Places to visit in Tawang
An incredible land that beholds the overwhelming beauty of nature nurtured by the amazing inlands. Thus, a must visited place for all the snow, nature, architecture lovers. Tawang is a beautiful town of the amazing state of Arunachal Pradesh located at the foothills of the mysterious and wondrous Himalayan mountains at an elevation of 10,000 ft. This place has also won the title of being called the ‘New Ladakh’ for those who travel these places in two wheelers. Tawang is immensely blessed with its snow- capped mountains, dense green forests, valleys, waterfalls, spiritual monasteries dedicated majorly to Lord Buddha, lakes, frozen lakes and lots more to experience in. Therefore, the places that we are going to discuss here are also overflowing with mesmerising beauties and a serene atmosphere that cools the mind of the people visiting and relaxes them throughout. If you are looking for a destination either with your partner, friends, family or alone where you want to soak yourself in the glaze of nature and natural beauty or grasp the north- east culture, this place is an absolute thrill giving spot where you not only can explore new and amazing places amidst the beautiful climate but also experiment yourself in certain sports available here for the visitors. Hence mentioned below are some of the famous as well as not- so- famous destinations in the land of Arunachal Pradesh, India which are blessed by the almighty for their natural phenomenon:-
Following are the Best Places to Visit in Tawang
1 Sela Pass
Sela Pass situated at the height of 4170 metres is counted among one of the highest mountain passes
located amidst Himalayan Ranges that is mortable. This pass or road connects Tawang in Arunachal
Pradesh with Guwahati in Assam and is the only pass that connects the state of Arunachal to the rest
of the country, thus can be called as the lifeline for the local people of Arunachal Pradesh.
Passing through this road one can have the gorgeous view of the amazing snow- capped mountains and
valleys. This place is not only famous for its amazing geographical importance but also for its
mystical beauty of the snow- clad mountains and hills. Located near the Sela Lake, Sela Pass is one
of the bestest destinations for adventure and thrill lovers. If you are looking for the gorgeous
view of the Eastern Himalayas visiting this place is ideal. Explore the Sela Pass during the summer
and spring season as Sela Pass gets completely blocked by snow during the winter season.
2 Bumla Pass
Looking for an extraordinarily challenging trekking destination, look no other than the Bumla Pass. Bumla Pass is the road that connects India with China and is thus counted as one of the beautiful spots to visit in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. Bumla Pass is situated about a distance of 37 km from the main Tawang town and at an elevation of 16,000 ft, is therefore a treat to the eyes for the visitors to glance at the overwhelming beauty of nature. This amazing destination also has an ancient and holy history which is still embraced by the people here. It is believed that this was the route that his Holiness Dalai Lama took to escape from Tibet to reach India and hence is honoured for this reason. The best time to visit this amazing destination and embrace the beauty is during the time of summer or spring as the Bumla Pass remains completely snow- covered or frozen during the winter season because of it being located in such a high elevation.
3 Madhuri Lake
One of the untouched gems of nature located in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang is the Madhuri Lake (Shonga- tser Lake). Nestled at an altitude of 12,000 ft and about 30 km away from Tawang this beautiful lake is the off beaten track for the wanderers of nature. The breathtaking views that one gets from coming here is life cherishing and certainly gives goosebumps. You can get the blissful glance of the blue water of the lake and the rocky mountains surrounding the lake. This lake also holds amazing picnic spots for family or friend get together, couple outings etc. This place also has the permission for the civilians to visit thus providing a relaxed journey to the travellers. This place got its actual fame when a bollywood movie ‘Koyla’ was shot here after which it became more loved by the travellers. It is advisable to visit this place during the non- winter season as the lake gets freezed during the winter period and the actual beauty of the green rocky mountains through which the lake flows cannot be witnessed.
4 Tawang Buddhist Monastery
As mentioned earlier Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang does not only hold amazing natural phenomenons that blow the minds of people but also amazing culture and architecture of the people that gives peace to the soul. One such established example is the Tawang Buddhist Monastery also famously known as Golden Namgyal Lhatse that wins the heart of every passerby. It was settled by Mera Lama Lodre Gyasto in the 17th century and is therefore the largest Buddhist Monastery in India and the second largest in the entire Asia. This Buddhist Monastery is home to several traditional belongings to the Buddhist people such as books, artefacts, manuscripts etc. It is in such a high elevation that standing on the monastery one can get the complete view of the serene nature surrounding the holy place and from which the gorgeous Tawang River can be spotted.This Monastery is home to more than 300 monks who gave up their life to serve Lord Buddha and embrace the peace at the foot of the almighty. This place is located at the foothills of Himalayas and holds such remarkable views of the Tawang- Chu valley.
5 Jaswanth Gargh
Counted among one of the beautiful and must visit destinations in Arunachal, Tawang is the Jaswant Gargh. It is basically a historical destination located at a distance of 21 km from Sela Pass therefore located between the Tawang town and Sela Pass. This memorial was built in memory of Jaswant Singh Rawat, a soldier of the Indian army. He achieved martyrdom during the historic Indo- China War, 1962 after fighting for 3 days. This place was set up by the local residents of Tawang to salute the brave soldier who sacrificed his life for our motherland. The Jaswant Garh War Memorial has now become one of the most loved and visited tourist spots of the travellers from all over the country as well as the world. People travelling toArunachal Pradesh, Tawang never skip this place to appreciate and feel proud of the sacrifice that our respected soldier has made for our country and for its citizens.
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6 Nuranang Falls
One of the amazing waterfalls in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang amidst the dense forest is a treat to the eyes of every traveller who comes from the distinct part to mesmerise themselves with the beauty. It originates from the river Nuranang itself. The height of the spectacular waterfall is 100 m and the green surrounding of it soothes the soul of all. This amazing waterfall is located enroute Tawang to Zemithang, which is a perfect spot to relax and gather all the peace here. It has been also rated among the top destinations to visit in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. Just beside the gorgeous Nuranang waterfall a hydel power station is situated which is open for the travellers. People who come to visit this destination never fail to explore the hydel power station. This place is best to spend some time with your loved ones or even alone if you are looking for some peace.
7 Tawang War Memorial
When overviewing the Tawang town another spectacular destination here to travel is the Tawang War Memorial. It is a 40 ft high structure which resembles a stupa dedicated in the memory of the soldiers of the Indian army who fought in the war of India- Sino War in the year 1962 and achieved martyrdom. They served their country without any demand or selflessly and gave up their lives for our better future. The memorial reads the name of 2420 martyred soldiers whose names are so proudly engraved in the granite plates here. This is actually a multi- hued monument which is loved and admired by all. The War Memorial gives the stunning view of the Tawang- Chu valley and surrounded by the snow- clad beautiful Himalayan mountains. If you want to indulge yourself in the amazing and mind blowing history of our country and feel proud of it, then exploring this masterpiece is a must. One of the must visit destinations in your travel list while exploring the places in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.
8 Pankang Teng Tso Lake
Pankang Teng Tso Lake, also known as Ptso Lake located at a distance of about 25 km from Tawang, is counted as one of the most gorgeous and exotic places to visit in India. This beautiful destination is overflowing with fresh air, overwhelming tranquillity and the amazing lush green flora. Because of its picturesque surroundings and gorgeous water this lake has emerged as being the most loved spot for the locals as well as the visitors of Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. This place not only has rich flora including the colourful rhododendron flowers, but is also an amazing bird watching place for animal and bird lovers. If you are someone who is searching for a tranquil landscape where you can relish and also relax your mind and soul, this place can be one of the bestest decisions. If you are planning to visit the Pankang Teng Tso Lake then the best time to explore it would be during the summer or spring season. Also in the winter time there is an adventurous spot which takes place here as the lake freezes completely and becomes a wonderful spot for skiing.
9 Gorsam Chorten
The Gorsam Chorten Zemithang is actually a Buddhist Temple located in the hidden paradise of the village named Zemithang. This is basically a sky touching stupa or structure which is approximately about 92 km away from the main Tawang town constructed by Lama Prathar in the 13th century AD. This temple features a 186 ft base with a height of 93 ft modelled after the gorgeous Boudhanath Stupa of Nepal. The travellers from all around the world come to visit this holy place especially during the Gorzam Kora festival which takes place every year to observe the virtuous occasion during the last day of the first month of the lunar calendar. The location of the beautiful temple is so pure and mind blowing that it attracts all the buddhist or non- buddhist travellers to admire the art and culture of the local people of Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang. If you are looking for a peaceful destination where you can devote yourself to the holy spirit and relax your mind and soul from the daily chaos this place will definite;y give you the best experience ever in your entire life.
10 Nagula Lake
Located at a high elevation of about 4300 m above the sea level in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, near to Tawang the Nagula lake is therefore counted as one of the bestest destinations to explore during the trip to Tawang. The bestest destination to travel for nature lovers, this lake is surrounded by lush green mountains and also some of the snow- capped mountains. The gorgeous water of the Nagula Lake holds the pristine reflection of the high mountain peaks that fall on it and enhances the beauty of the surrounding to another level and makes it so precious to the eyes of all the visitors. It is seen that the lake remains frozen all throughout the year except in the months of April to May and September to October. This lake also holds the collection of the Brahminy Ducks in a huge number. As the Nagula Lake is close to the border region and due to the international affairs this region has a military presence but as an outsider who comes to travel to this place and glance at the untouched beauty there is no problem faced by them.
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11 Eagle Nest Wildlife Sanctuary
Eagle Nest Wildlife Sanctuary with its vast diversity has always been at the top list of every wildlife explorer. This amazing wildlife sanctuary is located in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains in the West Kameng District of Arunachal Pradesh. Situated at an altitude of 500 m high and having a land area of about 3250 m, this wildlife sanctuary is surrounded by Pakhui Tiger Reserve in the east and the Sessa Orchid Sanctuary in the northeast of it. Nature lovers from all around the world come to visit this unexplored region because of its mesmerising landscapes, amazing flora and fauna and to gather peace amongst themselves. This place is generally visited by the tourists who come to explore the Kameng Elephant Reserve and therefore is the best deal ever to make. Actually this beautiful wildlife sanctuary acquired its name from the regiment name ‘Eagle’ of the Indian Army situated there years ago. This place is also counted as one of the birding paradises in the world with a very positive aspect that the checklist is growing much faster than expected.
12 Gorichen Peak
A beautiful sight to behold located between Kameng and Tawang districts, Arunachal Pradesh is this Gorichen Peak. Standing at an altitude of 22500 ft and about 164 km away from the main Tawang district or town. A favourite spot to explore by the adventure lovers and mountaineers and thus a lot of travellers always throng in this place. This peak is also considered as one of the toughest and challenging peaks to climb by the mountaineers. In fact the local tribals, Mompa living here, regard this Gorichen Peak, also called the Sa- Nga- Phu locally, as the sacred spot and believe that it stands tall and also protects them from different evil spirits. This mountain peak is snow caped and attracts all the eyes towards it. Getting a sight of this gorgeous mountain peak which is completely snow covered soothes the soul and shines in the eyes of the viewers. It is advisable to visit this peak during the summer or spring time as during the winters the weather becomes very harsh and it becomes really hard for the climbers to get started with mountaineering
13 Gyangong Ani Gompa
Another breathtaking destination in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh is this Gyangong Ani Gompa. This Ani Gompa, having 50 nuns staying in the premises, is counted as one of the smallest Buddhist Monasteries in the Tawang Valley. This monastery is floating on the top of a beautiful hummock situated just about 13 km away from the Tawang town in the north direction. Run and managed by the Tawang Monastery and it has been founded by Mera Lam Lorde Gyamtso. This place has a population of only 45 people presently and the literacy rate of this village is a complete 100% where achieving this success was not a task because of its small population. The astounding village comprises about 25 houses arranged beautifully and neatly that attracts all the travellers from all around the world to come and get inspired by it. This village thus requires a lot of help from the neighbouring villages or towns as it has very little man power and therefore the closest to the Gyangong Ani Gompa village is the Tawang from where all the major requirements of the monks or people living here are met.
14 Bap Teng Kang Waterfall
Without a second thought, this gorgeous Bap Teng Kang Waterfall is also counted as one of the best places to visit in the trip to Tawang. Located approximately 85 km from Tawang on the way to Zemithang in Yumthang has become a famous picnic spot for family groups and partners where you can relax yourself away from the daily chaos of life. The sparkling cool water falling from a height of about 100 ft, this waterfall is thickly visited by the ocala as well as the tourists from all over the world. Surrounded by mesmerising lush green mountains and greenery all over the waterfall also known as BTK falls, falling down creates a crystal clear pool where the travellers love to rejuvenate their souls and put the legs in the cold water to feel the peace within. The best time to visit this gorgeous destination in the state of Arunachal Pradesh is during the summer and monsoon season. But since this place has to be reached via Assam therefore travelling through will be difficult thus the months of April and June are best.
15 Handicrafts Centre
Local people of Tawang who run the Emporium Handicraft centre is a mind blowing spot for art lovers where the traditional artists and craftsmen of Tawang generally work and are known for the Monpa masks and other fine pieces of art. This handicraft centre is not only astounding to look at but also the organisation run by the state provides help to the local men to earn their respective livelihood in an amazing manner. Since the centre is looked after by the government of Arunachal Pradesh therefore if you are a visitor and want to report about the quality and the authenticity of the product you are definitely free to do so. Some fine art of work that is performed here is the wood work as the region is immensely blessed by dense and green forests therefore the people here have access to the raw goods to prepare certain objects of wood which are worth looking at and being too. The people who work with the wood in this centre of Arunachal Pradesh are specifically known as ‘Trukpa’.
16 Uregelling Gompa
Urgelling Gompa is located approximately at a distance of 3 km from the main town of Tawang and is reckoned and admired as being the birthplace of the holiness, 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Tashi. This gorgeous and historic monastery is said to be built and stand up from the 14th century itself i.e in the year 1487 AD. His Holiness the 6th Dalai Lama was a resident of this Urgelling Village born in the year 1683. This beautiful monastery is a small one when compared to the other Buddhist Monasteries and therefore holds a priceless importance and significance for the local people of the village. Not only the monastery in the village, in fact the village itself is ideal to look at and a walk through it is a spectacular task. Counted amongst one of the peaceful places to visit in the Tawang town for locals as well as the travellers who come far in search of peaceful breath. The nature, the architecture and the pleasant silence makes the destination a worthwhile one for everyone to visit and explore at least once in life.
17 Urgelling Monastery
Located at a distance of about 5 km from Tawang town of Arunachal Pradesh, this Urgelling Monastery is a beautiful one. It was inaugurated by Urgen Sangpo who was the youngest brother of Terton Pempalingpa, the celebrated Treasure- Revealer. This astounding monastery was established in the 15th century which is the birth place of Tsangyang Gyatso, his Holiness the 6th Dalai Lama. This ancient monastery is a very important one and has a lot of significance in the lives of the people living there. Since, Tawang Arunachal Pradesh has no other means of transport like Railway or Airway so one has to reach this place by road. The ancient marvel was restored again in the 18th century which was destroyed because of the war and is therefore standing with a double storied main temple with 8 pillars of assembly room, an altar room having 4 pillars, a chapel of 2 pillars having some stunning protective deities. The main attraction which occupies the major space of the temple is the 20 pillar courtyard and of course 20 rooms booked for the monks.
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18 Taktsang Gompa
In literature, translating Taktsang Gompa which means Tiger’s Den is located at a height of approximately 13,000 ft in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang and is therefore considered as one of the best places to visit in Tawang. A glimpse of the surroundings from such a sky touching height will definitely blow your mind and will make you fall for it. This Taktsang Gompa like other Gompas has a very relevant and important role in the history which dates back to the time of the 8th century when the well-known Guru Padmasambhava visited this place who is believed to have meditated in the caves here. Surrounded all around with gorgeous mountain peaks and thick green coniferous forests, this place is always loved by the religious as well as non – religious people as well. The pristine beauty of nature in this destination wins the heart of all the visitors who come here in search of peace and to admire the stunning architecture of this Gompa.
19 Tawang Craft Centre
The Craft Centre of Tawang District and the Ethnographic Museum of Bomdila in Arunachal Pradesh is the centre of all the beautiful arts of work like the masks, carpets of amazing colourful designs. One of the most important destinations to visit in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh is this gorgeous Tawang Craft Centre and the museum which becomes a must visit place. The masks and long curtain-like carpets are hung here. The main attraction of this museum is the dragon design. Though legally part of India, claimed by China as being the southern part of Tibet, this small town is situated at an elevation of 8757 ft making it touch the sky and vibe the cold wind that blows through it. The serene nature surrounding the craft centre makes it a much more wanting destination for all the visitors, the locals as well as the travellers from all around the world. This amazing art centre is located in such an amazing location that people long to visit this place not only for the goods but also for the serene environment.
20 Banga Jang Lake
Counted amongst one of the remote places in India, the Banga Jang Lake which is located in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang. Near this Banga Jang Lake, the Banga Jang Gompa is also located close by and therefore the pristine and stunning creation of mother nature is so eye catchy that it holds the breath of all the explorers of this place. This lake, because of being located in a very high altitude, gets frozen during the winter season and therefore travelling to this astounding destination is suggested during the summer or spring season. Reaching this place is very enjoyable, especially when you are with your loved ones and the most important to note is that this serene lake is connected to the people only through road means as there is no airport or railway facility here. This lake also holds some religious beliefs according to Buddhist mythology as pilgrims from all around the world come to visit this place and seek blessings from this holy place who also witness several deities during their exploration.
21 Geshila Peak
The Gesila Peakalso spelled as the Geshela Peak is noted as the highest peak in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh and the lush green ambience and the beautiful atmosphere makes it much more stunning. This peak has so much importance in the lives of the locals that Gesila Peak is also considered as the Guardian Angel for them. Since this place is counted amongst some of the holy places in the Tawang district therefore people from all around the world and also from different states of India come here to seek blessings and is hence counted as one of the best tourist places in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. Not only do the people explore this place for religious beliefs but also the pristine beauty of nature captures all the sights of the travellers and the nature lovers. Though this place did not gain a sky touching popularity, still the handful of people who keep the knowledge of this place dream to visit this place. This untouched beauty of nature not destroyed by human existance is therefore considered one of the bestest destinations to travel to.
22 Tsachu Hot Spring
The Tsachu Hot Spring located in the state of Arunachal Pradesh is approximately a 6 hrs long drive from Tawang main town. There are many alternative routes to reach this place one of them being a light motor ride for almost 3 hrs to reach Sarong Gompa and from there one has to go for a trek of about 4 hrs to reach this gorgeous destination. The route to reach the hot springs has lots and lots of surprises to explore along the drive especially for the nature lovers. The astounding beauty of the surrounding of this hot spring is so refreshing and wins the heart of all the visitors. As the state and district where this gift of nature is located is cold and always gives the winter vibes therefore travelling to this place will be worthwhile not only for your soul but also for your warm loving body. One can relax in the hot water of this spring and rejuvenate all the energy and gain a sort of relaxation in mind. In fact the serene and peaceful atmosphere around the hot spring is also something which can be called as the cherry on top of the cake.
23 Singsor Ani Gompa
Singsor Ani Gompa is an amazing destination in the small town of Khirmu which is about 25 km in distance from Tawang main town in the Eastern Himalayas. Located at an imaginable high altitude this Gompa or Buddhist Monastery is something which a peaceful and nature loving soul longs for. Though this destination is not much popular amongst those travellers and nature lovers who come to visit the untouched and unspoiled beauty of nature in the foothills of the Himalayas, one who has the knowledge of this destination will surely have a desperate heart to look into the beauties up there. The lush green meadows up there in the mountain top are so soothing and refreshing that it rejuvenates the body and mind of the visitors and gives a sort of peacefulness in mind. The Buddhist Monastery or Singsor Ani Gompa where Ani Gompa means Ladies Monks does not only attract people from all over for its overwhelming though simple architecture but also the pristine and bewildering environment which makes this spot in Tawang a must visit one.
24 Regyaling Gompa
The Regyaling Gompa located at a distance of about 1 km from Tawang main town was constructed by the former Rigya Rinpoche. Although after his death the Gompa or the Monastery was looked after by his secretary Chang- Sey. The gorgeous surrounding of this Monastery is so stunning as it is covered all over by the beautiful green pine grooves that it holds the breath of all the travellers of this place. The architecture of this spot, though seldom visited by travellers from all around the world, is something worth looking at. The sculpture is an example of fine art of the local people of Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. The calm, peaceful and serene surrounding of this Buddhist Monastery makes the soul completely pure and holy. There are many sayings about this Ani Gompa, one of the interesting ones being the story of rebirth. It is said that the present Rimpoche of the Regyaling Ani Gompa is the same monk who died here in his previous incarnation. Thus listening to the stories of rebirth and reincarnation is something that blows the mind of.
25 Brahma Dung Chung Ani Gompa
Brahma Dung Chung Ani Gompa also referred to as a nunnery is located about at a distance of 12 km away from the main Tawang district in Arunachal Pradesh which is runned by female monks only. It is the oldest Ani Gompa or nunnery which dates back to about 400 yrs in the Tawang district which is also home to about 45 anime or monks here. This Gompa was actually commissioned in the year 155 AD by Karchen Yeshi Gelek Lama who came from the Tsang province of Tibet. As the people of this place are not so well off therefore the monks living here are basically dependent on the people who provide alms here in these kinds of monasteries. This gorgeous creation of mankind is located in the slope of the far off mountain enveloped by the astounding beauty of nature all around. One important thing to know about the culture here is that it is mandatory for one child of every family to become a nun and therefore it is very beautiful to see young souls playing around with the red traditional cloth on them.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Tawang
1. What are the top places to visit in Tawang?
There are various amazing places to visit in Tawang. Some of which include:
➠Tawang Monastery
➠Bum La Pass
➠Tawang War Memorial
➠Sela Pass
➠Nuranang Waterfall
2. Why is Tawang Monastery famous?
The largest monastery in India and one of the largest in Asia, Tawang Monastery is known for its spiritual ambience, stunning architecture, and a mesmerising 28-foot golden Buddha statue.
3. How many days are enough to explore Tawang?
Tawang requires atleast 3-5 days for a complete exploration. You can explore our Tawang Tour Packages for a perfect Tawang tour.
4. What is the best time to visit Tawang?
The best time to visit Tawang is March to June and September to October. Winter sees heavy snowfall, and there is a possibility of roads being closed, especially near Sela Pass.
5. Does one need a permit to visit Tawang?
Yes, tourists need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh.