Dibrugarh, May 16: Thembang, an ancient fortified village perched 2,169 metres above sea level in Arunachal Pradesh’s West Kameng district, has been included in UNESCO’s final tentative list for World Heritage status—even as China continues to stake claims over the frontier state.
Located about 55 km north-east of Bomdila, Thembang covers just 3.2 acres but is rich in heritage. It is home to the Drikipa clan of the Monpa tribe and still protected by traditional stone “dzong” walls with two historic gates—one each on the northern (entry) and southern (exit) ends, once used as an escape route during inter-tribal conflict. The village’s population is barely 254.
Thembang and Ziro Valley were first nominated for World Heritage recognition in 2014, and Arunachal Pradesh declared Thembang a state heritage site the following year. In April 2018, the Union government listed the village among six northeastern monuments provisionally identified for UNESCO inscription.
“We are delighted that Thembang has entered UNESCO’s tentative list,” said Moyir Kato, Circle Officer of Thembang block. “The state government is making every effort to secure full World Heritage status.”
On 13 May 2025, officials, scholars and residents gathered in Dirang for a conference aimed at meeting UNESCO’s detailed parameters. Dirang MLA Phurpa Tsering urged the local advisory committee to expedite the process, insisting on strict quality standards.
Calling the inclusion a “proud moment for Arunachal,” Tsering added, “All stakeholders must support development without delay so Thembang can soon receive the World Heritage tag.”
The landmark announcement also comes in the wake of Beijing’s latest provocation: China’s Ministry of Civil Affairs recently released a list assigning Chinese and Tibetan names to 27 places within Arunachal Pradesh, reiterating its territorial claim. Locals in Thembang dismissed those assertions.
“This land belongs to India,” said resident Tenzin Thakcho Dirkhepa. “We are proud Indians and will defend our motherland. Thembang’s historic recognition underscores our unique cultural heritage.”
The village’s defensive architecture, intact cultural practices and scenic Himalayan setting now position it for global recognition—while reinforcing India’s stewardship over its easternmost frontier.
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