Aunachal Pradesh is bordered by China in the north, Bhutan in the west, Myanmar (Burma) in the east and shares its boundaries to the south with Assam and Nagaland.

There are 26 major tribes and a number of sub tribes living in the state. Most of these communities are ethnically similar but their geographical isolation from each other has brought amongst them certain distinctive characteristics in language, dress and customs. Broadly, the people may be divided into three cultural groups on the basis of their socio religious affinities.

Out of about a thousand species of orchids in India, over 500 are found in Arunachal alone. These are colourful, spectacular and some bear exotic names such as Sita-Pushpa and Draupadi-Pushpa believed to have been worn by Sita and Draupadi. Some of the orchids are rare and classified as endangered. Arunachal Pradesh Forest Development Corporation has established an Orchid Research and Development Station at Tipi in West Kameng district for propagation and conservation of these species. In addition to Orchidarium at Tipi, two orchid conservation sanctuaries have been established at Sessa and Dirang respectively.

The wildlife is equally rich and varied. Elephants and Tigers abound, especially in the grassy foothills and leopard and jungle cats are quite common. The white gibbon is found in Tirap and Lohit district and red pandas and musk in the higher ranges. The 'Mithun' (Bos Forntails) exists both in wild and semi domesticated form. Traditionally, the Mithun has been a unit of wealth and is allowed to move freely in the jungle till it is either used for food on festive occasions, marriage or for barter. Birds found in the state are the great Indian Hornbill, Wood Duck, Green Pigeon etc.