Places to visit in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Do you know the state which has the lowest population in India? Also has over 30 languages spoken, and has the 2nd largest monastery in the world, and also it is the 1st state to receive sunrise. Yes this state actually does exist in India. Arunachal Pradesh, located in the northeastern part of India, is one of the least populated and most remote states in India.
Despite its challenges, Arunachal Pradesh is a beautiful and culturally rich state with a diverse landscape ranging from snow-capped mountains to tropical rainforests. The state is home to several tribes, each with its own unique traditions and customs. Arunachal Pradesh is a fascinating place to explore and experience the diversity of India.
Another interesting fact about Arunachal Pradesh is that it is the only state that shares its border with three different countries of Bhutan, China, and Myanmar. The majority of the people are of Tibetan descent. Arunachal Pradesh is home to several Buddhist monasteries.
The state is also home to a number of fascinating wild animals and national parks, including the red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan black bear. The Namdapha National Park, which is the largest national park in India and is home to a variety of rare flora and fauna. Arunachal Pradesh has the highest concentration of Buddhist monasteries in India.
How To Reach Arunachal
By Air
The northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh is largely accessible by road, but there are a few ways to reach by air. Arunachal Pradesh does not have an operational airport so far. Itanagar Airport is still under construction. The main airport serving the state is Lilabari Airport, located in the town of North Lakhimpur in Assam. But the only way to reach Arunachal pradesh is via Guwahati airport in Assam. Called as Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport they have daily flights from across other states in India.
There are also a few airstrips located within Arunachal Pradesh that include Daporijo Airport, Ziro Airport, Along Airport, Tezu Airport, and Pasighat Airport, but these are generally only accessible by small planes or helicopters.
By Train
Arunachal Pradesh does not have a train station. Nevertheless, Harmuti train station in the province of Assam is the principal place connecting to Arunachal Pradesh. Located only about 46 kilometers from the capital city of Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, this railroad is well-connected with the northeastern and other major cities of India.
Several major railways linking Harmuti and Naharlagun railheads to the national area, including the North East Express, Donyi Polo Express, Arunachal Express, and Dibrugarh Rajdhani, allow passengers to board a train. Further, use a bus or rent a car to travel to your destination in Arunachal Pradesh.
By Road
Arunachal Pradesh is easily reachable from the state capital and all nearby states as a result of its proximity to high roads. The state can be easily accessed from all prime areas and nearby states. The region has numerous interstate bus services, cabs, rental cars available from all major cities of Arunachal Pradesh to Meghalaya (790 km), Assam (560 km), and Nagaland(456 km). The national highways NH 15, 52, and 415 connect the area with the neighboring states.
You can drive to Itanagar by car and bus.
We landed in Guwahati from Mumbai, and from Guwahati we took a private car to enter Arunachal. Our trip was curated by Banjara on Roads https://www.instagram.com/_banjaraonroad_/, you must check them out. Our entire itinerary was planned by them from homestay to sight seeing and more.
You will need a Permit
As Arunachal Pradesh falls under a restricted area, any domestic tourist coming to Arunachal Pradesh has to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP). The Permit is granted as a routine for the tourists.
Inner Line Permit is required for domestic tourists. Tourists traveling from other states of India.
ILP can be availed by applying online. https://arunachalilp.com/
If you want an on arrival ILP, you can look for Tourist ILP facilitation centers which have been opened at the following places:
- Naharlagun railway station
- Gumto railway station
- Guwahati Asom Paryatan Bhawan near Nepali mandir and Guwahati LGBI Airport.
When To Visit Arunachal
The best time to visit Arunachal Pradesh is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. This is also the peak tourist season so hotels and transport can be expensive. The temperature can be too high during summer falls from April to June. Daytime temperatures may become too hot to explore at midday. July to September is considered off-season as this is when it rains heavily in Arunachal Pradesh. If you are planning a trip during this time, make sure to pack your rain gear!
To be honest, we planned our trip in August, during the monsoons. Ideally Arunachal Pradesh does receive moderate rainfall, so it hardly interrupted our itinerary. But if you want to save money and if you love rain then this is the best season to visit.
If you travel during off season then the average cost per person would be:
Total per day: ₹ 1,200
Food and drinks per day: ₹ 200 – 400
Accommodation per day: ₹ 700- 1,200
Activities: ₹ 500 – 750
Our entire trip was curated and planned at 16k per person excluding the flights. This included our homestay, transfer, sightseeing fees, meals except lunch. If you are traveling from Mumbai to Guwahati the round-trip flight would roughly cost you around 14k per person.
I always book my flights on Kayak, and save at least 1000 bucks on every trip. I would always suggest booking your flights via Kayak and in advance to get the best deals. https://www.kayak.co.in/
Where To Stay
There are many different types of accommodation to choose from when traveling. One option is to stay in a hotel. Hotels can offer a range of services and facilities, from restaurants and bars to swimming pools and gyms. However, they can also be expensive.
When it comes to finding a place to stay, homestay is best. Homestays are generally more affordable than other types of accommodation, such as hotels. This makes them ideal for budget-minded travelers. Also, staying in a homestay gives you the unique opportunity to live with a local family and experience day-to-day life with other cultures. This is an authentic way to travel and learn about new customs and traditions of the locals.
Here are few homestays you can opt for:
Palmo homestay in Tawang
Palmo homestay is a great way to experience the culture and beauty of Tawang. The family who owns the homestay is very welcoming and hospitable. They will make you feel right at home and help you with anything you need. The rooms are comfortable and clean, and the food is delicious. I highly recommend staying here if you want to experience the real Tawang.
Tariff: Starting from INR 1500 per night
Address: Mandreling, Monastery road, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh 790104
Phone Number: 076308 60258
Anu Homestay in Bomdila
Anu Homestay in Bomdila is a great place to stay if you are looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay while you are in town. The homestay is located in a quiet and secluded area, yet it is only a few minutes’ walk from the main street and all the shops and restaurants. The hosts are very friendly and welcoming, and they will make sure that you have everything you need during your stay.
Tariff: Starting from INR 1900 per night.
Address: Sera Road Near BSNL Office, Bomdila 790001 India.
Phone Number: 087298 95222
Dirang- Wangdi Homestay
Dirang- Wangdi Homestay is a cozy little place located in the heart of Dirang valley. The homestay is owned and run by a local family who are extremely hospitable and welcoming. The rooms are clean and comfortable, with sweeping views of the valley from the large windows. The food is delicious and made with fresh, local ingredients.
Tariff: Starting from INR 1500 per night.
Address: Kala Chakra Road, Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh, 790101, India
Phone Number: 082570 35089
Places to See in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Tawang
Tawang is a small town in the northwestern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is the district headquarters of West Kameng district. The town is situated at an elevation of 3,048 meters (10,000 feet) in the Tawang Valley, near the Tibetan border. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Arunachal Pradesh, due to its scenic beauty and Buddhist monasteries.
Best time to visit: March to June and September-October
How to reach: Arunachal Pradesh does not have its own operating airport but the state is well-connected by air. Although the nearest airport to reach Tawang is Salonibari Airport in Tezpur, Assam, it is feasible to Opt for Guwahati airport which is located 480 km from Tawang and is connected to all the major cities in India.
The entire trip from Guwahati will take you around 14-15 hours, so a pitstop on the way for a night is a must. But if you are short on time you can do a direct trip to Tawang, make sure to have a slow pace while you do so.
Guwahati airport is situated about 460 kilometers from Tawang, which is the best feasible option for entering Arunachal. Buses and Private taxis are also available from Tezpur to Tawang which takes around 5-6 hours to reach the destination.
Tips: The weather in Tawang can be quite cold, especially at night. Make sure to pack some warm clothes for your trip. Be respectful while visiting a Buddhist monastery.
Places to check out locally
- Tawang Monastery
- Tawang War Memorial- The Light and Show at Tawang war memorial
- birth place of H.H 6th Dalai Lama Birth place
- Khimney Monastery War Memorial
Sela Pass
The Sela Pass is a high mountain pass that connects the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. The pass is located at an elevation of 4,170 meters (13,700 ft) and is situated in the eastern Himalayan range. The pass provides a vital link between the two states and is used by both tourists and locals alike. The pass is located in a remote and mountainous region, which can make traveling to and from the pass difficult. However, the views from the top of the pass are said to be breathtaking, making the journey well worth it.
If you are planning to explore Tawang, you are sure to cross sela pass on your way. Also, do not miss the Sela Lake, near the summit of the pass, is one of approximately 101 lakes in the area that are sacred in Tibetan Buddhism.
Best time to visit: October-November, March-April
How to reach: Sela Pass is located 72 km before Tawang. From Guwahati you can take a flight or train to Tezpur. From Tezpur you can hire a taxi or catch a bus to Tawang.
Tips: Be careful while walking on the icy roads as there is a risk of slipping and falling. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids as the air is very thin at high altitudes which can lead to dehydration.
Sela Lake
Do miss thsis beauty, you will cross this while you make a pitstop at Sela Pass. Sela Lake is named after a tribal woman named Sela who used to bring food and water to an Indian Army named Jaswant Singh Rawant who fought alone against the Chinese Soldiers in the year 1962 in Sino- Indian war near the Pass and was dead. So when the tribal woman saw the dead body of the Indian Army Jaswant Sing Rawat she killed herself as said by the locals and the army.
Jaswant Garh War Memorial
Everyone travelling to Tawang pass Jaswantgarh, named after Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat of the 4 Garhwal Rifles, who was martyred on 17 November, 1962, in the famous Battle of Nuranang during 1962 the Sino-India war.
With the help of two local girls, Sela and Nura, Jaswant Singh set up weapons at different spots and continued firing for three days. Thinking that a big force was firing at them, the Chinese army could not advance for 72 hours. Finally, the Chinese surrounded Jaswant Singh from all sides; Sela was captured and committed suicide, while Nura died in a grenade burst.
Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra. Fact or fiction, Jaswantgarh has become a part of folklore and legend with a movie titled 72 Hours: Martyr Who Never Died made on this story in 2019.
Nuranang Falls
Falling from a height of 100 meters, this waterfall is among the best places to visit in Arunachal Pradesh. Nuranang Falls, also called Bong Falls, is located at an elevation of 6,000 feet. Since this place is a hidden gem and not many people know about it, you can spend ample time in the lap of nature.
According to popular legend the fall is named after a Monpa girl called Nura. She helped a soldier named Jaswant Singh Rawat in the 1962 Sino-Indian War to avoid capture by Chinese Forces. So, as an ode to her bravery, the locals named the waterfalls ‘Nuranang’ after her!
Another interesting part of this fall is we all have seen this waterfall in a Bollywood movie named Koyla, where madhuri dixit and shahrukh khan dance on the Tanhai Tanhai a song by Alka Yagnik and Udit Narayan. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3ytbrAH8Mk
Best time to visit: June-November
How to reach: Located 40 kms from Tawang, you can cover this hidden spot while driving to Tawang; it falls between the road that connects Tawang and Bomdila. Easily accessible by road, the best way to explore is by renting a car or booking a private cab.
Tips: It is a must visit site, the best time to see the waterfall is during sunrise or sunset. If you are lucky you would encounter rainbows around like how we did. Don’t forget to bring your camera as it is a stunning place to capture.
Bumla Pass
A high altitude pass situated at the Indo-China border, with an elevation of 15,200 feet above the sea level. If you visit during the winters, you must know that thick blankets of snow cover this place during the year, making it look surreal.
Listening and learning about border stories can be interesting, especially when you get to hear from the soldiers. Visiting Bumla Pass gives you an opportunity to witness one of the four Indo-China Border Personnel Meeting (BPM) points.
Apart from amazing stories, the place features a high altitude lake, Sangestar Tso which is a must. If you are in Arunachal Pradesh, exploring Bumla Pass deserves to be a part of your itinerary. Not only one but you will find so many beautiful lakes on the way to Bumla Pass, you are sure to get lost in its beauty.
Best Time to Visit: April to October
How to reach: Located 37 kms from Tawang, you can access Bumla Pass by only local car, and you will need a permit to showcase and enter the pass.
Location: Tawang – Bum La Pass Road, 30 km from Tawang. Located at an elevation of approximately 15,200 feet above the sea level, Madhuri Lake is an exemplifying example of nature’s artistry.
Tips: If you are visiting Bumla, do not miss Madhuri lake. The lake lies on the way to Bum La Pass from Tawang near the Indo-China border. The original name of the lake is Sangestar Tso, but it became popular as Madhuri Lake after a scene from Madhuri Dixit’s movie, Koyla was shot here.
Madhuri Lake
Formed by a flash flood after an earthquake in the year 1950, Madhuri Lake is originally known as Shonga-tser Lake, which is one of the most popular lakes in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. The lake was renamed so after the shooting of Bollywood movie Koyla, starring Madhuri Dixit, the beautiful actress.
You can explore this lake while you covering Bumla Pass. The best season to visit Tawang is the summers season and onset of monsoon season. The temperature remains comfortable and is apt for sightseeing.
Best Time to Visit: March-June | September-October
How to reach: Located 36 kms from Tawang, you can access Madhuri Lake by car.
Location: Near Tawang – on the way to Bum La Pass Road, you will reach a Y sections on the left turn will take you the lake and the right turn will lead you to Bumla Pass.
Tips: If you are visiting Bumla, do not miss Madhuri lake. The lake lies on the way to Bum La Pass from Tawang near the Indo-China border.
Gorichen Peak
If you like adventure and offbeat paths, you are bound to visit Gorichen Peak. Located between Tawang District and West Kameng District, it is a must for every thrill-seeker in Arunachal Pradesh. Standing tall at a massive elevation of 6,858 meters is also the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh.
It is a paradise for backpackers, a popular spot for camping and trekking and is believed to be sacred by the local tribesmen. The panoramic views of the mighty mountains and lush green hills around will make your visit to this peak worthwhile. Most tourists get the glimpse of Gorichen Peak while traveling from Bomdila to Tawang.
Best Time: The summer months of April, May and June and post monsoon month of September are the best times to plan a visit here.
How to Reach: Located in Tawang District, Arunachal Pradesh, you can go around the peak in Cabs from Tawang. It is only 25 kms from the famed Nuranang Falls, so one can plan a visit there as well.
ips: Gorichen Peak or Sa-Nga Phu offers climbing opportunities to seasoned climbers, however, amateurs or beginners can trek in the area surrounding the mountain.
Places to see on the way to Tawang
Bomdila
Bomdila is located at an altitude of 2,530 meters (8,310 ft) in the Himalayan mountains. district headquarters of West Kameng district. The town experiences a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year. Bomdila is home to many Buddhist monasteries, which are popular tourist attractions. The most famous monastery is the Bomdila Monastery, which was founded by the Dalai Lama in 1966.
Best time to visit: October-April
How to reach: The closest airport to Bomdila is Tezpur (Assam). From Tezpur, you can take a bus or a taxi to get to Bomdila. The nearest railway station is Rangapara Railway Station (Assam), which is roughly 145 km away from Bomdila. The train will transport you to Bomdila.
Tips: The local market is the best place to buy souvenirs and handicrafts from Bomdila.
Dirang
Dirang is a small town in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. It is situated at an altitude of 5,000 feet (1,500 m) above sea level. Dirang is famous for its hot springs, which are believed to have therapeutic properties. The town also has some interesting historical sites, such as the Dzong (fort), which was built by the Tibetan leader Dalai Lama in the 18th century.
Dirang is a popular tourist destination because of its scenic beauty and unique culture. The best time to visit Dirang is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
Best time to visit: March-July
How to reach: The closest airport to Dirang is in Tezpur, which is about 82 km from it. The nearest train station to Dirang is Majbati, which is around 124 km from the city. You can also explore the train connections to Guwahati Railway Station, a major stop, or the Dhekiajili Road Railway Station, a local train station with limited trains.
Tips: Start your day early with a stroll through the town. Dirang is located at a high altitude and the air is crisp and refreshing in the morning. Take a hike to one of the nearby waterfalls.
How many days do you need for Tawang
The best way to plan your days in Arunachal Pradesh is by throwing out the map in front of you, and mark the places you wish to explore. Honestly, it is difficult to explore the entire state in a few days, because of the terrain.
The best way is to explore one thing at a time. We planned our Tawang trip in which we could cover Bomdila, Dirang, Sela Pass, Bumla Pass and other places on the way. It was a 6 days itinerary. We spent 3 nights in Tawang, 1 night in Dirang, 1 night in Bomdila and 1 day to rest in Guwahati. This trip was curated by Banjaras on Road, it was efficiently planned covering almost every scenic and beautiful corner on the way.
Check them out at: https://www.instagram.com/_banjaraonroad_/
Here is what my Tawang itinerary looked like:
Guwahati – Dirang
– Meal: Dinner.
– Overnight Homestay in Dirang.
Dirang – Tawang
– Sela Pass, Sela Lake and Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, MVC – Legend of 1962 Indo – China War at Jaswant garh war memorial.
– Meal: Breakfast and Dinner (Traditional Monpa Food or of your choice).
– Overnight Homestay in Tawang.
Tawang
– Bum La, Madhuri Lake, Tawang Monastery and Tawang War Memorial and the Light and Show at Tawang war memorial.
– Meal: Breakfast and Dinner (Traditional Monpa Food or of your choice).
– Overnight Homestay in Tawang.
Tawang
– If you can wake up early, visit the Tawang Monastery, trust me the peace you will find can’t be compared with anything.
– The birth place of H.H 6th Dalai Lama Birth place, Khimney Monastery War Memorial etc.
– Meal: Breakfast and Dinner.
– Overnight Stay in homestay Tawang.
Tawang – Bomdila
– Nuranang fall on the list – a koyla movie song was shot here too.
On the way to Bomdila – we will visit the Dirang Monastery
– Meal: Breakfast and Dinner.
– Overnight Homestay in Bomdila.
Bomdila– Guwahati
Pack your bags it’s time to go home
– Meal: Breakfast.
INR 16,800/- Per Person
FAQs
What are some of the best homestays in Arunachal Pradesh?
Some of the best homestays in Arunachal Pradesh include Dirang- Wangdi Homestay, Anu Domdila homestay, Palmo tawang homestay, Dirang Dzong Homestay, Gonpalok Homestay, etc.
How to reach Arunachal Pradesh?
If you are traveling by train, you will have to reach Harmuti train station. While there is no operational airport in Arunachal Pradesh currently, the best way to explore is by roads.
Which is the best time to visit Arunachal Pradesh?
- Arunachal Pradesh remains at its best in April and October. The weather during this time remains pleasant for traveling and exploring the peaks during the daytime.
How many places are there in Arunachal Pradesh?
There are many places to see in Arunachal, there are a total of 12 tourist circuits, Each tourist circuit is distinctive in character with different ethnic cultures, topography, and vegetation.
- Tezpur-Bhalukpong-Bomdila-Tawang
- Itanagar-Ziro-Daporijo-Aalo-Pasighat
- Pasighat-Jengging-Yingkiong-Tuting
- Tinsukia-Tezu -Hayuliang
- Margherita- Miao- Namdhapa- Vijoynagar
- Dibrugarh-Deomali-Hakanjuri-Khonsa
- Dibrugarh-Kanubari-Longding
- Tezpur-Seijosa-Bhalukpong
- Ziro-Palin-Nyapin-Sangram-Koloriang
- Doimukh-Sagalee-Pake Kessang-Seppa
- Aalo-Mechuka
- Daporijo-Taliha-Siyum-Nacho
- Jairampur-Manmao-Nampong–Pangsau Pass
What is the most famous thing about Arunachal Pradesh?
Arunachal is jam-packed with things to do. The hardest part of planning your holiday will be deciding which to do first! Exploring Arunachal’s magnificent landscape and coastline tops the list for many. If adventure is your game, there’s a long list of thrilling activities to get your blood racing. Or if it’s a relaxing holiday you’re after, hot pools, vineyards and cultural attractions will keep you entertained.
Which is the most beautiful city in Arunachal Pradesh?
Dong valley and Tawang are the most beautiful places to explore in Arunachal. Arunachal has 26 tribes and more than 100 sub-tribes. There are more than 50 dialects but only a few languages that have scriptures.
Why is Arunachal Pradesh famous for tourism?
Arunachal is famous for Angling, Trekking, Rafting, Wildlife, Culture, Spiritual, Heritage and Festivals.
How far is Tawang from Guwahati?
It is 430+ kms drive from Guwahati, taking upto 12 hr 26 min via NH13. This trip is not possible to cover in a single day. Make sure to pitstop at Bomdila or Dirang for a night. When we visited Tawang, we took the route through Tezpur and Bhalukpong.
