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.
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.
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.
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.
