What is the Capital of Arunachal Pradesh?

Arunachal Pradesh is a beautiful northeastern state of India. It is also known as the "Land of the Rising Sun" because it's the first to see the sunrise in India. It is home to dense forests, majestic mountains, meandering rivers and rich tribal culture.

If you are searching for a simple but comprehensive answer to "What is the capital of Arunachal Pradesh?", then you are in the right place. Here, we will tell you everything you need to know about the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, such as its name, history, facts and importance.

Also Read: What is the Capital of Uttarakhand?

What is the Capital of Arunachal Pradesh?

Itanagar is the Capital of Arunachal Pradesh.

It is also the largest city of the state. It is located in the Papum Pare district at the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas. It is 350m above sea level and is set amidst green hills and forests.

Itanagar is the hub of political, administrative and cultural activities in Arunachal Pradesh. It is the seat of the state government, Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly and the permanent bench of the Gauhati High Court in the nearby town of Naharlagun.

Also Read: What is the Capital of Assam?

How did Itanagar Get Its Name?

The city of Itanagar is named after Ita Fort, which is situated in the heart of the city. "Ita" is the word for brick in the Assamese language, so Itanagar translates as "City of Bricks" or "Fort of Bricks".

Ita Fort is a historic monument that belongs to the 14th-15th century. The fort was primarily made of bricks and has three gates on the west, east and south.

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When was Itanagar declared the Capital?

Itanagar was not the first capital of the region. The region was governed from the capital of undivided Assam (Shillong) before it became the capital.

As the state grew it was decided to decentralise the governance. Itanagar, a tiny village, was chosen after a search for a suitable site.

Itanagar was officially declared the capital of Arunachal Pradesh on 20 April 1974. At that time, Arunachal Pradesh was a Union Territory. It later became a full-fledged state on 20 February 1987.

Also Read: What is the Capital of Uttar Pradesh?

Key Facts About the Capital of Arunachal Pradesh

Here are some important and interesting facts about Itanagar:

What is Itanagar Known For?

Itanagar is more than just the seat of government - it's also a cultural, historical and beautiful place. Here's why it is special:

1. Ita Fort The fort in the city, for which it is named. This is one of the main attractions of Arunachal Pradesh, constructed in the 14th-15th century.

2. Ganga Lake (Gekar Sinyi) A lovely lake in the city. It means a "contained lake" in Nyishi. It's a favourite among locals and tourists.

3. Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum It's a museum showcasing the tribal culture of Arunachal Pradesh. It's a great place to learn about the state's tribes.

4. Buddhist Monastery There's also a renowned Buddhist monastery in Itanagar, showcasing the state's diversity.

5. Education It's also home to Rajiv Gandhi University and the North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST), and is an important educational centre.

Itanagar's Location and Connectivity

Itanagar is in the southwest of Arunachal Pradesh and north of the Brahmaputra River. Itanagar is road-connected to Assam and other northeastern states.

• The nearest railway station is Naharlagun, 15 km away. It is connected to Guwahati and Delhi.
• The capital also has a new airport being built at Hollongi for improved connectivity.

Quick Summary

• The capital of Arunachal Pradesh is Itanagar

• It is located in the Papum Pare district

• Named after the Ita Fort (Fort of Bricks), built in the 14th–15th century

• Officially declared capital on 20 April 1974

• It is the political, cultural, and educational hub of the state

• Arunachal Pradesh became a full state on 20 February 1987

Itanagar is the capital of Arunachal Pradesh - a city that combines the old and new. The Ita Fort and Ganga Lake in the capital are symbols of the state's cultural heritage and natural beauty. For students, travellers and curious minds alike, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh offers a glimpse into the beauty and uniqueness of one of India's most intriguing states.