Tawang travel guide Zazabor |

Tawang, a mystical land nestled in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, India, is a destination that enthrals travellers with its awe-inspiring landscapes, spiritual ambience, and unique cultural heritage. Located at an altitude of 10,000 feet, this serene hill town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and spiritual sanctity. In this detailed Tawang travel guide, let’s explore not just the main attractions of Tawang but also the enchanting journey that leads up to them, ensuring your trip is as memorable as the destination itself!

A Gateway to Peace and Tranquillity, Interwoven by Culture and History

Tawang is most renowned for the Tawang Monastery, the largest in India and the second-largest in the world after the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Built in the 17th century, the monastery is home to over 400 monks and houses an 18-foot statue of Lord Buddha. Its golden-roofed buildings, set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, offer a surreal experience to all who visit.

Tawang has a rich history that is deeply connected to Tibetan Buddhism. It is the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, and occupies a special place in the hearts of Buddhists worldwide. The region is also home to the Tawang War Memorial, erected in honour of the soldiers who laid down their lives during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. It serves as a poignant reminder of India’s resilience and bravery.

Scenic Beauty That Captivates

The journey to Tawang is as breathtaking as the destination itself. As you wind through the Sela Pass—one of the highest motorable roads in the world—you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of frozen lakes, verdant valleys, and cascading waterfalls. The Sela Lake, located right at the pass, is a picture-perfect spot, especially during winter when it turns into a mirror of ice.

Best Time to Visit Tawang

Wondering when to visit Tawang? The best times to explore this hill town are from March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are vibrant. For snow-lovers, December to February promises a winter wonderland – be ready for cold temperatures and occasional road closures due to excessive snowfall. Avoid June to August (Monsoon) – Heavy rainfall can lead to landslides, road closures, and poor visibility, making travel difficult and risky.

How to Reach Tawang

By Air:
The nearest airport is Tezpur Airport (320 km away), but it has limited connectivity. A better option is Guwahati Airport (450 km away), with regular flights from major Indian cities.

By Rail:
The closest railway station is at Tezpur or Guwahati. From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Tawang.

By Road:
Most travellers prefer a road trip via Bhalukpong. But now there are two routes for Tawang – One is Bhalukpong-Dirang-Bomdila-Sela Pass-Tawang, and another one is Udalguri-Shergaon-Rupa-Bomdila-Sela Pass-Tawang, with the common starting point at Tezpur. The scenic drive, winding through mountains, is an experience in itself!

Bhalukpung-Dirang-Bomdila-Sela Pass Route (Via Tezpur/Nameri)
- Starting Point in Assam: Tezpur is a common starting point for this route.
- Distance (Guwahati to Bhalukpung): Approx. 240 km. Historically, the more popular and well-known route.
- Passes through scenic areas like Nameri National Park (though the national park itself requires a detour/dedicated visit).
- The road from Bhalukpong generally follows the Kameng River, offering picturesque views.
Udalguri-Shergaon-Rupa-Sela Pass Route (Via Kalaktang/Bhairabkunda/Orang)
- Starting Point in Assam: Udalguri, Mangaldai or Tezpur.
- Distance (Guwahati to Kalaktang/Udalguri entry): Approx. 180-200 km (shorter than Bhalukpung from Guwahati).
- Often considered the “newer” or “Trans-Himalayan Highway” route, with generally better road conditions currently, as it was recently constructed and is less prone to major landslides.
- Shorter distance to enter Arunachal Pradesh from Guwahati.
- Passes through picturesque places like Shergaon and Rupa, which are beautiful valleys and can be good for an overnight halt. Shergaon is known as the “Apple Bowl of Arunachal Pradesh.”

Which is Better?

Based on recent reports and feedback, the Udalguri-Shergaon-Rupa-Bomdila-Sela Pass (Kalaktang) route is generally considered better due to its improved road conditions and being less prone to disruptions. Many travellers recommend taking the Bhalukpong route one way for its scenic beauty, with a one-day stop at Nameri National Park and the Kalaktang route during the return journey, with a night stay at Shergaon to enjoy the apple orchards.

Travel Tips for Tawang

Important Considerations Before You Go:

✅ Permits: ILP(Inner Line Permit) is mandatory for Indian citizens to enter Arunachal Pradesh. ILP can be obtained from the Liaison Officer located at Guwahati, Tezpur, and Dibrugarh, or can also be applied for online at https://www.eilp.arunachal.gov.in/. For foreign tourists, a Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required.
✅ Altitude: Tawang is at a high altitude (around 10,000 ft / 3,048 m). Take it slow, stay hydrated, and allow for acclimatisation, especially at Dirang/Bomdila, before ascending to Tawang.
✅ Weather: Carry warm clothes, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
✅ Connectivity: Internet and mobile signals can be patchy—embrace the digital detox.

✅Bum La Pass Permit: To visit Bum La Pass and Madhuri Lake, you need an additional permit from the DC office in Tawang and then stamped at the Brigade Headquarters. Your hotel can usually assist with this. Apply as soon as you arrive in Tawang.

✅ Responsible Travel: Respect the local culture and environment—Tawang’s beauty lies in its pristine charm.

Suggested Itinerary for Tawang travel guide (6 Days, customizable)

I have prepared this itinerary assuming your journey starts from Guwahati. If time permits, you can spend one more day at Nameri National Park and take a morning Trek in the forest or enjoy River rafting from Bhalukpong to Nameri in the Kameng river (Optional). You can adjust your itinerary based on your actual starting point and travel pace.

1st Day: Guwahati to Dirang / Bomdila

Morning (5:00 AM – 6:00 AM): Start early from Guwahati.
Route Choice:
- Option A (Bhalukpung Route): Drive towards Tezpur, then to Bhalukpong. Get your ILP verified at the checkpost.
- En route hotspots:
  - Nameri National Park: While passing through, consider taking a brief stop if you have time, although a proper visit requires more time.
  - Tippi Orchid Centre: Located near Bhalukpong, this orchidarium boasts a vast collection of orchids.
  - Sessa Orchid Sanctuary: Another spot for orchid enthusiasts.
- Option B (Udalguri/Kalaktang Route – Recommended during return): Drive towards Udalguri/Orang/Bhairabkunda and enter Arunachal Pradesh via the Balemu checkpost (Kalaktang). This route is often smoother.
- En route hotspots:
  - Shergaon and Rupa: Consider a brief stop at Shergaon and Rupa to enjoy the scenery of these two beautiful valleys. Shergaon is known as the Apple Bowl of Arunachal Pradesh.
Afternoon/Evening: Reach Dirang (approx. 7-8 hours from Guwahati) or Bomdila (approx. 9-10 hours from Guwahati).
- Dirang: Lower altitude, good for acclimatisation. Visit the Dirang Dzong (15th-century fortress), Dirang Monastery, and Sangti Valley (known for black-necked cranes in winter).
- Bomdila: Higher altitude than Dirang. Visit the Bomdila Monastery (GRL Monastery), Middle Gompa, and the Bomdila Viewpoint for panoramic views of the Western Kameng Valley.
Overnight Stay: Dirang or Bomdila. Dirang is generally preferred for the first night halt for better acclimatisation.

2nd Day: Dirang / Bomdila to Tawang

Morning (8:00 AM): Start your scenic drive towards Tawang through the most anticipated part of the journey.
En route hotspots:
- Sela Pass: – The Sela Pass, at an altitude of 13,700 feet, is the gateway to Tawang. The drive through this pass, flanked by snow-capped peaks and shimmering lakes, is nothing short of breathtaking. Sela Lake, also known as Paradise Lake, is a must-stop, especially when frozen in winter. Please do not enter through the Sela tunnel, which bypasses the Sela Pass by reducing travel time and access to Tawang round the year, but you will miss the beauty of Sela Pass, Sela lake and the mountains covered with wild flowers. There’s also an army-run canteen for a quick bite.
- Jaswant Garh War Memorial: A tribute to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, a brave soldier who single-handedly held back the Chinese army for 72 hours during the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
- Nuranang Waterfall (also known as Jang Falls or Bong Bong Falls): A spectacular, multi-tiered waterfall. You can walk down to a viewpoint.
Afternoon: Arrive in Tawang (approx. 5-6 hours from Dirang/Bomdila). Check into your hotel.
Evening: Stroll around the Tawang Market. Start the process for your Bum La Pass permit with your hotel authority.
Overnight Stay: Tawang.

3rd Day: Tawang Local Sightseeing

Morning (9:00 AM – 1:00 PM):
- Tawang Monastery: A Visit to Tawang is incomplete without exploring the iconic Tawang Monastery – the largest monastery in India and the second-largest in the world. Established in 1680 by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso, the monastery houses a magnificent 28-foot golden Buddha statue and a vast library of ancient scriptures. It’s a tranquil space that exudes spiritual energy.
- Urgelling Monastery: The birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama. A peaceful and historically significant site.
- Giant Buddha Statue: A large, impressive Buddha statue is visible from many parts of Tawang.
Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM):
- Tawang War Memorial: Dedicated to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1962 war.
- Ani Gompa (Nunneries): There are several nunneries around Tawang, offering a glimpse into the lives of Buddhist nuns. Gyangong Ani Gompa is one of the accessible ones.
Evening (6:00 PM onwards):
- Light and Sound Show at Tawang War Memorial: An engaging show narrating the history of the 1962 war (check timings and availability)
Dinner: Explore local Monpa cuisine.

4th Day: Tawang – High Altitude Lakes & Bum La Pass (Optional)

Full Day Excursion (Requires separate permit, apply on Day 2/3):
- Bum La Pass (approx. 15,200 ft / 4,630 m): The Indo-China border pass, offering stark and dramatic landscapes. It’s a challenging but rewarding drive. The Indian Army usually guides visitors.
- Sangestar Tso (Madhuri Lake): A beautiful high-altitude lake formed by an earthquake, famous after the Bollywood movie “Koyla” was shot here.
- Pankang Teng Tso (PT Tso Lake): Another serene lake on the way to Bum La.
- Chumi Gyatse Falls (Optional, if time permits): A sacred waterfall with 108 small waterfalls.
Important: Road conditions to Bum La can be very challenging, and the pass may be closed due to snow or bad weather. Check with locals/ the army before planning.
Overnight Stay: Tawang.

5th Day: Tawang to Bomdila / Dirang

Morning (8:00 AM): Start your return journey from Tawang.
En route: Revisit any spots you might have missed or want to spend more time (e.g., Sela Pass, Nuranang Falls).
Afternoon/Evening: Reach Bomdila or Dirang.
- If you stayed in Dirang on Day 1, consider staying in Bomdila now to experience both towns.
- Explore any remaining attractions in Bomdila, like the Craft Centre or the local market.
Overnight Stay: Bomdila or Dirang.

6th Day: Bomdila / Dirang to Guwahati

Morning (8:00 AM): Start your final leg of the journey back to Guwahati.
En route: Take the preferred route (Kalaktang or Bhalukpung) back.
- If you take the Kalaktang route, take a short stop at Rupa town, take some snacks, and walk through the hanging bridge.
- Shergaon is another preferred stoppage, which is full of Apple Gardens. There are lots of Hotels, Homestays and Camping sites which should not be missed if time permits.
- Orang National Park (Optional): If you are a jungle lover, then this may be your one-night stay location during this journey.

Where to Stay in Tawang: –

Tawang offers accommodations to suit all budgets, ranging from cosy homestays to luxurious hotels. Here are some top picks:

🔹 Hotel Mon Paradise – A comfortable mid-range hotel with great views and a warm atmosphere.
🔹 Dondrub Homestay – For those who want an authentic experience with local hospitality and home-cooked meals.
🔹 Tawang Regency – One of the best luxury options, offering modern amenities and spacious rooms.
🔹 Woodland Lodge and Restaurant – A budget-friendly choice with clean rooms and delicious food.

It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak season (April to October) and during the Tawang Festival.

Tawang Food Guide: Local Delicacies to Try

Indulge your taste buds in Tawang’s hearty, soul-warming cuisine:

🥟 Momos – Steamed or fried, always delicious.
🍜 Thukpa – A comforting noodle soup perfect for chilly days.
🌾 Zan – A thick porridge made from millet or barley.
☕ Butter Tea – A salty, creamy tea that’s a local staple.
🧀 Churpi – Chewy yak cheese, a local favourite snack.

Photo Gallery

Tawang travel guide - Jaswant Garh War memorial

Final Thoughts

A trip to Tawang is much more than a vacation—it’s an immersive experience that combines natural wonders with cultural heritage and spiritual vibes. The journey through winding roads, snowy passes, and tranquil monasteries offers a profound connection to the mystical charm of the Eastern Himalayas.

So, pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to be enchanted by Tawang!