There are 26 major tribes and a number of sub-tribes inhabiting the area.Most of these communities are ethnically similar, having originated from the Mongoloid stock but their geographical isolation from each other has brought amongst them certain distinctive characteristics in language, dress and customs.Broadly, the entire population may be divided into three cultural groups based on their socio-politico-religious affinities.
The Monpas and Sherdak Pens of Tawang and West Kameng districts follow the lamaistic tradition of Mahayana Buddhism. Culturally similar to them are Membas and Khembas who live in the high mountains along the northern borders,while the Khamptis and Singphos inhabiting the eastern part of the state are Buddhists of Hinayana sect. They are said to have migrated from Thailand and Burma long ago and are still known to use ancient scripts derived from their original homeland.
The second group of people of Adis, Akas, Apatanis, Bungnis, Nishis, Mishmis, Mijis, Thangsos etc. worship the Sun and the Moon God, namely, Donyi-Polo and Abo-Tani,believed to be the original ancestor of most of these tribes. Their religious rituals largely coincide with the phases of agricultural cycles. They traditionally practise Jhuming or shifting cultivation.
The third group comprises Noctes and Wanchos in the Tirap district . These are hardy people known for their structured village society in which the hereditary village chief still plays a vital role. The Noctes also practise an elementary form of Vaishnavism.
