Shergaon's wild fruit wine: A taste of Europe in Arunachal Pradesh

Nestled in the serene hills of Arunachal Pradesh, Seinthuk Shergaon sits at an altitude of approximately 2000m, embodying the vibrant culture of the Sherdukpen tribe. 

This picturesque village, with its lush greenery and majestic landscapes, is a hidden gem that harmoniously blends tradition, agriculture, tourism, and conservation efforts.

A glimpse into Sherdukpen culture

Shergaon is a stronghold of Sherdukpen tribal culture, where ancestral traditions thrive. The community holds a deep-rooted belief in mountain deities and follows a unique blend of animist traditions alongside Mahayana Buddhism. Festivals such as Kro-Cheykor, Losar, Pridocheppchi, Khiksaba, and the Rhododendron Festival bring the village alive with colors, rituals, and celebrations.

Agriculture and sustainable living

Agriculture forms the backbone of Shergaon’s economy. The villagers practice sustainable farming, cultivating a variety of fruits and vegetables. Horticulture is a mainstream activity, with seasonal wild fruits, vegetables, and even trout fish farming gaining prominence. Trout, both rainbow and brown, is a delicacy here, sold at approximately Rs 1200 per kilogram. The region is also abundant in naturally growing nutritious foods like lichens, wild fruits, peppers, and mushrooms.

Tourism reviving age-old traditions

Shergaon has emerged as a sought-after tourist destination, hosting over 32 tourism properties, including treehouses, campsites, and homestays. The development of tourism began actively in 2014, transforming Shergaon into a welcoming retreat for visitors. Easily accessible from Tezpur (4-hour drive) and Guwahati (6-hour drive), the village now boasts homestays, farm stays, and resorts, all designed to provide an immersive cultural experience.

Local NGO ‘Garung Thuk’ has played a pivotal role in shaping tourism in the region. Deputy Chairman Dorji Khandu Thungan emphasizes how tourism has revived traditional food, textiles, and crafts. “Weaving centers have been established, and women are now taking up weaving professionally. Tourism serves as both a supplemental and playful income, helping to preserve our rich heritage,” he shares.

Adventure and nature trails

For adventure enthusiasts, Shergaon offers a plethora of trails and nature-based experiences:

Khandak Minto (Rhododendron Trail) – A mesmerizing trek through blooming rhododendrons.

Kro Trail (Wish-Fulfilling Trail) – A spiritual trail promising tranquility and fulfillment.

Wild Fruits Trail – A foraging experience where visitors can discover and taste a variety of exotic wild fruits.

Nature Education Programs – Designed to educate visitors on the region’s rich biodiversity.

Biodiversity hotspot and conservation efforts

Shergaon is home to a stunning range of flora and fauna. Rare species such as the Himalayan black bear, red panda, golden cat, and the elusive Ward’s trogon thrive in its forests. The black-necked crane was last sighted here in 2021, adding to the region’s ecological significance.

Shergaon’s conservation efforts have been widely recognized, earning the India Biodiversity Award (2021) and the Best Rural Tourism Village (Silver Category) in 2023.

The art of wine-making in Shergaon

Wine-making is a traditional practice in the Northeast, and Shergaon takes it to another level with its wild fruit wines. Dorji Khandu Thungan elaborates on this fascinating craft: “The process starts with foraging wild fruits, followed by careful segregation, cleaning, and fermentation. This gives the wine a distinctive natural taste.”

Fruits such as apples, plums, and kiwis are commonly used, but the village also boasts nearly 25 varieties of pyrus fruits and lesser-known wild fruits. Olive, a wild fruit found in Shergaon, shares characteristics with those found in European nations, making it a sought-after ingredient in local wine-making.

A must-visit destination

Shergaon’s seamless blend of tradition, nature, and sustainable tourism makes it a must-visit destination. Whether it’s trekking through its scenic trails, experiencing the warm hospitality of its homestays, tasting exotic trout, or sipping on wild fruit wine, this village promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Arunachal Pradesh’s cultural and natural wealth.

So, if you're looking for an offbeat travel experience that offers a mix of adventure, tradition, and tranquility, pack your bags for Seinthuk Shergaon – the Abode of the Mountain Deities!

The third edition of the Green Hub x Royal Enfield's 'Responsible Tourism' intiative successfully brought together young changemakers, conservationists, entrepreneurs, and tourism stakeholders to promote sustainable travel practices across the northeastern Himalayan region. The conclave focused on strengthening community-based responsible tourism, fostering local ownership to ensure both environmental preservation and socioeconomic upliftment. A major highlight was the presentation of Responsible Tourism action plans by the latest cohort of the Green Hub x India’s leading multinational motorcycle manufacturer Responsible Tourism Fellowship, developed through six months of immersive training and mentorship. These youth-led initiatives, ranging from zero-waste tourism and agro-tourism to conservation-focused and culturally immersive travel experiences, have created new opportunities for sustainable tourism growth. Notably, the initiative has provided a significant boost to tourism in Shergaon, highlighting its rich cultural heritage and ecological significance while empowering local communities.