Itanagar: Arunachal Pradesh, the Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains, boasts both stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage.
The state is a treasure trove of hidden wonders, largely unknown to the outside world. If properly promoted, the northeastern state has the potential to become a leading global tourist destination.
Among the hidden gems is a fascinating natural saltwater well, locally known as ‘Nimok Pung’. This unique saltwater well is perched on a hillock in Subang village of Tirap district.
According to the locals, this remarkable saltwater well has historical significance. What sets this natural phenomenon apart is the unusual salinity of its water—a rarity in this region.
This well has historically been vital to local communities.
Highlighting the well’s significance in regional trade and culture, resident and zilla parishad member Wanphoon Lowang said, “In the past, the saltwater from this well was processed into salt and widely used by communities across Arunachal Pradesh and the eastern parts of Assam. It played a vital role in our barter system. People would come to exchange the processed salt for essentials like dal and oil.”
“Salt was like gold to us,” another local recalled, explaining how they would carry bags of it to barter in neighboring villages.
He noted that with changing times and the advent of modern trade practices, the significance of Nimok Pung has diminished, leaving it largely forgotten.
Despite its historical importance, the well has remained largely unexplored and underappreciated not only by outsiders but also by residents beyond the village.
However, in recent years, steps have been taken to highlight the importance of Nimok Pung.
Arunachal Pradesh’s Forest Minister Wanki Lowang has shown interest in promoting the site.
The villagers have urged the Arunachal Pradesh government to take more concrete actions to develop the area as a tourist destination.
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The villagers have appealed to the government to enhance tourism infrastructure in the area to pave the way for economic growth and increase awareness of the region’s unique natural gift.
They believe that investing in appropriate infrastructure and promotion could transform Nimok Pung into a major tourist attraction, stimulating economic growth in the region while simultaneously preserving its rich cultural and historical heritage.
