5 different tribes of Arunachal Pradesh and their unique attires  

Arunachal Pradesh is an interesting fusion of several cultures and traditions. You might find it surprising to know that around 26 different tribes and 100 sub-tribes live in this state, including the Adi, Aka, Galo, Nyishi, Apatani, Bori, Tagnis and Bokar tribes. Due to their shared ancestry, most tribes are ethnically similar. However, owing to geographical differences, they have developed different dressing styles. For example, the Aptani tribe uses the most advanced ways of weaving. They make ceremonial jackets, shawls, skirts, sashes and lungis with various types of needlework using fibres from trees, goats and human hair. Their costumes have symbolic meanings in terms of their colours, styles and patterns. The people of Arunachal Pradesh hold firmly to the saying ‘simplicity is elegance,’ which explains why they feel a sense of preservation and love for their traditional clothing. Today, we will take you through different tribes of Arunachal Pradesh and their attires.  

Monpas 
The Monpas are natives of Andhra Pradesh’s Buddhist community. They are well known for wearing skull caps with laces and fringes. Women wear a long jacket over a sleeveless outfit along with a waistcoat or Mushaik to complete their outfit. Gurdam, a skull cap made of yak hair, further accentuates the outfit. 

Sherdukpan tribe 
The Sherdukpan tribe resembles the Monapas and is a Bomdila native. The men dress in a knee-length silk robe with shoulder-attached edges. The outfit is completed with a skull cap made from yak hair. Women wear knee-length outfits with no sleeves. Additionally, they wear a waistcloth and an embroidered jacket with full sleeves. 

Tangsa tribe 
The Tangsa tribe resembles the Burmese inhabitants. Men wear short green shorts made of white, red and yellow yarn. They further add a sleeveless shirt with an upper garment. Women also dress in beautifully woven, attractive skirts. They pair it with a linen blouse. 

Miji tribe 
The Miji tribe wears simple clothes. Men wear silver ornaments along with long robes. Women prefer clothing that highlights their natural beauty. They typically wear a long cloak with beautiful neckpieces and enormous earrings. 

Adi tribe 
The Adi tribe lives in Upper Siang, East and West Siang, Dibang Valley and Upper Subansiri that experience subtropical climates. Men and women dress in coats and woollen clothing due to the chilly weather in the region. You will find it interesting that clothing here is mainly made from deerskin and bearskin.