Tawang
( Arunachal Pradesh )
Introduction
Tawang — the land of monasteries, snow-clad peaks, frozen lakes, and ancient Tibetan culture — is the crown jewel of Arunachal Pradesh and one of India’s most breathtaking Himalayan destinations.
Perched at 10,000 ft, wrapped in clouds, and dotted with prayer flags, Tawang feels like a dream woven between mountains and monasteries.
Home to the iconic Tawang Monastery, the peaceful Shonga-tser Lake, the majestic Sela Pass, heroic tales of the 1962 Indo-China war, and the warm Monpa tribal culture — this is a place where nature, spirituality, and history blend beautifully.
Tawang is not just a trip; it is an unforgettable Himalayan experience.
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast India |
| Best Time to Visit | October–April |
| Ideal Duration | 4–6 Days |
| Famous For | Monastery, lakes, snow, passes, culture |
| Nearest Airport | Tezpur / Guwahati |
| Railway Station | Tezpur / Guwahati |
| Local Transport | Taxis, bikes, private cars |
| Language | Monpa, Hindi, Tibetan |
| Permit Required | ILP (Indians), PAP (Foreigners) |
City Overview
Tawang is a high-altitude Himalayan paradise divided into:
Upper Tawang
Monasteries, hill views, snowy peaks.
Lower Tawang
Town center, cafés, markets, homestays.
Border Region
War memorials, army posts, high-altitude lakes.
It offers perfect experiences for nature lovers, snow seekers, photographers & spiritual travelers.
Permit Required
• ILP for Indians
• PAP for Foreigners
Top 11 Attractions in Tawang
1. Tawang Monastery
Famous For: India’s largest monastery
Timings: 5 AM – 9 PM
Expanded Description:
A 400-year-old Buddhist monastery overlooking the valley, home to monks, prayer halls & a stunning giant Buddha statue.
Tips:
• Attend morning prayers
2. Sela Pass
Famous For: Snow & Sela Lake
Timings: Travel route open till evening
Expanded Description:
A breathtaking high-altitude pass at 13,700 ft, surrounded by snow, frozen lakes & mountain views.
Tips:
• Carry warm clothes — very cold
3. Shonga-tser Lake (Madhuri Lake)
Famous For: Bollywood shooting spot
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
A serene lake formed after an earthquake, surrounded by pine trees, mountains & clouds.
Tips:
• Best for photos & quiet moments
4. Bum La Pass
Famous For: Indo-China border
Timings: 9 AM – 3 PM
Expanded Description:
A highly sensitive border pass maintained by the Indian Army — snowy, windy & powerful.
Tips:
• Permit required (arranged locally)
5. Jaswant Garh War Memorial
Famous For: 1962 battle hero Jaswant Singh Rawat
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
A memorial dedicated to a brave soldier who fought alone for 72 hours. Run by the army.
Tips:
• Enjoy free tea offered by soldiers
6. Nuranang Waterfall (Jung Falls)
Famous For: 100-m waterfall
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Northeast India — powerful, misty & photogenic.
Tips:
• Visit early for best views
7. PT Tso Lake (Pangateng Tso)
Famous For: Scenic high-altitude lake
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
A crystal-blue lake surrounded by rolling hills & clouds — amazing for photographers.
Tips:
• No boating — just views
8. Urgelling Monastery
Famous For: Birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Expanded Description:
A peaceful monastery with deep Tibetan history & prayer wheels.
Tips:
• Good for evening meditation
9. Tawang War Memorial
Famous For: Light & Sound Show
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Expanded Description:
Honors Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1962 war.
Tips:
• Don’t miss the night show
10. Gorichen Peak Viewpoint
Famous For: Highest peak in Arunachal
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
Panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges & snow-clad Gorichen Peak.
Tips:
• Clear days only
11. Craft Centre & Emporium
Famous For: Monpa handicrafts
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
Buy carpets, shawls, masks, bamboo crafts & local tribal items.
Tips:
• Best place for authentic souvenirs
Best Cafés & Local Eateries
1. Local Food
Thukpa
Momos
2. Cafés
Café Suburb
Dolma Café
3. Restaurant
Dragon Restaurant
How to Reach
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Dirang to Tawang
Sela Pass
Sela Lake
Jaswant Garh
Nuranang Waterfall
Day 2: Monastery Tour
Tawang Monastery
Urgelling Monastery
Craft Centre
Evening Café Time
Day 3: High Altitude Day
PT Tso Lake
Shonga-tser Lake
Bum La Pass
Border Visit
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 800–2500/night |
| Food | 300–600/day |
| Local Travel | 600–1500/day |
| Permits | Free–₹100 |
| Entry | Mostly free |
Hidden Gems of Tawang
1. Lumla Monastery
Small peaceful monastery near Bhutan border.
2. Mukto Village
Tribal village with scenic forests.
3. Nagula Lake
Deep blue lake on Bum La route.