts, tribal houses, and religious structures, reflecting the region’s cultural essence, spiritual depth, and architectural ingenuity.

Monasteries and Forts

Tawang Monastery:

Historical Significance: Founded in 1680-1681 by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso under the guidance of the 5th Dalai Lama, Tawang Monastery is the largest in India and the second-largest in the world.

Architectural Style: Built in the traditional Tibetan style, the monastery is situated at about 10,000 feet, offering a stunning view of the Himalayan landscape.

Key Features:

1. Dukhang (Assembly Hall): A two-storied central prayer hall adorned with intricate murals, thankas (Tibetan scroll paintings), and elaborate woodwork.
2. Library: Houses ancient scriptures, including Kangyur (Buddha’s teachings) and Tangyur (commentaries).
3. Golden Buddha Statue: A towering 28-foot golden Buddha statue, a focal point of worship.
4. Cultural Role: The monastery is a vital center for Lamaistic Buddhism and hosts vibrant festivals such as Torgya, marked by the traditional Cham dances (masked dances).

Dirang Dzong:

Purpose: Built as a fort by the Monpa tribe, it served both as a defense structure against invasions and as an administrative and storage center.

Architecture: Constructed using stone and wood, the fort features narrow passages and high walls, emphasizing its defensive design.

Present Condition: Though partially in ruins, it still exhibits the strategic and functional architectural skills of the medieval period.

Ita Fort:

Location: Situated in Itanagar, this medieval fort is a crucial archaeological site.

Name Significance: Derived from “Ita,” meaning brick in Assamese, the fort was built using over 80 lakh bricks.

Architectural Features:

Three gates for controlled entry and exit. Unique brick masonry, highlighting the builders’ technical expertise and resourcefulness.

Role: It likely served both military and administrative functions.

Tribal Housing

The tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh developed housing styles adapted to their environmental conditions, cultural practices, and social structures.

Stilt Houses (Chang Ghar):

Tribes: Adi, Nyishi, and Apatani tribes.

Design: Elevated bamboo stilts to protect against flooding, pests, and wild animals.

Roofing: Thatched roofs are made from dry grass or palm leaves for insulation and rain protection.

Cultural Aspects: The space beneath the house serves as storage or a workspace, and symbolic carvings or totems often decorate the structure.

Circular Huts:

Tribes: Mishmi tribe.

Structure: Circular layout with conical roofs made of bamboo and thatch, suited for colder climates.

Central Hearth: A fireplace at the center provides warmth and serves as a communal cooking area.

Longhouses:

Tribes: Wancho and Nocte tribes.

Function: Designed to accommodate extended families or clans.

Features: Constructed using wood and bamboo, these houses are elevated and partitioned into sections for different family units.

Symbolism in Tribal Architecture

Totem Poles: Often erected near homes, representing clan identities, spiritual symbols, or animals.

Carvings and Decorations: Reflect ancestral spirits and mythical stories, blending art with architecture.

Religious Structures

Buddhist Stupas:

Design: Dome-shaped structures symbolizing the path to enlightenment, surrounded by prayer wheels and colorful prayer flags.

Locations: Prominent stupas are found in Tawang and West Kameng districts.

Temples and Shrines:

Medo Jow Temple (Mishmi tribe):

Deity: Dedicated to Lord Medo, a key figure in Mishmi mythology.

Architecture: Simple wooden structures with tribal motifs.

Animistic Shrines:

Tribes: Nyishi and Apatani.

Construction: Open-air altars made from wood or stone, honoring local deities or natural spirits.

Sacred Groves:

Significance: Tribal communities preserve certain forest patches as sacred, merging spirituality with environmental conservation.

Practices: Rituals and festivals are held in these untouched natural spaces.

Unique Features of Medieval Tribal Architecture

Eco-Friendly Materials: Bamboo, wood, and stone reflect sustainable building practices aligned with nature.

Climate Adaptation: Elevated homes for flood protection and insulated designs for cold climates.

Spiritual Integration: Homes often feature ritual spaces and sacred symbols.

Community-Centric Designs: Emphasis on communal living with shared spaces and longhouses for collective family units.

The medieval architecture of Arunachal Pradesh showcases a beautiful confluence of cultural identity, spiritual practices, and environmental adaptation, offering a glimpse into the artistic and functional brilliance of its tribal communities.

Vernacular Architecture of Arunachal

Apatani Houses: A Harmony of Tradition and Sustainability

Historical Background of the Apatani Tribe

The Apatani tribe, residing in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, boasts a rich cultural heritage rooted in agrarian traditions. Despite modern influences, they have preserved their unique architectural practices, which reflect their deep connection to nature and community values.

Geographical Context and Its Influence on Apatani Architecture

The Apatani plateau’s lush greenery, mild climate, and abundance of natural resources play a crucial role in shaping Apatani architecture. Key features influenced by geography include:

Material Use: Locally sourced bamboo and wood form the primary construction materials.

Climate Adaptation: Houses are built on stilts to prevent flooding and enhance ventilation.

Resource Utilization: The widespread availability of bamboo and wood determines building techniques and design choices.

Structural Elements of Apatani Houses

Apatani houses are raised on stilts, serving both practical and cultural purposes. The design protects against floods and pests while promoting airflow beneath the structure.

Key materials include:

Bamboo: Used for walls and structural frameworks due to its flexibility and strength.

Wood: Provides durability and adds decorative appeal.

Thatch: Used for roofing, offering natural insulation.

Spatial Organization and Cultural Significance

The internal layout of an Apatani house mirrors their cultural ethos. Spaces are designated for cooking, sleeping, and socializing, with the Lapang (central fireplace) acting as the heart of the home for cooking, warmth, and family rituals.

Architectural highlights:

Roof Design: Steeply pitched to symbolize protection and resilience.

Wall Construction: Intricate bamboo weaving adds both structural integrity and visual appeal.

Flooring: Wooden planks raised above the ground ensure dryness and comfort.

Sustainability in Apatani Architecture

• Locally sourced materials minimize environmental impact.
• Natural insulation reduces the need for artificial heating or cooling.
• Compact designs optimize space and energy use.

Galo Houses: Functionality Rooted in Culture

Architectural Character

Galo houses, typically compact and rectangular, are adapted to the region’s humid subtropical climate. Built on stilts (1.5 to 2 meters high), these homes have slanted roofs and lack windows, keeping interiors cool and smoky to deter insects.

Key features include:

Gendered Access: Two separate ladders—one for men at the front and one for women at the rear—reflect traditional gender roles.

Functional Spaces: The large central hall serves as a multipurpose area for daily activities.

Materials: Wood, bamboo, cane, and toko leaves.

Construction Methods

Bamboo posts form the stilts, with diagonal bracings for stability. Jute ropes bind the horizontal bamboo members, while spliced joints hold the structure together. Bamboo matting is used for both floors and walls, ensuring termite resistance and low maintenance.

Singpho Houses: Expansive and Community-Oriented

Architectural Character

The Singpho tribe, residing in the higher altitudes and forested areas, builds large, rectangular houses, often 80-100 feet long. These homes stand on raised wooden platforms (3-3.5 meters high), with open corridors separating the apartments.

Spatial divisions include:

• Guest Rooms at the front.
• Parents’ Quarters in the Middle.
• Sons’ and Daughters’ Rooms towards the back.

Materials and Methods

Key materials used are wood, bamboo, and thatch. Floors are made of flattened bamboo, and walls are woven bamboo mats. Roofs feature palm leaf coverings, supported by a wooden truss system or purlin-rafter binding technique. Interlocking wooden joints secure the structure.

Traditional Houses of Arunachal Pradesh

Arunachal Pradesh is home to more than 60 indigenous tribes, many of whom still follow traditional lifestyles and maintain age-old customs. The houses of these tribes reflect their harmonious relationship with nature, as they are constructed using locally available materials. The size and design of the houses often depend on family patterns and the specific needs of each tribe.

Construction Techniques and Materials

The traditional houses of Arunachal Pradesh are typically built with:

Bamboo and Timber: Primary materials for walls, floors, and pillars.

Thatch or Dry Leaves: Used for roofing, providing insulation and protection from rain.

Weaved Bamboo Sheets: Often employed for wall infill.

Cane and Paddy Straw: Supplementary materials for structural and decorative purposes.

A notable feature across many tribes is the use of stilt construction. Stilt houses, known as chang, are elevated structures supported by wooden or bamboo pillars. This design helps protect against flooding, enhances ventilation, and provides a space below the house for storing firewood, tools, and even sheltering domestic animals like pigs and cows.

Tribe-Specific Architectural Features

Apatani Houses:

• Built primarily from bamboo and wood.
• Often constructed on sloping lands to avoid waterlogging.
• The central part of the house contains a fireplace, serving as both the kitchen and the main family gathering space.
• Homes typically feature a balcony or terrace.
• Roofs are steeply pitched and made of dry leaves.

Adi Houses:

• Constructed entirely without metal or nails.
• Built using wood, cane, bamboo, and thatch.
• Elevated on wooden stilts.
• Floors are made from wooden planks or bamboo.
• The main hall serves multiple functions — for living, cooking, sleeping, and dining.
• Houses have two doors: the front door is used by men and the back door is used by women.
• Larger houses may have partitioned rooms for married couples and young girls.
• An open verandah at the front provides additional communal space.

Other Common Designs:

In Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura, Assam, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, high-pitched kutcha houses with double-pitched roofs are prevalent. These houses have a high front and a low back, aiding in rainwater runoff.

The space beneath stilt houses is often utilized for keeping livestock and storing agricultural implements, baskets, utensils, and fishing nets.

Durability and Maintenance

Due to the use of natural materials like bamboo, these houses are prone to deterioration over time. Consequently, they are reconstructed every 5 to 7 years to maintain structural integrity and functionality.

Lessons for Modern Architecture

Sustainable Design Principles

The vernacular architecture of Arunachal Pradesh offers valuable insights for contemporary design, especially in:

Sustainable Materials: Incorporating bamboo and wood reduces the carbon footprint.

Space Efficiency: Multifunctional areas optimize small living spaces.

Climate Resilience: Stilted structures inspire flood-resistant designs.

Promoting Community Living

The communal focus of Apatani, Galo, and Singpho houses encourages modern architects to design housing complexes with shared spaces, fostering social interactions and cultural continuity.

Modern Architecture of AP

The Great Hornbill Gate, an architectural marvel crafted by STUDIOARO, stands as the iconic entry gate to the Donyi Polo Airport in Arunachal Pradesh. This masterpiece reflects a harmonious blend of the region’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary design principles, symbolizing the bridge between tradition and modernity.

Cultural and Environmental Context

Located in the northeastern part of India, Arunachal Pradesh is renowned for its vibrant biodiversity and traditional architecture. The state is home to various species of bamboo and cane, which have long been integral to the lives and homes of its indigenous communities. The Great Hornbill, the state bird, holds significant cultural symbolism, inspiring the design of the gate.

Design and Construction

The Great Hornbill Gate mirrors the double-headed Great Hornbill, spanning the entry and exit roads of the airport with 26 interlocking arches. The structure covers an expansive 2500 sq ft, reaching a height of 25 feet and a width of 38 feet on each side. Notably, it has been hailed as the largest public structure in India crafted from natural materials.

Architectural Inspiration: The gate’s design draws from the flight and majestic wingspan of the Great Hornbill.

Material Usage: Locally sourced bamboo and cane form the primary construction materials. Specifically, four-year-old Bambusa tulda (jati bamboo) is used for roofing, while Bambusa balcooa (taluka bamboo) is employed for the arches and main structure.

Sustainability: To ensure longevity, the bamboo is treated with non-toxic salts like borax and boric acid powder. Additionally, the gate incorporates a rainwater harvesting system and a long-term landscape plan, promoting sustainable infrastructure development.

Construction Process

Despite challenges posed by the monsoon season, strategic planning enabled the prefabrication of structural components offsite, ensuring timely completion—an impressive five months ahead of schedule. The installation process spanned five months, relying on the expertise of 15 skilled bamboo artisans.

Modern Significance

The Great Hornbill Gate not only honors traditional building practices but also propels India onto the global stage of sustainable architecture. While bamboo construction has long been prominent in Southeast Asia and South America, this landmark project showcases India’s commitment to eco-friendly design.

As travelers pass through the Great Hornbill Gate, they are welcomed by more than just an entrance—it is a symbol of pride, resilience, and sustainable innovation. It tells a powerful story of how tradition and modernity can coexist, setting a benchmark for future architectural endeavors.

Project Details

Architects: STUDIOARO

Area: 2500 sq ft

Year: 2022

Lead Architect: Aroty Panyang

Location: Arunachal Pradesh, India

Photographs: Shahul Shibili

Famous Architecture of AP

Tawang Buddhist Monastery, Tawang

The largest monastery in India and second largest in Asia, Tawang Monastery (Galden Namgyal Lhatse) sits at 10,000 ft above sea level. This three-storey structure houses an assembly hall, residential quarters, and 17 gompas, blending religious function with intricate Tibetan architectural elements. It serves as a center for Buddhist cultural studies.

The Golden Pagoda, Namsai

Built-in Burmese architectural style, the Golden Pagoda features a main shrine with 12 sub-domes on a 4272.58 sq. ft. platform. The complex includes a large prayer hall, meditation hall, monastery, and guest house. Its golden spire, pagoda-style tiered roofs, and intricate carvings reflect the region’s Theravada Buddhist traditions.

Jaswant Garh War Memorial, Tawang

Dedicated to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, this memorial incorporates bunkers, a battle history section, and an observation center. The design combines simple, sturdy structures with natural stone and wood, blending seamlessly into the surrounding mountainous terrain.

Gompa Temple, Itanagar

The Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, built by Tibetan refugees in 1960, follows classic Buddhist architecture with a pagoda-style yellow roof and a grand Buddha statue. The temple’s murals and vibrant exterior add spiritual and aesthetic charm, while the complex houses small shops selling Tibetan handicrafts.

Jawaharlal Nehru Museum, Itanagar

Showcasing tribal culture and natural heritage, the museum exhibits traditional art, cane products, and excavated items from Ita Fort. Architecturally, the building integrates local construction materials with modern design elements, highlighting Arunachal’s rich history.

Khonsa Museum, Tirap

Constructed in 1956, the Khonsa Museum reflects tribal architecture with its use of bamboo and cane, displaying swords, armaments, and handicrafts. The structure echoes the traditional homes of the region, emphasizing simplicity and functionality.

World War II Cemetery, Changlang

The Jairampur Cemetery contains around 1000 graves of soldiers from World War II. Its simple layout, marked by stone inscriptions and wooden markers, reflects solemnity and historical significance.

Pangsau Pass

Situated on the Patkai Hills at 3,727 ft, Pangsau Pass became prominent during World War II. The area features rugged terrain and traditional architecture of nearby Nampong, highlighted during the Pangsau Pass Winter Festival.

Bomdila Monastery

Modeled after the Tsona Gontse Monastery in Tibet, the Bomdila Gompa has a prayer hall, Buddha shrine, and monk quarters. The vibrant colors, high roofs, and intricate Buddhist iconography showcase the spiritual and architectural richness of Arunachal Pradesh.

Places to Visit in Arunachal

Itanagar: The capital city of Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar, blends modernity with cultural heritage. Key attractions include Ita Fort, an ancient brick fort from the 14th-15th centuries, and the Jawaharlal Nehru Museum, which showcases tribal artifacts, handicrafts, and archaeological relics, offering insights into the state’s rich history.

Tawang: Famous for the Galden Namgyal Lhatse Monastery, the largest monastery in India and second largest in Asia, Tawang stands at 10,000 ft above sea level. This three-storey structure houses a vast assembly hall, residential quarters for monks, and ancient Buddhist manuscripts. Breathtaking natural sites like Bap Teng Kang Waterfalls and Nuranang Falls add to its charm.

Bhalukpong: Nestled along the Kameng River, Bhalukpong offers a blend of history and nature. The Bhalukpong Fort, built during the 10th century under the rule of the Mahabharata-era king Bhaluka, showcases ancient stonework. Nearby, the Tipi Orchidarium houses over 500 species of orchids, while the Pakke Tiger Reserve provides a glimpse into the region’s wildlife.

Dirang: A serene town set along the Dirang River, Dirang is known for its hot water springs and Dirang Dzong—a 17th-century fortress-like structure made of stone and wood that once served as a center of local governance and protection.

Bomdila: Perched at 8,000 ft, Bomdila is famous for its Bomdila Monastery, inspired by Tibet’s Tsona Gontse Monastery. The monastery’s prayer halls, Buddha shrine, and monks’ quarters reflect traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture, offering both spiritual and scenic experiences.

Anini: Situated on a plateau between the Dri and Mathun rivers, Anini is a remote town known for its mist-covered hills and tranquil environment. Though relatively underdeveloped, its untouched beauty and isolation offer a peaceful escape.

Ziro: A UNESCO World Heritage site nominee, Ziro Valley is home to the Apatani tribe. Its terraced rice fields, sustainable farming practices, and traditional houses made of bamboo highlight the region’s eco-friendly architecture and rich cultural heritage. The town also hosts the vibrant Ziro Music Festival.

Sela Pass: Connecting Tawang to the rest of Arunachal Pradesh, Sela Pass sits at 13,700 ft, flanked by snow-clad peaks and the crystal-clear Sela Lake. It remains a vital route for the region and a breathtaking destination for travelers.

Roing: Known for its Mishmi Hills, cascading rivers, and serene lakes, Roing also boasts ancient sites like the Bhismaknagar Fort—an archaeological site dating back to the 8th century, built with burnt bricks and stone, revealing the region’s historic grandeur.

Tezu: Located in the Lohit district, Tezu combines natural beauty with spiritual significance. The Glow Lake sits amidst dense forests, while Parshuram Kund, a revered pilgrimage site, draws devotees seeking spiritual solace along the banks of the Lohit River.

The Concluding Lines!

The architecture of Arunachal Pradesh is more than just a collection of buildings—it is a testament to the state’s cultural identity, sustainable ingenuity, and harmonious relationship with nature. Whether through the spiritual grandeur of Tawang Monastery, the innovative use of bamboo at the Great Hornbill Gate, or the traditional homes of its tribes, each structure tells a story of resilience and creativity. As the state strides towards modernity, its architectural roots remain firmly planted in tradition, offering a captivating narrative of how heritage and progress can coexist. This balance makes Arunachal Pradesh’s architectural landscape truly unique and inspiring.

References

• Kaarwan.com. (Sept 04). Exploring the Architecture of Apatani Houses: Design and Cultural Significance. [online]. Available at: https://www.kaarwan.com/blog/architecture/architecture-of-apatani-houses-design-and-cultural-significance?id=865
• Youngintach.org. (n.d.). Traditional Homes of Arunachal Pradesh. [online] Available at: https://youngintach.org/files/architectural_monuments21.pdf
• Pakam, D., Ralte, L. (Oct 09, 2024). Vernacular Architecture of Arunachal Pradesh. [online] Available at: https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/vernacular-architecture-of-arunachal-pradesh/272300382
• Kaarwan.com. (Dec. 13). Apatani House Layouts: Understanding the Spatial Organization and Functionality. [online]. Available at: https://www.kaarwan.com/blog/architecture/apatani-house-layouts-spatial-organization-and-functionality?id=1293
• Nair, Sarangi. (Jan 17, 2024). Great Hornbill Gate blends traditional bamboo with modern construction methods. [online] Available at: https://parametric-architecture.com/great-hornbill-gate-blends-traditional-bamboo-with-modern-construction-methods/?srsltid=AfmBOorqMhb_slqi7thlvObwDsGxUe44hQ6XEIBetLAglgPt7VYnMjYP
• arunachal.pscnotes.com. (n.d.). Architecture of the Medieval Period of Arunachal Pradesh. [online] Available at: https://arunachal.pscnotes.com/arunachal-pradesh-history/architecture-of-the-medieval-period-of-arunachal-pradesh/
• Barua, Shreyansh. (August 2020). Nature: The Ethos of Arunachal Pradesh Architecture. [online] Available at: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343364158_Nature_The_Ethos_of_Arunachal_Pradesh_Architecture
• thrillophilia.com. (n.d.). Historical Monuments of Arunachal Pradesh. [online] Available at: https://www.thrillophilia.com/historical-places-in-arunachal-pradesh
• holidify.com. (n.d.) Places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. [online] Available at: https://www.holidify.com/state/arunachal-pradesh/top-destinations-places-to-visit.html#packageModal