assam tourism tawang

Top Things to Do in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Places to visit in tawang, explore popular experiences, ways to tour tawang.

10D/9N Assam-Meghalaya-Arunachal pradesh

Tawang (Arunachal) Motorbike Tour on RE Himalayan 410cc

Heritage & Cultural Walk of Tawang (2 Hours Guided Walking Tour)

6 days Private Tawang Roadtrip

The Buddhist Monasteries Tour of Bomdila, Tawang & Dirang

Touristic Highlights of Tawang (Guided Full Day City Sightseeing Tour by Car)

Assam & Arunachal The Buddhist Monasteries & Tribal Culture Tour

Cultural & theme tours, top attractions in tawang.

Other Top Attractions around Tawang

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & custom tours, multi-day & extended tours, what travellers are saying.

Madhuri Lake
Tawang Buddhist Monastery
Jaswant Garh
Nuranang Falls
Pangateng Tso Lake
Tawang War Memorial

Things to Do in Tawang, India - Tawang Attractions

Things to do in tawang, explore popular experiences, ways to tour tawang.

10D/9N Assam-Meghalaya-Arunachal pradesh

Tawang (Arunachal) Motorbike Tour on RE Himalayan 410cc

Heritage & Cultural Walk of Tawang (2 Hours Guided Walking Tour)

6 days Private Tawang Roadtrip

The Buddhist Monasteries Tour of Bomdila, Tawang & Dirang

Touristic Highlights of Tawang (Guided Full Day City Sightseeing Tour by Car)

Assam & Arunachal The Buddhist Monasteries & Tribal Culture Tour

Cultural & theme tours, top attractions in tawang.

Other Top Attractions around Tawang

Tours & Sightseeing

Private & custom tours, multi-day & extended tours, what travelers are saying.

Madhuri Lake
Tawang Buddhist Monastery
Jaswant Garh
Nuranang Falls
Pangateng Tso Lake
Tawang War Memorial

Tawang Travel Guide: (Including Dirang, Bomdila, Shergaon & More)

November 19, 2020
Arunachal Pradesh , States

Tawang does not really need much of an introduction. It is one of the places in Arunachal that was always on the tourist map, while people had no clue about other parts of the state. Naturally, it is also the most developed area in terms of tourism. The nature of the terrain is such that you don’t just visit one place. When you plan for Tawang, you normally have a few days at hand and also make stops at either Bomdila or Dirang. However, there are dozens of underappreciated spots on the entire route and if you want, you can easily extend your trip for a couple of weeks.

Table of Contents

Tawang Travel Guide

Understanding bomdila tawang circuit.

Things to do in and around Tawang

Tawang, bordering Tibet on the north-western corner of Arunachal Pradesh, is a major center of Tibetan Buddhism and it has played an important role in their history. The fact that the Sixth Dalai Lama was born in Tawang in the 17 th century, tells us of the importance of the town in the Tibetan world. It is dominated by Monpa people.

Tawang Monastery

The 400-year-old Tawang Monastery atop the hill dominates the landscape of Tawang and it is the largest monastery in India and second-largest in the world after the one in Lhasa, which itself makes it worth a visit.It is a massive complex that takes time to explore fully. You can also attend the morning payers for a spiritual experience, but you will have to wake up before 5 AM.

Se La Pass and Lake

Se La, often mistakenly called Sela Pass (because La means Pass), is a 4170 meter high pass that connects West Kameng and Tawang districts. So, it is basically the gateway to Tawang and at such a high altitude, you can expect to find snow during most of the year. There is a lake near the summit, called Sela Lake, which is considered sacred in Tibetan Buddhism.

Sangester Tso (Madhuri Lake)

This lake is located near Bum La. It was created by the falling rocks of an earthquake and decaying trees can still be seen in the middle of the lake. After the shooting of Bollywood film Koyla, people started calling it Madhuri Lake after Madhuri Dixit but the original name is Sangester Tso. You will also come accross another lake called PT Tso en route.

Nuranang Falls

A beautiful waterfall is located at a slight diversion from the town of Jang, which is at the midpoint between Se La and Tawang. The best views here are in the afternoon, on a sunny day, when the light falls directly and creates a rainbow.

Tawang War Memorial

The war memorial, as the name suggests, commemorates fallen heroes and is maintained by the Indian Army. There is a big chorten underneath which there is a small museum with maps, arms, and details from the war of 1962.

Jaswant Garh

It is another war memorial just after Se La. It is located at a high altitude and commemorates the story of rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat who fought bravely but lost his life in the 1962 war. His belongings can still be seen here. There are some local legends associated with him too.

Giant Buddha Statue

Just like any oher Buddhist town, Tawang has a huge Buddha statue overlooking the town. Views are good from here and there are some other interesting sculptures too.

Urgelling Gompa

It is a smaller but a very important monastery in Tawang. This 14th century gompa is even older than the main Tawang Monastery and the 6th Dalai Lama was born here. Do visit the ancient stupas inside one of the houses. It’s around 3 km from Tawang city centre.

Offbeat things to do around Tawang

Beyond the obvious attractions described above, there are many interesting things one can do in and around Tawang. Ani Gompas (Nunneries), Brokpa Yak Herders, Birding in Se La, Mokto Papermakers, Chakzam Bridge, Geshila Peak & much more unexplored delights from offbeat Tawang.

Here is a more comprehensive list of Offbeat Things to do in Tawang .

Top Places to Visit on the Tawang-Dirang-Bomdila Circuit

Bhalukpung is a small town on the Assam-Arunachal border, divided between both states. It is located on the banks of a beautiful blue river which is called Kameng in Arunachal and Jia Bhoroli in Assam. It is a regular stop for people going towards more famous Tawang and is a picnic spot for locals. However, Bhalukpung itself has enough to lure the visitors, especially for nature lovers and combined with nearby Seijosa, it is considered to be a circuit on its own by Arunachal Tourism. It is also known for adventure activities like river rafting.

Tipi Orchid Center

Tipi is a few KMs ahead of Bomdila. It is known for its orchidarium. The jungles behind Tipi is the Sessa Orchid Sanctuary. Especially the spring season is the best for orchids. In case you have not realized yet, Arunachal is one of the richest places for orchids with more than 600 recorded varieties.

Bomdila is the headquarter of West Kameng district. It is the biggesttown in the region with a huge monastery at the center and many smaller monasteries. There are many hotels and homestays here and the market is also worth a visit if you want to buy local products.

Dirang is a beautiful Monpa town 40 KMs ahead of Bomdila, with a famous monastery with an ethereal setting. There is also a hot water spring here which is very famous and you can take a dip here too if you have time. There is also an ancient gompa nearby and simply walking around the valley can be a delightful experience. Nearby Dirang Dzong is the original village here which was built around a fortress. You can go trekking over the valley and also visit some offbeat ares like Chugh Valley.

Tenga & Rupa

Tenga Valley is the region that you cross before Bomdila. This region has significant military presence and it is the gateway to the Eagle’s Nest Sanctuary. The alternative route via Shergaon also meets here. There are additional attractions ian and around such as the Chilipam Gompa. .

Eagle’s Nest Wildlife Sanctuary

Average travellers may not have heard of Eagle’s Nest Sanctuary but it is the holy grail for bird watchers. It is located on the western side of Bhalukpong to Bomdila route with an entry from Tenga. It boasts of an extensive array of flora and fauna. Some of the birds available here include rufous-bellied hawk-eagle, pied falconet, common hill-partridge, temminck’s tragopan, ashy wood-pigeon, rufous-necked hornbill, ward’s trogon, golden-throated barbet, crimson-breasted pied-woodpecker, pale-headed woodpecker, grey-chinned minivet, eye-browed thrush, gould’s shortwing, grey-sided laughing-thrush, red-faced liocichla, coral-billed scimitar-babbler, wren-babblers, red-tailed minla, tit-babblers/fulvettas, yuhinas, parrotbills, mountain tailorbird, tesias, flycatcher-warblers, rufous-bellied and grey-crested tits, brown-throated treecreeper, yellow-bellied flowerpecker, mrs gould’s and fire-tailed sunbird, gold-naped black-finch, bullfinch etc.

Mandala is the best-kept secret for bird watchers. Actually, serious birders know about it already, while no one else has even heard of it. It is a secluded high altitude spot around 25 KMs from Dirang with a lodge frequented by hardened birders and photographers. A Buddhist monument with 108 Manes have been built here too, which draws many visitors.

Thembang is a traditional village centered around a fortress (Thembang Dzong). It is an ancient village with centuries-old structures and a great place to experience Monpa history and culture.

Shergaon is a small diversion from Bomdila. It is a region dominated by the Buddhist Sherdukpen people. It was lesser-known until recently but it is beginning to grow its tourism of late. You can stay at the local homestay and experience the rustic charm and walk along the fruit orchards experiencing yet another exotic culture. The local Gompa as well as the Choskorong waterfall are worth visiting too. Nearby Morshing is a Monpa village higher up and from there you can drive or hike to Lagayla Gompa , yet another historical monastery with many stories associated with it.

Sangti Valley

Sangti Valley is a short diversion from Dirang. It is a beautiful secluded valley inhabited by the Monpas that is slowly beginning to get famous. During spring, these meadows get covered with colourful orchids and wildflowers.

Trekking in Tawang

There are many trek routes all over these mountains although not all have been properly explored. The most important long trek here is the Bailey’s Trail, which starts from somewhere near Thembang and ends near Mago, near the border. A lot of small hikes are possible, especially in the lower hills of West Kameng. I recently did a short hike around Dirang Valley and it was delightful. So, the potential of this field here needs to be explored.

Gorichen is the main range that dominates the horizons here and you will see the peaks, however, climbing the actual peak or even reaching the base camp may not be easy as it is a sensitive border region and permits are not easy for general tourists.

People, Culture & Festivals in Tawang & West Kameng

This region is dominated by the Monpas who are Buddhists and have close historical relations with nearby neighbouring Bhutan as well as Tibet. Monasteries, stupas and other Buddhist structures dominate the landscapes. The Shergaon region is inhabited by a different Buddhist group called the Sherdukpens while you will find another small group called Buguns near the Eagle’s Nest Sanctuary.

Local cuisines, culture, apparel, handicrafts etc are worth exploring too. If you are in the mood for shopping, you can always explore the local markets. The emporiums in Bomdila and Tawang also have a good collection of authentic handicrafts.

There are many festivals that take place throughout the year. For example, I attended the monastic festival of Torgya in January at Tawang Gompa. There are many others like Losar, Saga Dawa, Choe Kor, etc. Check this for a complete list . Ask the locals for dates if you want to attend them. Apart from them, a touristy Tawang Festival is also organized nowadays every October.

How to Reach Tawang?

By bus or shared car (timings & rates from tezpur & guwahati).

Guwahati to Tawang is 445 KMs and generally, people do not cover it in one go and halt at either Bomdila or Dirang, as it is a very long and tedious journey that also involves crossing the 4100 meters high Sela Pass. If you are reliant on public transport, you can look for morning buses from ISBT Guwahati. It leaves at around 7 AM and reaches Bomdila by the evening. Next morning, you can find Tawang Bus from Bomdila. Guwahati to Bomdila bus costs around INR 500-550 and Bomdila to Tawang will cost around INR 350-400.

If you are already in Tezpur, you can look for shared cars (Sumos) going upwards in the morning. You can stop directly to Tawang to stop at Bomdila or Dirang. They generally leave very early in the morning around 5.30-6 AM.

Tezpur to Bomdila INR 500-600

Tezpur to Dirang INR 700

Tezpur to Tawang INR 1200-1400

Car or Bikes

If you have your own vehicle, still you will have to halt one night around Bomdila or Dirang as it will be a very tedious journey. Also, be careful about crossing the Sela Pass on the second day. As it happens with high passes, you are never sure when it snows or when the weather deteriorates.

Where to Stay in Tawang?

Best Season to visit Tawang?

Personally, I feel the spring & early summer (March-May), as well as post-monsoon months (September-October), are the best time to visit the Tawang circuit. I visited in January, the peak of winter. You may like it if you have some fascination for snowfall but, to be honest, I prefer warmer weather when visibility is better and easier to roam around.

Mobile and Internet Connectivity in Tawang

Mobile and data connectivity was reasonably good all along the Tawang-Bomdila circuit on my Airtel connection. There is no problem at all in lower areas such as Bomdila & Dirang. Once you cross the Se La, I expected it to be weak in Tawang but it was still working. Tawang has electricity issues and so there are occasional power cuts and the network also goes down during those times but it works when the power is there.

Can you suggest someone to plan a trip for Tawang?

Visiting on your own is possible but can be difficult, especially to find the really offbeat stuff. If you need help, you can always contact someone like HolidayScout who can arrange everything for you.

Inner Line Permits (ILP) for Tawang

As you probably know, you need this permit to enter Arunachal. You can get it online or if you are going through a tour operator, you can get it through them. Check this post on Arunachal ILP for details.

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25 Awesome Things To Do In Tawang For EveryOne

There are many incredible things to do in Tawang, one of the top places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. This town, known for its 400-year old monastery, the largest in India, also entices its visitors with the charming valleys surrounded by the stunning snow-capped Himalayan mountains. From monasteries to beautiful glacial lakes to impressive waterfalls, you will love your time here exploring Tawang attractions, whether you are here for a weekend or more.

While the winter snow makes it a magical Winterland, summer, monsoon, and spring brings in the best colors as the wildflowers, lush forested mountains, and valleys filled with flowing rivers, streams and waterfalls, making Tawang an all-year destination for every kind of traveler.

You can base yourself in this well-connected town to drive further as well, making it one of the best destinations. So in this post, I am sharing the top things to do in Tawang, things to know before you plan your trip, where to stay and what to do to help you make a fantastic Tawang itinerary.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN TAWANG

Visit tawang monastery.

One of the top things to do in Tawang is paying a visit to the iconic landmark, the Tawang Monastery. Did you know? It is the largest monastery in India and the second largest in Asia. This monastery, located atop a hill at over 10,000 meters, also known as the Gaden Namgyal Lhatse, is one of the oldest monuments, with its foundation dating back to over 400 years by Mera Lama Lodre Gyasto.

The monastery is one of the top places to visit in Tawang, thanks to its rich history, stunning architecture, and excellent location. It offers a fantastic view of the Tawang town and the valleys beyond, including the beautiful Tawang – Chu valley.

This monastery resembles a high-walled fortress in architecture, with tall stone walls forming the exterior of the spacious sanctuary spanning the hill. This mansion-like monastery is not just a place of worship but an institution itself.

More than 65 residential complexes ensure the functioning of the many monasteries, administration, and home to more than 400 Buddhist monks of different ages.

Tawang monastery is not just one of the top Tawang attractions, but it is a major site for the Buddhists undertaking religious and spiritual journeys.

The monastery is the venue for one of the most colourful festivals of Arunachal , the Tawang Festival , which is held on a very grand scale every year, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors.

The prominent statue of Lord Buddha is the central attraction, which towers over its visitors at over 8 meters in height set amidst a beautifully decorated temple hall Dukhang. The temple’s interiors are adorned with intricate works, including different kinds of paintings depicting the Bodhisattvas.

Pay a visit to the well-preserved museum with ancient scripts and artefacts that give glimpses of its history, architecture, and the Buddhist scriptures.

Opening hours – 7 AM to 7 PM

Entry Fee – No entry fee

Distance from Tawang – 2kms

Pay Tributes at the Tawang War Memorial

There is no better place to understand the past of Tawang than visiting the Tawang War Memorial. It is one of the best places to visit in Tawang, where you can pay tributes to the martyred Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the 1962 Indo-China War, in whose memory stands this 40-feet structure amidst the mountains of the Himalayas, overlooking the beautiful Tawang-Chu valley.

Tawang War Memorial is built to resemble a stupa, which you can reach by climbing a few steps. The prayer flags adorn the sky as you walk past the listings of the names of over 2500 Indian soldiers that gave their lives in the war.

The fantastic views of the mountains and the artefacts that remind you of the past will make you emotional for sure.

It houses a spectacularly built stupa engraved with the names of all the soldiers who died a brave death during the war. The stupa and the artefacts preserved from the war is sure to give you goosebumps and is one of the most important places to visit in Tawang.

Opening hours – 7:45 AM to 6 PM

Entry Fee – None

Distance from Tawang – 1km

Check out Urgelling Gompa

Another ancient monastery that needs to be listed under the best things to do in Tawang is the Urgelling Gompa. This 400-year old monastery is considered the birthplace of the Dalai Lama VI.

Unlike the Tawang monastery, Urgelling Gompa is much smaller and a lot quieter. Located 3kms from Tawang, it is one of the sacred monasteries among the Buddhists.

Evenings around the sunset are the best place to visit the Urgelling monastery. The weather is pleasant, and the views are fantastic, especially after the monsoons and spring season.

Distance from Tawang – 3 km

Pay Tributes to The Brave Martyrs At Jaswant Garh

If you wonder what to do in Tawang, how about paying respects to the brave soldiers laid to rest at Jaswant Garh? Located 21km from Sela Pass, you will pass through the memorial on the way to Tawang.

This site is dedicated to the rifleman Jaswant Singh, killed during the Indo-China War in 1962. A temple-like structure is built as a memorial, where you can also notice the names of the other martyrs that have lost their lives. It is worth stopping by to pay your tributes to these brave soldiers.

Opening hours – Any time

Distance from Tawang – 30 km

Enjoy the Peace At Taktsang Gompa

If you want to go to monasteries hopping in Tawang, one of the must-do attractions in Tawang you should check out is the lovely Taktsang Gompa.

This elegant monastery, located atop a hill at an altitude of over 13,000 feet, is blessed with surrounding lush valleys and majestic pine-forested mountains forming their backdrops.

If you are lucky, you might experience the clouds and the mist floating over your head as you admire the stunning views of the landscapes from the edge of a mountain at Taktsang Gompa.

This well-kept Buddhist monastery was honoured by Guru Padmasambhava’s visit during the 8th century. Meditate in one of the monastery’s halls, feel the breeze and take in the views on your visit to this beautiful Gompa, one of the best things to do in Tawang.

The best time to visit Taktsang Gompa is during the spring and summer seasons, as the monsoon and the winter months constantly experience road blockades due to landslides and heavy snowfall.

Opening hours – Day time

Distance from Tawang – 50 km

Shop at the Tibetan Settlement Market

If you love shopping, one of the fun things to do in Tawang is visiting the Tibetian Settlement Market, one of the best places to buy local products.

Also known as the Vihara market, you can find a wide range of products in this local market in the small shops, including handicrafts, handmade products like jute bags, wooden toys, woollen items, artworks, and more, a perfect place to shop for souvenirs to take back home, mainly traditional Buddhist items like prayer wheels, paintings, and statues of Buddha.

The Tibetan market is also a place to try the various street food of Tawang, as there are many cute cafes and local restaurants where you can try delicious momos, Thupka, and soups.

Distance from Tawang – 1 km

BEST THINGS TO DO IN TAWANG – ADVENTURE & NATURE

Admire the beauty of the sela pass.

One of the adventurous things to do in Tawang happens on your way to the town and out of it, the rugged Sela Pass at an elevation of almost 14,000 feet. It is the only road that connects Tawang and other towns around with the rest of the country.

Considered one of the highest high-altitude motorable passes globally, the journey along the Pass is packed with adventure. Thanks to the immense difficulty in making a road here, the winding roads are only made of gravel, filled with mud and can become dangerously slippery around monsoon and the winter season when it gets filled with snow.

Apart from watching out for altitude sickness, driving through the Pass is another adventure you will love.

The Buddhists regard the areas around the Pass to be very auspicious, with the legend being the Pass home to over a hundred glacial lakes.

Whether this is true or not, you can surely enjoy the gorgeous Sela Lake, which is one of the famous spots on the way to Tawang. Stop by this lake blanketed by snow during the winter or during the spring and summer when flowers decorate the areas around, and layers of mist envelope the lake’s surface, making it appear surreal.

No matter when you plan to go, stopping at the stunning Sela Pass is one of the best things to do in the Tawang itinerary.

Distance from Tawang – 78 km

Witness The Gorgeous Nuranang Waterfalls

One of the unusual places to visit in Tawang is near Zemithang town, the beautiful Nuranang Waterfalls. Also called Jang Falls or Bong Bong Falls, or the native name Bap Ten Kang , witnessing the beauty of these spectacular waterfalls plummeting from 100 meters high at over 6000 feet amidst the beautiful mountains is one of the best things to do in Tawang for nature lovers.

Did you know? A part of the Nuranang river, which originates at Sela Pass, drops off the peaks here, surrounded by the deep forests. If you time it right, you can walk to the base of the waterfalls and even walk behind swim, and relax in the vast pool below, thanks to its crystal clear waters.

It is located around just 40 km from Tawang town, so you can stop on your way to Bomdilla or Zemithang, or better, plan a day trip to Nuranang waterfalls from Tawang. Also, visit the hydel power plant beside the falls, which generates electricity for the nearby areas.

Opening hours – Daytime

Distance from Tawang – 40 km

Admire the beauty of Madhuri Lake or the Shonga-Tser Lake

One of the top Tawang attractions is the pretty Shonga-Tser Lake, located within 30 minutes drive from the town. It is one of the top things to do in Tawang for tourists, and it is no surprise given the beauty of this location and its gorgeous secluded location.

Shonga-Tser, a high-altitude glacial lake at 12,000 ft above sea level, is known for its excellent location amidst the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas and lush valleys. The lake became popular, attaining the name Madhuri after the lead Bollywood actress of the movie Koyla that was shot here.

Recommended: What is the best season to travel to Tawang?

You can take a hike around the lake, witness the beautiful bloom and the panoramic views. The lake is only open from late April to late October during summer, monsoon, and the early winter. It is best to visit Madhuri Lake during the summer when the roads are easier to navigate, and the weather is excellent.

Distance from Tawang – 42 km

Admire the Beautiful Penga Teng Tso Lake

Located very close to the town is one of the fantastic places to visit in Tawang, Penga Teng Tso Lake. Also known as P.T. Tso Lake, this beautiful lake is surrounded by stunning mountains that will be decorated with rhododendron and other wildflowers if you visit during spring or early summer.

The lake is one of the top things to do in Tawang in winter as it is frozen at that time, turning into a pretty skiing site. With the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas as the backdrop and amazing views available on every side, you will love your visit to the lake no matter when you go.

It is on the way to Shong-Tser lake, so you can combine your visit to check out both the famous lakes of Tawang. The best time to visit Penga Teng Tso Lake is April to October.

Opening hours – Daytime

Distance from Tawang – 17km

Explore the Beautiful Bumla Pass

Among the beautiful passes in Arunachal is Bumla Pass, located close to the Indo China border. Visiting this pass is one of the top things to do in Tawang for many reasons.

It is one of the remotest and furthest places in th state, accessed after you secure permits at the Office of the Deputy Commissioner in Tawang District and Indian army cantonment of Tawang. The pass is believed to be the passage the Dalai Lama took to escape from Tibet to India.

The location of Bumla Pass, at over 15,200 feet, is stunning, offering fantastic views of the many snowy peaks of the forested mountains of the higher Himalayas, the lush valleys dotted with the river, waterfalls, and flora.

The best time to visit Bumla Pass is on clear days of the spring, summer or after monsoons, from May to October, when you can have clear roads and manageable weather with clear skies.

Entry Fee – No entry fee; but permits are required to enter

Hike to Gorichen Peak

If you want an adventurous trip, one of the top things to do in Tawang is to plan a hike to Gorichen Peak at a 25,000 feet altitude.

It is the highest mountain in Arunachal, the third-highest Himalayan mountain peak in North East India. It is located between the Tawang and West Kameng districts of Arunachal Pradesh. You can get beautiful glimpses of Gorichen Peak on the way from Bomdila to Tawang.

Known as Sa-Nga Phu in the native language, the Kingdom of Deity, the mountain is a sacred peak for the Monpa tribe, who regard it as the protector of all evils.

Climbing this magnificent mountain is a challenge sought after by adventure seekers and mountain climbers. The trail offers splendid views of the valleys, with the peak providing a platform to soak in a 360-degree view of the top from above.

Given the rugged terrain and the high altitude, this trek is not for beginners, though. This challenging trek is for you if you are a seasoned and fit hiker willing to hike the trail for over a week in one of the most difficult terrains in Arunachal.

Most trekkers attempt the peak at the onset of spring and in the summer when the weather is at its best.

Distance from Tawang – 165 km

Enjoy Rafting in Kameng River

One of the adventurous things to do in Tawang is rafting in the Kameng River, one of the beautiful rivers in Arunachal. You can book your rafting tours after you arrive in Tawang. The best time for rafting is the summer months, from April to July. You do not need any prior rafting experience as well.

Depending on the activities and your preferences, you can book group rafting tours that involve pick up and drop or add hikes to the nearby spots and visiting attractions to the tour.

Try Mountain Biking

Thanks to its mountainous terrain, the areas around Tawang offer some of the most challenging tracks for mountain bikers. It gets better if you are a seasoned cyclist, but you can still try mountain biking in Tawang, even a beginner.

From peaceful monasteries to gorgeous viewpoints on the mountain tops, you can choose from the many broad trails of different difficulties. If you are in Tawang in the summer, do not miss signing up for bike tours, which is one of the fun things to do here.

OFFBEAT THINGS TO DO IN TAWANG

Check out nagula lake.

Another high altitude lake worth adding to your list of the fantastic things to do in Tawang is the pretty Nagula Lake located not far away from the town.

Its splendid location and the beautiful panoramic views are good reasons to visit this fantastic lake. Nagula Lake is also located close to the Indo China border, and you need permits if you plan to venture further around the lake.

The best time to visit Nagula is during the summer season when the weather is pleasant, and you can spot many rare species of birds.

Right after the monsoon is also a fabulous time as the lake will be at its maximum capacity, and the surrounding mountains and the valleys look lush with the fresh bed of forests after the monsoons.

Attend Tawang Festival

If you plan your trip right, you can attend one of the fantastic festivals of Arunachal – The Tawang Festival . One of the latest inclusions to the list of celebrations, this festival hosted by the tourism organization of Arunachal is the best event that combines cultural immersion with plenty of fun things to do and local activities.

At this festival, you can witness the unique culture of some of the tribes, their traditional dance performances, take part in the native games, and taste a wide range of exquisite local delicacies of many tribes, including the local liquor.

This 3-days festival is the perfect opportunity to explore the best of Tawang and be introduced to the unique heritage and culture of the state.

Head to Gyangong Ani Gompa

One of the lovely offbeat things to do in Tawang is visiting the nunnery Gyangong Ani Gompa. This monastery was established by Merag Lama, the founder of the main Tawang Monastery, for his sister. It is home to over fifty nuns and a pretty temple worth stopping by.

You have two options to reach Gyangong Ani – you can take a cable car from Tawang Monastery or do a small hike to reach the monastery, which starts at the north of Tawang Gompa.

Distance from Tawang – 2 km

Witness the Kinds of Locals In Homestays

If you are wondering where to stay in Tawang, I am biased to the homestays for many reasons. Although you can find plenty of hotels in Tawang in all budget ranges, experiencing a homestay in Tawang is one of the top things.

You get glimpses of the lives of the locals, get to taste their best food, alcohol, and get to know the many different stories and people.

I was bowled over by the warmth, kindness and hospitality of the people of Arunachal, which I only got to experience first-hand because of all the homestays that I stayed in.

Healthy home-cooked meals, family-friendly homes, friendly and helpful hosts will make your trip better, just like it did to me. So book your homestays when in Tawang for an incredible experience.

Visit Nearby Towns and Villages

While you can easily spend a weekend or three days in Tawang(or more), you can certainly get more of Arunachal’s beauty by exploring the many tiny hamlets nestling amidst the mountains.

You can check out the nearby Zemithang, Bomdilla, Dhirang, and other smaller villages for experiencing the local ways of life, going off the beaten attractions to go hiking, camping, and living with the locals.

You can plan your trip with North East Explorers for offbeat stays, and unique experiences as their local expertise mean they know the best of Tawang and other places.

Explore Banggachhang Lake

Among the lesser-known lakes in Tawang worth checking out is the lovely Banggachhang lake, located next to the Banggachhang Gompa. It is one of the sacred lakes to the Monpa Buddhists, with the legend being that the Guru Lopon Rimpoche visited this lake to meditate.

You can either drive to the lake or plan a hike, with the trail starting close to Sela Lake near the pass. This glacial lake is completely frozen during the winter months, but when the spring arrives, the landscape transforms beautifully as the snow melts while the wildflowers bloom in the surrounding valleys in the mountains.

It is one of the most secluded lakes in India, and getting there is an adventure for sure, whether you are driving or hiking. But no matter how you get there, you will love the stunning vistas, so make sure to check out this unusual place to visit near Tawang.

Distance from Tawang – 100 km

Plan Trips to Hot Springs

Not many know many beautiful thermal baths or hot springs located in remote Arunachal villages surrounded by stunning valleys dotted with mountains. These hot water springs are known for their medicinal value because of their high sulphur content.

If you are looking for some adventure in secluded locations, planning a trip to any of these hot springs is a fun idea.

Thingbu Hot Spring – Thingbu is one of the remote villages in Arunachal accessed by a drive of about 4 hours from Tawang. Although you cannot plan a day trip, you can stay a few days to experience the beauty of this village, especially its fantastic location.

The village is home to Thingbu hot springs in the Mago Chu River. You can also plan a hike from Jang village or drive from Jang to reach this pretty hot spring which is an excellent attraction to relax in the winters.

Hot Springs in Mago – Another remote village is Mago, home to many hot springs nestling amidst the mountains. You can spend overnight in the village and check out some of them along the local river.

HOW TO REACH TAWANG

Due to its remote location, you will need at least a day or two to reach and another two to return even if you opt for the fastest means of transport. Ensure you take this into account while planning your Tawang itinerary.

The fastest means of arriving at Tawang is by taking a flight. The nearest airport to Tawang is Tezpur Airport, also known as Salonibari Airport , located in the neighbouring Assam state. It is about 390km from Tawang.

There are regular flights from many major Indian cities to Tezpur Airport. Once you reach there, you can book a cab to Tawang, which will take 6 to 7 hours or more depending on the weather conditions.

You can book a flight to the nearest Kolkata International Airport or the international airport of Guwahati, also known as The Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport if you are flying to India from abroad. From either of the airports, you can choose between cabs and buses.

The longest means to reach Tawang is choosing to arrive by roadways. The nearest city to start your journey by road is arriving at Guwahati or, better, Tezpur.

You can get a shared Tata Sumo or Mahindra Bolero from either of these cities or book a private taxi. The upside to the road trip to Tawang is all the fantastic landscapes you will pass by.

The nearest railway station to Tawang is Rangapara Railway Station in Thakurbari, Assam, about 383 kilometres. But only a few trains run to this station, mainly from Delhi to Rangapara.

From this train station, you have to book a private cab which will take around 11 hours to arrive at Tawang.

WHERE TO STAY IN TAWANG

It is not difficult to find Tawang hotels in all budget ranges, whether traveling alone or with your family.

If you are looking for hotels, check out Yul Pemakhar , which is 1km from the centre, and close to the main monastery.

Hotel Jhaktsang is an excellent hotel for families or couples looking for rooms with spacious balconies, views, and a better ambience. They also offer to pick up and drop services at an additional cost.

Hotel Taktsang is also an excellent hotel for couples and people traveling with kids.

If you are looking for homes and apartments, check out Vamoose North Hill , known for its excellent location and valley views.

If you want to stay close to the centre, Vamoose Dolma , located close to the old market, is the best choice.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THINGS TO DO IN TAWANG

What should i know before traveling to tawang.

Here are some tips and things to know before planning your Tawang trip.

Tawang and other places in Arunachal have minimal access. Along with that, the weather and the seasons heavily influence the road conditions. So avoid peak monsoons and winter days when roads are blocked due to landslides and snowfall.

Also, Tawang is a high altitude town, which means you might be prone to altitude sickness. It is best to be prepared(with medications and checkups) before you start your trip, especially if you have some pre-existing medical conditions or any elders who may have them.

Many underestimate the harsh weather, just like the high altitude conditions, which is not advisable. This is true, especially if you are planning to travel to Tawang during the winter when the temperatures drop to negative all the time.

So make sure to carry winter wear, including jackets, several layers of clothes, proper water-proof hiking shoes, gloves, and headgear.

You need to secure a permit to visit Arunachal Pradesh, known as ILP. Check this guide to find out how to get one.

Is it safe to visit Tawang?

Yes, it is safe to visit Tawang. Before travelling, some things to note are acclimatization to high altitudes, the weather, and road conditions.

Is Tawang safe for solo travel?

Yes, you can travel alone in Tawang or any part of Arunachal without worrying about safety. Make sure you take the general precautions, and you will enjoy your trip to this beautiful state.

What is Tawang famous for?

Tawang, the beautiful hilltop town in Arunachal, is famous for its 400-year-old monastery, the largest Buddhist monastery in India, and the second-largest in the world, after the Potala Palace in Lhasa.

How to reach Tawang from Tezpur?

Most people prefer driving from Tezpur in Assam to Tawang, which takes around 6 to 8 hours, depending on the weather conditions. You can also reach Tawang from Tezpur by train, which takes 6 hours.

How to reach Tawang by air?

The nearest international airport from Tawang is in Guwahati, 480 km. The nearest domestic airport is in Tezpur, 6 hours away.

What is the best time to visit Tawang?

The best time to travel to Tawang depends on your preferences and the kind of experiences you are looking for. Check this detailed Tawang weather guide for deciding what the best time for you is.

Is there snow in Tawang in May and June?

You may witness snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas from the town all year round, provided the temperature is ideal, but the best time to experience snow in Tawang is from January to March.

PS: I traveled in Arunachal with North East Explorers as a part of the partner collaborations, but all the opinions and thoughts are my own.

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Tawang Travel Guide: (Including Dirang, Bomdila, Shergaon & More)

Tawang Travel Guide

Understanding bomdila tawang circuit.

What you need to understand about the Tawang circuit is that it is not only about Tawang the town or for that matter Bomdila and Dirang. These are all important stops but there is much more to the region spread across two districts of Arunachal Pradesh, mainly West Kameng and Tawang. Apart from the expected hilly charm, Monpa culture, and Buddhist monasteries, there are sender valleys, bird-watching opportunities, orchid heavens, treks, and a few things beyond your wildest imaginations. This is also the most developed area in terms of tourism infrastructure in Arunachal. There are great facilities and friendly people and the dreaded roads have also improved of late, thanks to BRO. It is one of the main tourist circuits of Arunachal Pradesh , as defined by the state’s tourism department. See the following tourist map to have an idea about the routes around Tawang.

Tawang Dirang Bomdila Tourist Map Copy 768x448 1

Things to do in and around Tawang

Approach to tawang, se la pass and lake.

Nuranang Falls

Jaswant Garh

In & Around Tawang

Tawang monastery.

The 400-year-old Tawang Monastery atop the hill dominates the landscape of Tawang and it is the largest monastery in India and second-largest in the world after the one in Lhasa, which itself makes it worth a visit.It is a massive complex that takes time to explore fully. You can also attend the morning prayers for a spiritual experience, but you will have to wake up very early in the morning.

Urgelling Gompa

It is a small but very important monastery in Tawang. This 14th century gompa is even older than the main Tawang Monastery and the 6th Dalai Lama was born here. Do visit the ancient stupas inside one of the houses. It’s around 3 km from Tawang city centre.

Tawang War Memorial

Khinmey Gompa

Khinmey Nyingma Monastery also known as Sang-ngag-choekhorling, is located a short 5-6 KM drive from Tawang. The name comes from the Monpa word meaning a “place for listening to the sound of barking dogs”. As per legends it was a thick forest teeming with wild animals. A legendary hunter from a nearby village met Rev. Kundun Sange Yeshe, the founder of the monastery, who was meditating in the jungle and became his disciple by giving up hunting. It is a Nyingma monastery dating back to 1440 AD. A massive statue of Medicine Buddha has also been built recently.

Giant Buddha Statue

Just like any other Buddhist town, Tawang has a huge Buddha statue overlooking the town. It is located higher up and the panoramic views are good from here.

Detours from Tawang

Sangester Tso (Madhuri Lake)

This lake is located near Bum La. It was created by the falling rocks of an earthquake and decaying trees can still be seen in the middle of the lake. After the shooting of Bollywood film Koyla, people started calling it Madhuri Lake after Madhuri Dixit, but the original name is Sangester Tso . You will also come across another lake called PT Tso en route.

Taktsang Gompa

Do not confuse it with the famous monastery in Bhutan with a similar name. However, this only shows how close the relations are between Bhutan and Tawang. This gompa is located around 45 KMs from Tawang, around 5 KMs from the Sungester Tso (Madhuri Lake). It was consecrated by a visit of Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century CE. It is located atop a hill and needs a short hike to reach.

Mukto Village Papermakers

It is a small village not known to many but it is home to one of the most unique crafts, that of papermaking through traditional means. They use the barks of a specific plant for this and there is a very unique process that they use. This paper is used mostly for writing religious texts at monasteries. It is an hour from Tawang but the roads are challenging and you’ll need some local help to spot the right household.

Geshela Peak

It is a lesser-known route that starts somewhere near PT Tso Lake and circumvents Tawang to reach Jang. It runs at a higher altitude, so much so that you can see the Tawang Monastery below you at a distance. A great offbeat route, Geshila route is covered with rhododendron forests and splattered with nameless lakes, and can be a delight for cyclists, bikers, and offroaders. Trekking can be great here too although not yet explored fully.

Chakzam Bridge

Around half an hour from Tawang, Chankzam is known for its hanging bridge over the powerful Tawang Chu river. However, this is just not another bridge! It is an almost six hundred years old iron bridge built by Tangton Gyalpo (1385-1464), a famous architect and builder of the Tibetan world who was a disciple of the first Dalai Lama. He was also known as Lama Chag-Zam Wangpo and the bridge is named after him. It is a great example of medieval engineering that is still functional.

Ani Gompas (Nunneries)

Tawang has a long tradition of Buddhist nunneries popularly called “Ani Gompas”. So, do note that there is not one but many such nunneries in Tawang and so do not get confused if different people give you different locations. The most famous and oldest one is the Brama dung- chung Ani Gompa (Also called Thukje Choeling), located 12 kms from Tawang. It was commissioned by Karchen Yeshi Gelek in 1595 and houses about 45 nuns. Some other famous nunneries include Gyangong Ani Gompa about 5 km from the Tawang Township with 50 nuns and Singsur Ani Gompa 28 KMs from Tawang, built by Gonpaste Rimpoche, housing around 45 nuns.

Thonglek Village

This is a small village around 25 kms from Tawang. It is one of the places where the Dalai Lama spent a night while he escaped from Tibet. To commemorate that event, a big monastery has been built here. You can also stay in the village and enjoy a rustic lifestyle for a day or two.

Lumla is a small settlement around 45 kms from Tawang on the way to Zemithang. It is famous for the massive statue of Tara Devi (Jetsun Dolma), a major Buddhist deity. A prayer hall is present underneath the statue. It is not far from the Bhutan border and from the statue atop a hillock, you can see the hills of Bhutan.

Zemithang is practically the farthest major point that you can reach from Tawang, around 70 Kms from the town. It is located in the northwestern corner of Monyul, not far from both Tibet and Bhutan. The most iconic spot here is the chorten at Gorsam constructed by Lama Prathar from Kharman village in Zemithang, in 13th Century A.D.and is modeled after that famous stupa in Nepal. Thousands of devotees visit it during the Gorzam Kora festival to observe the virtuous occasion during the last day of the first month of the lunar calendar

Meeting Brokpa Herders

The Brokpas of Arunachal are nomadic yak herders who make the yak cheese essential in local Monpa cuisine. If you go there in the winter, you can visit one of their settlements near the town. In the summers they disappear into the mountains with their hers, looking for grazing grounds for yaks. You may also come across them in case you travel.

Chumi Gyatse

Chumi Gyatse, also called Domtsang and Dongzhang waterfalls is a collection of waterfalls in the Tawang district in Arunachal Pradesh, India, close to the border with Tibet. According to the local Buddhist tradition, the 108 holly waterfalls which originate from in-between the mountains symbolise the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava.

Around Dirang & Bomdila

Bhalukpung is a small town on the Assam-Arunachal border, divided between both states. It is located on the banks of a beautiful blue river which is called Kameng in Arunachal and Jia Bhoroli in Assam. It is a regular stop for people going towards the more famous Tawang and is a picnic spot for locals. However, Bhalukpung itself has enough to lure the visitors, especially for nature lovers and combined with nearby Seijosa, it is considered to be a circuit on its own by Arunachal Tourism. It is also known for adventure activities like river rafting.

Tipi & Sessa

Tipi is a few KMs ahead of Bomdila. It is known for its orchidarium. The jungle behind Tipi is the Sessa Orchid Sanctuary. The local villagers have recently improved the road so that people can visit it. The spring season is the best for orchids. In case you have not realized yet, Arunachal is one of the richest places for orchids with more than 600 recorded varieties.

Bomdila is the headquarters of West Kameng district. It is the biggest town in the region with a huge monastery at the center and many smaller monasteries. There are many hotels and homestays here and the market is also worth a visit if you want to buy local products. The iconic GRL monastery here has three different parts. So, these are three monasteries, lower, middle, and upper gompas. The upper one is the biggest one. You can also visit the museum to understand the history and culture of the region and take a round of the local market if you want to spot exotic mountain products.

Additionally, there are some interesting things you can do around Bomdila. For example, there is a monk living in a small hillock, who is known as the “Oracle” . He reads some ancient texts and tells you about your future. You probably need some local help for finding the location but it is a fun activity if you have time. He stays at a small gompa that takes a short hike to reach. Similarly, the fruit orchards around the town also offer great views. Spring (blooming season) and post-monsoon (plucking season) are good times for this.

Dirang is a beautiful valley 40 KMs ahead of Bomdila. It is located at a lower altitude and hence is warmer than Bomdila. There are many monasteries here including the new and shiny Thupsung Dhargye Ling Monastery atop a cliff overlooking the entire valley as well as the ancient Khastung Gompa, located on a different cliff. There is also a hot water spring here which is very famous and you can take a dip here too if you have time.

The Dirang Town is actually a new development. The Dirang Dzong is the original village here which is built like a fortress. You’ll get here a few KMs before the new town. A walk around the Dirang Dzong is a great way to introduce yourself with Monpa culture, architecture and history. Hiking is also an option here (discussed separately below).

Sangti Valley

Sangti Valley is a short diversion of just 15 KMs from main Dirang Town and 10 KMs from Dirang Dzong. It is a beautiful secluded valley inhabited by the Monpas that is slowly beginning to get famous. During spring, these meadows get covered with colourful orchids and wildflowers. In the winters, certain migratory cranes usually arrive here. You can camp on the banks of the river too. A sheep breeding farm is another interesting spot you’ll see en route to Sangti.

Tenga & Rupa

Eagle’s Nest Wildlife Sanctuary

Average travellers may not have heard of Eagle’s Nest Sanctuary but it is the holy grail for bird watchers. It is located on the western side of Bhalukpong to Bomdila route with an entry from Tenga. It boasts of an extensive array of flora and fauna. More than 400 bird species have been spotted here and some new species have also been discovered here such as the Bugun Liocichla named after the Bugun people that live here. You can camp inside the sanctuary for a few days for better results.

Mandala Top

Thembang is a traditional village centered around a fortress (Thembang Dzong). It is an ancient village with centuries-old structures and a great place to experience Monpa history and culture.It is so ancient that according to some people it was established before the first century AD. It’s around 20 KMs from Dirang.

Around Shergaon & Rupa

Shergaon is a region dominated by the Buddhist Sherdukpen people. It was lesser-known until recently but it is beginning to grow its tourism of late. You can stay at the local homestay and experience the rustic charm and walk along the fruit orchards experiencing yet another exotic culture. The local Gompa as well as the Choskorong waterfall are worth visiting too. It’s a beautiful region covered with rhododendron forests as well as fruit orchards. Especially in spring, it gets covered with rhododendrons & cherry blossoms. Shergaon lies on a parallel route that connects Assam to Bomdila (Not the route through Bhalukpong). It is an award-winning village and there is much more to see and do here. SO, read my detailed blog on Shergaon here.

Morshing & Lhagyala Gompa

Morshing is a Monpa village higher up and from there you can drive or hike to Lhagyala Gompa , yet another historical monastery with many stories associated with it. As per one source, it was constructed by Kachen Lama in the 7th century, which makes it one of the oldest monasteries in the region, much older than the Tawang Monastery. Another source mentioned it as the birthplace of legendary queen Khandro Drowa Zangmo. Lhagyala Gompa is also a great repository of important texts, scrolls, and artifacts. Apparently, the term ‘Lhagyala’ itself means a repository of hundreds of large icons.

People, Culture & Festivals in Tawang & West Kameng

This region is dominated by the Monpas who are Buddhists and have close historical relations with neighbouring Bhutan as well as Tibet. Monasteries, stupas and other Buddhist structures dominate the landscapes. The Shergaon region is inhabited by a different Buddhist group called the Sherdukpens while you will find another small group called Buguns near the Eagle’s Nest Sanctuary.

There are many festivals that take place throughout the year. For example, I attended the monastic festival of Torgya in January at Tawang Gompa. Here is a longer list of festivals.

Losar is the new year in the Tibetan world. All the Buddhist communities celebrate Losar. It usually takes place around February. Preparation starts from the 12th month of the previous year..New clothes are bought, special fried loaves called “Bongp-nelap” and fried biscuits called Khapse are prepared, and houses are cleaned and whitewashed. A special gruel called “guthug” is made for dinner. Houses are decorated with colored paper flowers and auspicious drawings on the walls.A feast is prepared and prayers are offered for a prosperous new year.

Torgya

Torgya, also called Tawang Torgya, is a major monastic festival in Tawang, that has been organized here since the inception of the Tawang Monastery in the 16th century. It is generally done for the peace and prosperity of people and to ward off evil spirits. An image of the effigy, also called Torgya or Zshor, is made with barley and ghee and the image is later burned during the celebrations. More than 20 different types of performances take place during Torgya in the Tawang Monastery courtyard. It takes place in January, when it also snows in Tawang.

Gorsam Kora

Kora means circumambulation. So, it is basically a circumambulation of the Gorsam Chorten near Zemithang. It takes place in March and is accompanied by mask dances and other Buddhist rituals.It usually runs for 3 days and even people from neighboring Bhutan participate.

Choe-Kor

It is an important Monpa festival that is organized after the crops are sown and when the people in the villages have ample free time. It involves circumambulation with villages with holy images and scriptures organized by the community to pray for good harvest and to ward off evil spirits. It usually takes place around June.

Khiksaba is an indigenous non-Buddhist festival of the Sherdukpens. That means, it is traced back to ancient times even before they adopted Buddhism. It is meant to appease the forest deities and other mountain spirits. Such festivals are presided over by the local shaman.

Kro-Cheykor

Kro-cheykor is a Sherdukpen festival celebrated around June. The rituals here are designed to teach the younger generations and prepare them for the future with the elders as the role models. Ritualistic performances and celebrations take place amid the unadulterated hills.

Tawang Festival

It is a new tourism festival started a few years ago to attract new visitors. It takes place in Tawang. It combines traditional events with modern festivities, musical concerts, and celebrations. It usually takes place around October every year.

Shergaon Rhododendron Festival

This is a comparatively new festival designed to promote tourism in Shergaon. It is organized in March, during the peak of spring where the rhododendrons are in full bloom. Traditional masked dances, SHerdukpen pantomime, music, beauty pageants, local food and beverages etc can be enjoyed here, that too in the middle of a blooming spring of unparalleled beauty. Check this post for more details .

How to Reach Tawang?

The primary route followed for this circuit is Guwahati-Tezpur-Bhalukpong-Tipi-Bomdila-Dirang-Tawang . However, there is another route from Guwahati-Tezpur-Shergaon- Rupa – Bomdila-Dirang-Tawang. As you can see in the Map above, the difference is between Tezpur and Bomdila, while the rest of the route is the same. Both routes have various attractions and it is suggested that you take one route while going and one for coming out so that you can enjoy both.

Normally you can take a flight to Guwahati and then look for cabs or buses going towards Arunachal.There is also an airport at Tezpur so you can directly start at Tezpur. There is a helicopter service between Guwahati and Tawang too but it can always get affected by treacherous weather in those mountains and also the road trip has its own charm.

There is no train service on the Bomdila-Tawang route in Arunachal. The best you can do is to get a train from Guwahati or Kamakhya Station to Dekargaon (near Tezpur) and then look for local transport going into the hills.

By Bus or Shared Car (Timings & Rates from Tezpur & Guwahati)

Tezpur to Bomdila INR 500-600

Tezpur to Dirang INR 700

Tezpur to Tawang INR 1200-1400

Car or Bikes

Where to Stay in Tawang?

As a highly developed tourist area, Tawang has dozens of hotels, resorts, and homestays at various price points. For the best experience, look for a good homestay run by a local family, so that you can get an authentic Monpa experience.Similarly, at Dirang and Bomdila also there are many options available. I stayed in Dirang at Dirang Boutique Cottages in the outskirts of the town. Other smaller places also have options but not as many as these towns.

Best Season to visit Tawang?

Personally, I feel the spring & early summer (March-May), as well as the post-monsoon months (September-October), are the best time to visit the Tawang circuit. I visited in January, the peak of winter. You may like it if you have some fascination for snowfall but, to be honest, I prefer warmer weather when visibility is better and easier to roam around.

Mobile and Internet Connectivity in Tawang

Inner Line Permits (ILP) and Protected Area Permit (PAP) for Tawang

As you probably know, you need the Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Arunachal. You can get Arunachal ILP online or if you are going through a tour operator, you can get it through them. Foreigners need to get a Protected Area Permit (PAP) . For this, you can apply at the FRRO portal or visit any of these offices located at various Indian cities. If you find it difficult, you can get it through a registered tour operator from Arunachal if you are going through them.

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Tawang Travel Guide: All You Need To Know About The North-Eastern Destination Before Planning Your Next Trip

Tawang offers a unique experience to travellers, complete with history, culture, food and more. here's your guide to travelling to the place..

By: Anushka Goel Published: Sep 14, 2022 08:00 AM IST

Tawang Travel Guide: All You Need To Know About The North-Eastern Destination Before Planning Your Next Trip

Located in the Northwestern part of Arunachal Pradesh is the hill station of Tawang. The place offers a unique experience to travellers, complete with history, culture and food among other things. Here’s your guide to travelling to the mountain destination, and all you need to know about the place. By Anushka Goel

History of Tawang

Tawang, located in Arunachal Pradesh, shares one border with Tibet (China) and one with Bhutan. The stunning Himalayan destination is not too easy to reach, but makes for a picturesque destination. Complete with snow-capped peaks, pleasant lakes , a congenial climate, and friendly and hospitable people is lucrative enough for tourists. The sleepy town is also the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, as well as the destination of the Sino-Indian War. This gives it a rich, historical past which is definitely worth exploring.

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Apart from all this, the destination has surreal mountain views, hamlets, sleepy villages, magical Gompas, tranquil lakes and a lot more, allowing you to get up, close and personal with nature, culture and religion.

Tawang is home to several monasteries, including the Tawang Monastery (which has given the town its name). This monastery is the largest in the whole world, and has been around for years now. The place evokes a sense of calm and composure that is unique to the town, and all this combined with its ethereal beauty, abundance of flora and fauna and views that you can stare at for hours, makes it a popular travel destination among nature and adventure enthusiasts.

Best time to visit the town

Summers and monsoon are the ideal times to visit the Northeastern destination , as the ambient weather and manageable temperature will ensure that you are comfortable as you walk around and explore its beauty. So, plan your trip between March-October, avoiding the peak rainfall season in this period, for the trip of a lifetime.

Things to do at Tawang

Tawang monastery.

Tawang Monastery is the largest monastery in the whole world, and draws in pilgrims, monks and tourists every year. The place can house up to 700 monks, and overlooks the Tawang district, offering some of the best views in town. The main altar here has a tall Buddha statue, about 27 feet in height, which is among the major attractions here.

Urgelling Monastery

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Urgelling Monastery is the birthplace of Dalai Lama VI. The monastery is about 400 years old, and was destroyed during the Mongol attacks and Tibetan-Bhutanese battle. Today, a few remnants of the place remain, along with a sacred tree planted by the Dalai Lama. The place offers a serene, peaceful environment which draws visitors.

Jaswant Garh Memorial

Nestled amid the snow-capped peaks, a little ahead of Sela, is the Jaswant Garh War Memorial . The place is dedicated to the Indian Army sepoy, who lost his life in the Sino-Indian War and was later awarded the Maha Vir Chakra for his bravery.

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Drive on one of the highest motorable passes in the world when you cross Sela Pass. The place offers breathtaking views as well as the Sela Lake, a pristine, clear water body that will surely have your heart!

Bum La Pass

About 37 kilometres from Tawang is the Bum La pass, an important location in Tawang. The place is known for its mesmerising beauty and makes for a great spot for sightseeing. However, be sure to pre-plan your visit here, as you need permits to be able to visit.

See the Lakes

Legend has it that Tawang is home to about 101 lakes. While you may not be able to visit them all, be sure to witness the clear waters and blue sky views from at least a few of them.

Nuranang Waterfall

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The magnificent waterfall falls from a height of 100 metres, making it a sight to watch. The beautiful waterfall also often witnesses rainbows and will make your photography sessions all the more special here.

How to reach the place

The nearest airport is in Tezpur, Assam. From here, book a taxi to cover the distance, which will take you through mesmerising views, clean air, clear skies and more.

Distance from Tezpur: 331 kilometres

Tawang trip cost

Six-night tour packages to Tawang cost about INR 28,000 per person, on an average.

Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy of Soumyajit Dash/Unsplash

Related: Soon, You’ll Be Able To Board A Toy Train In Arunachal Pradesh’s Tawang

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Answer: Six days are enough to explore Tawang.

Answer: Winter clothes, including warm jackets and gloves, as the weather can get pretty chilly there.

Answer: Summers and monsoon, between March to September, are the best months to visit Arunachal Pradesh.

Tawang Valley
Tawang Valley in Arunachal Pradesh

Anushka Goel

Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument. Read Less

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One week Trip To Tawang Roadtrip Through Arunachal Pradesh

Home » Destinations » One Week Tawang Tour Package (Arunachal Pradesh)

One Week Tawang Tour Package (Arunachal Pradesh)

A road trip to Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh is one of the best road trips in North East India that you can go on. This Tawang tour package takes you through the deep valleys of the eastern Himalayas, deep inside the tribal areas of the state, historic Buddhist monasteries, and towering mountains . The Tawang monastery tour on this trip is one of the highlights of this Tawang tour package from Guwahati. And if you have another day to spare, you also make in a Kaziranga Tawang tour in 8 days . Whether done as a Meghalaya Tawang trip or just a Tawang road trip, this arunachal pradesh package tour is sure to keep you mesmerized every single moment, while you are here. Get ready to visit Tawang and experience the beauty of the place and its omnipresent Buddhist way of life in one of the best possible ways in this one-week Tawang trip.

Guwahati – Arunachal Pradesh North East Tour

The Guwahati – Arunachal Pradesh tour’s day-based itinerary will be as follow:

Day 1 – Guwahati to Bomdila / Dirang
Day 2 – Bomdila / Dirang to Tawang
Day 3 – Explore Things to see in Tawang
Day 4 – Tawang – PT Tso – Shungestar Lake (Madhuri Lake) – Bum La (India – China border) – Tawang*
Day 5 – Tawang to Bomdila / Dirang
Day 6 – Bomdila / Dirang to Guwahati

A Week-long trip To Tawang and Bum la including Bomdilla, Dirang, and Sangti Valley – Arunachal Pradesh

Day 1 – guwahati to dirang .

We start from the Guwahati airport in the morning and enjoy our drive through the golden fields of Assam before we start ascending the hills of Arunachal Pradesh , taking a newly built road that makes for a fantastic drive and even better views.

On our way, we stop by the beautiful Gyuto monastery and spend some time exploring it. We stop for lunch at a small Tibetan settlement en route for lunch before proceeding further ahead. We halt at a lovely little town Dirang, overlooking two mountain rivers, for the night.

Day 2 – Dirang to Tawang.

We start for Tawang today and en route stops at the Nyukmadung war memorial and pay our respect to the fallen soldiers there.

Next, we stop at the mighty Se la and soak in the gorgeous views on and around it. We visit & pay our respect at the Tawang war memorial there and then warm ourselves with piping-hot tea at the army canteen there before we resume our onward journey. We stop for a small stroll by the lovely Sela Lake if time permits and then start for our next stop, the Nuranang waterfall, the sheer grandness of which is sure to make your jaws drop.

We reach our lovely homestay in Tawang by late evening and call it a day.

Day 3 – Tawang Tour.

We start our day by visiting the largest monastery in the world, the Tawang Monastery . We explore the place at our own pace before heading to the Urgeling monastery, the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama and the Ani Gompa.

In the evening, we visit the war memorial and experience the light and sound show there.

Day 4 – Penga Teng Tso, Madhuri Lake and Bumla.

We start early today to explore the beautiful lakes and valleys in the higher reaches of the region. On our way to our first stop, the Penga Teng Tso, we drive through what was once the battlefield.

The scars of the war can be seen scattered all around. From there we head to the uniquely beautiful Sungester Lake , also known as the Madhuri lake of Koyla (the Bollywood movie) fame.

Finally, we head towards the India-China border at Bum-la and spend some time at the border before starting our return journey to Tawang.

Day 5 – Tawang to Bomdila/Dirang.

We drive down to the Buddhist town of Dirang/Bomdilla today, taking the same road we took on our way up to Tawang. Only this time we will stay at a unique and special place for the night instead of staying at the same homestay (if staying in Bomdila ). By evening, we reach Bomdilla and stay in the monastery for the night(if available) or else at a lovely Monpa homestay, of course after exploring it.

If we stay at Dirang, it will probably be the same wonderful Dirang homestay of ours that will be your stay for the night.

Day 6 – Bomdila/Dirang to Gauhati.

We wake up early today so that we can explore the monastery once again, this time while the monks are busy praying.

After a hearty breakfast at the monastery, we start our return journey back to Guwahati which marks the end of this beautiful trip.

All permits for Indian Nationals as required.
All Toll Charges.
A dedicated vehicle with a driver cum guide for the entire trip.
Local guide wherever required.
Accommodation for 5 Nights on a twin-sharing basis.
Breakfast on all mornings from Day 2 till the last day’s check-out.
Any personal/sanitary/medical expenses.
Any entry fees applicable at places you visit.
Any unplanned extension in the number of days staying.
Food and snacks.
Fee for the Bum La leg (Costs around Rs.5,500-6,000 per vehicle. To be paid in cash to tour representative.)
PAP Fee for non-Indian Passport Holders
Parking Fee
Anything that is not mentioned in the inclusions section above.

Cancellation & Refund

50% cancellation charge until 45 days before the start of the trip.
In case we cancel the trip for any unavoidable reason, we will refund 100% of the payment made to us. We will not be liable to pay any expenses the guest might have incurred (train tickets, flight tickets, etc.) to reach the starting point of the trip, Guwahati airport in this case.
Prices are subject to change without prior notice, based upon the cost of variables of the trip logistics.
Any govt. fee or Tax paid to us is non-refundable

* Non-Indians are not allowed towards Bum La and the upper reaches. For non-Indian passport holders, on this day, we will visit additional areas and attractions around Tawang. **Elephant safari is allotted by the Kaziranga National Park authorities, purely on an availability basis.

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4 Day Tawang Itinerary – Best Of Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Check out our Tawang Itinerary which covers all the best places to visit in Tawang Arunachal Pradesh and things to do in Tawang. This post is a perfect guide to Tawang.

Tawang, one of the best-known places in Arunachal Pradesh, India, is a mesmerizing melange of experiences, and here is a Tawang itinerary that packs in the best of Tawang and nearby attractions. The Tawang itinerary from Guwahati was part of our 11-day Arunachal Pradesh trip that was brilliantly curated by Holiday Scout , the best people to see the Northeast with.

Table of Contents

Tawang Itinerary – Places To Visit In Tawang

Tawang is a veritable smorgasbord of incredible experiences that straddle dimensions ranging from spirituality, nature, adventure, and much more. Whether you plan for a Tawang tour of 3 days, 4 days , or more, the things to do in Tawang and the places to see in Tawang and the vicinity will keep you busy. In a nutshell, Tawang is in many ways a traveller’s paradise.

Tawang Itinerary – About Tawang Valley | Tawang History

It is imperative to understand briefly the history of Tawang India and the legends associated with it before delving into the attractions and experiences that await you there. The origins of Tawang city date back to medieval times and are lost in the grey corridors of time.

Tawang is synonymous with the monastery that stands as its best-known icon and the history of both are inextricably linked.

Legend has it that, sometime in the latter half of the 17th century (1680-81), Merak LamaLodre Gyatso arrived from Lhasa on the instructions of the 5th Dalai Lama . His mission was to build a Buddhist monastery in the land of the Monpas . The land of the Monpa tribe stretched across what are now the districts of Tawang and West Kameng.

Merak Lama sat in deep meditation, hoping for divine guidance about where the monastery should come up. When he emerged from his meditation, he found his horse missing. He went in search of his horse and found it grazing on a beautiful and verdant hill that looked over the valley.

He found the place, perfect for a monastery, and taking this incident as a divine instruction, he decided to build the monastery there.

In the year 1680-81, the Tawang Monastery came up , it shone like a pearl, perched on a high cliff, caressed by clouds, a truly mystical place, and the perfect abode of the spirit of Buddhism. The monastery was known as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse, which in Tibetan means, “the complete paradise of divine victory .

“ The town that came up around the monastery came to be known as Tawang , which literally translates in Tibetan as “ chosen by the horse .”

Tawang has had a chequered political history. It was under the Tibetan administration till 1950, when Tibet lost its autonomy, and became a part of the Peoples’ Republic of China. Tawang thus came under the control of the Chinese. It was in the year 1951, that India finally took control of Tawang.

However, the 1962 war with China saw Tawang fall to the Chinese forces and was in their control for a brief period before the ceasefire and withdrawal of the Chinese army. In spite of this somewhat chaotic history, Tawang is enveloped in an aura of calm and serenity and exudes a mystical charm.

Tawang Tour 4 Days | Tawang Itinerary | Places To Visit In Tawang | Detailed Tawang Tour Itinerary | Things To Do In Tawang

Shernup Village – Tawang’s Valley Of Flowers

Ideally, you would start your visit to Tawang from Guwahati if you are flying into Guwahati Airport as we did. In a typical itinerary, you would spend a couple of days in Bomdila and Dirang en route to Tawang from Guwahati. We spent a couple of days each in Bomdila and Dirang before proceeding to Tawang, via Sela Pass and the Jaswant Singh War Memorial.

Check out our detailed 2-Day Bomdila itinerary here .

Tawang Itinerary – Day One

On Day one of your Tawang Itinerary , you would arrive in Tawang around the evening and relax after a long drive from Bomdila/Dirang. However, it makes sense to visit one of the attractions near Tawang on your way to Tawang City, which is the spectacular Nuranang Falls. Also on the way to Tawang from Dirang, you pass through two notable landmarks, which you should stop and visit.

Sela Pass – Gateway To Tawang

The Sela Pass is known as the gateway to Tawang as it is a mountain pass that connects Tawang with West Kameng District. Sela Pass is located at an altitude of 13,700 feet . An ornate and beautiful gate, welcomes you to Tawang, at the Sela Pass.

The beautiful Sela Lake is also located by the side of the road in Sela Pass. You can stop for some time for the amazing views on a clear day and also climb up to the Buddha statue accessed by steps near the Sela Pass post.

The statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in many ways blesses travellers crossing the Sela Pass. One can also see the statues of the protector deities Palden Lhamo and Nechung and Guru Padmasambhava along with some Thangka paintings. The site has been blessed by the 14th Dalai Lama, and has been built and maintained by the Monpas of Tawang.

Distance from Tawang : 73 kilometres. Tip : Please be aware of the low oxygen level at Sela Pass.

Jaswant Garh War Memorial – Requiem For A Rifleman

Jaswant Garh War Memorial, Arunachal Pradesh

The Jaswantgarh War Memorial is a monument erected in memory of Rifleman Jaswant Singh who laid down his life during the battle of Nurananag in the 1962 Indo-China war .

The memorial is built over what remains of a tree under which Jaswant Singh breathed his last after being hit by enemy bullets.

Do stop at this place that has been sanctified by the blood of Indian soldiers and pay homage to the martyrs. The Jaswantgarh War Memorial is located at an altitude of about 10,000 feet.

Distance from Tawang : 53 kilometres. Tip : Do get a feel of the bunkers that were used by the Indian soldiers during the 1962 war.

Nuranang Falls – Day 1 Of Your Tawang Itinerary

Feasting your eyes on the beauty of the Nuranang Falls is one of the most pleasurable things to do when you visit Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh . Any itinerary for Tawang would be incomplete without a visit to the Nuranang Falls. When we visited the falls in the month of September, the waterfall was in full flow and we experienced the spectacular grandeur of the falls in all its majesty.

The waters of the Nuranang river plummet down with great velocity from a height of about 100 metres, creating a misty spray of great proportions. According to a local myth, the Nuranang falls is named after a local girl of the Monpa tribe named Nura, who is believed to have helped Rifleman Jaswant Singh of the Indian Army during the Indo-China war of 1962.

Parts of a song sequence for the Bollywood film Koyla featuring Madhuri Dixit were short against the spectacular background of the Nuranang falls.

The Nuranang falls are located near the town of Jang, about 30 kilometres from Tawang, near the Bomdila-Tawang Road.

Distance from Tawang : 30 kilometres. Tip – If you don’t want to get wet, carry a raincoat or waterproof poncho and wear appropriate footwear.

Tawang Itinerary – Day Two

On day 2 of your Tawang itinerary , you will cover some of the best places to visit in Tawang including the famous Tawang Monastery. You would begin your sightseeing in Tawang after a hearty breakfast at your homestay or hotel.

Tawang Monastery – Bask in Serenity

Without a doubt, the Tawang Monastery is one of the top Sights in Tawang . It is the prime reason that fuels Tawang tourism and no Tawang travel itinerary will be complete without a visit to the Tawang Monastery .

The Tawang Monastery dates back to the late 17th century and is the second-largest Buddhist Monastery in Asia . It is also known as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse . The monastery commands a beautiful view of the valley stretching out below and is a very important place in the Buddhist circuit. It was built by Merak Lama under the guidance of the 5th Dalai Lama.

Lighting of Butter Lamps at Tawang Monastery

The fortified complex of the Tawang Monastery is surrounded by a huge wall and contains the main temple and prayer hall, the library, the room for lighting butter lamps, the residential quarters of the monks, a school, and a museum.

Distance from Tawang : 1.5 kilometres. Tip – Pay a visit to the monastery early in the morning around 6.00 AM to watch the morning session for young monks. It is a very beautiful experience.

Thukje Chueling Nunnery – Ani Gompa ( Nunnery)

This Ani Gompa is a nunnery where female Buddhist monks stay. It comes under the purview of the Tawang Monastery. It is located in picturesque surroundings and the campus consists of the main temple and hall, butter lamp room, and living quarters of the monks.

The main sanctum has beautiful statues of Taradevi, Buddha, Je Tsongkhapa the founder of the Gelugpa sect, and Avalokiteshvara, among others.

We at Thukje Chueling Nunnery – Ani Gompa

About 45 nuns stay at this nunnery which belongs to the Gelugpa sect. This is one of 3 nunneries in Tawang, and is located in the midst of lush green hills and commands a breathtaking view of the valley. The nuns treat visitors to cups of steaming hot butter tea in a room that serves as a reception room for visitors.

Distance from Tawang : 6 kilometres. Tip : Do not miss a very old and rare Thungka Painting from Tibet.

Buddha Statue – Dominating Tawang’s Skyline

A giant statue of a sitting Buddha looks out serenely over Tawang. Below the statue is a small Buddhist Gompa. The area near the Buddha statue is a nice place with nice views of the valley in the vicinity. The Giant Buddha Statue is visible from anywhere in Tawang because of its size and strategic location.

Distance from Tawang : 2.9 kilometres. Tip : Make the most of a photo opportunity near the Buddha statue.

Tawang View Point – A Vantage Point To Appreciate Tawang’s Beauty

Near the Giant Buddha statue is the Tawang View Point , where you can spend some quiet moments sitting on a bench looking out at the valley that stretches out below. A huge signboard, that says, “I Love Tawang,” is a perfect backdrop for a nice selfie or two.

The depiction of Buddha’s first sermon in Sarnath can be seen near the viewpoint as well as the statue of an emaciated Buddha deep in meditation after practising arduous austerities for 6 years grabs your attention.

Distance from Tawang : 2.9 kilometres. Tip : Do not miss the 104 feet tall Indian National Flag fluttering here, which was inaugurated by Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu on the 3rd of February, 2022.

Tawang War Memorial – Remembering Our Brave Soldiers

The Chinese had captured Tawang and advanced beyond Bomdila and towards the borders of Assam in the 1962 war. The Tawang War Memorial is a tribute in stone to the bravery of the gallant Indian soldiers who sacrificed themselves, to defend the country. A Stupa stands as an eternal ode to the brave martyrs. The names of the martyrs are also etched here for posterity.

Distance from Tawang : 1 kilometre. Tip : Do watch the laser show in the evening that recounts the saga of the Indo-China war of 1962 and the bravery of our soldiers.

Tawang Itinerary – Day Three

Colorful Alpine shrubs on the way to Bum la Pass

On Day 3 of your Tawand itinerary , plan to visit Bumla Pass on the Indo-China border and some high-altitude lakes on the way. By late afternoon you should be back from Bumla Pass, leaving you enough time for some shopping and sightseeing within Tawang city.

It is advisable to have an early breakfast and leave for Bumla Pass. Please note that you would require a special permit from the Army administration to travel to Bumla Pass. The same would be arranged by your tour operator or the driver of the vehicle that you hire to travel to Bumla Pass.

Bumla Pass – Ringside View Of The China Border

One of the best places to visit in Tawang is Bumla Pass . The journey to Bumla Pass itself is incredible as you travel across bewitching landscapes. You encounter a host of high-altitude lakes on your journey.

Bumla Pass is located at an altitude of 15,200 feet and is generally enveloped in fog or snow. It was the theatre of a fierce battle between Indian and Chinese forces during the 1962 Indo-China war.

At Bumla Pass, you are taken on a guided walk to the border outpost, by the army personnel and escorted back. You can see the Chinese side of the border and also listen to the story of the battle of Bumla here.

There is a canteen run by the Army where you can have light snacks and tea or coffee. You can also buy items like jackets, boots, caps, and hats here at pretty reasonable prices.

Distance from Tawang : 53 kilometres. Tip : At 15,200 feet Bumla Pass can be very cold, please carry your woollens. If you are susceptible to AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) , take the necessary precautions.

Joginder Singh War Memorial – Remembering A Brave Soldier

Param Vir Chakra Subedar Joginder Singh Memorial

A few kilometres before Bumla Pass, by the side of the road stands the Sub Joginder Singh PVC Memorial . It is built in memory of the valiant Subedar who lead a small platoon of the Sikh Regiment at Bumla Pass to stop the Chinese Forces during the 1962 Indo-China war.

Subedar Joginder Singh was the JCO who commanded a platoon of around 20 soldiers at Bumla Pass when they were attacked by the Chinese. They were hopelessly outnumbered but fought valiantly till the last man. Subedar Joginder Singh fought and killed more than 50 soldiers single-handedly before being fatally injured.

He was captured and died in Chinese captivity. His ashes were later repatriated to his unit and he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra.

Distance from Tawang : 50 kilometres. Tip : Stop to pay your respects to the memory of the valiant soldier on the way to Bumla Pass.

Shungatser Lake – Madhuri Lake

Sangetsar Lake | Madhuri Lake | Shungatser lake | Shonga-tser Lake

As you drive towards Shungatser Lake , you get the feeling of travelling to another world, a world whose beauty defies imagination. Clouds caress mountain peaks, coniferous trees wave in the wind, and intriguingly shaped water bodies gleam bewitchingly.

The Shungatser Lake also spelt variously as Sangestar Lake or Sungatser Lake , is more popularly known as Madhuri Lake . The lake lies in the shadow of two huge hills that seem perpetually hugged by clouds. The lake presents a scene straight out of a film or a surreal dream.

No wonder that the lake formed the backdrop for a song sequence of the Bollywood film Koyla, featuring the famous Indian actress, Madhuri Dixit.

Shungatser Lake is perched at an altitude of 12,165 feet and is one of the best places to see in Tawang . The Lake is maintained by the Indian Army.

Distance from Tawang : 37 kilometres. Tip : You can have your lunch at the canteen here which is run by the army and offers food at a very reasonable rate.

Pang Teng Tso Lake – PT Tso Lake

The Pang Teng Tso Lake also known as PT Tso Lake is the closest to Tawang and you come across it about 17 kilometres from Tawang City. It is a beautiful lake that shimmers in the shade of lush trees. In the background, you can see snow-clad peaks that lend an ethereal aura to the lake.

It is a great place to spend some serene moments lost in the beauty of nature. You can truly enjoy the environs of PT Tso lake if the weather is clear, otherwise, it is likely to be veiled with a thick layer of mist.

Distance from Tawang : 17 kilometres. Tip : Stop to experience the vibes of the lake, even if the weather is not clear, it is by the side of the road leading to Bumla pass.

Tawang Market – Shopping In Tawang

A visit to the local markets in any town or city brings you close to the local vibes and provides a more immersive experience. This is true of Tawang as with any other city. If you are looking for local shopping experiences, then Tawang has not one but three markets, where you can indulge your impulses and shop till you drop.

The three markets of Tawang are Old Market, New Market, and Nehru Market . Of these, the most popular market is the Old Market which has shops selling everything from handicrafts and curios to groceries and vegetables.

If you are thinking of what to buy in Tawang, it is a good idea to shop for handicrafts including Thangka paintings, wooden carved show pieces, shawls, Buddhist symbols, and flags .

Distance from Tawang : 2 kilometres. Tip : The Old Market is closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly, the Nehru Market is closed on Wednesdays, while the New Market is closed on Saturdays.

Tawang Craft Centre And Emporium

The Tawang Craft Centre is an endeavour of The Department of Textile and Handicrafts, Government of Arunachal Pradesh , to encourage and promote the rich heritage of arts and crafts of the Monpa people. Here you can see the making of various items of woodcraft including tables, wooden utensils, and other exquisitely carved wooden items.

You can also see how the beautiful carpets, colourful bags, and traditional dresses of the Monpas, take shape at the hands of the expert weavers. You will find here Thangkas (Cloth Paintings), masks, footwear, pottery, and headgear including the traditional Monpa hats that are made of Yak’s felt.

You can buy all the different traditional handicrafts that are made at the Craft centre of Tawang at the Government-run Sales Emporium. Here you can buy authentic local handicrafts at reasonable prices.

Distance from Tawang : 2 kilometres. Tip : The Craft Centre is closed on weekends.

Tawang Itinerary – Day Four

On the final day of your Tawang tour of 4 Days , if you are wondering, what to do in Tawang? Fret not, Tawang still has many secrets to unveil. There are many of the best places to visit in Tawang, waiting for your footfalls.

Urgelling Monastery – 6th Dalai Lama Monastery

Urgelling Monastery is a small but beautiful monastery with very peaceful vibes, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Tawang city. It is older than the Tawang monastery and is believed to have been built around 1487 by Ugyen Zangpa. In those times it is believed to have been the biggest Buddhist school in the area .

The Urgelling monastery is located in the village in which Tashi Tenzin father of the 6th Dalai Lama lived, and today the monastery is dedicated to Tsanyang Gyatso, H.H. the 6th Dalai Lama.

The Urgelling monastery has a magical charm with its walls painted white and yellow. There are rare thangkas (cloth paintings) in the monastery.

Distance from Tawang : 5 kilometres. Tip : Lookout for the rare Thangkas (cloth paintings) of all the Dalai Lamas (1 to 14) and those of the 6th Dalai Lama’s parents at the Urgelling Monastery.

Khinmey Monastery

The Khinmey Monastery belongs to the Nyingma sect of Buddhism and is located in a village of the same name. It is also known as Sang-ngag-choekhorling. The monastery was established in the year 1440 AD by Rev. Kundun Sange Yeshe. The beautiful monastery overlooks the valley below and is a serene place to visit.

Distance from Tawang : 8 kilometres. Tip : Look out for the hundreds of colourful and vibrant murals inside the main prayer hall.

Kushanang – Maternal Village of the 6th Dalai Lama

Kushanang – Maternal House Of The 6th Dalai Lama

Deep in the countryside is the picturesque village of Kushanang . The village nestles in the midst of lush green vegetation and beautiful fields. Located here is the home of the mother of the 6th Dalai Lama . The ancient house still exists and descendants of the 6th Dalai Lama still live in the old house.

Descendant Of The 6th Dalai Lama at Kushanang

The village is a bridge to ancient history that goes back a few centuries and lies in relative obscurity. It is definitely one of the offbeat places to visit in Tawang.

Distance from Tawang : 18 kilometres. Tip : Look out for the beautiful scenery around the village.

Shernup Village – Tawang’s Valley Of Flowers

The state of Arunachal Pradesh enthrals visitors with its sheer natural beauty. One of the beautiful sights not to be missed is rows and rows of colourful Cosmos flowers , which are also colloquially known as, “I Love You, ” flowers. Though the cosmos blooms can be seen across different places in Arunachal Pradesh.

The village of Shernup is a great place for seeing cosmos blooms. Both sides of the road are bejewelled with colourful blossoms of red, yellow, pink, and orange cosmos flowers.

Distance from Tawang : 2 kilometres. Tip : Check for the flowering season of Cosmos flowers before you head to Shernup, September-October is the best month to spot them.

Chagzam Bridge – An Ancient Wonder

The Chagzam Bridge is an ancient bridge believed to have been built in the early part of the 15th century by Tangton Gyalpo who was a disciple of the first Dalai Lama. He was a renowned architect and he was known for building iron chain bridges and is believed to have built over 100 iron chain bridges.

The Chaksam Bridge is an iron chain bridge built over the Tawang-Chu river . The bridge is still functional and one can take a walk on the swaying bridge, above the swirling waters of the river.

Distance from Tawang : 25 kilometres. Tip : Getting to the bridge will involve a little bit of walking, there are steps that lead down to the bridge.

Where To Eat In Tawang | Recommended Tawang Restaurants | Tawang Cafes

Here are a couple of recommendations for eating out in Tawang. These recommendations are based on our personal experiences while in Tawang.

Dragon Restaurant

The Dragon Restaurant in Tawang is arguably one of the best restaurants in Tawang. It is conveniently located in the Old Market of Tawang and has a very pleasing and cheerful decor. It serves local as well as Chinese fare.

We recommend trying the local dish called Thenthuk which is available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian variants. You can also try the Momos, which are truly amazing.

Address : Old Market, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh 790104

Dharma Coffee House

The Dharma Coffee House in Tawang is run by the Thubten Shedrubling Foundation. It serves a variety of Coffee, cakes and pastries, Pizzas, Pasta, and other Italian dishes. The ambience is beautiful and you can relax with a book as you wait for your order to arrive. One of the best Cafes in Tawang, Dharma Coffee House is popular with locals and tourists alike.

Address : AIR Gompa Road, behind PHED Office, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh 790104.

Tawang Monastery Sangha Elated Cafe

The Sangha Elated Cafe in Tawang is run by the Tawang Monastery and is adjacent to the famous Tawang Monastery. It has a great ambience and is a nice place to chill with snacks or a cup of Butter tea or coffee. Its central location near the Tawang Monastery ensures its popularity with tourists.

Address : Monastery Sangha Elated Cafe, Tawang, 790104.

Best Time To Visit Tawang | Tawang Temperature

Tawang is a place that dons a different personality during different seasons. Winter sees it wearing a cloak of white, as it is covered with snow. It dons a cloak of green after the rains. However, the best time to visit Tawang is during the summer months and the beginning of the Monsoon.

Ideally, you should plan your Tawang trip between October to March . The temperature of Tawang is comfortable during this time and all attractions will be accessible. This would then be the best time to go to Tawang.

Hauntingly Beautiful Tawang Images | Tawang Photos | Images of Tawang

Here are some images that capture the beauty and the spirit of Tawang.

These images are sure to make you start packing your bags for Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.

How To Travel To Tawang | How To Visit Tawang | How To Go To Tawang Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang town is the headquarters of the Tawang District of the Northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is close to the LAC (Line of actual control) with China.

Itanagar to Tawang distance is about 448 kilometres
Guwahati to Tawang distance is about 440 kilometres
Bomdila to Tawang distance is about 177 kilometres
Dirang to Tawang distance is about 134 kilometres
Bhalukpong to Tawang distance is about 273 kilometres
Tawang to Ziro distance is about 547 kilometres
Gangtok to Tawang distance is about 873 kilometres

Reaching Tawang By Air

The best way to reach Tawang by Air is to fly to the Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, and then proceed by road to Tawang, which is at a distance of about 446 kilometres. Guwahati is well connected by air to major cities of India including Delhi , Bangalore , Kolkata , Mumbai , etc.

Reaching Tawang By Train

The nearest Railhead to Tawang is Tezpur in the Sonitpur district of Assam. Guwahati is the other major railway station that is well-connected to all parts of the country.

Reaching Tawang By Road

Tawang is well connected by a good road network and can be easily accessed from within the state of Arunachal Pradesh, as well as from Guwahati in Assam.

For your Tawang itinerary , you can book your flight tickets right here through Cleartrip or Makemytrip or CheapAir or Priceline and fly to Guwahati. If you are thinking of a road trip , do check out the rental car options.

Where To Stay In Tawang | Tawang Hotels | Tawang Homestays | Tawang Resorts

When it comes to places to stay in Tawang , we would strongly recommend staying at the Pal_Mo Homestay , where we stayed during our visit to Tawang. It is a cute homestay with comfortable and clean accommodations and great food and is located quite near the Tawang Monastery.

Y ou can book your stay at Pal_mo Homestay , Tawang or you can book the best hotels in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India right here – TripAdvisor or Cleartrip or makemytrip or goibibo or Booking.com or HotelsCombined or Agoda and save a lot by getting the best deals on booking your stay.

Tawang Itinerary FAQ

Are you planning a trip to Tawang? This FAQ is sure to stand you in good stead when you plan your Tawang tour Itinerary.

What is Tawang height | Tawang Altitude? Tawang is located at an altitude of 3,048 metres above sea level.

How many days is enough for Tawang? You would need a minimum of 3-4 days for Tawang.

Which month is best for Tawang? September, October, November, March and April are the best months to visit Tawang.

Is Tawang worth visiting? You must visit Tawang for its rich heritage and culture and natural beauty.

What is Tawang famous for? Tawang is famous for the Tawang Monastery and the proximity to Bumla Pass on the Indo-China border.

Is there an oxygen problem in Tawang? Tawang is at an altitude of about 10,000 feet and hence there is no problem with less oxygen levels.

Is there snowfall in Tawang? Tawang sees snowfall during the months of November till about May.

Will there be snow in Tawang in April? There is likely to be snow in Tawang in April.

How far is Tawang from Guwahati? Tawang is about 440 kilometres from Guwahati.

What should I buy in Tawang? You can buy handicrafts, woodcraft items, and Thangka paintings in Tawang.

How is the road from Guwahati to Tawang? Overall the road conditions are fairly good from Guwahati to Tawang.

What is the Tawang to Dirang distance? The distance from Tawang to Dirang is 134 kilometres.

What is the Tawang to Itanagar distance? Tawang to Itanagar distance is aout 448 kilometres.

Are you planning a trip to Arunachal Pradesh and wish to visit Tawang or any part of North East India?

You can connect here with The Holiday Scout Team for a hassle-free and comfortable tour curated by them.

Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is a place that needs to be experienced, with the heart, mind, and soul. We are sure that you will find this Tawang itinerary and Tawang Travel Guide useful and it goes beyond being an itinerary and acts as a complete Tawang Guide to plan your trip.

Are you planning a last-minute Holiday? Below are some useful resources to help you book flights, hotels, and tours! And also clothes, luggage and accessories for your trip!

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Travel Insurance – Click to book Travel Insurance that covers a range of travel insurance and safety services including medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more

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Our visit to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, India was organized by Holiday Scout. The views and opinions expressed in this blog post are our own. #travel #Tawang #TawangItinerary #PlacesToVisitInTawang #ThingsToDoInTawang #GoNEindia #HolidayScout #ArunachalPradesh #ArunachalPradeshTourism #northeastindia #DekhoApnaDesh #IncredibleIndia

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20 thoughts on “4 day tawang itinerary – best of tawang, arunachal pradesh”.

The nature here looks amazing Sandy and Vyjay. No matter where I go travel-wise, I need to experience nature to stick around for a few weeks or for a few months. Fabulous post.

I admit I had to look on the map where this is. Love the pictures and it looks like a wonderful place to visit

It looks beautiful there. I hope to go someday to visit.

It looks like there’s lots to do here. It’s really pretty in the area. I like how green it is.

Oh wow what an absolutely incredible sounding place to go and visit, I have to admit the Monastery would definitely be high on my list if I managed to and visit myself.

This looks like an amazing holiday. Your pictures are beautiful. I wish I could go spend longer amounts of time in places like this.

What an amazing place to visit. I would love to see it in person someday, I bet my family would love it!

The countryside is so beautiful in Tawang! I would love to visit that monastery and the waterfall is lovely!

What a really wonderful and fantastic place to visit! This is a place that you can call PERFECT!

Had never heard of Tawang, but the place is absolutely beautiful. Would love to visit.

Such a cool place. I would love to see the water falls.

I so badly want to travel the world and get out of my Midwest bubble. This place looks incredible!

These locations are so beautiful, I’d love to see the buildings, statues, and falls!

what beautiful pictures! would love to visit some day!

I have never heard of this place before but what an incredible place to visit! I need to visit here sometime soon.

My favorite thing about blogs is getting to see other areas of the world. Such an interesting journey and I appreciate your photos!

wow! Such a beautiful place! A must visit it for sure!

I knew about the Tawang Monastery but it’s history is sheer goosebumps. The photographs are mesmerizing and seems like this place would be rich in crafts as well. We do hope to visit Tawang someday.

I have a special liking for monasteries. Whenever I visit one, I feel to be in tranquil peace. I would love to visit the Tawang Monastery.

Such a scenic place, the monastery looks so beautiful, I don’t know if I will ever feel like coming back from such a beautiful place. Thanks for sharing.

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Destinations

A stunning contrast of nature's colour palette, where dense emerald jungles give way to stark icy peaks and snow-blanketed passes, the quaint town of Tawang, in Arunachal Pradesh, is a pristine and unspoilt tourist destination. Flanked by majestic snow-capped mountain ranges on the east and dotted with picturesque Buddhist monasteries, Tawang takes you on an adventure, which starts with reaching the town through zigzagging and winding mountain passes, including Sela, one of the highest motorable roads in the world.

The colourful gompas and Buddhist prayer flags dot the landscape and invite visitors to experience a unique culture while being welcomed by the warm people of the town. While spectacular lakes and serene waterfalls provide a beautiful natural retreat, the bustling markets and an active adventure scene offer thrilling and delightful opportunities. You can also indulge in shopping to your heart's content as the tribal communities craft unique handicrafts that incorporate centuries-old skill.

Tawang valley is popular as the land of the Monpas, a major ethnic group of Arunachal Pradesh. They have a glorious heritage of arts, crafts and handlooms. Their homes have furniture made of beautifully carved wood and the interior decor mirrors their traditional and cultural ethos, making a stay in this hamlet very pleasing to the senses. Add to this, the misty mountainous landscape, gorgeous walking trails and mesmerising views that this valley offers and Tawang becomes the perfect destination for travellers.

It is located in close proximity to the international borders of China to the north and Bhutan to the south-west. Tawang is located at a distance of approximately 555 km from Guwahati and 320 km from Tezpur at an average elevation of 2,669 m above sea level.

Attractions

The legacy of tawang through its natural attractions.

Sela is a high altitude mountain pass that acts as the gateway to Tawang. It forms the single and highly crucial connecting line between the Tawang and West Kameng districts. The pass rises at a height of 13,700 ft above sea level and is about 67 km...

Tawang Monastery

Tawang Monastery is the social, cultural and spiritual focal point of...

Tawang War Memorial

Tawang War Memorial is a stupa (Buddhist shrine) built to commemorate...

Gorichen Peak

Gorichen is the highest scalable peak in Arunachal Pradesh, towering...

Sela is a high altitude mountain pass that acts as the gateway to...

Immersive Experience

The best experience of Tawang tailored for you

Art and Crafts

Food and Cuisine

How to get there.

The nearest airports are at Salonibari Airport, Tezpur, which is about 11 hours from Tawang and Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati, roughly 14 hour away from Tawang.

Visitors to Tawang require special Inner Line permits from the government which are available in Kolkata, Guwahati, Tezpur and New Delhi. Most of the travel up to Tawang from the plains must be undertaken via a steep hill road journey through the Sela Pass at 4,176 m (13,701 ft). Tourists can travel to Tawang either from Tezpur or Guwahati by road.

The closest railway station is Rangapura, which is connected to the all the major cities of Assam.

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1 Understand
2.1 Permits
2.2.1 By car or motorcycle
2.2.2 By Sumo or bus
3 Get around
7.1 Traditional Arunachal dishes

Tawang is a town in the Himalayas in the far west of the state of Arunachal Pradesh in North-Eastern India. The second-largest Buddhist monastery (gompa) in the world is here, and was built in 1681.

Understand [ edit ]

Tawang has a population of 11,000 and is the administrative headquarters of Tawang district.

Get in [ edit ]

Permits [ edit ].

All visitors require a permit to enter Arunachal state. This means an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indians, which can be obtained online from eILP , and a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for non-Indians, which can be obtained in person from the Office of the Deputy Resident Commissioner of Arunachal Pradesh in Guwahati if you're an independent traveler.

By land [ edit ]

If entering by land from the direction of Tezpur , as most tourists do, you will be required to show your permit at the police checkpoint at the state border in Bhalukpong .

It is advisable to break your journey at either the mountainside town of Bomdila or better still, the charming little valley town of Dirang . The highest point of the road, the Sela Pass between Dirang and Tawang, is notoriously difficult, and heavy snowfall (mostly during winter) could force you to stay on either side.

By car or motorcycle [ edit ]

Tawang town is about a 16-hour drive from Guwahati . The road is long and winding, rising far up into the mountains, back down again, and back up more than once. As of April 2023 the road is mostly well-paced up to the Sela Pass between Dirang and Tawang (except for short sections of construction), but with long bumpy stretches after the pass. There are many fantastic views along the way, especially around Sela Pass, and the benefit of having your own vehicle (or a reserved taxi) is that you can stop wherever you want to enjoy the scenery. Small cars and motorcycles both make the trip regularly, though drivers with 4WD will probably be grateful for it.

By Sumo or bus [ edit ]

The most common mode of public transit to Tawang is by shared Tata Sumo SUV from Tezpur in Assam (4 hr. drive from Guwahati). They leave only around 5:30-6:00am from Tezpur's ASTC bus station, and it's recommended that you book a day in advance as they can sometimes fill up. It's also possible to take a Sumo direct from Guwahati. Prepare to be packed in like sardines (up to 15 people in one car), and for your luggage to be tied to the top to make room for more passengers. As of April 2023, the price for a shared Sumo to Tawang was ₹700 from Dirang, ₹1300 from Tezpur, or ₹1700 from Guwahati.

There is also a bus running once a day between Tawang and Guwahati, which takes 17 hours and costs ₹1500.

By air [ edit ]

Arunachal Pradesh Government provides Helicopter services from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati to Tawang. The flying time from Guwahati to Tawang is 1 hour 20 minutes. For bookings, contact sales counter of Arunachal Pradesh Civil Aviation at Guwahati Airport. Before booking one may note that the flight may be cancelled due to many reasons. As of April 2023, the price appears to still be ₹3,500 one way, but you should call to double check. Note that there is a 10kg baggage limit.

Get around [ edit ]

Getting around in Tawang can be divided into two categories. The first one is travel to local sites like Tawang Monastery, War Memorial, Emporium, etc. This can be done by booking a taxi (mostly Maruti OMNI) for half a day. Walking is also possible, but some sites are quite far. The second category is travel to sites outside Tawang, which include P T So lake, Shungetsar (Madhuri) lake and a visit to India-China border at Bumla. A bigger vehicle like a Tata Sumo or Mahindra Bolero should be hired for this, as roads are in bad shape. An entire day is enough to cover these sites.

See [ edit ]

Tawang War Memorial , Nuranang ( within walking distance of Tawang's central markets ). A large, impressive Indian Army memorial, commemorating the thousands of soldiers who died fighting a 1962 Chinese invasion that led to China temporarily capturing Tawang, Dirang, and Bomdila before withdrawing. ( updated Apr 2023 )
Jaswantgarh War Memorial , Nuranang ( closer to the Sela Pass than to Tawang town ). Another large memorial to the 1962 war with China. The memorial sits right on the site of one of India's only victories in the war, and commemorates a Sikh soldier from western India who gave his life to capture a Chinese artillery emplacement, turning the tide of the battle. You can visit here on your way to or from Tawang, as it's located along the main highway. ( updated Apr 2023 )

P.T.Tso Lake ( above Tawang ). The lake is frozen for 4–5 months of the year. You can hire a local vehicle to get there. The lake itself is splendid, and the views from it are unbelievable. ( updated Dec 2020 )
Anni Gompa . A Buddhist monastery managed by nuns. Anni means nun. It's a bit outside of town, so you need to request your guide or taxi driver to take you there. ( updated Dec 2020 )
Madhuri Lake ( Shungetsar Lake ). Named after Madhuri Dixit, a famous Bollywood actress. ( updated Dec 2020 )
Bum La Pass . Right on the India-China border, 20.6 km away from Tawang, at the height of 4,633 m above sea level. Look out for a beautiful lake. Permission from the Indian Army is needed to visit Bum La Pass, and is not granted to foreigners, only to Indians. Permission can generally be arranged by your hotel. The pass may be inaccessible in the winter due to heavy snowfall. ( updated Apr 2023 )
Tibetan Medical Dispensary . It is a short distance from Tawang. A doctor of Tibetan medicine examines you and prescribes Tibetan medicines. ( updated Dec 2020 )

Gorsam Chorten, Zemithang Gorsam Chorten (Stupa) is at Zemithang 90 kms from Tawang. It is a 100 ft high stupa built in 12 century AD by Monk Lama Pradhar. It is built to resembles 5 century AD, Boudhnath Stupa in Nepal. Chendebji Chortan in Bhutan is of similar design.

Do [ edit ]

Trekking . Tawang is an undiscovered trekker's paradise, offering breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, chill weather, and challenging or leisurely treks. For a rigorous trek (classified as hard), take the Jang - Thingbu - Mago - Goi ichen Base Camp - Mago (Back) - Luguthang - Sena Chakra - RA-I route. The easier trekking routes include the Mukto - Gongkhar - Gyamdong - Khet - Kharung - Bongleng - Kungba - Namsring - Kharteng - Lumla route, and the Tawang Gonpa - Gyangong Ani Gonpa - Bhramadongchung Ani Gonpa - Tawang routes. You can also trek along the Namet Village - Zarmang Ani Gonpa - Khromten Gonpa - Geshila - Klimta - Bomla - Y. Junction - Tawang route, which takes you close to the Chinese border outpost at Bomla. Trekkers are advised to come fully attired and prepared for the worst.
Visit the 400 year old Tawang Gompa. Turn the prayer wheels dotted outside small gompas. Meet and chat with the friendly lamas.
Take excursions around town to visit beautiful glacier lakes and smaller gompas with big histories.
Take a nap on a hillock if it's sunny but be prepared to be awoken by a grazing yak.

Buy [ edit ]

Tawang has a good range of tourist souvenir shops which sell Buddhist prayer wheels in colourful wood, chadars (wrap skirts worn by local women), beautiful bags, shawls, brassware and Buddha statues. Look for shops in Old Market as well as in the Tibetan settlement.

Eat [ edit ]

Tibetan delicacies like thupka, momos or simple and delicious paratha-sabzi eaten hot from the roadside shacks on cold misty days are a treat! Most restaurants in Tawang serve these. A small shack called Annapurna serves delicious alu (potato) chips.

The traditional Monpa cuisine uses a generous amount of chillies and fermented cheese, which has a strong flavour and is not for the faint hearted.

Some of the best food is found at the small, nondescript, sometimes not very hygienic, eateries, that serve authentic dishes at very affordable prices. They are sure to be authentic food of the region as they are most frequented by locals.

Traditional Arunachal dishes [ edit ]

The famous momo , widely eaten in the north east and other Himalayan regions, is made by stuffing minced pork and onions into a dough and then steamed in a three layer steamer, or fried.

The thukpa is a soup filled with noodles, minced meat, and vegetables, also known as der thuk. Ashum thukpa is made of maize, beans and meat.

Zan is the staple dish of the Monpa tribes. It is usually made of millet flour, usually with vegetables or meat to which is added fermented cheese, soya beans and herbs.

Khura is a pancake, had with tea.

Gyapa khazi is a kind of pulao made of rice, fermented cheese, small dried fish or shrimp, chillies ginger and other spices.

Drink [ edit ]

Sleep [ edit ].

Unfortunately, Tawang like most hill stations in the North East is far from developed, so finding good accommodation here may be a challenge. However, the flip side is the lack of tourism leaves the place more virgin and unexplored.

Apart from Tawang Inn which is the most modern and comfortable option in Tawang, most other options are pretty basic. Hotel Tawang View has the best views from their second-floor basic rooms of both the Gompa and snow topped mountains. Most hotels are in the market area. It is worth trying your luck at the government rest-house, or if you are lucky, the Circuit house.

Go next [ edit ]

Assam via Bhalukpung Orchid Sanctuary . An amazing variety of orchids grown in gardens and under glass.

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Tawang Travel Guide

Arunachal Pradesh , Northeast India

Last Updated on: Feb 29, 2020

Tawang is an unexplored paradise. Located in the western part of Arunachal Pradesh at a height of about 3500 m above the sea level, the place is both historically and naturally endowed. Because of its remote location, travelling to Tawang is often perceived as difficult to some. But, it is one of the most beautiful places of the north-eastern Himalayas. Surrounded by the Tibet in the northern part, Bhutan in the Southwest and the Sela ranges in the east, the place can boast of the natural beauty of glacial lakes as well as the snow covered peaks.

Tawang is historically known as ‘Mon-yul’ or the land of the Monpa tribe. In fact, Tawang was traditionally inhabited by the Monpa tribe and they are the majority still now except for the Shyo village that is dominated by the people of Tibetan origin.

Tawang is the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama and is thus of immense importance for the Tibetan Buddhists. The Tawang Monastery is around 400 years old and is of unparalleled significance to the Buddhists.

Recommended Read: Bascon or Basar Confluence – The Cultural Extravaganza at Arunachal Pradesh

Tawang and Inner Line Permit

All visitors need an Inner line permit (ILP) to visit Tawang, or in any part of Arunachal Pradesh. The Permit is granted as a routine for the tourists and so it should not deter any tourist from coming to Arunachal Pradesh. ILP is issued at these cities – New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Shillong, Dibrugarh, Tezpur, North Lakhimpur & Jorhat. Now, one can obtain ILP online too.

How to reach Tawang

Tawang does not have a railhead or airhead. Tezpur (325 km) in Assam is the nearest domestic airport. Guwahati (480 km) is the nearest international airport.

From Tezpur, you have to take bus or jeep or private car to go to Tawang. It takes around 12 hours from Tezpur to Tawang. But the scenic beauty of the road more or less makes up for the arduous journey. Enroute Tawang, you have to go through Bhalukpong, Dirang and Bomdila.

Places to see in Tawang

#1. tawang monastery.

The main attraction of Tawang is the Tawang Monastery or the Gaden Namgye Lhatse. It is also the largest monastery in India. Situated majestically on a hilltop, the monastery overlooks the entire Tawang district and is considered as a magnificent artwork and the kernel of Buddhist culture and tradition. The monastery was established in 1680 by a monk Mera Lama to preach the tenets of Buddhism. Currently, the monastery houses more than 400 monks. The Parkhang library is also a heritage structure, which stores age old manuscripts. The monastery also has a museum that displays religious objects and artifacts from Tibet and Tawang.

#2. Urgelling Monastery

Urgelling Monastery is a 400 year old monastery known for being the birthplace of the Dalai Lama VI. This monastery was destroyed during the Mongol attacks and the battle between the Tibetans and the Bhutanese. Only a part of the monastic structure remains today. It is a serene and calm spot with a very few visitors. There is a sacred tree planted by the Holy Dalai Lama VI which is revered and worshipped the locals.

#3. Tawang War Memorial

The war memorial was built in memory of the martyr soldiers of the Indo-China war of 1962 that was fought in this region. The memorial has a beautiful stupa. The best part is that the names of all the 2420 Indian soldiers who fought in the war are written here. Various artifacts of the 1962 war are also preserved here. A visit to this place will definitely make you proud of our soldiers.

#4. Nuranang Falls or the Jang Falls

Nuranang Falls is one of the most magnificent waterfalls of eastern India. Falling from a towering height of 100 metres, it is simply a spectacular sight. It is around 2 km from the city near the Jang village and is also known as the Jang falls.

#5. Sela Pass

Sela pass is situated on the way to Tawang. Situated at a height of 13,714 meters, the pass is one of the highest motorable passes of India. Stop at the pass, rest your aching backs from the long journey and look around to see the breathtaking views surrounding you. The snow covered peaks, the colorful fluttering Buddhist prayer flags will make your trip memorable. Move up a little more to see the beautiful Sela Lake.

The Sela Pass is one of the most important passes of India. It connects Tawang with Tezpur and the rest of India.

# 6. Jaswant Garh

Jaswant Garh falls en route Tawang just about 25 km from the city. This is also a war memorial in the scenic backdrop commemorating the brave martyrs of the Indian army during the 1962 Sino-Indian war. The memorial stands in the name of Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat of the 4th Battalion of Garhwal Rifles Infantry Regiment. Jaswant Singh was an exceptionally brave soldier who had single-handedly fought and held back the invading Chinese army for 72 hours during the war. He did not move from his post at an altitude of 10000 feet before succumbing to an enemy bullet in the war. He was awarded the posthumous Mahavir Chakra in recognition of his grit and bravery. The post he held to repulse back the Chinese army was named Jaswant Garh after him.

#7. Lake hopping

Tawang district is the home to as many as 108 lakes. Some are quite famous and provide your eyes soothing vistas. The crystal clear waters of the lake coupled with the tranquil atmosphere are an absolute delight for the sore eyes and the tired souls. The famous ones are the Sanget Sar Lake or the Madhuri Lake, P. T. Tso and the Sela Lake. While travelling this district, you will see so many lakes , some having names while others are unknown. You will definitely have the urge to stop and look at the calm water bodies.

#8. Bumla border

The landscape beyond Tawang opens up to spectacular wetlands and some diverse sceneries serving as nature’s eye candy. While visiting the Madhuri Lake, you can go on a visit to Bumla Border. Only Indian nationals are allowed to visit the border. It is the Indo-China border situated at a height of 16000ft and is about 37 km from Tawang city. The road conditions are bad, but the scenic beauty makes up for all the trouble. The army post at Bumla border is extremely friendly. They will also invite you for a cup of tea and will be very happy to share their stories with you.

Also, visit the Tiger’s Nest Monastery nearby. Do not confuse this with the one in Bhutan!

Read our post on Tiger’s Nest Monastery or Taktsang Monastery of Bhutan

#9. Zemithang village

Visit the Zemithang village to experience the life of the local Monpa tribe, their traditions and culture. Visit the Gorsam Stupa which is a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site. The landscapes of Zemithang are a bit different from Tawang having more of greenery and trees. Staying for a day in Zemithang is highly suggested.

Best time to visit

Tawang can be visited throughout the year, but the monsoon months from July to September should be avoided. The winters can be really cold with temperatures as low as -10 degrees at night. Mornings are comfortably warm. From April to October, the weather changes from spring to fall and you can experience both sun and rain. During April, the region becomes alive with different flora. In October, the skies are clear and are the best time to see the lakes in their splendor.

Where to stay

Tawang has a few basic hotels. There are a number of cheap and budget hotels near the market area. There is also a Government Tourist lodge and a circuit house where you can stay after obtaining relevant permits.

Visit Tawang, the pristine paradise filled with Buddhists chants and benign monks. Immerse yourself in the heavenly views, experience the serenity of nature and enjoy the surprises that nature has in store for you.

The journey from Tezpur to Tawang is a long one. It is highly recommended to break down your journey in two days. Bhalukpong is 57 km from Tezpur, Bomdila is 154 km and Dirang is 196 km from Tezpur. Bhalukpong is a beautiful spot near the Kameng river and lies on the Assam-Arunachal Pradesh border. Bomdila is also an important town and has a monastery to visit. Dirang is also a small picturesque town along the Kameng river and having apple orchards. Places of interest in Dirang are a hot water spring, Dirang Dzong and Kalachakra Gompa.

It is advisable to stay at either of these places while going to or coming back from Tawang.

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13 comments.

could you please tell me the best hotels for stay from Guwahati to Tawang and places to visit in Tawang?

Really nice presentation. I’m feeling it as very much helpful for my upcoming travel to Tawang from Alleppey. I would like to know the Taxi fares from Guwahati to Tawang ? What’s the best place to stay/halt while journey to Tawang?

Thank you so much Ameer. For night halt on the way to Tawang, you can stop at either Bomdila or Dirang.

Thanks for your blog. We are planning from kerala to reach tawang. Can we return tawang to guwahati one day??

It is difficult to reach Guwahati from Tawang in one day. It is better to take breaks.

Nice blog.. Good job.. Thank you so much for the information. It’s a great post…I love travelling and want to travel all over the world.

Thank you Priya for the appreciation. Enjoy your travels across the world.

Awesome Photos 🙂 A very well guided article.

Thank you so much, Sumita. Hope it helped.

Nice post, quite helpfu. Beautiful pictures

Thank you for this informative blog!!!

I have heard so much about this place! Wish to visit some day…the pictures are beautiful… 🙂

Looks awesome…some nice tips here:-)

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Places To Visit In Tawang

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1. Sela Pass

24 km from city center 1 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

One of the most breathtaking places in the Himalayan vista, Sela Pass is a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh, and it is as heavenly as it gets. The Sela Pass and Himalayas combine to enchant one and all by their mystic beauty. One of the most stunning gifts of nature to the North-East, Sela Pass is a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh as it is the only way that connects Tawang district of the state to the rest of the country.

2. Tawang Monastery

2 km from city center 2 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

Located amidst the picturesque surroundings, the Tawang Monastery also known as the Golden Namgyal Lhatse is one of the gems in Arunachal Pradesh. Perched at the height of 3,000 metres above sea level, it has been recognised as the second largest monastery in the world, the first one being Lhasa. The monastery is believed to be 400 years old and has control over 17 gompas in the region. Built as a large mansion, it is an abode for over 300 monks.

3. Madhuri Lake

21 km from city center 3 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

Nestled amidst the Himalayas, Arunachal Pradesh boasts numerous stunning lakes, but none are as captivating as Madhuri Lake, also known as Sangetsar Lake or Sangestar Tso. Situated on the route from Tawang to Bum La Pass in Tawang district, near the Indo-China border, this remote lake sits at an altitude of over 3,708 meters (12,165 ft) above sea level. Its pristine beauty, nestled amidst rocky mountains, earned it fame after appearing in the Bollywood movie "Koyla," leading to its colloquial name, Madhuri Lake, after the film's lead actress.

4. Nuranang Falls

11 km from city center 4 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

Nestled deep within the forests of Tawang, Nuranang Falls offers a serene and unspoiled experience, hidden away from the bustling tourist trails. Cascading from a height of approximately 100 meters, this magnificent waterfall, also known as Jang Falls or Bong Bong Falls, is a pristine white veil of water. Located 2 km northeast of Jang town in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, Nuranang Falls is a tranquil spot, often referred to as the BTK waterfall, known for its crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming.

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Discover tawang arunachal pradesh tour package, arunachal pradesh tour itinerary - 8 nights package, assam tour itinerary with jeep safari, tawang adventure tour package on bike, offbeat arunachal tour package: tawang, nameri, dirang & more, 5. tawang war memorial.

1 km from city center 5 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

The Tawang War Memorial, a stupa dedicated to the martyrs of the 1962 Indo-China war, stands as a solemn tribute amidst the serene landscapes of Tawang. Overlooking the scenic Tawang-Chu valley., the 40 feet structure incorporates Buddhist architectural elements, including prayer wheels, colorful serpents, and flags, donated by the local community. Inside, statues of deities such as Lord Buddha add to the sanctity of the place.

6. Gorichen Peak

56 km from city center 6 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

Gorichen Peak is the highest peak of Arunachal Pradesh and it is located between Tawang and West Kameng districts of Arunachal Pradesh. Situated at an altitude of 22,500 feet above sea level, this peak is roughly 164 kilometre from Tawang. The peak is locally known as Sa-Nga Phu, which literally means the Kingdom of Deity and is considered to be one of the sacred peaks protecting them from all the evils according to the local Monpa tribe.

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7. Penga Teng Tso Lake

30 km from city center 7 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

Nestled amidst the enchanting landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, Pankang Teng Tso Lake, also known as P.T. Tso, stands as a captivating natural wonder. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayan Mountains and fed by pristine rivers, this picturesque lake offers a serene retreat for nature enthusiasts. With its tranquil waters, misty forests, and melodious birdcalls, the lake provides a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure.

8. Jaswant Garh War Memorial

18 km from city center 8 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

Jaswant Garh War Memorial, located near Sela Pass in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, stands as a poignant tribute to the valor and sacrifice of Indian soldiers during the 1962 Indo-China War. Dedicated to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, a brave soldier of the 4th Garhwal Rifles, the memorial commemorates his heroic efforts in defending the pass against Chinese forces. Situated 21km from Sela Pass en route to Tawang, this site welcomes visitors of all backgrounds to pay their respects to the courageous martyr.

9. Rafting in Kameng River

100 km from city center 9 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

The Kameng River, formerly known as the Bhareli River, is situated in the eastern Himalayan mountains of Arunachal Pradesh, India. Originating from a glacial lake beneath the snow-capped Gori Chen mountain on the India-Tibet border, it flows through the Bhalukpong circle of West Kameng District and Sonitpur District of Assam. As a major tributary of the Brahmaputra River, it merges with the Brahmaputra at Tezpur, just east of the Kolia Bhomora bridge.

10. Urgelling Gompa

3 km from city center 10 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

Urgelling Gompa, situated approximately 3 kilometers from Tawang Township, is renowned as the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Tashi. Established in 1487 AD, this monastery holds immense importance for Buddhists. His Holiness the 6th Dalai Lama was born here in 1683 and lived in Urgelling Village. To reach the monastery, one can either hire a taxi or walk the short distance from Tawang.

11. Taktsang Gompa

17 km from city center 11 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

Taktsang Monastery, situated in the Tawang District of Arunachal Pradesh, India, is a significant Tibetan Buddhist sacred site perched on a cliffside. It is located 45 kilometers from Tawang township and is believed to have been consecrated by Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century CE. Surrounded by dense forests and towering mountains, the monastery comprises three tiers, each dedicated to a Tibetan guru or deity.

12. Bum La Pass

16 km from city center 12 out of 12 Places To Visit in Tawang

Bum La Pass, located in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh, India, is a high mountain pass situated at an elevation of approximately 15,200 feet (4,600 meters) above sea level. It holds immense strategic importance as it serves as a border between India and China, lying near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between the two countries. The pass is approximately 37 kilometers away from Tawang town and is accessible via a scenic drive through rugged mountain terrain.

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Travel Guide

Tawang Travel Guide | Things To Keep In Mind Before Heading To Tawang

Written by Harnaaz kaur 21 Oct, 2022

Tawang is nestled in the heart of Arunachal Pradesh and has everything to remain in our hearts forever. Tawang travel guide will walk you through all the best of it. From the routes, and connectivity to the culture and food, everything you need to know before your trip to Tawang can be found listed below.

From the 400 years old monastery to picturesque views of everything through what feels like a magic lens. It is situated about 3048 meters above sea level enveloped by breathtaking mountains.

Interestingly, the name has a beautiful story attached to it. Tawang is the formation of two words: Ta and Wang. The former means horse, while the latter means the vibrant land.

It is locally believed that a Tibetan monk saw a beautiful horse and attempted to capture its beauty. While the horse suddenly disappeared into thin air. His search lead to a beautiful creation of the monastery by the monk, who fell in love with the place.

Table of Contents

Tawang Travel Guide: Everything you need to know

Routes: how to reach tawang.

Tawang is nestled comfortably in Arunachal Pradesh and every way of the journey to this beautiful authentic place is worth it. It is easily accessible through any kind of transport, be it via a flight or train.

Guwahati to Tawang is the well-known and safest route that is followed by mostly travelers finding their way to this pristine place. The distance between the two is about 510 Km. The complete route takes approximately 13 and 15 hours, based on the roadway and weather conditions.

To add, there are two ways to reach Tawang from Guwahati on a road trip:-

Through Udalgudi: Driving on the national highway 13 amidst the beautiful tea gardens of Assam. The roads are well maintained and are safe to travel while catching up with breathtaking scenery. Additionally, this route is faster than the one via Chariduar.

Through Chariduar: This route crosses via Tezpur and Bhalukpong and even though takes a little longer to reach Tawang from this, the views make it well worth it. You get to see captivating mountainous sights while traveling.

To add, the nearest airport to Tawang is Salonibari Airport which is in Tezpur. It takes about 10-12 hours to cover the distance of 330 Kilometers. The railway station as well as the nearest bus are also resided in Tezpur and is a 12-hour journey respectively.

Recommended Read: Itinerary for Tawang Bike Trip

Connectivity: Which Mobile Network works in Tawang?

There is quite good coverage of networks in Tawang, and almost all of the places have full network connectivity. However, the areas near the border have less to no connectivity but BSNL still has some networks even in that area.

Additionally , Airtel, Vodafone, Jio, etc work well in the area and you would be able to make calls or use mobile data efficiently. This helps majorly when it comes to looking up directions to places in Tawang.

Listen now: The Martyr Who Still Serves His Nation

Culture: Famous Festivals of Tawang

Next, this Tawang travel guide includes the festivals in Tawang. One thing that holds the true essence of a place is its festivals and you will get to experience the best of local life. Planning the trip in a way that you get to be there for the festivals is surely one of the best ways and something that should be considered as well.

Losar: It is the new year festival of Tawang which is an 8 to 15-day celebration in the months of February to March.
Cheokar Festival: This religious festival is celebrated by the whole village with the aim to protect the harvest. It is observed in the 7th month of the Lunar calendar.
Torgya: One of the most famous festivals celebrated in Tawang Monastery’s courtyard every year in the month of January.
Gaden Ngamchoe Festival: It is observed to commemorate the passing of Je Tsong Khapa who founded the Gelukpa sect. Lamps are lighted everywhere to remember and appreciate his legacy.

Suggested Read: Reasons to visit Meghalaya at least once in your life

Entry and Permits: How to get a permit to enter Tawang?

In order to travel to Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh you would need to have Inner Line Permit (ILP) . It is necessary to have this for every traveler, be it someone who is a resident of India or a foreigner.

You can apply for the permit digitally through the Arunachal Pradesh Tourism website, which costs somewhere between Rs. 150 and Rs. 200 and tends to take about 5 to 8 working days for approval.

Additionally, travelers can get their permit once they arrive at Guwahati Airport. You will have to go to the Arunachal Pradesh tourism office for it, and the cost for the same can be verified in the office.

Authentic Dishes: Must have Food in Tawang

Getting to know about the kind of food available at a place is something that is necessary information to plan accordingly. This Tawang travel guide covers all the information you need to know about Tawang, and next we have the food that you can find here in this beautiful town.

It provides a one-of-a-kind selection of authentic Arunachal cuisine known as Monpa cuisine. Additionally, there are numerous options ranging from Tibetan to Chinese to local cuisine. Following are the must-have lip-smacking food in Tawang:

Bresi : This is sweet rice that is specially prepared for ceremonial occasions. Freshly cooked rice is put into the basin along with loads of melted butter. Lastly, to add taste, it is seasoned using sugar and raisins.
Puta: These delicious noodles are freshly cooked using buckwheat flour. Interestingly, this is a unique Monpa version of the noodles.
Thukpa: It is the most commonly found food item in Tawang which is eaten along with minced meat, chilies, etc. There are various kinds of Thukpa such as Dheb-thukpa, and Ashum Thukpa.
Khazi: It’s made with boiled rice, coarsely diced maan which is a type of spring onion leaf, chamin, and sprinkled with salt.

Must Read: Tawang FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions about Tawang

Things to carry: Travel essentials for Tawang

One of the most important things to take into consideration when planning to go on a Tawang backpacking trip is to make a note of the things to carry. This Tawang travel guide will help you with just the right things you need for your trip to Tawang:

A day backpack along with the bigger bag which has all your essentials. The smaller backpack is best suitable when you will be out on local sightseeing, as you would like to have the least amount of things to carry.
Footwear including floaters or sandals and outdoor shoes. Make sure to choose comfortable pair of footwear and carry fewer pairs but the most durable ones.
A couple of quick-dry tees along with track pants and joggers are a must to carry with you. Adequate clothing will save you from weather changes and helps to avoid getting sick while traveling.
Lastly, keep a box of all the necessary medicines . These include the one prescribed to you by your family doctor along with bandages, Dettol, medication for headaches, nausea, etc.

Safety: Is it safe to visit Tawang?

When it comes to safety concerns, one need not worry as Arunachal Pradesh is among the safest places in India. With an extremely low crime rate, and a high number of army camps in the area it is undoubtedly very safe for travelers.

One thing to take note of is the frequent off-season snowfall or rains that might be troublesome when traveling but the locals are very helpful when it comes to this.

Be it a family vacation or a solo backpacking trip to Tawang, safety concerns would be the last thing to worry about. Additionally. Travelers who identify as women can also be carefree as fellow female travelers have often regarded the place as one of the safest places for women.

The locals are very humble and are always willing to help the tourist with anything. To add to our Tawang travel guide, just being polite with them and respecting the local culture and traditions would ensure that you have a smooth trip with all the good memories.

Recommended Read: Best Weekend Getaways From Delhi

Places to visit: Tourist Attractions of Tawang

Tawang is home to some of the most famous and breathtaking places in the world. This scenic town in Arunachal Pradesh offers the best of views that will make you feel magical. Following are the places to visit in Tawang:

Sela Pass: Set at a peak of 4170 meters is this natural beauty that links Tawang to Guwahati in Assam. Additionally, it is among the world’s highest motorable mountainous terrain.
Thingbu Hot Spring: This beautiful exotic hot spring is in a tiny hamlet called Thingbu and is the best natural spa. Streams from the Mago Chu river are extremely rejuvenating and beautiful.
Tawang Monastery: Visiting the largest monastery in India is incredible and worshipping here would bring peace. It is also renowned as Galden Namgyal Lhatse and has about 300 monks living together.
Shonga-Tser Lake: Formerly a cattle grazing area, it turned into a lake due to a powerful earthquake in 1950. It is breathtakingly beautiful and is in the heart of the valleys and mountains of Tawang.

This brings us to the end of our Tawang travel guide which included pretty much the A to Z of Tawang in terms of the food, culture, places, routes, etc. This guide will help you to be better prepared for this peaceful and adventurous trip to Tawang. Hop on!

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Guwahati to Tawang, Day 1 of Tawang Itinerary

We reached the taxi stand at Paltan Bazar early morning itself, and our Tata Sumo was waiting there. It was a rainy day in Guwahati. Our driver covered all our bags in tarpaulin and tied to the carrier on the top. I was excited, and had a feeling that it was the beginning of a great journey. Soon all the passengers came, the sumo started and we were on the way from Guwahati to Tawang. This is my second journey to North-east India, the first was Sikkim, but long before I began writing about my travels.

The places to visit in North-east India is a quite long list for me. Those who comes here, usually, plan a sprint between all the major touristy spots. The travel between two places is long and exhausting. Also, the internet has spoiled the thrill of the root bridges and waterfalls, so those were not an option for me. I didn’t want to rush, have to go somewhere far, somewhere that still has the charm and people I wanted to experience. My friends Sankar and Ajay were also with me.

There is a movie in Malayalam, where the hero goes all the way from Kerala to Tawang to meet his girlfriend. That was the first time I heard about this place located in one corner of Arunachal Pradesh. People we met on the way were curious to know how we came to know about Tawang. The difficult part was to explain the story of the movie in my broken Hindi.

Whomever we met in Tawang, they were so friendly and made sure we never had a bad experience. They were so happy to see us coming from down south of the country.

Day 1: Guwahati To Tawang

We arrived in Guwahati on a Saturday evening. The first thing to visit Tawang was to get the Inner Line Permit (ILP). I knew there was a tourism department office at the airport and we could obtain the ILP from there. But by the time we arrived, the office was closed.

The next day is Sunday and the offices will open only on Monday. Someone told us to reach Paltan Bazar and enquire there. From there, we were told to check the Assam Tourism office near Nepali Mandir. Finally, we found a place to get the permit but we could only get it by Monday. In that case, we could start our journey on Tuesday, that is late. That news was a little disappointing but things took another turn quickly.

Later, we were just roaming on the streets and found this taxi stand, there was a counter and they said it is possible to get the permit by morning the next day. Though it is a little expensive, we agreed. We booked three seats for the Tata Sumo leaving for Tawang next morning. These guys will arrange the permit and send it to us by the next day before we cross the Arunachal Pradesh border, that was the deal.

That was a small flashback. Now it’s day one of our journey.

Once our taxi was out of the city limits, the villages of Assam started to appear. We only got the last row seats. It was obviously uncomfortable.

These Tata Sumos are worth mentioning. The roads in the Northeast are terrible. One reason is because of the landscape. They are not good for buses. I heard that the bus from Guwahati to Tawang takes two days to reach. So these Tata Sumos are the most common and quick means of transport. The real seats are replaced by three bench seats.

The front row is the most luxurious with some legroom. Those who book first always prefer the first-row seat. Three people sit there apart from the driver. The person next to the driver has to put legs over the gear lever. Four people have to sit in the second and third rows. So there will be 11 passengers. The kids go to the lap of the responsible person. You may feel a little uncomfortable initially, but that too shall pass.

Our taxi was not full that day, we got enough space to sit. Apart from the three of us, none traveling in the taxi was interested in what’s happening outside. Soon, one by one, they dozed off. It was like we three, the driver and those Hindi songs from the music player going to Tawang. Funny thing is during the entire journey, I heard the same songs multiple times, even though the playlist was long, and came to a point where I can guess which song will play after the other.

I’m not gonna talk about the scenes on the way or how beautiful the green lush of Assamese villages and all. That’s for you to experience see when you come here.

The roads were bumpy, the rest of our mates were less bothered, they were at peace with the chaos on the road, they slept over and over. Once in a while, the taxi stops for a break, everyone will get down, go to the toilet, have some food, come back to the taxi and sleep again. This continued almost for the major part of the journey.

The sumo was moving at a steady pace, we reached the check post. Our permit was there already in our inbox. Little later, we started ascending the mountains of Arunachal Pradesh.

This part of the country has a huge military presence, India shares border with China here and China still claims Arunachal Pradesh as their land. We can see large military convoys all the time on the road.

On the way, we stopped at Bomdila and Dirang for break. These are the two major cities en route to Tawang. If the straight stretch to Tawang is too much for you, stop by any of these places and continue the journey next day.

After Dirang, it is the snow-laden Sela pass. In one word it is beautiful but realized only on the way back. It was already night when we crossed Sela pass, all we could see was whatever appeared two meters in front of our vehicle. It was dark and foggy.

There was a Buddhist monk in our taxi, once his sleep limit was over, he started talking to us. When he knew that we didn’t book any stay in Tawang, immediately called his friend in Tawang and arranged his homestay.

It was a really long journey, took almost 15 hours, and finally, we reached Tawang. The taxi dropped us at the homestay. The monk lives in Tawang monastery, it was closed by the time we reached there, he couldn’t go inside, he also came with us to the homestay.

Our host Tashi Bhai was waiting for us and served a wonderful dinner. The food and the home; It didn’t take us much time to decide where to stay for rest of the days in Tawang.

Few things to know for Day 1 to Tawang

How to get inner line permit (ilp) to tawang.

Getting an ILP to Arunachal is not a big task for Indians. All you need is a photo and ID proof. Also, you need to be sure where to go in Arunachal. ILP is generally issued to a particular destination and the places on the way.

You have to show ILP to get an additional permit to visit the India-China border and other military secured areas. Otherwise, nobody is going to check the permit other than the Assam-Arunachal check post.

You can obtain ILP online and offline.

There is an Arunachal Pradesh tourism office in the Guwahati airport, you get ILP from there before 4 in the evening. There is one counter in the Guwahati railway station also. Else go to the Assam tourism office near Nepali mandir near Guwahati railway station.

If all these options didn’t work, go to the taxi stand and ask the people there. Surely, they are ready to help but will be expensive. We paid INR 300 for each permit.

Below is the link to the Arunachal Pradesh Toursim department website where you can apply for ILP and travel from Guwahati to Tawang without any worries. This webpage has link for both Indian and Foreign travellers.

Arunachal Pradesh toursim website for ILP

Shared taxi from Guwahati to Tawang

Buses are available, but only if you have plenty of days and don’t want to reach Tawang that quickly.

The best option to travel from Guwahati to Tawang are the shared Tata Sumos. Even the people of Tawang rely on them. Book it in advance, at least one day before. Most of them start from the taxi stand in Paltan Bazar. We paid INR 1300 per person.

All the taxis start early in the morning, at about 6.30 AM.

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Incense Making
Religious Practices
Dress & Ornaments
Fairs & Festivals
Recreational Dances
Pantomimes/Dance Drama
Religious/Monastic Dances
The Exile Route of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama
Tawang Monastery
Chumi Gyatse
Monasteries & Nunneries
Lakes,Waterfalls & Hot Springs
Passes & Peaks
Local Attractions
Tawang’s Photo Gallery
Video Gallery
ILP Formalities
How to Reach
Where to Stay & Eat
Best Time to Visit & Local Weather
Recommended Itinerary
Tour Operators & Guides
Tawang Trip Advisory
Important Offices
Banks & Atm’s
Hospitals & Chemists
Local Markets

PLAN YOUR TOUR

Township Map of Tawang

Foreign Tourists in a group of 2 or more persons need to obtain PAP (Protected Area Permit) for a period of 30 days from the following offices

Govt. of India, Ministry of Home Affairs, New Delhi. The Resident Commissioner, Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, Kautilya Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi. Phone: 011-230113915/23013956/26880901

The Commissioner (Home), Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar- 791111.

Commissioner and Secretary (Tourism), Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh, Itanagar- 791111.

Foreign Tourist visiting Arunachal Pradesh shall have to pay USD 50 per head as Royalty to the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and application for PAP are to be applied through local approved tour operators only.

Tawang is 326 kms from Tezpur, 447 kms from Itanagar and 488 kms from Guwahati

There are frequent buses from Bomdila . It is a 11 hrs journey and cost is around 120 Rs . From Guwahati you can take buses for Bomdila (11 hrs , 160 Rs ) and break your journey at Bomdila , then take buses for Tawang

The town is about a 16 hour drive from Guwahati. However, it is best to hire a Tata Sumo from Tezpur in Assam (4 hr. drive from Guwahati). From Tezpur you go to Bhalukpong (border of Assam and Arunachal) where Indian and Non Indian tourists have to show in permit (easily obtainable at either Guwahati or Tezpur) and proceed to a beautiful and rough drive up the mountains. It can take 12-14 hrs if you go at a stretch to Tawang. It is advisable to break your journey at either Bomdila or better still – charming little valley town of Dirang. Sela pass is notoriously difficult and heavy snowfall (during season) could force you to stay on either side.

By motorbike

As of October 2010, sections of the road after Balipara (where you divert from NH52) is work in progress and you will find mud roads with stones which are unpleasant to ride on. After Bhalukpong, BRO is widening the roads so expect slushy roads for around 15 kms. If you love your motorbike, travel by a taxi/bus from Tezpur.

Get around :

War Memorial

Getting around in Tawang can be divided into two categories. First one is travel to local sites like Tawang Monastery, War Memorial, Emporium etc. This can be done by booking a taxi (mostly Maruti OMNI) for half a day. Second one is travel to sites outside Tawang which includes P T So lake, Shungetsar (Madhuri) lake and visit to India-China border at Bumla. A bigger vehicle like Tata Sumo or Mahindra Bolero should be hired for the same as roads are in bad shape. An entire day is enough to cover these sites.

Tawang Monastery : Tawang monastery is the largest of its kind in the country and is one of the largest monasteries in Asia. Though it has the capacity for housing about seven hundred monks, the actual number of resident lamas (monks) at present is a little more than 450. This monastery is the fountain-head of the spiritual life of the people of this region.
Jaswant Garh : An Indian Army War Memorial, commemorating the bravery of hundreds of soldiers who successively fought in the 1962 w ar against the Chinese. Jaswant Singh Rawat, who along with two other soldiers bravely fought of the Chinese Army invading Tawang, during the battle of Nuranang. For his outstanding act of gallantry Rfn. Jaswant Singh Rawat was posthumously awarded with the Mahavir Chakra. His two colleagues L Nk. Trilok Singh Negi, along with Rfn Gopal Singh Gusain, were awarded with the Vir Chakra.
Jang falls : A beautiful waterfall just about a km away from the Jang town. It is quite spectacular
P.T.Tso Lake : This lake is situated above tawang and is frozen for about 4-5 months of a year. One can hire a local vehicle and go to this lake. The lake itself is splendid as well as the views from the lake are also unbelievable.

Zimithang Valley

Tawang is a much undiscovered Trekkers paradise, offering breath taking views, fresh mountain air, chill weather, and challenging or leisurely treks.

For a rigorous trek ( classified hard), take the Jang – Thingbu – Mago – Goi ichen Base Camp – Mago (Back) – Luguthang – Sena Chakra – RA-I route.

The softer trekking routes include the Mukto – Gongkhar – Gyamdong – Khet – Kharung – Bongleng – Kungba – Namsring – Kharteng – Lumla route, and the Tawang Gonpa – Gyangong Ani Gonpa – Bhramadongchung Ani Gonpa – Tawang routes.

You can also trek along the Namet Village – Zarmang Ani Gonpa – Khromten Gonpa – Geshila – Klimta – Bomla – Y. Junction – Tawang route, which takes you close to the Chinese border outpost at Bomla.

Trekkers are advised to come fully attired and prepared for the worst.

Take a walk around the charming town.

Pray at the 400 year old Tawang Gompa. Turn the prayer wheels dotted outside small gompas. Meet and chat with the friendly Lama monks. Take excursions around town to visit beautiful glacier lakes and smaller gompas with big histories.

Chat with friendly and beautiful locals.

Take a nap on a hillock if its sunny, be prepared to be awoken by a grazing Yak.

Tawang has a good range of tourist souvenir shops which sell Budhdhist prayer wheels in colourful wood, chadars (wrap skirts worn by local women), beautiful bags, shawls, brassware, Budhdha statues. Look for shops in Old Market as well as Tibetan settlement.

Chiken Momos

Tibetean delicacies like Thupka , momos or simple and delicious Paratha- Sabzi eaten hot from the roadside shacks on cold misty days are a treat !! Most restaurants in Tawang serve these. A small shack called Annapurna serves delicious alu ( potato) chips.

The traditional Monpa cuisine use a generous amount of chillies and fermented cheese which has a strong flavour and is not for the faint hearted.

Some traditional Arunachal dishes are, the famous Momo, widely eaten in the north east and other Himalayan regions. The Momo is made by stuffing minced Pork and Onions into a dough and then steamed in a three layer steamer, or fried.

The Thukpa is a soup filled with noodles, minced meat, and vegetables, also known as Der Thuk. Ashum Thukpa is made of Maize, beans and meat.

Zan is the staple dish of the Monpa tribes. It is usually made of Millet flour. It is usually had with vegetables or meat to which is added fermented cheese, soya bean or other herbs.

Khura is a pancake, had with tea.

Gyapa Khazi is a kind of Pulao made of rice, fermented cheese, small dried fish or shrimp, chillies ginger and other spices.

Like all places of travel, some of the best food is found at the small non descript, sometime not very hygenic, eateries, that serve authentic dishes at very affordable prices. They are sure to be authentic food of the region as they are most frequented by locals.

Red wine, rum, antiquity

Unfortuntely Tawang like most hill stations in the North East is far from developed, so finding good accomodation here may be a challenge. However the flip side is the lack of tourism leaves the place more virgin and unexplored.

Apart from Tawang Inn which is the most modern and comfortable option in Tawang- most other options are pretty basic. Hotel Tawang View has the best views from their second floor basic rooms- of both the Gompa and snow topped mountains. Most hotels are in the market area. It is worth to try your luck at the government rest-house, or if you are lucky the Circuit house.

tenzin , gompa road tawang ( tawang ), [1]. edit
Hotel Twang Inn , Near Nehru Market , Tawang . edit
Hotel Gakyi Khang Zhang , Near DC Office , Tawang . edit
Hotel Dolma , Old Market . checkin: 12pm ; checkout: 12pm . 550 . edit
Assam via Bhalukpung Orchid Sanctuary . An amazing variety of orchids grown in gardens and under glass.

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4 easy ways to reach Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh from Guwahati, Assam

Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is an unexplored heaven on earth with spirituality and nature both blending in to create a masterpiece which is second to none in all of India. Tawang is a place so Far East that very knew have ventured this far. In this article we will explain in detail how you can reach Tawang.

Getting to Tawang has become a lot easier as compared to what it was before Covid-19. You still need the Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter the region and you also need to get it done online from the government website. The permit takes around two-30 hours to reach your email id. After filling the form and paying the fees which is currently ₹500 (for Indians). You will need to give the hotel name and local reference while filling the online ILP. It’s a seamless process and very easy to get the permit.

Now when you plan on getting to Tawang, remember this is no direct airport or railway station which will take you to Tawang. The gate way to reach the town is via Guwahati and Tezpur in Assam.

So when you are planning a trip, it’s always better to start from Guwahati, since everything is convenient from the capital city of Assam. From Guwahati and Tezpur, there are multiple options to get to the town.

Taking a private taxi

Taxi is the most convenient, fastest and also the costliest way to reach Tawang. The journey via a taxi in a four seated or a 10 seated sumo will take you roughly 15-17 hours one way depending on the traffic you get along the journey. The cost of the taxi one way is anywhere between ₹13,000-16,000/- which is 460km and covers a long way which includes crossing Sela Pass along the way to reach Tawang. The journey starts in the morning at around 5-6 am and you will reach Tawang town by 8-9 pm in the evening at the earliest.

Sumo per seat

Taking a shared sumo from Guwahati is another option. A seat will cost you ₹1600 and the sumo is a 10 seater. The two in the front with the driver, four in the middle row and four in the back seat. The journey takes around the same time as a private taxi but is a more cramped up journey to experience. If you are a budget traveller or a solo traveller then this is an option you can consider.

Overnight bus to Tawang

Daily bus service has started from ISBT Guwahati to Tawang town. The bus leaves at 11:00 am and reaches the town the next morning at 5:00 am. The bus is run by ATSC and private operators. Bus fare is around ₹1500 per seat and there are both air condition buses and regular buses that do the journey. The journey by bus takes around 18-20 hours and even though it’s longer, doing the over night in a bus is the best option. It’s the most comfortable way to reach Tawang town.

Two day journey to Tawang

If doing the direct journey which is a minimum of 16 hours one way isn’t on your travel plans, then you can always break journey and travel. The best way to travel over two days is to first take an over night bus from Guwahati to Bomdila which has government and private operator network. The government bus leaves in the day time while network bus leaves at 8:00 pm from ISBT Guwahati and reaches Bomdila, the following morning at 5 am. The bus cost around ₹800 per seat and is a Non Air condition bus.

Once you reach Bomdila, you can either stay the night in the Buddhist town and take a shared per seat sumo to Tawang the following day. A room in Bomdila will cost anywhere between ₹500-3000 depending on the budget you have, you can decide. Remember to book the shared sumo seat a day prior to your journey to avoid getting a bad seat.

The shared sumo will leave Bomdila at 5-6 am in the morning and reach Tawang by lunch time 1-2 pm. These vehicles which run point to point won’t really stop along the way. Just toilet and eating breaks along the way is what you can expect. A shared sumo seat from Bomdila to Tawang will cost ₹800 per seat. Again there will be a total of 10 travellers + 1 driver in the vehicle.

Best way to return back from Tawang ??

Taking the direct bus which leaves at 11:00 am from the town bus station is the most economical and also the safest way to get back to Guwahati. The bus will reach Paltan Bazar, Guwahati by 5-5:30 am. Remember to book the bus a day or two in advance.

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Tawang Tourism

Tawang Overview

Tawang is a district in Arunachal Pradesh, which was a subdivision of West Kameng district up until the year 1984. The majestic Tawang Monastery, which is situated on the ridge that goes along the town Tawang, is thought to be where the name Tawang first appeared. According to the belief of the natives, His Holiness the Eighth Lama Lodre Gyatso gave the name ‘Tawang’ to the place. Etymologically, Tawang means ‘chosen by a horse’. Mythology states that a horse which belonged to Mera Lama Lodre Gyatso is said to have picked the location of the monastery. A continuous chain of mountain ranges and hills, with heights ranging from around 3500 to 22500 feet, make up the district. “Gorichen” is the name of the tallest peak among all the mountain ranges of Tawang. A large diversity of tree types, blue pines, and orchids flourish here in the midst of priceless medicinal and herbal plants. The people who live in this area are mostly from the Monpa tribe. Since the Monpas have a warm, cordial, polite, and humble nature, they treat tourists to their land with the utmost hospitality. The Monpas are Buddhists, and their religious beliefs and customs revolve around the Tawang Monastery. Tawang is renowned for its stunning natural settings and has its own unique religious and historical significance. Whether you want to experience the wonders of nature or learn about the area’s fascinating history, the town has something to provide for everyone. For people who want to ease off and unwind from the rush of city life, Tawang will be the most wonderful vacation destination for them.

What makes Tawang so famous?

Tawang is a stunning district in Arunachal Pradesh that has become quite well known for its alluring tourist destinations. The list of popular tourist destinations in Tawang is infinite and includes the Gorichen Mountain, Madhuri Lake, Nuranang Waterfalls, and Sela Pass. In addition to its stunning natural surroundings, Tawang is renowned for its Tawang Monastery, a 400-year-old monastery. It is a Buddhist monastery and a well-known destination for local pilgrims. Tawang’s rich culture and customs are another factor in the city’s attractiveness. You can learn about the ancient ceremonies of the indigenous tribes on just one visit to this location.

Best time to visit Tawang

Tawang is the cultural hub of Arunachal Pradesh, and visitors are welcome all year long. Still, planning a vacation during the festival season will be the best option. Summer is among the finest seasons to arrange a trip to Tawang, with minimum temperatures of 5°C and maximum temperatures of 21°C. It is the excellent time for sightseeing because the temperature in the Tawang region is pleasant during this period. The area sees moderate rainfall, which can occasionally cause a sharp drop in temperature. Yet, you can also come here in the monsoon season if you want to take in all the beauty of nature. A vacation should not be planned during the winter months (October to February), when temperatures range from -11°C to -12°C causing extreme cold.

How to reach Tawang?

By Roadways – The road system in Arunachal Pradesh is outstanding. It is linked to the other parts of India by two highways. The first is National Highway 52, which links Dirak and Jonai. Tawang and Tezpur in Assam are connected by a different highway. Arunachal Pradesh State Transport Services, the state’s bus transportation company, operates state-owned buses from several districts to Itanagar. Also, the roads in Arunachal Pradesh that connect the villages are built and maintained well. There are daily bus services available, and every single town in Arunachal Pradesh has its own bus station. By Railways – There are no trains operating within Arunachal Pradesh. Though the closest train station to Arunachal Pradesh is Rangapara in Tezpur, Assam. Guwahati, which is around 485 kilometres from Tawang, has good train connections with almost all of the major Indian cities. By Airways – There isn’t an airport that is currently open in Arunachal Pradesh. The closest airport, Lilabari Airport, which is 57 kilometres from Itanagar and has Air India domestic flights to Kolkata and Guwahati, is your best bet if you’re going to travel by air to Arunachal Pradesh. Also to get to your location, you might consider hiring a helicopter. Daily passenger services are conducted by Pawan Hans under the authority of the Arunachal Pradesh government.

Language, History and People of Tawang

Languages Spoken- The majority of Tawang residents speak Tawang Mon-Keth, albeit there are subtle phonetic and tonal differences from village to village. It serves as the community’s primary language. Although having several Tibetan words, Mon-Keth is unique from Tibetan. In Tawang, everyone is fluent in Hindi and English, making it easy to communicate with travellers. History- The Monpa people live in Tawang. In 1681, the Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso established the Tawang Monastery at the request of the fifth Dalai Lama, who was the Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. Tsangyang Gyatso, the 6th Dalai Lama, was born there. Tibet used to have authority over Tawang. The McMahon Line, which defined Tibet’s and British India’s shared border in the himalayan mountain region of Assam, was agreed upon at the time of Simla Conference in 1914. By way of this deal, Tibet gave the British control over several hundred square miles of its land, including Tawang. Tawang remained to be ruled by the Tibetans, who continued to levy taxes in the area, considering that Tawang was not recognised by China and was not taken over by the British. Tawang briefly came under Chinese control during the Sino-Indian War of 1962, but India once more held Tawang after China withdrew its soldiers at the end of the conflict. People- Most of the population who live in this area are from the Monpa tribe. The Monpa is a member of the Mongoloid race. They have a fair complexion, a fair build, and a medium to tall frame. The Monpas have a pleasant, courteous, and mild character, and they naturally give amazing hospitality to tourists to their homeland. The Tawang Monastery serves as the focal point for the Buddhist beliefs and practices of the Monpas, who identify as Buddhists.

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Top tourist attractions in tawang-, tawang monastery.

Tawang Monastery, also known as Tawang Ganden Namgyal Lhatse, is Asia’s second massive and ancient monastery. The sanctum is dominated by the 8-meter-tall graceful statue of Lord Buddha. The Tawang Monastery houses a residence for the monks, as well as a library, a museum, and a primary school. A magnificent yellow-roofed Tawang monastery, standing on a hill and dominating everything around and below it, was formerly a massive and fortified complex strategically located where the trade routes from Tibet, Bhutan, and West Kameng met.

Tawang War Memorial

The 40-foot-tall Tawang War Monument is a colourful structure commemorating the two thousand four hundred twenty martyrs of the 1962 India-Sino War. The Stupa design was carefully and purposefully chosen for the War Monument due to its overwhelming majesty and vastness, respect for the local religious sentiments, and compatibility with local architectural ideas. The memorial is encircled by snow-capped Himalayan peaks and looks out over the alluring Tawang-Chu valley. War Memorial is a site that you must see if you want to learn more about the town’s fascinating history.

Sangestar Tso (Madhuri Lake)

One of the most well-known lakes in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, Madhuri Lake was originally known as Shonga-tser Lake and was created by a flash flood following an earthquake in 1950. The lake was given an alternate name following the shooting of the Bollywood movie Koyla, which featured the actress Madhuri Dixit. Very verdant valleys and snow-capped mountains surround the lake. The best approach to discover the lake’s gorgeous surroundings is by a leisurely walk.

Sela Pass, which is occupying a height of 4170 metres, is a lifesaver for the residents of Arunachal Pradesh. This is the only pass that links Tawang to the entire nation. In addition to its physical significance, it is renowned for its ethereal beauty and hills covered with snow. Sela Pass is the place to go if you want to see the Eastern Himalayas in all their vibrant glory. It provides a breathtaking perspective of the hills and valleys that border the area. Owing to its closeness to Sela Lake, Sela Pass is unquestionably one of Tawang’s best tourist destinations for adventurers. The best time to visit Sela Pass is during the summers because roads are regularly closed throughout the winter owing to heavy snowfall.

Jaswant Garh War Memorial

The Jaswant Garh War Monument, which is situated above the Jang Township and below Sela Pass, is a testament to the Indian Soldier’s valour in the face of overwhelming circumstances. Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, who gave his life along with two other soldiers during the 1962 conflict while opposing the Chinese Army’s march for roughly 72 hours, must be honoured before continuing on the way to Tawang. A bronze bust of Jaswant Singh, a painting of the battle heroes, and Jaswant Singh Rawat’s personal effects are all displayed at the Jaswant Garh Monument. The clay light that stands in front of the image of Jaswant Singh burns continuously. The courage of Indian soldiers is memorialised by a marble inscription that honours the 161 valiant men who gave their lives in the fight of Nuranang.

Pankang Teng Tso Lake

Also known as the PTso Lake, the site which is around 18 kms from Tawang, is very popular year-round with vacationers. The lake and its surrounds change colour every week, and the scene is drastically altered. It is more than simply a lake because of the breathtaking panoramas it catches; it is a magical place. The lake’s water is illuminated by a mist of green radiance created by the mountains’ gorgeous symmetrical fir forest. Locals and visitors can enjoy skiing on the ice-covered Pankang Teng Tso Lake in the winter.

Banggachhang Lake

In close proximity to the Banggachhang gonpa sits this lake. Winter snowfall keeps the road to the lake largely closed. Both walking and driving up to the gonpa from Sela will get you to the lake. The lake is linked to both pilgrims’ beliefs and stories from Monpa culture. The lake is close to the Sela pass and is located about 100 kilometres from Tawang town. In addition to the challenging and exciting path itself, the area’s lakes and mountains are equally magnificent.

Chumi Gyatse Waterfall

Holy Water Fall’s Chumi Gyatse Temple is a combination of 108 waterfall cascades.It is a four hours journey from Tawang Town and is next to Tsechu Hot Water Spring in Tsechu Village. The Monpas tribe of the state, who practise Tibetan Buddhism, hold Chumi Gyatse Temple in great regard. Its highly cleansed water has a variety of therapeutic benefits.

Nuranang Waterfall

The Nyamseir region is home to the Phong-phongma waterfall, also known as the Nuranang waterfall. It is located 2 km downhill from Jang and 40 kilometres from Tawang town. In Jang, adjacent to the Tawangchu River, is the magnificent and beautiful Nuranang waterfall. It is, to be precise, tremendous and captivating. It’s a unique location in Tawang where you may enjoy some quiet time in the midst of nature.

The Bumla pass, which is located at an elevation of more than 15000 feet, is about 37 kilometres (km) north of Tawang and takes around two hours to drive through. Because of its extreme elevation, the pass is covered in snow for virtually the whole year, providing a stunning perspective of the Tibetan plateau. There isn’t a border fence at the pass because the Line of Actual Control (LAC) serves as the de facto border. Also, the two sides arrange cultural events that the public can attend on specific occasions. The Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Tawang is where you may receive the special permission needed to access the Bum La Pass.

Gorichen Peak

At a height of 22,500 feet, the Gorichen peak is the highest peak in the area and has captivated the desire of many mountaineers to climb it. It is located 164 kilometres away from Tawang town. Locally, it is referred to as Sa-Nga-Phu. The summit is allegedly visible from Shillong as well. The native tribes of Tawang revere this hill as a holy place that shields them from all harm.

Thingbu Hot spring

Thingbu Village is blessed with a beautiful hot spring that is situated in the Mago Chu River near Nguikteng, about 20 kms away from Jang. Since it only requires a brief 20-minute climb and only takes a drive of roughly 3 hours from Tawang or 1 hour from Jang to get there, most tourists can easily visit these hot springs.

At the Sela Mountain pass, there are two beautiful lakes that seem to be extending an invitation to Tawang. Sela Lake is the most well-known. It is considered lucky if you see a couple of swans in Sela Lake.

Nagula Lake

One of the most popular Tawang sights is this high elevation lake. This lake is a stunning delight for nature enthusiasts with its surrounding backdrop of lush flora and snow-capped mountains. Due to its proximity to the border, the area has a considerable military presence, although tourists still go there.

Urgelling Gompa

Around five kilometres away from Tawang district, along the national highway, is the Urgelling monastery, which Ugyen Sangpo founded. It is reported that the temple’s initial construction was rather simple. But, since he was near death, the royal father asked that the gonpa to be renovated. The contemporary Urgylling gompa is a simple construction with a base area of just over 180 sq metres. It is a two-story building. Each niche along the temple’s exterior walls is filled with rows of prayer wheels. Nine chortens are located on the ground floor’s northern side. The statues of Buddha Shakyamuni, who serves as the main image, are located on a two-tiered altar.

Tak-Tsang Gonpa

It is known as The Tiger’s Den and is situated 50 kilometres from Tawang in a breathtaking setting of towering mountains and coniferous trees. It is supposed to have been sanctified during Guru Padmasambhava’s stay in the eighth century. The Guru and his horse are believed to have left an impression on the ground. According to legend, a tiger greeted the Guru when he arrived at the location, earning the place the local name Tak-tsang (Tiger’s den). Later, a temple known as the Tak-tsang Gonpa was built on this location.

Bapteng-Kang Waterfall

Another well-known waterfall is Bapteng-Kang, which is located 30 kilometres from Lumla and 80 kilometres from Tawang to Zemithang. It is generally introduced as BTK waterfall and is 100 feet tall.

Samten Yongcha Monastery

A famous tourist attraction in Tawang is this monastic complex. Together with other things like sculptures, buildings, and Buddhist artefacts, the monastery’s major attraction is a golden figure of the Lord Buddha. The verdant surroundings and stunning vistas of the mountaintop Samten Yongcha Monastery are well renowned. Both residents who want to learn more about the customs and culture of this region and several monks call this monastery home.

Dorjee Khandu Memorial Museum

As a memorial to the late Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Dorjee Khandu, his family, and well-wishers created the Dorjee Khnadu Memorial Museum in Famla village. His Holiness The Dalai Lama has bestowed his blessing on this memorial. Together with a museum, the blessed location also houses a stupa known as Jangchup Chorten.

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Travel advice on tawang-.

The ideal time of year to travel to Tawang will largely rely on your personal interests. The best months to visit would be October and November if you wanted to guarantee both a beautiful view of the scenery and clear skies. Following November, it usually gets chilly. The best months to visit if you want to see snow are from January through March. The months of April through August would be ideal to avoid the oppressive heat of the plains summer. Although the rainy season begins in April, it is more than made up for by the blooming rhododendrons and other blooms. Moreover, snow remains at higher elevations through May. Always be in mind that landslides during the monsoon and heavy snowfall throughout the winter may cause roadblocks. It would be wise to travel in a party of eight or ten if you opt to take a rental light vehicle because this will offer you the freedom to ask the driver to stop at different locations along the journey so you can take in the scenery.

Tips for visiting Tawang-

Visiting Tawang would be an unique and amazing travelling experience and keep the below points in mind for a seamless tour:-

In the summer, you need light woollens, and in the winter, you need heavier ones.
Never stick to a strict timetable, and always plan a few additional days.
Checking the status of the helicopter service one day in advance is advisable for tourists and travellers using the Guwahati to Tawang helicopters service.
Except on Wednesday and Sunday, helicopter services are offered five days a week, depending on the weather.
You must travel to Tawang during the Torgya festival month if religious dances are your thing. This festival lasts for three days starting on the twenty-eighth day of the Buddhist calendar’s eleventh month, which is sometime in January.
An Inner line permission is necessary for all visits to Tawang and all other areas of Arunachal Pradesh. Visitors receive the permit frequently; thus, it shouldn’t be a hindrance to visiting Arunachal Pradesh.
Without the permission of the army commanders stationed there, do not snap photos of army installations or banned areas.
After arriving at Tawang, a lot of visitors experience acute altitude sickness. Thus, it is advised that all tourists and visitors acclimatise themselves with a one-night stopover in between at either Bomdila (8500 ft) or Dirang (4920 ft) in the West Kameng District.
With considering the regional laws and customs, plan the route in advance.
Visitors and tourists with heart conditions and other related illnesses should exercise extreme caution and seek medical attention beforehand. They should also make sure that there are medications and other life-saving therapies available.

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Snorkeling in Dawki, Shnongpdeng Meghalaya

Rainfall in tawang-.

The rainy season in Tawang is pleasant and primarily cloudy, whereas the dry season is chilly and primarily clear. Extreme seasonal variations in monthly rainfall are common in Tawang. From March through November, which is almost nine months of the year, 0.5 inches or more of rain typically falls over the course of 31 days. With a mean rainfall of 6.3 inches, July is the rainiest month in Tawang. From November to March, there are approximately five months without rain. And with a mean rainfall of 0.1 inches, January is the parched month in Tawang.

Things to do in Tawang-

Head over to the chak-zam bridge-.

A follower of the first Dalai Lama by the name of Lama Chag-Zam Wangpo, was a builder of iron chain bridges, an architect and a philosopher. In the Himalayan region, he is credited with constructing more than 100 iron bridges. He constructed the Tawang-chu River bridge between 1420 and 1430 to allow access through Kitpi and Mukto. About 25 kilometres distance from the town is the bridge that displays the best metallurgy. Many stunning and vibrant prayer flags can be found on both sides of the bridge, which further adds to the area’s appeal.

Go boating on Madhuri Lake-

Madhuri Lake, one of the nation’s unknown lakes, lies tucked away at a height of 12000 feet. Just 20 kilometres from Tawang, the tranquil beauty gives enchanting views of rugged mountains and turquoise water. Many recreational pursuits are available at the lake, including hiking, boating, fishing, picnicking, and camping. Even when the lake freezes over in the winter, the scenery is still stunning.

Visit the Craft Centre-

The District Industrial Estate is situated around 2 km from the middle of town. There, a craft complex is set up with the intention of fostering the production of regional handicrafts. There is an emporium there where you may buy thangkas, carpets, masks, wooden bowls, carved wooden tables called chok-tse, and many other things. Visitors are allowed to bring home mementos from their trip to Tawang, including showpieces, decorative objects, and even everyday items.

Perform meditation in Buddha Park-

Buddha Park is situated next to the government Circuit House Tawang, in the middle of the town. At this peaceful park, one may take some time for prayer and meditation. Also, this park provides panoramic views of the entire town. It is also a fantastic location for clicking photos.

Attend the local Cultural Festivals-

Several festivals are observed by the Monpa tribes throughout the year. Their celebrations tend to have a religious theme, and each one has its unique significance and history. Making the most of The Tawang Festival, one of Arunachal Pradesh’s wonderful events, requires careful planning of your travels. It is the finest chance to engage in a variety of fun activities and get a taste of the local culture. You can participate in native sports, view traditional dance performances, learn more about the unique practices of some tribes, and savour a variety of delicious local dishes from various tribes, including their alcoholic beverages, at this event.

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Guwahati kaziranga shillong cherrapunji tour package, adventurous activities to do in tawang-, go for river rafting-.

Rafting on the Kameng River, one of Arunachal’s most beautiful rivers, is one of the exciting things to do in Tawang. Once you are in Tawang, you can make reservations for your rafting excursions. The summer months of April through July are the ideal time to go rafting. Also, previous rafting expertise is not required. You can add river rafting with some groups also in your tour plan.

Trek to Gorichen Peak-

Gorichen Peak is the highest mountain top in Arunachal Pradesh, and is the third-highest apex in the Northeast. This hike has the ideal setting and terrain to put your sense of adventure to the stand. This trekking route will amaze you with its imposing peak and spectacular beauty. This peak, which is found in between Kameng and Tawang districts of Arunachal Pradesh, is truly awe inspiring. It is only 164 kilometres from Tawang district and is tucked away at an elevation of 22,500 feet.

Go for biking in the mountain trails-

Tawang’s surroundings offer some of the most difficult mountain biking trails because of the area’s rugged topography. Even if you’ve never attempted it before, you are capable of doing so at Tawang. It becomes better if you are an experienced motorcyclist. You can pick from a number of broad trails with various degrees of difficulty to get to serene monasteries or breathtaking mountain top vistas. If you plan to visit Tawang in the summer, make sure that you register for bike tours since they are among the most enjoyable activities there.

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Jowai tour packages.

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Shillong Tour Packages

Best places to stay in tawang-.

Tawang offers a wide variety of lodging options, including homestays, government guest houses and lodges, and commercial hotels. In and around the Tawang Township are where you’ll find the majority of private hotels and guest houses. The proper choice for a visitor who wants to stay in Lumla or Jang would be to get a room at the government Circuit House or Lodge. Some of the tried and tested hotels are catalogued below. You can go through them- Hotel Dekyi Pelbar, Hotel Taktsang, Hotel Tsering Yangkhil Khang, Hotel Menda-La, Vamoose North Hill, Vamoosetrail Tawang, Stay Inn Tawang, Dolma Khangsar Home Stay, Dondrub Homestay, Mony Lodge, Bumla Inn, Bliss Homestay.

The Weather of Tawang-

Tawang has a pleasant and tolerable climate in general. Tawang encounters considerably lower rainfall in the winter than it does in the summer. This climate falls under the Köppen and Geiger classification of Cwb. Tawang has an average temperature of 5.5 °C. 3080 mm of rain precipitation occurs yearly. North of the equator is where Tawang is situated. September marks the conclusion of summer, which starts at the end of June. The summer months are June, July, August, and September. With only 41 mm of precipitation, December is the driest month. The highest rainfall month, on average, is July, with 643 mm. July has the maximum annual mean temperature of 12.1 °C. The yearly average temperature is lowest in January. It is -2.4 °C. Tawang experiences considerable snowfall during the winter, therefore it’s best to have a flexible schedule in case the roads close. Avoid going to Tawang between July and September during the rainy season.

Tawang Adventure Tour Packages

Amazing meghalaya kaziranga tour, awesome shillong tour, majestic kaziranga and meghalaya tour.

Wildlife Tour of Kaziranga with Meghalaya

Tawang camping tourism packages, frequently asked questions about tawang-.

Sela Pass, Tawang Monastery, Madhuri Lake, Nuranang Waterfall, Gorichen Peak, Bumla Pass, Jaswant Garh War Memorial, PTso Lake, etc. are a few of the well-known Tawang tourist attractions that you should definitely visit.

The ideal times to travel are October and November. Following November, it usually gets very cold. The best months to travel to Tawang if you want to encounter snowfall are from January through March. The perfect period would be from April to August to avoid the brutal heat of the plains summer. Even so, the monsoon period begins in April. The winter months might see temperatures as low as minus 1 degree Celsius or even below that.

Tawang is a good destination for those who want peace, adventure, or a simple vacation. People can meditate, go trekking, shop, eat the best local food, and enjoy nature’s marvels. It is indeed a very attractive destination.

Some of the best and comfortable accommodation in Tawang are; Hotel Dekyi Pelbar, Hotel Taktsang, Hotel Tsering Yangkhil Khang, Hotel Menda-La, Vamoose North Hill, Vamoosetrail Tawang, Stay Inn Tawang, Dolma Khangsar Home Stay, Dondrub Homestay, Mony Lodge, Bumla Inn, Bliss Homestay.

ILP is required to travel to Tawang. If you are flying into Guwahati, you can obtain ILP at the airport’s Arunachal Pradesh Tourist Desk. Also, you can obtain it from the District Courts of all other north-eastern towns. Visitors can apply for ILPs online through the Inner Line Permit Management System that the government of Arunachal Pradesh has created.

Tawang, a lovely town, experiences alpine weather. The brief and warm summers contrast with the chilly winters. The town experiences little rain between July and September. Visit Tawang in the months of December through January to behold the snowfall. Temperatures drop to 1-3 degrees Celsius during the winter, and snowfall may make travel challenging.

With the anomaly of the severe unseemly rains or winter snowfall, travelling to Tawang is typically safe and secured. In addition, whether you’re a solo traveller or going for a trip with your family, it is a secure area to visit and one of the most breathtaking and relaxing travel escape spots. According to the reports, one of the most placid states of the north eastern part of India is Arunachal Pradesh. There are relatively few acts of violence or robbery, and everyone is exceedingly friendly and helpful. It is also safe to visit alone or with your family because of the various army camps nearby.

There, a craft centre is set up with the intention of fostering the production of regional handicrafts. There is an emporium there where you may buy thangkas, masks, wooden bowls, carpets, carved wooden tables called chok-tse, tribal jewelleries, and many other things.

Yes, you can easily find wifi connections and mobile internet connection in the main town of Tawang. In some interior areas, you might not get proper connections.

Even though Tawang can be visited for only 3 days, it takes at least 8 days to explore everything there and also the nearby places.

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COMMENTS

30 BEST Places to Visit in Tawang (UPDATED 2024)
Assam & Arunachal The Buddhist Monasteries & Tribal Culture Tour. Bus Tours. from ₹1,42,607. per adult (price varies by group size) ... Tawang Tourism Tawang Hotels Tawang Guest House Tawang Holiday Homes Tawang Flights Tawang Restaurants Tawang Attractions Tawang Travel Forum Tawang Photos Tawang Map.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Tawang
Things to Do in Tawang, India: See Tripadvisor's 2,968 traveler reviews and photos of Tawang tourist attractions. ... Assam & Arunachal The Buddhist Monasteries & Tribal Culture Tour. Bus Tours. from . $1,669. ... Tawang Tourism Tawang Hotels Tawang Bed and Breakfast Tawang Vacation Rentals Flights to Tawang Tawang Restaurants Things to Do in ...
Tawang Travel Guide: (Including Dirang, Bomdila, Shergaon & More)
Next morning, you can find Tawang Bus from Bomdila. Guwahati to Bomdila bus costs around INR 500-550 and Bomdila to Tawang will cost around INR 350-400. If you are already in Tezpur, you can look for shared cars (Sumos) going upwards in the morning. You can stop directly to Tawang to stop at Bomdila or Dirang.
25 Awesome Things To Do In Tawang For EveryOne
The nearest railway station to Tawang is Rangapara Railway Station in Thakurbari, Assam, about 383 kilometres. But only a few trains run to this station, mainly from Delhi to Rangapara. From this train station, you have to book a private cab which will take around 11 hours to arrive at Tawang.
Tawang Travel Guide: (Including Dirang, Bomdila, Shergaon & More)
Bhalukpung is a small town on the Assam-Arunachal border, divided between both states. ... Tawang Festival. It is a new tourism festival started a few years ago to attract new visitors. It takes place in Tawang. It combines traditional events with modern festivities, musical concerts, and celebrations. It usually takes place around October ...
Tawang Travel Guide: All You Need To Know About The Destination
The nearest airport is in Tezpur, Assam. From here, book a taxi to cover the distance, which will take you through mesmerising views, clean air, clear skies and more. Distance from Tezpur: 331 kilometres. Tawang trip cost. Six-night tour packages to Tawang cost about INR 28,000 per person, on an average.
One week Trip To Tawang
A Week-long trip To Tawang and Bum la including Bomdilla, Dirang, and Sangti Valley - Arunachal Pradesh Day 1 - Guwahati to Dirang We start from the Guwahati airport in the morning and enjoy our drive through the golden fields of Assam before we start ascending the hills of Arunachal Pradesh, taking a newly built road that makes for a fantastic drive and even better views.
4 Day Tawang Itinerary
It is the prime reason that fuels Tawang tourism and no Tawang travel itinerary will be complete without a visit to the ... The Chinese had captured Tawang and advanced beyond Bomdila and towards the borders of Assam in the 1962 war. The Tawang War Memorial is a tribute in stone to the bravery of the gallant Indian soldiers who sacrificed ...
Tawang
Visitors to Tawang require special Inner Line permits from the government which are available in Kolkata, Guwahati, Tezpur and New Delhi. Most of the travel up to Tawang from the plains must be undertaken via a steep hill road journey through the Sela Pass at 4,176 m (13,701 ft). Tourists can travel to Tawang either from Tezpur or Guwahati by road.
Tawang district
Tourism. Tawang is a popular tourist destination thanks to the well-preserved Tawang Monastery. ... Tourists can travel to Tawang from Tezpur, Assam by road. Tezpur has direct flights from Kolkata. Guwahati, Assam, is 16 hours by road. In June 2008, a daily helicopter service from Guwahati was started by the Arunachal Pradesh government.
Tawang
Unfortunately, Tawang like most hill stations in the North East is far from developed, so finding good accommodation here may be a challenge. However, the flip side is the lack of tourism leaves the place more virgin and unexplored. Apart from Tawang Inn which is the most modern and comfortable option in Tawang, most other options are pretty basic.
Tawang Travel Guide
Tawang is an unexplored paradise. Located in the western part of Arunachal Pradesh at a height of about 3500. Here is a travel guide for your Tawang visit. ... Tezpur (325 km) in Assam is the nearest domestic airport. Guwahati (480 km) is the nearest international airport. From Tezpur, you have to take bus or jeep or private car to go to Tawang
12 Places to visit in Tawang
Monument (2) Waterfall (1) 1. Sela Pass. Top Attraction 4.2 /5. 24 km. from city center 1 out of 12. Places To Visit in Tawang. One of the most breathtaking places in the Himalayan vista, Sela Pass is a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh, and it is as heavenly as it gets.
Friendship Peak Expedition: A Complete Guide
Tawang is home to some of the most famous and breathtaking places in the world. This scenic town in Arunachal Pradesh offers the best of views that will make you feel magical. Following are the places to visit in Tawang: Sela Pass: Set at a peak of 4170 meters is this natural beauty that links Tawang to Guwahati in Assam. Additionally, it is ...
Road Trip To Tawang: Journey As Enchanting As Destination
The main draw here is the Tawang Monastery, dominating the skyline like a mighty medieval fortress. Constructed in the mid-16th century, the monastery houses a 26-foot high brass statue of the Buddha. ... Assam Tourism's well-located Prashanti Lodge (Mobile 09435405806; Tariff is INR1,385 to INR2,070), about 30 km further up at Bhalukpong. They ...
How to reach
The Helicopter journey to Tawang over Bhutan takes around 55 minutes and local transport at Tawang can be arranged by the concerned Hotel / Tour Operator. By Road:The 543 Kms. long Guwahati-Tawang road journey is quite long and takes around14-16 hours. The long duration of the journey makes it necessary to have a break in the form of night halt ...
Tawang Tourism: Places, Best Time & Travel Guides
Best Time to Visit: Summer and the beginning of monsoon season are the finest times to visit Tawang. The weather stays pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. March, April, May, June, September, and October are the finest months to visit. Tawang provides a wide range of hotel alternatives for people on a medium to low budget.
Tawang
A broad-gauge railway line connecting Missamari in Assam with Tawang has been proposed and a survey for the line was sanctioned in 2011. ... existing Bhalukpong railway station to Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh being undertaken as the national project will boost tourism and enhance the national security with faster movement of troops, ...
Guwahati to Tawang, Day 1 of Tawang Itinerary
There is an Arunachal Pradesh tourism office in the Guwahati airport, you get ILP from there before 4 in the evening. There is one counter in the Guwahati railway station also. Else go to the Assam tourism office near Nepali mandir near Guwahati railway station. If all these options didn't work, go to the taxi stand and ask the people there.
PLAN YOUR TOUR
It is a 11 hrs journey and cost is around 120 Rs . From Guwahati you can take buses for Bomdila (11 hrs , 160 Rs ) and break your journey at Bomdila , then take buses for Tawang. The town is about a 16 hour drive from Guwahati. However, it is best to hire a Tata Sumo from Tezpur in Assam (4 hr. drive from Guwahati).
4 easy ways to reach Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh from Guwahati, Assam
Overnight bus to Tawang. Daily bus service has started from ISBT Guwahati to Tawang town. The bus leaves at 11:00 am and reaches the town the next morning at 5:00 am. The bus is run by ATSC and private operators. Bus fare is around ₹1500 per seat and there are both air condition buses and regular buses that do the journey.
Tour package
Guwahati- Shillong -Cherrapunjee- Pobitora wildlife sanctuary- Guwahati. Visit the states of Assam and Meghalaya, known for its beauty and tranquility, its pristine natural beauty which makes it a prominent tourist destination. Package Code : 004. Duration : 4 Day (s) and 4 Night (s) Famous For : Family.
Tawang Tourism, 2023
Tawang Tourism. Tawang Overview. Tawang is a district in Arunachal Pradesh, which was a subdivision of West Kameng district up until the year 1984. The majestic Tawang Monastery, which is situated on the ridge that goes along the town Tawang, is thought to be where the name Tawang first appeared. ... Assam. Guwahati, which is around 485 ...