
10/02/2025
Tawang Travel Guide: Explore the Gem of Arunachal Pradesh
Why should you visit Tawang ?
History of Tawang
Tawang, a mesmerizing town in Arunachal Pradesh, India, has a deep-rooted history. The region was historically inhabited by the Monpa tribes and came under Tibetan influence in the 17th century.
The most iconic landmark, the Tawang Monastery, was founded in 1680-1681 by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso. It remains the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world.
Over the years, Tawang has witnessed historical events, including its role in the 1962 Indo-China war. Despite its turbulent past, Tawang has flourished as a serene and spiritual destination.
Why is Tawang Famous?
Tawang is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and Buddhist monasteries. The Tawang Monastery is a spiritual center, attracting thousands of pilgrims and travelers.
Tawang monastery
Tourists love the scenic Sela Pass, a high-altitude pass known for its stunning beauty and frozen lake.
Tawang Sela Pass
The Tawang War Memorial honors the Indian soldiers who fought in the 1962 Indo-China war.
Adventure seekers enjoy trekking, paragliding, and exploring hidden waterfalls like Nuranang Falls. The culture, influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, adds a unique charm to the region.
Annual Tourist Visits & Best Months to Visit
Tawang attracts thousands of visitors each year, with peak tourism from March to June and September to November. The winter months (December to February) see fewer tourists due to extreme cold.
Ideal Weather Conditions
The best time to visit Tawang is during the summer (March-June) and autumn (September-November). The weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are in full bloom.
Winter (December-February) is beautiful but extremely cold, with snowfall covering the region. Monsoons (July-August) bring heavy rainfall, making travel challenging.
Location of Tawang
Tawang is located in the western part of Arunachal Pradesh, India, at an altitude of 3,048 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level. The town is part of the Tawang district and is nestled within the Eastern Himalayas.
It is situated close to the India-China border and lies around 448 km from Assam’s capital, Guwahati. The town offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, alpine forests, and picturesque valleys. Being a remote destination, Tawang maintains its unspoiled charm, making it a sought-after place for nature lovers and spiritual travelers.
Entry Fees
There is no entry fee to visit Tawang. However, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for tourists traveling to Arunachal Pradesh.
How to Get Here
By Air: The nearest airport to Tawang is Tezpur Airport in Assam, located about 330 km away. However, this airport has limited connectivity. The best option is to fly to Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati, which has better connectivity with major Indian cities.
By Road: Tawang is accessible by road from Guwahati via Tezpur and Bhalukpong. The journey takes approximately 14-16 hours and covers scenic landscapes, including the famous Sela Pass at 4,170 meters. Travelers often hire taxis or opt for state-run buses from Guwahati to Tawang.
By Rail: The closest railway station is in Tezpur, Assam. From there, travelers can hire taxis or take buses to reach Tawang.
By Helicopter: The Arunachal Pradesh government operates helicopter services from Guwahati to Tawang, which significantly reduces travel time and offers a stunning aerial view of the region.
Best & Worst Times to Visit
The best time to visit Tawang is during March to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the natural beauty of the region is at its peak. The spring and summer months allow for comfortable sightseeing, trekking, and monastery visits.
Winter (December-February): While winter turns Tawang into a snowy paradise, it also brings extreme cold, with temperatures dropping as low as -10°C. Snowfall can lead to road closures, making travel difficult.
Monsoon (July-August): This season is best avoided as heavy rainfall can cause landslides, making travel unsafe and inconvenient.
Accommodation Options
Tawang offers a variety of accommodations catering to different budgets and preferences:
Luxury Hotels: A few upscale hotels offer premium services, modern amenities, and stunning views of the valleys.
Mid-Range Hotels: Numerous comfortable hotels provide a balance of affordability and convenience, ideal for most travelers.
Budget Guesthouses & Homestays: Several homestays run by local families allow visitors to experience the warm hospitality of the Monpa community.
Monastery Stays: Some travelers opt to stay in monasteries for a unique, spiritual experience.
Things to Do in Tawang
Visit Tawang Monastery: Explore the largest Buddhist monastery in India, home to around 450 monks.
Explore Sela Pass: Experience the high-altitude pass covered with snow, offering breathtaking views.
Experience Nuranang Falls: Admire the stunning waterfalls cascading from a height of about 100 meters.
Pay Tribute at Tawang War Memorial: A landmark commemorating the bravery of Indian soldiers in the 1962 war.
Explore Bum La Pass: A high-altitude mountain pass on the Indo-China border, requiring special permits.
Adventure Activities: Engage in trekking, river rafting, and mountain biking around Tawang’s rugged landscapes.
Experience Local Festivals: Witness the vibrant Torgya Festival, celebrated at Tawang Monastery in January.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Tawang
Pros
Cons
Stunning natural beauty
Challenging road access
Rich cultural heritage
Extreme weather in winter
Great for adventure seekers
Permit required for entry
Affordable travel destination
Limited nightlife options
Blogs about Tawang
A Tawang Travel Guide: Dramatic Escape to the Obscure Himalyan Landscape
Road trip to Tawang, Arunachal – travel diary
Tawang Valley in Arunachal : Your ultimate travel guide
Tawang Travel Blog | Part II – By Sandeep
Complete Guide to Arunachal Pradesh – Tawang Circuit – Part 1
YouTube Videos
Tawang Budget Tour Plan 2024 || Tawang Tour Guide
Tawang is a must visit in Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal pradesh - Tawang complete travel guide
''TAWANG'' Top 10 Tourist Places To Visit In Tawang
Tawang | Extreme Winter Ride
Nearby Attractions
Madhuri Lake (Shonga-Tser Lake): A high-altitude lake named after actress Madhuri Dixit, offering surreal views.
Taktsang Gompa: A peaceful monastery perched on a hill, known for its spiritual significance.
Gorsam Chorten: A revered Buddhist stupa, resembling Nepal’s Boudhanath Stupa.
Pangateng Tso Lake: A stunning glacial lake located near the India-China border.
Dirang Valley: A beautiful valley known for its apple orchards and scenic landscapes, ideal for a stopover en route to Tawang.
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Why should you visit Tawang ? History of Tawang Tawang, a mesmerizing town in Arunachal Pradesh, India, has a deep-rooted history. ...