Tawang

Tawang is a district and town in the western part of Arunachal Pradesh. Perched at an elevation of 11,500 feet, Tawang occupies a strategic position at the northwestern edge of the state, bordered by Bhutan to the West and Southwest and China to the north. Despite its remote location and challenging accessibility, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking alpine vistas and a serene environment. Tawang is also famous for the 17th-century Tawang Monastery, the second largest in Asia and one of the most beautiful.

General Orientation

Tawang's charm lies not only in its picturesque landscapes but also in its rich cultural heritage. The town is home to the Monpa tribe, known for their friendly demeanour and distinctive headgear. The town’s vibrant culture, influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, is evident in its festivals, architecture, and daily life. Best Time to Visit Tawang

The ideal time to visit Tawang is from March to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the region's natural beauty is at its peak. The summer months, from March to June, offer a comfortable climate with blooming rhododendrons and lush green landscapes. The autumn months, from September to October, provide clear skies and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The winter months can be quite harsh, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures making travel difficult. July and August are also not the best time to visit Tawang as there might be heavy rainfall and occasional landslides causing road closure.

How to Reach Tawang

Reaching Tawang requires careful planning due to its remote location. The nearest airport is Tezpur Airport in Assam, approximately 317 kilometres away. However, Guwahati Airport, about 511 kilometres away, offers better connectivity to the rest of the world. The nearest railway station is also in Tezpur, though Guwahati again is much better connected. From either Tezpur or Guwahati, the journey continues by road, typically taking 2 nights and 3 days to reach Tawang.

Night stays are usually at Bhalukpong on the Assam-Arunachal border, and either Dirang or Bomdila. The journey by road involves traversing high-altitude passes and can be challenging, especially during winter. The popular route is via the Sela Pass, which connects Tawang with the rest of Arunachal Pradesh.

If you are travelling from Guwahati, your journey would progress as follows:
Day 1: Guwahati to Bhalukpong, a distance of about 245 km, taking approximately 5 hours.
Day 2: Bhalukpong to Dirang (135 km, 4.5 hours) or Bomdila (92 km, 3.5 hours).
Day 3: Dirang to Tawang (135 km, 5 hours) or Bomdila to Tawang (177 km, 6 hours).
The return journey follows broadly the same route. There are irregular helicopter services from Guwahati Airport to Tawang; consult our travel advisors about the latest status of flights, if you wish to travel by air. It is also common to combine a tour of the Kaziranga or Pakke forests with a Tawang tour. Pakke is very close to Bhalukpong, and Kaziranga is about a 3-hour drive from Bhalukpong. For such rerouting or customization, consult our travel advisors or check out the itineraries in our package tour section.

Weather of Tawang

Tawang experiences a temperate climate. Summers are mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Monsoons, from July to September, bring moderate to heavy rainfall, adding to the region’s natural beauty but also making the terrain slippery and challenging. Winters are cold and harsh, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, accompanied by heavy snowfall.

People of Tawang

The Monpa tribe forms the majority of Tawang's population. They are known for their warm hospitality and rich cultural traditions. The Monpas practice Tibetan Buddhism, and their lifestyle is deeply influenced by their religious beliefs. Festivals such as Losar (Tibetan New Year) are celebrated with great enthusiasm, showcasing traditional music, dance, and vibrant costumes.

Attractions in Tawang

Sela Pass

At an altitude of approximately 13,700 feet, Sela Pass is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. The pass is known for its stunning views and a serene lake that offers a picturesque stopover. Travellers should be prepared for the chilly winds that blow through the pass year-round.

Jaswant Garh

Located about 14 km before the Sela Pass, Jaswant Garh is a war memorial dedicated to the soldiers of the 1962 Indo-Chinese war. The site has several crematories and remnants of bunkers, offering a poignant reminder of the region’s turbulent past. It is a popular stopover for travellers heading to Tawang, offering a place to rest and enjoy a cup of tea.

Nuranang Waterfall

Also known as Jang Fall, Nuranang Waterfall is a spectacular waterfall located near the village of Jang. The waterfall is a popular tourist spot, offering a breathtaking view amidst lush surroundings. Adjacent to the falls is a 6-megawatt hydroelectric plant. The site has also been featured in several Bollywood movies. The waterfall is visited on your way to Tawang.

Tawang Monastery

The Tawang Monastery, also known as the Galden Namgey Lhatse, is the largest monastery in India and the second largest in Asia. Founded in the 17th century, the monastery is an important centre of Mahayana Buddhism. It houses a 28-foot-tall golden statue of Lord Buddha and a museum with artefacts of historical and religious significance. The monastery’s unique yellow rooftops make it easily recognizable from a distance.

Visit the Lakes

The area north of Tawang is dotted with numerous lakes, each offering unique beauty. Sangetsar Lake, also known as Madhuri Lake, is a must-visit. Formed by a landslide in 1973, the lake is known for its surreal beauty, with black trunks of submerged trees creating a hauntingly beautiful scene. The lake gained popularity after being featured in the Bollywood movie 'Koyla'.

Additional Information

For tourists, it is important to note that Tawang is a sensitive border area, and an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indian nationals, while foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit. These can be obtained from the offices of the Arunachal Pradesh government.

Visiting Tawang is a journey into a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance. Despite the challenges in reaching this remote town, the experience is undeniably rewarding.

Visit Tawang with Us

This travel website was launched in 2002 and ever since we have organised tours for thousands of tourists visiting North East of India, both Indian as well as international travellers. We have a unique understanding of the ground reality of North East India and we offer the highest standard of service for our guests. Get in touch with our team members for a personalised experience and updated information about travel to Tawang.