The National Research Centre on Yak (NRCY) is nestled in the picturesque West Kameng District of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Established in 1989 under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the NRCY stands as a testament to the significant role yaks play in the socio-economic fabric of the tribal communities residing in the Himalayan region. Over the years, the centre has not only contributed to the scientific community with extensive research on yak conservation but also emerged as a unique tourist attraction.
Tourism at the National Research Centre on Yak has a relatively recent history compared to other long-established tourist destinations in India. Initially serving as a research institution, the beauty of the landscape coupled with the intriguing lifestyle of the yaks garnered interest from tourists. Realizing the potential for educational tourism, the NRCY started welcoming visitors, providing them insight into the research and practices related to yak rearing.
Visitors to the NRCY can expect to be greeted with pastoral scenes of yaks grazing against the backdrop of the Eastern Himalayas. The centre offers guided tours that educate visitors on yak breeding, veterinary care, and the production of various yak-based products such as cheese and fiber. The tours also emphasize sustainable practices and the importance of yaks to the indigenous communities.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in agritourism and ecotourism, with tourists seeking out destinations that offer not just leisure but also learning experiences. The NRCY taps into this trend by offering a unique combination of agriculture, culture, and nature. Tourists can learn about traditional as well as scientific methods of animal husbandry, and witness firsthand the harmonious relationship between the local communities and their environment.
Sustainable Tourism Initiatives have been gaining traction, and the NRCY is partaking in this global movement by promoting practices that preserve the ecological balance. The centre encourages tourists to respect the delicate mountain ecosystem while they immerse themselves in the local culture and learn about yak-centric livelihoods.
The NRCY is accessible by road from the nearest town of Dirang. While public transport can be sporadic, private taxis are commonly used by tourists. Accommodation options in Dirang range from homestays to guesthouses that offer visitors a taste of the regional hospitality. The NRCY also provides limited accommodation to researchers and visitors, subject to prior booking and availability.
The National Research Centre on Yak has become a prime example of how a region's unique attributes can be harnessed to create a tourism experience that is enlightening and enriching for visitors. While there, tourists are not just passive observers but become active participants in learning about the conservation efforts and the significance of this majestic animal to the high-altitude regions of India.
By visiting the NRCY, tourists can contribute to the local economy and promote the conservation of the yak, which is an integral part of the Himalayan ecosystem and culture.
