Introduction
Tucked away in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and spiritual travelers. Sitting at an altitude of 10,000 feet, this hidden gem of India offers breathtaking mountain views, ancient monasteries, and a rich Tibetan-Buddhist culture.
Famous for the Tawang Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India, the town also boasts pristine lakes, snow-covered peaks, and thrilling mountain passes. Whether you’re looking for serenity, history, or adventure, Tawang has it all!
Top Attractions in Tawang
1. Tawang Monastery – The Spiritual Heart of Arunachal Pradesh
🏯 Tawang Monastery, also known as Galden Namgyal Lhatse, is India’s largest and the world’s second-largest monastery. This 17th-century marvel is home to over 400 monks and offers stunning views of the valley below. The monastery houses a 28-ft golden Buddha statue and ancient scriptures, making it a must-visit for spiritual travelers.
2. Sela Pass – A Snowy Wonderland
❄️ Sela Pass is the gateway to Tawang, sitting at 13,700 feet above sea level. This high-altitude pass remains covered in snow for most of the year, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Right next to it lies the Sela Lake, an enchanting spot with crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks.
3. Madhuri Lake (Sangetsar Lake) – Bollywood’s Hidden Gem
🌊 Named after Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit (after her movie Koyla was shot here), Madhuri Lake is one of the most surreal places in Tawang. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pine trees, this glacial lake looks like something straight out of a dream.
4. Bum La Pass – A Border Adventure
🚧 Situated at 15,200 feet, Bum La Pass marks the India-China border and is a must-visit for adventure seekers. The pass was a crucial route during the 1962 Indo-China War, and today, it’s a place where travelers can witness the extreme beauty and military significance of the region.
📌 Important Tip: You’ll need a special permit from the Tawang DC office to visit Bum La Pass.
5. Nuranang Falls – Arunachal’s Best-Kept Secret
🌊 Hidden amidst lush greenery, Nuranang Falls (also called Jang Falls) is a spectacular 100-meter-high waterfall near Tawang. If you love photography and nature, this spot will leave you mesmerized!
How to Reach Tawang
📍 Location: Arunachal Pradesh
✈️ By Air: The nearest airport is Salonibari Airport in Tezpur (320 km away). From there, you can take a cab or bus to Tawang.
🚆 By Train: The nearest railway station is in Tezpur (320 km) or Guwahati (480 km). From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus.
🚗 By Road: The road journey from Guwahati to Tawang (14-16 hours) via Bhalukpong and Bomdila is one of the most scenic drives in India. You can hire a private taxi or take a shared sumo (popular in Arunachal Pradesh).
Best Time to Visit
🌸 March – May: Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, making the landscape look magical.
❄️ October – February: Perfect for snow lovers. Tawang gets covered in a beautiful white blanket!
🚫 June – September: Avoid monsoon season as landslides are common.
⏰ Pro Tip: If you want to experience Torgya Festival (January) or Losar (Tibetan New Year in February/March), plan accordingly!
Average Travel Costs in Tawang
💰 Budget Travelers: ₹2,000 – ₹3,500/day (budget stays, local food, shared transport)
💰 Mid-Range Travelers: ₹4,000 – ₹7,000/day (decent hotels, cab rentals, sightseeing)
💰 Luxury Travelers: ₹8,000+/day (premium hotels, private cabs, guided tours)
🚕 Local Transport Costs:
- Shared Sumos (popular local transport): ₹500-700 per ride
- Private taxi for sightseeing: ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 per day
🛏️ Best Places to Stay in Tawang:
- Budget: Dolma Guest House, Hotel Tawang Inn
- Mid-Range: Tawang Residency, Mon Paradise
- Luxury: Dondrub Homestay, The Oak Tawang
Travel Tips for Tawang
✅ Get your Inner Line Permit (ILP) – Arunachal Pradesh requires an ILP for all Indian tourists (available online or at Tezpur/Guwahati offices). Foreigners need a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
✅ Pack warm clothes – Even in summer, Tawang can get chilly, especially at night. If you’re visiting in winter, be prepared for extreme cold and heavy snowfall.
✅ Carry cash – ATMs are limited, and many places don’t accept cards or UPI.
✅ Plan for altitude sickness – Tawang is at a high altitude, so drink plenty of water, rest properly, and avoid alcohol on the first day.
✅ Start early for sightseeing – Many attractions like Bum La Pass and Madhuri Lake are far, so leave early in the morning.
✅ Respect local culture & monasteries – Remove shoes before entering temples and monasteries, and always be respectful towards monks.
Final Thoughts
Tawang is a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty. Whether you want to visit the majestic Tawang Monastery, experience snow-covered Sela Pass, or explore offbeat gems like Madhuri Lake and Bum La Pass, this northeastern wonder won’t disappoint.
If you’re looking for an unspoiled destination far from the crowds, pack your bags and head to Tawang! 🏔️✨