1 Tawang monastery
The biggest monastery in India is Tawang Monastery. It is located in the Tawang Chu valley, close to the little town of the same name, in the northwest region of Arunachal Pradesh, not far from the border with China and Bhutan. From the entrance gate, a paved road leads around the back of the monastery to a stone-laid court. The region surrounded by the four walls is claimed to have been encompassed by the yarn presented by the Vth Dalai Lama to Merak Lama. In addition to being the centre of the locals’ spiritual lives, the monastery is also the most perfect sociocultural institution in the area, greatly influencing both the locals’ culture and way of life.
Tawang Monastery is known as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse in Tibetan, which means “the celestial paradise of perfect victory.” In compliance with Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso, the 5th Dalai Lama’s intentions, Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso established it in 1680–1681. It is associated with the Drepung Monastery in Lhasa, which withstood the British rule, and is a part of the Vajrayana Buddhist Gelug school.
The monastery has three levels. The complex consists of 65 residential buildings. Predominantly Kangyur and Tengyur, rare ancient manuscripts may be found in the monastery’s library. An educational museum with several historic relics and a photo gallery has been erected up close to the monastery’s back entrance for the benefit of tourists and visitors. It is positioned atop the hill. Consequently, it offers beautiful views of the Tawang River, the mountains, the trees, and the deep valley. Look at the colourful murals on the entrance and make a bow in front of the statue of Lord Buddha within the temple. This monastery is a must visit in Tawang.
2 Flora
Tawang is a hidden gem of higher elevations flora that is typically absent from other regions of the state. The majority of the trees in the villages’ vicinity are oak, blue pine, poplar, sharma-sheng, and walnut (pasheng, nga-ngong, sharma-sheng, hroseng). A parmong, or oak grove, may be found in practically every community. Oak is one of the most valued trees. The Monpa inhabitants depend heavily on oak for their food. Oak leaves are turned into manure during cultivation and spread on the crop fields. Bamboo, another product of the forest, is frequently used by the Monpa family to make baskets and fences. Pine is frequently useful for producing boards for houses and building them.
Rhododendrons are well known in Tawang. It most likely possesses the greatest variety of rhododendrons in a limited geographic area. When they are in bloom from April to June, the Tamasheng rhododendron trees almost fully cover the mountains in Tawang, creating a stunning scene. At this elevation, rhododendron trees are somewhat understated and undervalued. Additionally, Tawang is home to a variety of uncommon medicinal plants. Many varieties of flora can be found here in the beautiful scenic scenery of the state Arunachal Pradesh so this place would be an amazing visit.
3 Fauna
The area has a diverse animal population. Snow Leopard, Serow, Red Goral, Musk Deer, Bharal, Black-necked crane, Monal, and Pheasant are among the animals found in the Tawang District. In the upper elevations of the country, notably in the areas bordering the Tibetan plateau, the wild yak (Bos grunniens) can be found. The Artiodactyla includes deer, sambars, gorals, takin, serow, bharals, yaks, and
The upper portions of Nuranang Valley, Sela Pass, and the Bumla region are home to the Musk Deer. The musk ox is listed as an “endangered” species. Sandpipers, swifts, cranes, plover, eagles, pheasants, partridges, woodpeckers, barbets, hoopoe, doves, pigeons, owls, tits, flycatchers, drongo, crows, bulbuls, thrushes, and other birds are a few examples of the avifauna. The families Riodinidae, Papilionidae, Lycaenidae, Pieridae, and Nymphalidae are home to a small number of butterfly species. None of the observed species are rare or exclusive to Arunachal Pradesh. Rana cyanophyyctis, Bufo melanostictus, Amolops afghanus, Bufo himalayana, and Polypedates maculates are among the frogs in the Bufonidae and Ranidae families.
4 Gyangong Ani Gompa
A gompa which in simple words means nunnery, called Jangchub Choeling, also referred to as the Gyang-gong Ani Gonpa, is located about 10 kilometres to the northwest of Tawang Monastery. It is situated on the middle slope of a hill, amidst unspoiled and mesmerising beauty. According to legend, Merak Lama Lodroe Gyatso’s sister was a nun. He built his sister a meditation cave because women were not permitted to live in the Tawang monastery. The Tawang monastery gave her food and supplies. The meditation retreat Merak Lama built for his sister eventually became a nunnery and was known as Jangchub Choeling / Gyangong Ani gonpa as the number of nuns living there grew over time.
5 The Bramadung Chung Ani-Gompa
The Bramadung Chung Ani-Gompa, which lies about 10 kilometres from the Tawang monastery, is thought to be the oldest Ani-Gompa in Tawang. It was allegedly built in the 16th century by Tibetan monk Karchen Yeshi Gelek. About forty-five anis live in this ani gonpa, which is located in a very remote area. The Tawang monastery does not directly fund the anis; instead, they rely on offerings and donations from followers. The Ani-gompa is a stunning structure that is easily reached by road. The oldest and most significant Gompa in Tawang, making it a must-see location whilst in town.
6 Urgelling monastery
The Urgelling monastery, established by Ugyen Sangpo, is located along the national highway about five kilometres southeast of Tawang. It is said and reported that the temple’s initial construction was rather simpler than the one of now. On the other hand, the royal father requested that the gompa be renovated as he lay dying. Unfortunately, during a war against Bhutan, the Dzongar Mongols, who were hostile to the Nyingmapa religion, ransacked the expanded monastery in 1714. The plinth area of the current Urgylling gompa is a little over 180 square metres, making it a modest structure. It is a two-story building.
7 Khinmey Nyingma Monastery
The Khinmey Nyingma Monastery, also known as Sang-ngag-choekhorling, is situated in the Arunachal Pradesh village of Khinmey not far from the Tawang District’s administrative centre. The Monpa term Khi-Ket-Nyan-Mey, which literally means a place to listen to the sound of barking dogs, is where the name Khinmey originates. According to legend, the region was covered in a dense forest alive with wildlife before the Khinmey Monastery was built. In the jungle, hunters let their dogs run free and followed them by listening to their barking.
8 Kushang Nang
Gyalyum Tsewang Lhamo, Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso’s royal mother and His Holiness the VIth Dalai Lama, resides there. The house is located under Kitpi Circle in Bekhar, almost 15 miles from the main town. Some relics connected to the 6th Dalai Lama and his family are still kept at the home. The home is currently being refurbishment, and a new Gompa is being built next to the house where all of the artefacts will be on exhibit for visitors and pilgrims.
9 Tak-Tsang Gonpa
The Tiger’s Den, as it is known, is around 50 kilometres from Tawang and is tucked away in a breathtaking setting of coniferous forests and majestic mountains. It is thought that Guru Padmasambhava’s visit there in the eighth century bestowed this honour. There are footsteps on the floor that are thought to be those of the Master and his horse. The location became known locally as Tak-tsang (Tiger’s den) since it is reported that a tiger welcomed the Guru when he arrived at the location. This location later saw the construction of a temple that became known as the Tak-tsang Gonpa.
10 Pankang Teng Tso (PT Tso Lake)
All Tawang people refer to the lake PT Tso as the natural meeting place of the mountain’s splendour and the breadth of the plains. Every week, the lake and its environs take on a new colour, and the scene drastically changes. Because of the beautiful vistas it captures in that environment, it is more than just a lake; it is a vision of a dream. The stunningly beautiful fir forest of the mountains casts a green halo over the lake’s water.
The lake is given colour by the approaching winter, the blue sky with floating white clouds at the top, the surrounding snow-capped mountains, and the embrace of the rhododendron forest, which transforms the lake into a sleeping beauty waiting for her beloved. The location, which is around 18 kilometres from Tawang, is a top tourist destination all year long. You ought to try to get to this lovely location.
11 Sangetser Tso
The Sangestar Tso, also referred to as the Madhuri Lake was earlier known as Shonga-tser Lake. Entertaining and difficult, entering nature is always a delight. The water mass is produced by the stream water from the adjacent mountains draining into the depression, and a spring also emerges from the lake.
The water mass at Sangetsar, which is encircled by high mountains, captures the beauty and serenity of the snow-capped mountain peaks, the colours of the blue sky, the sound of the birds, and the call of the distant land, all of which entice soul-searchers to visit it and take in the peace and difference. The dip caused by the earthquake that occurred decades ago naturally produced the lake. On its bed, the dried vegetation is still present.
This location is incredibly lovely. For those who enjoy exploring the wilderness, this place is off the beaten path. If you leave Tawang by around 7am and carry everything in yourself, it’s a terrific location for a picnic of a lifetime. One of the nicest things to do in Tawang is to take pictures and take in the scenery near the lake. Sit here and meditate in the gentle breezes while you converse and take in the scenery. A stroll and trip around here is worth your time and money.
12 Banggachhang Lake
The most remote place in India is Banggachhang, as you may recall. Visit Banggachhang Lake, one of nature’s most serene works of art, for still another reason. Normally, due to snowfall in the winter, the road that goes to the lake is closed. Even though the journey is a lot of fun and has beautiful landscapes.
This lake is next to the Banggachhang gonpa and was previously blessed by Guru Lopon Rimpoche. The road to the lake is largely closed whenever winter is nearing. You may reach the lake from Sela by walking or by taking a car up to the gonpa. Both the legends of the Monpa culture and the pilgrims’ religious beliefs involve the lake. In the stories surrounding this lake, it is stated that there is a candlelight in the water. Miracles can be observed in the lake’s waters by pious and educated pilgrims. Around 100 kilometres from Tawang township, the lake is located close to the Sela pass. The route itself is difficult and a thrilling experience, and the nearby lakes and mountains are equally stunning which makes this lake a scenic beauty and your trip to this place not just a pleasant one but also a trip worth remembering and worth your time and money.
13 Chumi Gyatse Waterfall
Holy Water Fall’s Chumi Gyatse Temple is a complex of 108 waterfall streams. It is located in the vicinity of Tsechu Hot Water Stream at Tsechu Village, four hours from Tawang City (Damteng).
Chumi Gyatse Temple is highly regarded among the state’s Monpas tribe of Tibetan Buddhists. Its highly purified water provides a number of therapeutic advantages.
According to the locals, Guru Padmasambhava, popularly known as the Tibetan-Buddhist “Second Buddha,” and a Bon Lama (monk) engaged in “a show of power” that led to the creation of the Holy Waterfalls. It is thought that the bamboo grove, which the Bon Lama is reported to have turned upside down while shaking his hand, is located in the region of Tibet that is governed by China.
14 Nuranang waterfall
The Phong-phongma waterfall, often referred to as Nuranang waterfall, is located in an area called Nyamseir. The Nuranang waterfall, located next to the Tawangchu River in Jang, is stunning and majestic. It is, to put it mildly, thunderous and captivating like an oration. Despite being one of the most magnificent waterfalls in this region of the country, few tourists are aware of it. It is also known as the Jang Falls and is located about 2 kilometres from the village of Jang on the road that connects Tawang and Bomdila. A minor hydroelectric facility that generates power for neighbourhood use is close to the base.
According to a widely accepted urban legend, Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, who was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (posthumously), was helped by a local Monpa girl named Nura during the Sino-Indian War of 1962 before being captured by the Chinese. Her name is Nura, and both the Nuranang River and the Nuranang Falls bear her name. The less spectacular circumstances in which Jaswant performed his bravery made no woman feel at home. It’s possible that the name Nuranang was chosen before 1962.
15 Bapteng-Kang waterfall
One of Tawang’s most impressive and magnificent waterfalls, it is commonly referred to as BTK Waterfall and draws countless tourists each year. Bap Teng Kang is tucked away in a gorgeous sanctuary of verdant and beautiful greenery, tumbling from a height of more than 100 feet. 85 kilometres from Tawang to Zemithang, near Yumkhang, is where you’ll find this waterfall. You are tempted to take a bath and go swimming in the clean water the waterfall offers you. The best times to visit are in the summer and during the monsoon. Planning a trip here is best done from April to June.
16 Sela pass
One of the world’s tallest motorable mountain passes is the Sela Pass. In Tawang District, there is a high-altitude mountain pass called Sela Pass. It is the primary route linking Tawang with the rest of India and links the Buddhist metropolis of Tawang Town to Tezpur and Guwahati. Tawang Town, a Buddhist metropolis, is connected to Tezpur and Guwahati via this major highway, which also connects Tawang with the rest of the country. Tawang and Guwahati in Assam are connected by this road, which offers a breath-taking vista of the neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh mountains and valleys.
There is little doubt that Sela Pass, which is close to Sela Lake, is one of the Tawang attractions that thrill-seekers and environment enthusiasts must see. Sela Lake, located not far from the top of the mountain, is one of the about 101 lakes in the area that are significant in Tibetan Buddhism. Due to road restrictions brought on by severe winter snowfall, the ideal seasons to explore Sela Pass are in the spring and summer.
17 Tibetan Settlement Market
The people of Tawang may get all of their unique requirements met at the local market, also known as the Vihara market. The area is home to a large number of tiny stores, including roadside shacks that are completely occupied by restaurants and businesses. Various mementos are available for purchase in the market, including gifts, traditional clothing, porcelain tableware, handicrafts, ornaments, teapots, and more. One of Tawang’s top shopping options would be available to you as a result.
The Tibetan Settlement Market is still one of the nicest sights to see in Tawang, even if you are not the one to shop. There are many sites to see in Tawang. But this market is also quite a site to look at and a terrific spot to shop and fill up on souvenirs. You can buy some traditional handicrafts, Buddhist religious objects, and Chinese china in this neighbourhood, which is also known as the Vihara market. There are a lot of roadside shacks and tiny stores with local eateries in this neighbourhood. This is a popular place where the tourists who come to visit Tawang can purchase a variety of locally made goods and get an authentic taste of the Tawang products.
18 Thingbu Hot Spring
Thingbu is privileged to offer a dynamic atmosphere to local tourists where they can have a distinctive experience. A gorgeous hot spring located in the Mago Chu River in Nguikteng, about 20 kilometres from Jang, is a blessing to Thingbu Village. Winter is the perfect time to see the breathtaking and incredible hot springs along the Mago Chu river. Most visitors shouldn’t have too much trouble visiting these hot springs because it only takes an hour to drive there from Jang and 20 minutes to walk there. It takes around three and a half hours to drive from Tawang to these hot springs, but the chance for relaxation and getting to experience this amazing hot spring is too spectacular to pass. Hot springs are one of the specialities of Tawang and you can get to experience amazing hot water with the scenic beauty of Tawang in winter season.
19 Mago Hot spring
At Mago, there are a lot of hot springs spread out along the Goshuchu River’s bank. Mago is a stunning hot spring, with abundant streams of crystal-clear water that are the perfect temperature for a dip and that run into the bond in a steady stream. However, due to its isolated position (about a 3-hour drive from Tawang plus a 6- to 7-hour trek), it is best suited for those who are physically fit and adventurous, especially those who are interested in trekking and hiking. This is another hot spring in Tawang which is worthy of paying a visit.
20 Tsechu Hot spring
It is possible to reach the hot spring by taking a light motor vehicle for 3 hours up to Sarong Gonpa, where a short hike of about 4 hours is required and also a 6 hours from Twang. Beautiful valleys and stunning scenery can be found along the path. After dipping in the hot spring, one may also stop at the Tsechu Tourist Lodge. You will discover a suitable time to visit this location. In Tawang’s chilly climate, this is the destination that tourists seek for.
21 Gorichen Peak
The tallest peak in Arunachal Pradesh, Gorichen Peak, is situated halfway between the West Kameng and Tawang districts. This peak, which is located at a height of 22,500 feet above sea level, is about 164 kilometres away from Tawang.
The locals refer to it as Sa-Nga Phu, which translates to “the Kingdom of Deity.” According to the native Monpa tribe, it is one of the sacred peaks guarding them from all evils. This peak is a fantastic location for mountaineering and trekking.
On the trail to the peak, one can trek and camp. Those who want to explore the paradise with a view of the stunning mountain ranges can appreciate some of the unexplored peaks and have a gratifying experience thanks to the hike. This hike has a moderate to challenging trail and lasts about 5-7 days.
22 The Yak Farms
Yaks are the focus of life in Tawang, and the town is covered in charming yak farms surrounded by lush pastures and rolling hills. A yak farm, one of Tawang’s most fascinating tourist destinations, will provide you a glimpse into the way of life of the inhabitants. There are many yak farms in Tawang, ranging in size from tiny ones to enormous ones, making for an intriguing experience.
Yak dance, which has significant religious overtones and is performed by the Monpa tribe, is well-known. Yak is honoured at the festivals in accordance with its rightful place as a symbol of peace and wealth. These big, hairy masks are worn by talented dancers, who dance deftly over difficult terrain or, more recently, in an arena.
23 Tawang war memorial
At the Tawang War Memorial, Indian Army soldiers who took part in the Sino-Indian War in 1962 are honoured. The 40-foot-tall Namgyal Chorten is what it is: a colourful memorial. The Tawang-Chu valley can be seen from this memorial, which was erected to honour the sacrifices made by Indian Army forces. The Dalai Lama paid a visit to this memorial that is perched on a slope in the year 1997. The names of the 2420 soldiers who lost their life in the battle’s Kameng region are visible to visitors (written on granite plates). One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Tawang and in the country hence one should make sure to visit this war memorial as a way of paying respect to the soldiers who lost their life fighting for the country.
24 Bum La Pass
China’s Cona County in Tibet and India’s Tawang district in Arunachal Pradesh are separated by the Bum La Pass. It is 43 kilometres from the town of Tsona Dzong in China’s Cona County and 37 km from the town of Tawang in India’s Tawang district. Currently, the pass acts as a hub for trade between Tibet and Arunachal Pradesh. The border is a personnel meeting location for the security forces of China and India.
Since Bumla Pass is frozen during the other months, May to October is the best time to explore this location. His Holiness the Dalai Lama is thought to have travelled across the pass at a height of 16000 feet to reach India. As this place is at a high altitude, it gives a scenic beauty and it is not a place to miss out on.
25 Adventure in Tawang
Adventures in Arunachal will make your journey to the state more exciting and leave you with the best memories. An adventure trip package is a terrific and amazing way to take advantage of the fun-filled activities that Arunachal Pradesh has to offer, like paragliding, river rafting, rock climbing, rappelling, and trekking. One of the best things to do in Tawang is to select from one of the many various Arunachal Pradesh adventure tour packages, which you can either choose with individual adventure activities or with several activities in one.
Adventure travel packages can last anywhere from 1 to 10 days. No matter which package you choose according to your budget, you’re in for a world of fun and adventure.
