Best Time to Visit
Tawang in Summer- Summer is considered the best time to visit Tawang because the weather remains pleasant, with fading yet warm sunlight and refreshing cool breezes. From April to June, the temperature increases to about 26 C, making it more convenient to explore numerous significant attractions and indulge in adventurous activities.
Tawang in Monsoon- If you love getting drenched in rain, July to September is the perfect time to visit Tawang, blooming in its full-fledged lush green hills covered in a thick mist and a blanket of clouds. The monsoon season is an ideal time for photographers to capture the cultural beauty of Tawang in the famous Behdeinkhlam Festival in July.
Tawang in Winter- The winter season is considered a harsh cold time for Tawang from October till late March, with decent snowfall during December and January when the temperature decreases up to -10 C. Mobility becomes challenging, but you get to see the stunning frozen lakes, snow-capped Himalayan peaks, and quiet surroundings.
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Tawang is Tezpur Airport in Assam, approximately 317 kilometres away. Tezpur is connected to major cities like Guwahati and Kolkata. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Tezpur to Tawang. Alternatively, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, around 480 kilometres from Tawang, offers more flight options.
By Train: The closest railway station to Tawang is Rangapara North Railway Station in Assam, about 383 kilometres away. Another option is Tezpur Railway Station, slightly farther. Both stations have regular train services connecting to major cities. You can hire a taxi from the railway stations or take a bus to Tawang.
By Road: Tawang is well connected by road, and the journey is as scenic as it is adventurous. The most popular route is from Guwahati to Tawang via Tezpur and Bomdila. The distance is around 480 kilometres and takes approximately 14-16 hours by car. State transport buses and private taxis are available from Tezpur, Guwahati, and other nearby towns.
Major Tourist Attractions
Sela Pass- This is one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world, famous among travel enthusiasts. Accessible during the summer and monsoon seasons, Sela Pass offers stunning views and a challenging drive, making it a must-visit for adventurers.
Bumla Pass- Open from May to October, Bumla Pass is a breathtaking spot that remains frozen in winter. It is historically significant as one of the routes used by the Dalai Lama to escape from Tibet, offering scenic beauty and cultural importance.
Gorsam Chorten- Located in Zemithang village, Gorsam Chorten is a sacred Buddhist site. This temple houses a replica of the Buddha Stupa of Nepal, making it a significant spiritual destination for pilgrims and a serene spot for visitors seeking peace and tranquillity.
Gorichen Peak- The highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh, Gorichen Peak is a haven for adventure enthusiasts. It offers mesmerising views of snow-clad peaks and rugged terrains, making it a perfect destination for trekking and experiencing the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.
Pankang Teng Tso Lake- Also known as Ptso Lake, this hidden paradise in Tawang is ideal for bird watching. The lake is surrounded by mirrored waters, snow-covered mountain tops, and lush rhododendron flowers, creating a picturesque and serene environment.
Shonga Tser Lake- Shonga Tser Lake is an exotic destination in Tawang, surrounded by verdant valleys and snow-peaked mountains. Popularly known as Madhuri Lake, it gained fame after a Bollywood movie scene was shot here, adding to its allure.
Tawang Monastery- The largest monastery in India and the second-largest worldwide, Tawang Monastery, was established by Merek Lama Lodre Gyatso in the late 17th century. It is a spiritual and architectural marvel that offers insights into Buddhist culture and traditions.
Nuranang Falls- One of the highest waterfalls in India, Nuranang Falls is a stunning natural wonder. Surrounded by verdant greenery, it provides a breathtaking sight and a tranquil setting for nature lovers and photographers.
Tawang War Memorial- This memorial pays tribute to the brave soldiers who defended India during the Sino-Indo War of 1962. Housing a stupa in their honour, the Tawang War Memorial is a poignant reminder of their sacrifice and courage.
Thingbu Hot Spring- Thingbu town is a popular destination in Tawang. It is famous for its therapeutic hot springs, which originate from the Mago Chu River. The hot springs are a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation, attracting many travellers.
Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary- A haven for wildlife lovers and photographers, Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary in Tawang is home to many rare species of flora and fauna. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the region's rich biodiversity.
Gyangong Ani Gompa- One of the smallest Buddhist monasteries in Arunachal Pradesh, Gyangong Ani Gompa, houses nearly 50 monks. This serene and beautiful place is perfect for visitors seeking tranquillity and spiritual solace.
Urgelling Gompa- Urgelling Gompa, believed to be the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, was established around the 14th century. It is a peaceful retreat offering striking views of verdant meadows and snow-peaked mountains, ideal for those seeking calm and reflection.
Thrilling Activities to do
Trekking and Camping- Embark on a refreshing hike to Geshila Peak, Nagula Lake, Nuranang Waterfalls, Dirang Valley, Sri Sidheshwar Nath Mandir, and Bumla Pass for breathtaking natural views. Camping amidst these picturesque landscapes provides an immersive experience in Tawang’s pristine beauty.
Indulge in Major Festivals- Attend the Tawang Festival in October, Gorsam Kora in April, Drukpa Tse-She Festival during July and August, and the most monastic festival, Torgya, in May. These vibrant celebrations offer insights into the rich culture and traditions of Tawang.
Paragliding- Soaring high above Tawang, you can see the entire valley from 180 degrees. Paragliding here offers a thrilling adventure and a unique perspective of the stunning landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers.
Ziplining- Another fun and exciting adventure activity to do in Tawang is ziplining. It’s a thrilling way to enjoy the scenic beauty and make your trip memorable as you glide through the air, surrounded by breathtaking views.
River Rafting- One of the popular off-beat activities in Tawang for all adventure lovers is river rafting on the Kameng and Subansiri rivers. The exhilarating rapids provide an adrenaline rush and a chance to explore the region's rugged beauty.
Rock Climbing- Experience the thrill of climbing Gorichen Peak, the highest peak of Arunachal Pradesh. Rock climbing in Tawang challenges your skills and offers spectacular views, making it a must-do for adventure enthusiasts.
Aquatic Sports- Take part in the sought-after activity, boating at Sally Lake, Siom River, and Ganga Lake. Enjoy water surfing, boat rides, kayaking, and more, surrounded by serene waters and beautiful scenery, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Mountain Biking- Explore Tawang's rugged terrains and scenic routes on a mountain bike. The challenging trails and picturesque landscapes make mountain biking an exhilarating activity for adventure enthusiasts, offering a unique way to experience the region's natural beauty.
Skiing- During winter, Tawang transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing. Hit the slopes and enjoy the thrill of skiing on pristine snow-covered hills, with breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks adding to the excitement.
Wildlife Safari- Embark on a wildlife safari in Tawang's dense forests and national parks. Spot diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species, while exploring the region's rich biodiversity. This adventure offers an up-close experience of Tawang's natural wildlife.