Tawang
Tawang is a hidden gem of the Indian Himalayas, offering a captivating mix of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled amidst the snow-capped mountains, Tawang is a serene and picturesque town with lush valleys, pristine rivers, and dense forests.
The rolling hills and alpine landscapes make it a heaven for nature lovers and photographers. For adventure enthusiasts, Tawang offers opportunities for trekking, camping, and exploring high-altitude passes like Sela Pass, Bum la Pass. The area is also known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it ideal for wildlife lovers.
The second-largest Buddhist monastery in the world is in Tawang and is an important centre for Buddhism. Tawang’s culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism, and it has a unique blend of local traditions and Tibetan influences. The town is known for its vibrant festivals, colourful prayer flags, and intricate architecture.
Due to its strategic location on the India-China border, Tawang has its historical importance. The town also has a legacy tied to the 1962 Sino-Indian war.
How to Reach Tawang
Tawang is well-connected by road and can be accessed from different parts of India. However, due to its remote location, it is advisable to plan your travel carefully.
By Air:
Tezpur Airport, Assam is the nearest airport to Tawang, which is about 320 km away. You can take a flight to Tezpur from major cities like Guwahati, Kolkata, New Delhi etc. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Tawang.
By Train:
The closest major railway station is Tezpur, Assam, which is around 320 Km away from Tawang or alternatively, you can also travel to Guwahati Railway Station (518 Km). You can take a train to Tezpur from major cities like Guwahati, Kolkata, New Delhi etc.
By Road:
The most common way to reach Tawang is by road. The journey can be long and challenging but it offers spectacular views of the mountains and valleys. From Guwahati it will take around 12-14 hours via Bhalukpong, Assam and Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh.
Permit Requirement:
To visit Tawang, you’ll need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), as it’s a protected area. You can obtain an ILP from the District Magistrate’s office in Tezpur or the Arunachal Pradesh Tourism office in Guwahati. Some tour operators may also arrange permits.
Best Time to Visit:
Summer (March to June): Ideal for sightseeing and exploring the landscapes.
Autumn (September to November): Pleasant weather, perfect for trekking and photography.
Winter (December to February): A great time for snow lovers, as the region experiences snowfall, though it can be extremely cold.
Monsoon (July to August): The region is prone to landslides and heavy rainfall, so it’s better to avoid visiting during this period.
Places to Visit in Tawang:
There are so many places worth visiting in and around Tawang like Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Bum la Pass, Jaswant Garh War Memorial, P.T. Tso Lake, Madhuri Lake (Shungatser Lake), Nuranang Waterfall etc.
Tawang Monastery (Gonpa)
Tawang Monastery, also known as Gonpa, is perched at an altitude of around 10,000 feet on a hill, offering spectacular views of the Tawang valley and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. The setting is tranquil and provides a perfect backdrop for reflection and meditation. The surrounding landscapes, dotted with green valleys, mountain streams, and forests, make the monastery a peaceful and serene retreat.
Founded in 1681, Tawang Monastery was established by Merak Lama under the guidance of the 5th Dalai Lama. It has long been a center of learning, culture, and spirituality for Buddhists in the region. The monastery is a major center for Tibetan Buddhism, especially for the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) Sect. Over the centuries, Tawang Monastery has played a crucial role in preserving Tibetan culture, Buddhist teachings, and traditional practices.
Tawang Monastery is a symbol of peace, spirituality, and Tibetan Buddhist heritage. It is a marvel of Tibetan architecture, constructed in the traditional style with golden roofs, red-painted walls, and intricate decorations. The main structure houses the central prayer hall (Assembly Hall), which is decorated with murals, Tibetan thangkas (paintings), and statues of important Buddhist figures. A large golden statue of Buddha, about 26 feet tall, is a focal point of the prayer hall, offering a serene presence.
The monastery complex includes courtyards, living quarters for monks, meditation rooms, and prayer wheels that visitors can spin for good luck.
The Torgya Festival is one of the biggest events held at the monastery, typically celebrated in January / February. It involves traditional dances, prayers, and rituals performed by the monks. The festival is a celebration of good harvest and spiritual renewal.
Losar (Tibetan New Year) is also celebrated with great enthusiasm, with prayers, dances, and feasts. During these festivals, the monastery is beautifully decorated with prayer flags, and visitors can witness vibrant cultural performances.
The monastery has a museum that displays ancient Buddhist texts, scrolls, statues, and artifacts, providing insight into the monastery’s rich history and Tibetan Buddhism. The library of the monastery houses a vast collection of ancient Buddhist scriptures and texts in Tibetan and Sanskrit. It is an important resource for scholars and monks alike.
Sela Pass
Sela Pass is a stunning high-altitude mountain pass situated at an elevation of about 13,700 feet (4,170 meters). Located around 78 km from the town of Tawang and around 120 km from Bomdila, connects the town to the rest of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. It is one of the most picturesque and popular spots in the region, offering breath taking views of snow-capped peaks, valleys, and alpine lakes.
The road to Sela Pass is often winding and steep, with sharp turns and sudden changes in weather, making the drive an adventurous and somewhat challenging experience. The pass is open year-round, but during winter, the region can experience heavy snowfall, and roads may be blocked temporarily due to snow accumulation. Travelers need to check road conditions in advance. Sela Pass is a must-visit for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those looking to experience the unique blend of scenic beauty, culture, and history in Arunachal Pradesh.
Sela Pass is also considered sacred by the locals, who believe that the area is home to several deities. The pass is named after Sela, a local deity worshiped by the indigenous Monpa tribe. A small temple dedicated to Sela can be found at the pass, and many local people stop here to offer prayers before continuing their journey. The region around Sela Pass is rich in biodiversity, with several species of birds and wildlife. The area is also known for its lush alpine vegetation and beautiful rhododendron trees that bloom in spring.
Sela Pass has strategic military significance because it lies on the route that connects India with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region. It is one of the most important routes in the area, and the Indian Army maintains a strong presence here to safeguard the border.
Sela Lake
Also known as Paradise Lake, is a prominent highlight of the pass. The lake, nestled amidst the mountains, is a serene spot for photography and reflection. Apart from it, there are several other alpine lakes in the region that are worth visiting. The lakes are surrounded by thick forests and offer a peaceful environment. The area around the pass offers sweeping views of the Eastern Himalayas, including snow-capped peaks and green valleys. The panorama makes it a great spot for photography and nature lovers.
Bum la Pass
Bum La Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located at an elevation of about 15,200 feet (4,633 meters). Situated near the Indo-China border, it holds great strategic importance and offers breath taking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, valleys, and rugged terrain. The pass is one of the most visited spots by travellers in the region due to its historical significance, natural beauty, and proximity to the international border.
Bumla Pass is known for its connection to the 1962 Sino-Indian War, where Indian forces fought to defend the region against Chinese advances. Today, the area is closely monitored by the Indian Army, and it serves as an important route for military and logistical purposes. To visit Bumla Pass, tourists are required to obtain special permits from the Indian Army and the local administration.
The pass offers panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas and is a great place for photography and sightseeing. The surrounding region, often covered in snow during winter, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to experience the glaring beauty of the high-altitude landscapes. The serene atmosphere, coupled with its historical significance, makes Bumla Pass a must-visit destination in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.
Jaswant Garh War Memorial
Jaswant Garh War Memorial is a significant historical site, dedicated to the memory of Lance Naik Jaswant Singh Rawat, a brave soldier of the Indian Army who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
The memorial is situated at Jaswant Garh, around 24 km from the town of Tawang, and is a tribute to the courage, valour, and patriotism of Jaswant Singh Rawat, who single-handedly defended an Indian position at Bumla Pass against the Chinese forces. In the face of overwhelming odds, he held off the enemy for 72 hours before being martyred. It is said that he fought valiantly, using his knowledge of the terrain and his indomitable will, making him an iconic figure in India’s military history.
The Jaswant Garh War Memorial stands at the site of his heroic last stand, and visitors can pay their respects at the memorial, which includes a statue of Jaswant Singh Rawat and a plaque detailing his remarkable bravery. The memorial also features an inscription that recounts his heroics, serving as a reminder of his selflessness and dedication to duty. The area is surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of the Eastern Himalayas, adding to its solemn and peaceful atmosphere.
P.T. Tso Lake
P.T. Tso Lake, also known as Pangateng Tso Lake, is a picturesque high-altitude lake located at an elevation of about 13,000 feet. The lake is named after the Monpa tribe’s deity, and locals believe it to be a sacred site. It is situated around 30 km from Tawang town and is a serene and tranquil destination that attracts nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts.
The lake is surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains, alpine meadows, and lush green valleys, making it a perfect spot for photography, relaxation, and nature walks. The lake’s pristine waters reflect the surrounding landscape, adding to its natural beauty. The area around the lake is rich in flora and fauna, with migratory birds and a variety of wildflowers adding to the charm.
It is relatively less visited compared to other tourist spots in the region, which makes it an ideal place for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy solitude in a peaceful environment. Due to its remote location and high altitude, it is advisable to visit P.T. Tso Lake with a local guide. The best time to visit is during summer (March to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and the lake’s beauty is at its peak.
Shungatser Lake (Madhuri Lake)
Shungatser Lake is a serene and beautiful high-altitude lake located approximately 30 kilometers from Tawang, at an elevation of about 12,000 feet. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and dense forests, it is a peaceful haven for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers.
The lake also known as Madhuri Lake because the famous Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit shot a song sequence for the movie “Koyla” in 1997. The pristine waters of the lake reflect the stunning landscapes, making it an excellent spot for photography, especially in the summer and autumn months when the scenery is lush and vibrant.
Madhuri Lake is relatively less crowded, offering a tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist spots in Tawang. To reach the lake, visitors can trek from a nearby road point, which takes about an hour.
Nuranang Waterfall (Jang Falls)
Nuranang Waterfall, also known as Jang Falls or Bong Bong Falls, is a stunning waterfall located around 40 Km from Tawang. Nestled amidst the lush green forests and towering mountains, it is one of the most beautiful and accessible waterfalls in the region, making it a popular tourist spot.
The waterfall is around 100 meters tall, with water cascading down in a series of steps, creating a mesmerizing sight. The surroundings are tranquil, with dense forests, rocky terrain, and mist rising from the falls, adding to its magical appeal. The roar of the water as it plunges into the pool below enhances the serene atmosphere. It was also filmed in “Koyla”.
Jang Falls is easily accessible by road, and visitors can get a close view of the waterfall from a well-maintained viewpoint. The scenic drive through the winding mountain roads adds to the overall experience.
The best time to visit Nuranang Waterfall is during the summer (March to June) and monsoon (July to September) months when the waterfall is at its full splendour, flowing with vigour. The surrounding area, with its lush greenery, is also a beautiful sight during autumn.
Tawang War Memorial
The Tawang War Memorial is a significant monument located in the town of Tawang. It was built to honour the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The memorial stands as a tribute to the Indian Army personnel who fought valiantly to protect the country’s borders, particularly in the Tawang region, which was strategically important during the conflict.
The war memorial is located at the entrance to Tawang and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including the majestic Eastern Himalayas. It features an Eternal Flame, which burns in remembrance of the fallen soldiers, and engraved plaques listing the names of the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the war.
In addition to the memorial, there is a small museum that showcases the history of the 1962 war, with photographs, war relics, and detailed accounts of the soldiers’ bravery. The site serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the Indian forces and is a place of reverence for both locals and visitors.
Things to Keep in Mind:
Weather: It can get very cold, especially in winter, so pack accordingly.
Altitude: Tawang is located at a high altitude, so be prepared for possible altitude sickness. Stay hydrated, and take it easy for the first day to acclimatize.
Travel Insurance: Due to the challenging terrain and remote location, it’s a good idea to have travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation.
Safety: Be cautious while traveling on mountain roads, especially during the monsoon season, as landslides are common.
Cultural Respect: Arunachal Pradesh has a rich cultural heritage, so be respectful of local customs and traditions.
