Tawang is a beautiful Himalayan town, home to many stunning landscapes, surreal views of hills and valleys, and a huge number of picturesque lakes. Though Tawang is not short of natural attractions, it is very less explored. So if you want to visit a place that is somewhere remote, somewhat less crowded, amazingly beautiful, then you are at the right place to decide on your next travel adventure!
Taktsang Gompa
One of the best things to do in Tawang which is the land of Dalai Lama is to meditate in the famous monastery of Taktsang Gompa. Located atop a hillock at an altitude of about 12,500 to 13,000 feet and surrounded by dense coniferous forest and lofty mountains, this monastery helps you find your inner peace. Taktsang Gompa is one of the most famous places to visit in Tawang. With its tranquil surroundings, the only sound you hear is of your beating heart and the blowing wind. The overall atmosphere of this place is so calm and soothing that wouldn’t want to leave this place at all.
Gorichen Peak
One of the popular activities in Tawang that is preferred by tourists is hiking at Gorichen Peak. Perched at an altitude of 22,500 feet, Gorichen Peak is the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh and third highest in the Northeast. This trekking track is blessed with an ideal atmosphere and a landscape to challenge the adventurer in you. Known to be a tough trekking destination, the peak offers beautiful 360-degree views of the surroundings. On this trek, you are surely going to love the magnificent beauty of this splendid peak. Do add this trekking expedition on your list of things to do in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh!
Sela Pass
One of the most breathtaking places in the Himalayan vista, Sela Pass is a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh, and it is as heavenly as it gets. The Sela Pass and Himalayas combine to enchant one and all by their mystic beauty. One of the most stunning gifts of nature to the North-East, Sela Pass is a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh as it is the only way that connects Tawang district of the state to the rest of the country. Besides its geographical importance, Sela Pass is breathtaking place always covered in snow providing some beautiful views of the eastern Himalayan range. The rocky pass is also home to one of Arunachal’s most beautiful lakes – the Sela Lake. Being a sensitive region, one needs an inner line permit to visit Sela Pass.
The Sela pass and the Sela lake situated at an altitude of 4170 meters are a gateway to Arunachal and in a way tell you the treasures that lie ahead within the state. Being at Sela Pass and gazing into the frozen Sela Lake one cannot help but marvel at the wonder that is the Himalayas. Sela pass lies on your way to Tawang city which is some 80 km from the pass and does make a great place to stop and relax admiring the awesomeness of the surroundings.
Madhuri Lake
Being home to the Himalayas, Arunachal Pradesh is home to many beautiful lakes but none as beautiful and enrapturing as the Madhuri Lake also known as Sangetsar Lake. One of the remotest lakes of the country and perhaps of the world as well, Sangetsar or Madhuri Lake is a breathtaking combination of rocky mountains and an ever-present lake whose beauty is beyond spellbinding. The lake was made popular due to its appearance in the Bollywood movie Koyla and is also known as Madhuri Lake named after the lead actress in the movie.
The Madhuri Lake located at an altitude of 12,000 ft above sea level just 30 km north-east of Tawang, is a sight to behold, tucked between huge mountains in the heart of the Himalayas with many upright tree trunks standing in its belly as if guarding the lake. It holds a very special place in the hearts of Buddhists of both India and nearby Tibet who come here every year to pray. Madhuri Lake is a bounty of nature which amazes you, dazzles you and rejuvenates your soul.
Nuranang Falls
A largely unknown and virgin place, deep in the forest of Tawang, Nuranang Falls offer a pristine and beautiful experience. One of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country, the Nuranang Falls are a beautiful white sheet of water that descends from the height of about 100 meters. Part of the Nuranang River which originates at Sela Pass, Nuranang Falls is largely unknown to the popular tourist trail making it an offbeat and tranquil spot. Popular as the BTK waterfall, the Bap Ten Kang has crystal clear water which elevates your spirits and encourages you to indulge in swimming.
A day tour to the Nuranang Falls while on your journey from Tawang till Bomdila allows you to have some relaxed and enjoyable time by the waterfalls. The scenery around the falls is dotted by high hills all around, covered in thick greenery and mist hanging about caressing the hilltops giving you total tranquillity and joy. At the falls, you can visit the Hydel plant which generates electricity for the nearby areas from the force of the waterfalls. Nuranang Fall is a great stopover place for you to get a glimpse of the beauty that Arunachal Pradesh holds within itself.
Bumla Pass
At an elevation of 5,000 m above the sea level, the Bum La Pass marks the Indo-China border. A prominent attraction of Arunachal Pradesh, the place is a must visit but only when you have the special permit from Office of the Deputy Commissioner in Tawang District, and then Indian army cantonment of Tawang. The place instantly evokes a feeling of patriotism, especially after watching soldiers protecting the border that too in such nerve-wracking weather condition. Also, it was through this pass, Dalai Lama entered India.
Bumla Pass is accessible only by permission. For the permits, you to need to visit the Office of the Deputy Commissioner in Tawang District and then Indian army cantonment of Tawang.If there will be army stamp, you will not be allowed through the numerous check posts on the way.To reach Bumla Pass for sightseeing, it would be a good idea to travel on a clear day, with no scope of snowfall or rainfall, and hire an SUV as the trek is treacherous.
Jaswant Garh
Visit Jaswant Garh, a famous tourist attraction in Arunachal Pradesh. Located 25 kms from Tawang, Jaswant Garh War Memorial is a must visit place. This memorial has been created to honor the late Jaswant Singh Rawat. The highlighting feature is the temple like structure with camouflage pattern is seen all over the memorial. It is a wonderful place for a day out where you can simply visit the attraction, salute the brave martyrs and enjoy quick snacks.
Tawang Monastery
Located amidst the picturesque surroundings, the Tawang Monastery also known as the Golden Namgyal Lhatse is one of the gems in Arunachal Pradesh. Perched at the height of 3,000 metres above sea level, it has been recognised as the second largest monastery in the world, the first one being Lhasa. The monastery is believed to be 400 years old and has control over 17 gompas in the region. Built as a large mansion, it is an abode for over 300 monks. Lying amidst the Himalayan ranges, it offers a breathtaking view of the Tawang-Chu valley. One of the most prominent attractions in the monastery houses is the massive statue of Lord Buddha which is 8 meters in height.
The three-storeyed building was founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyamtso to complete the wish of Nagwang Lobsang Gyatso, the 5th Dalai Lama in 1860-61. It belonged to the Gelugpa sect of Buddhism and had a religious association with Drepung Monastery of Lhasa, which continued during the period of British rule. The main temple, Dukhang, boasts of magnificent interiors with beautiful artwork while the inner walls contain sketches and paintings of Bodhisattvas. The library is stocked with valuable old scriptures like Kangyur and Tengyur. All other primary structures have the traditional style of Buddhist architecture which will make you swoon. The vibrant festivals celebrated in the monastery are an icing on the cake.
Tibetan Settlement Market
What is a trip without a souvenir? Tibetan settlement market or Vihara market is a local area that consists of small shops and roadside shacks, which sell traditional items, and Chinese crockery. One can also find Buddhist religious items such as flags, prayer wheels, statues of Lord Buddha, wall hangings etc. here. And you definitely cannot miss the delicacies served at the local eateries here!
