Tawang Tourism: Effortless Travel Guide 2022

Where in search of paradise on earth, Tawang is a consummated spot endowed with celestial charm. The heaven-touching destination genially invites its keen explorers to taste the beauty of nature, culture, and spirituality in a single place.

For its unmatched vistas and inclining culture, visit the euphoric Buddhist hub and explore the deep history of its existence. Meanwhile, take a tour below to know everything about Tawang

Tawang, The Pride of Arunachal Pradesh

Slumbering quietly amidst the serrated mountains, Tawang is a majestic Buddhist town in Arunachal Pradesh. It is also the headquarters of Tawang District situated 448 km from the capital city, Itanagar. It is roughly ten miles away from the bordering line with China. 

Tawang’s captivating landscape hits differently, and its tranquillity perfects the overall landmark. The bone-white landscape in the winter, the splendid waterfalls, and lakes, the mesmerizing town, and the dreamy weather sum it all to be someone’s next travel destination. Moreover, it is close to other coveted destinations such as Sela Pass, Tawang war memorial, Bomdila, Gorichen Peak, and many other remarkable places. Either to execute the most enthralling adventure or a wish to see the shaggy-haired yaks, you will encounter events you will never forget.

Little Known Facts

Nature did nothing but create the most charming artwork . That’s not all about this dawn-lit town. Therefore, we have assembled a few facts about Tawang. 

• The snow-cloaked mountains of Gudpi and Chong-Chung Mi ranges are the first two welcoming sights to see in Tawang. 

• There are 60,000 Monpa Tribe people living in tawang and West Kameng. Monpa tribe is the only nomadic tribe of northeast india.

• The altitude of tawang is around 3,048 meters.

• Its legendary Tawang Monastery is the largest in India. Also, the very spot is the native home of the 6th Dalai Lama, and the monastery houses more than 550 lamas in the present day. 

• Tawang is close to the Bhutanese and Chinese border and is the last visual town of India.

• The name Tawang derives from two-word components in which Ta means Horse and Wang means Chosen. It is eventually understood as a location chosen by the most revered horse of the native. 

• It is also the most visited tourist destination in Northeast India and the country as a whole.

• This imperial-like town is idyllic for winter sports and other adventure activities. In fact, it is a skiing hub for ski lovers, and needless to say, there is always a special thing to offer to every explorer. 

• The Buddhist community holds great importance as a religious center and institute for aspiring monks. 

Famous Places to Visit in Tawang

Apart from its charming landscape, this portrays religious importance too. Nevertheless, the plethora of activities, nature sights, and cultural amalgamation acutely drive people from everywhere. That being said, several other elements make Tawang a coveted place to visit. Also, its closeness to various other places of interest makes it more reliable for vacationers. These places have contributed a big role in increasing Tawang tourism.

Taktsang Gompa

The Taksang Gompa is one of the Buddhist’s holiest monasteries in Arunachal Pradesh. Buddhists or not, every soul that comes here experiences the serenity of the other-worldly enchantment. This prominent site sits at a distance of 48 km from the district headquarters of Tawang. Visit this peaceful place and enjoy the surrounding mountains, valleys, lush green forests, and pleasant weather.

Gorichen Peak

The highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh is the Gorichen Peak which is near Tawang. Zealous individuals can dearly embrace the strenuous trekking and expeditions towards the peak. No matter how difficult the upward and downward journey is, the jaw-dropping 360° backdrop is there to heal your weariness. 

Tawang Monastery

One of the many reasons to visit this palce is to see the imposing Tawang Monastery. It is the largest monastery in India. The mansion-like monastery is a baffling three-storeyed structure facilitating various religious grounds. It consists of residentials for aspiring students, lamas, and monks, assembly hall, Buddhist cultural studies, and other religious-related institutes. 

In tibetan the monastery is known as  Gaden Namgyal Lhatse in which its endearment states as ‘the divine paradise of complete victory. 

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Sela Pass

Every visitor will encounter the splendid Sela Pass on their way. The pass at an elevation of 4175.76 m is one of the leading high-altitude motorable passes in the world. Besides the pass, the Sela Lake nearby holds a breathtaking position as the most spectacular crystal clear lake.

Nururang Falls

Nururang Falls is a breathtaking cascading waterfall and is a popular recreational spot. Visit this alluring drops of heaven plunging its way down towards its wonderful course. Face what is in front with awe as nature breathtakingly robs your senses into a whimsical land. 

Shonga-Tser Lake 

Utterly famous for its stupefying attractions, Shonga-Tser or Sangetsar Lake is the most sought-after destination. The 1973’s earthquake gave way to creating this phenomenal lake that even the Bollywood sensation Madhuri appeared dancing near the lake in one of the scenes in the movie ‘Koyla’. That’s why shonga Tser lake is known as Madhuri lake. The scenic place is ideal for bird-watching, leisure outings, and picnics.

How To Reach Tawang?

Gear up for a carefree journey towards the untouched heaven at Tawang either by two-wheelers or four. The vistas following your journey will thrill you the most. Moreover, the blissful weather makes it perfect for a long road drive. Nevertheless, one can choose how to commence the journey from various spots. Here is our guide so you can reach the actual destination without any hustles. 

The Journey from Tezpur and  Guwahati to Tawang 

By Air

The nearest airport for visitors outside Arunachal Pradesh or any of the Northeast states is in Tezpur or Guwahati in Assam. While the Salonibari Airport in Tezpur is the nearest, the Guwahati airport is more feasible to travel to Tawang as you can find flights in regular intervals, unlike Tezpur. 

How many airport are there in Arunachal Pradesh?

Arunachal pradesh has four airports.

1. Tezu airport
2. Itanagar Airport
3. Along Airport
4. Pasighat Airport (currently not working)

By Train

Since train facilities are unavailable in the state, Tezpur and Guwahati train stations are the sole options nearest to Tawang valley. Tawang is 480 km away from Guwahati and 317 km from Tezpur. 

Can people drive to Tawang by road ?

From Guwahati, travelers can take private taxis or public transportation heading to Tezpur. It takes four complete hours to reach Tezpur from Guwahati. Travelers planning a custom tour or ride can be arranged either from Tezpur or Guwahati. The other way possible to reach Tawang is from Itanagar by bus, sumo or other taxis. Bus fares are cheap but sumo fares are double the price of the bus, however, the locals prefer to travel by sumo. 

Frequently asked Questions

Is Tawang occupied by China?

If the 1962 war story of Sino-Indian bothers you, it is time to make it rest. Though China invaded this place, they later withdrew their troops after the war. However, China did not let go of their claims although Tawang has been returned to the Indian administration.

What is the best time to visit Tawang?

Changes in vistas in each season make Tawang a euphoric place to travel. To see the bone-white snowy landscapes make out in December to February. However, it should be a case when you have vigor health and a daring spirit.

If you want to see a warm backdrop or a clear starry night or the flowers blooming at their best, visit Tawang from March to June and September to October.
If you love the crisp smell of the rain and are obsessed with a saturated background, visit in July and August.

Why is Tawang important to China?

There are many possible reasons why Tawang is important to China. One could be that it is a strategic entry into the Northeast Indian region. the other is for the infinite tourist attractions available in the location.

Is it safe to visit Tawang?

With the events of Indo-China border issues in the past and up-to-date, one can be skeptical to visit Tawang. However, it is fair enough to say that it is safe to visit the most picturesque location but with precautions.

From a political perspective, visitors require to take special permission from the state and military authority to visit Tawang.
Weather-wise, one can avoid the months of December to February as heavy snowfall and harsh weather conditions can be hazardous.

Where is Bum La Pass?

The Indo-China border pass of Bum La Pass is located in Tawang District, Arunachal Pradesh in India. It is a top attraction that took the interest of visitors from everywhere.

If visiting Bum La Pass is one of your goals, take note that you will require special permission. As Aforesaid, you need to go to the Deputy Commissioner Office of Tawang District and the Indian Army Cantonment.

Can foreigners visit Tawang?

To visit Tawang as a foreigner, you may require to get a Protected Area Permit (PAP). This permit is valid for a duration of 30 days after the issue. However, the process should be carried out beforehand as it will take two to five days to produce the issue.

If you are keen to do it all by yourself, you can get it done yourself from Arunachal Pradesh Deputy Resident Commissioner’s Office in Guwahati or Kolkata. The office in Guwahati city is near G.S. Road and stay open from Monday to Friday.

How can I reach Tawang from Delhi?

If you are visiting Tawang from Delhi, you can book a flight or board a train for Guwahati or Tezpur in Assam. However, landing in Guwahati will make it much more convenient than the latter one to travel to Tawang. For the record, Arunachal Pradesh does not have any operational airport or train station in any of its districts.

How can I reach Tawang from Mumbai(Bombay)?

To reach Tawang from Mumbai, travelers have no other options than booking flights or trains to Guwahati or Tezpur. These two cities of Assam are well-connected with other major cities of India.

How much does it cost to go to Tawang?

Tour packages for Tawang vary from where you commence your journey. Depending on distance and duration, the price can be arranged accordingly. that being said, if the tour starts from Guwahati and planning for 4 days, the fare may start from 4000 Rupees.

How many days are enough for Tawang?

The minimum duration to visit Tawang can be 3 days but if one is trying to cover the entire destination and its proximity, take 8 days or more.