Experience Damro's Indigenous Culture

Damro is also one of the largest villages that is located within the Mariyang area of the north eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, however, this village is known to have a small population of less than 500.

The sub-groups of the Adi tribe, such as the Padam community, reside in this tranquil village of Damro. Their linguistic roots suggest that they migrated from the Tibetan plateau, which makes up the countries of central Asia, and had travelled in the south-eastern direction.

They were also known as strong warriors and were nomadic in nature. The members of this community speak a language belonging to the Sino-Tibetan language group.

Cultural Practices

They live in the Upper Siang, Lower Dibang Valley, and Lohit districts of Arunachal Pradesh and they primarily cultivate rice, but they also grow corn and millet among others. Besides this, the drung ox, cows, pigs, and other livestock also are a part of their diet. The drung ox or the Mithun, plays an important role in their daily lifestyle.

It is said that the drung oxen are trained by the members by providing them with salt. Thus, when these animals recognise the voices of their owners, they come forward. These wild beings are known to like salt a lot. Therefore, when they are found in the lush of the jungles, people consider partially domesticating them (as the owners do not restrict them) by giving them a portion of salt.

Besides this, the Adi Tribes are also known to be skilled hunters who carry with them swords and licensed guns.

Their livelihoods include trading in bamboo and cane products that are handcrafted and the women of the tribe also produce loom-made items.

Traditional Clothing

When you visit this village, you will typically find the men from this tribe wearing Tibetan-made outfits that consists of a variety of colours and patterns, in addition to cotton-based fabrics for the lower body. The women on the other hand, wear a traditional, wrap-around fabric known as a gale. Necklaces are also a part of their traditional outfits, for men it is called as tadok, while women wear sondorong.

Religious Beliefs

The majority of the members are reported to be believers of animism. They practice Donyi Polo, which is the worship of celestial beings of the Sun and the Moon.

Local Delicacies

One of the best ways to truly experience and participate in another’s culture is through cuisine. Every community has a distinct way of cooking, so if you are a fan of non-vegetarian meals, then their smoked pork would be of interest to you. Another option is the delectable Raja chilli chutney. If you wish to then you can also relax at the end of the day with a traditional drink of Apong (rice beer).

Things to Do

Visit The Longest Hanging Bridge - This bridge is one of the most popular tourist destinations of Damro. This is because within Arunachal Pradesh, this bridge is the longest hanging bridge that is located above the river called Yamne. The bridge is supported by suspension cables and it is made of bamboo canes and wires and covers a length of 1000 feet. Here, in addition to the people fishing from the river banks of Yamne, you will find members from the village getting across the bridge to conduct their everyday routine.

The landscape of Damro is also popular for its endless green paradise, making it a great place for hikes and quiet reflections. With regards to trekking, some of the popular locations include Yingkiong, which is situated in the Upper Siang district and Pasighat, which is in the East Siang district.

Getting to Damro

In order to get to Damro, the nearest airport is Dibrugarh Airport and the closest railway station is Murkongselek Railway Station and there are services of taxis that you can use to make the road trip to Damro. The best time to visit is during the period from November to January.

Summing Up

Damro is all about the traditional and culturally rich ways of living. It is about being in the outdoors and connecting deeply with the nature that surrounds you. You can start here by checking out these destinations in Arunachal Pradesh.