Which State Is Known As The Land Of The Rising Sun?

Land of Rising Sun: Certain locations have unique names that capture their charm or setting. The ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ is one such name. Many people think of Japan, but in India, it belongs to Arunachal Pradesh, the state that sees the sunrise first each day. Tap to read for more details. 

What Does ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ Mean?  

The name ‘Arunachal Pradesh’ comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Aruna, translated to ‘sun’, and achal means ‘mountains’; thus, in English, it means ‘land of the dawn-lit mountains’. Since it is located in the far northeast, Arunachal is the first state in India to witness the sunrise.  

Where Did the Name Come From?  

The state was named ‘Arunachal Pradesh’ in 1972. The title highlights its geographic location and the beauty of the rising sun over the Himalayan hills. The village of Dong in Arunachal receives the sun's first rays.

Why Is the Sunrise Significant in Arunachal Pradesh? 

For the people of Arunachal Pradesh, the dawn represents peace, fresh starts, and purity. This is why many travellers hike to Dong village to witness the first sunrise in India. The mountains of Arunachal Pradesh come alive with the sun's light, and nature, light, and new beginnings play a big role in many local festivals and traditions. 

Why Is it Called The Land of the Rising Sun? 

Arunachal Pradesh is known as India's "Land of the Rising Sun". Images of misty hills, orange horizons, serene valleys, and a wealth of natural heritage come to mind when one hears this name. 

Interesting Facts About Arunachal Pradesh 

• Arunachal Pradesh is home to 26 major tribes and many smaller sub-tribes. Although over 50 dialects are spoken, only a few are used in traditional scriptures.

• It is called the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ because Dong village, in the eastern part of the state, experiences sunrise before any other place in India.

• The Tawang Monastery, located in Tawang, is 400 years old and is the largest monastery in India.

• The state has rich biodiversity, with one orchid sanctuary, two national parks, and eight wildlife sanctuaries.

• Arunachal Pradesh is the only state in India with over 500 species of orchids.

• The state is among India’s leading producers of fruits like apples and kiwis.

What is so special about this name? 

To pronounce Arunachal Pradesh as the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’ is more than just the notion of direction. It encompasses peaceful mornings, beautiful sunrises, and capturing the essence of a land that rises before the rest of India. Each new dawn in Arunachal takes us to the geophysical realm and the geographical senses of place of Arunachal in the heart and identity of India.

Who Is The Current Chief Minister Of Arunachal Pradesh?

The current chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh is Shri Pema Khandu. He is the son of Dorjee Khandu, the former Arunachal Pradesh chief minister.