Escape into the Obscure Himalayan Landscape of Tawang

A picturesque destination tucked between the Chinese and Bhutanese border, Tawang is home to the legendary Tawang Monastery and boasts some of the most stunning lakes and scenery all around it. It also has other fantastic sights like the four-hundred-year-old Urgelling Monastery, the Brahmadung Nunnery, popularly known as the Anni Gompa by locals, and the Tawang War Memorial which is dedicated to our soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Chinese aggression of 1962.

An unexplored paradise, Tawang is both historically and naturally endowed since it is located in the western section of Arunachal Pradesh at a height of around 3500 metres above sea level. Consequently, travelling to Tawang is generally regarded as challenging by some people due to its isolated location. Nevertheless, it is one of the most beautiful spots in Himalayas' north-eastern region. Surrounded on its three sides by Tibet in the north, Bhutan in the south, and the Sela ranges in the east, Tawang is bestowed with superlative glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks.

How to Reach Tawang

There is no railhead or airhead in Tawang. However, the nearest domestic airport is at Tezpur, Assam, which is 325 kilometres away. The nearest international airport is Guwahati (480 kilometres). To go to Tawang, you can take a bus, jeep, or rent a private car from Tezpur. From Tezpur to Tawang, it takes no more than 12 hours. However, the road's picturesque splendour more than compensates for the long ride. The scenic beauty of Bhalukpong, Dirang, and Bomdila on your way to Tawang, can make the 12-hour-long journey seem short.

Though less heard of, the beauty of Tawang is too great to be missed. So hurry up, book a Tawang tour package, and head on to the popular places in Tawang listed below: -

Tawang Monastery

Also known as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse, Tawang Monastery is one of the primary attractions in Tawang. Perched magnificently on a mountaintop and overlooks the whole Tawang area, this monastery is regarded as a wonderful piece of art and the nucleus of Buddhist culture. The history of the Tawang Monastery goes back to 1680 when it was founded by a monk named Mera Lama to propagate the beliefs of Buddhism. Currently, there are around 400 monks living at the monastery. The Parkhang library, which houses age-old texts, is also a historic structure. A museum houses religious artefacts and antiquities from Tibet and Tawang within the monastery. Reputed to be one of the biggest monasteries in India, it has been attracting tourists not only from India but all across the world because of its grandeur.

The strong spiritual atmosphere created here by the sound of the Tibetan music in the prayer hall is hard to be missed. Many people during their vacation in Tawang prefer to stay in hotels near the Tawang Monastery to be a part of the Morning Prayer that is held every day here.

Urgelling Monastery

Urgelling Monastery is a 400-year-old ancient monastery that is renowned for being the birthplace of the Dalai Lama VI. During the Mongol assaults and the conflict between the Tibetans and the Bhutanese, this monastery in Tawang was destroyed because of which only a portion of this monastery survives today. It is a very peaceful and secluded area with very few people living here. However, a sacred tree has been planted here by the Holy Dalai Lama VI which is cherished and worshipped by the locals. The monastery is only 3 kilometres from Tawang and can be easily reached by foot or by taxi.

Tawang War Memorial

The war memorial was made in honour of the Indo-China war martyrs who died in this region during the 1962 conflict. A lovely stupa graces the memorial. The finest aspect is that it lists the names of all 2420 Indian troops who served in the conflict. There are also a number of artefacts from the 1962 conflict on display. A visit to this location will undoubtedly make you proud of our military men and women. This is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places to visit in Tawang.

Sela Pass

Situated en route to Tawang, the Sela Pass is one of India's highest motorable passes standing at 13,714 metres above sea level. It is one of the most important passes of India that connects Tawang with Tezpur and the rest of India. Stop at the pass to take a quick break during the long ride and take in the stunning scenery. The snow-capped peaks and colourful fluttering Buddhist prayer flags are going to make your trip all the more memorable. Head up a little more and you will also be able to witness the magnificent Sela Lake.

Lake Hopping

The Tawang district has a total of 108 lakes. Some of them are widely known for their relaxing landscapes and soothing vistas. The lake's crystal blue waters together with its peaceful ambience are an exquisite treat for tired eyes and souls. Sanget Sar Lake, also known as Madhuri Lake, P. T. Tso Lake, and Sela Lake are among the most famous lakes in Tawang. While you are in this city, you will come across several lakes, some of which are renowned, while others are still unknown. However, you will undoubtedly be compelled to stop and gaze at the tranquil and calm water bodies.

Dirang

How often do you come across places that not only fascinate you but also make you fall in love with them during your travels? That is what a trip to Dirang can do for you. The Dirang Dzong is a little town around fifty kilometres from Tawang where most of the homes are between 400 and 500 years old and there is also a 9^th-century jail facing arguably Arunachal's oldest monastery - Kalachakra Gompa.

 Best Time to Visit Tawang

Tawang is open all-year-round however, the rainy season, which spans from July to September, should be avoided. Winters too can be bitterly cold with night-time temperatures falling as low as -10 degrees. But the mornings are pleasant and warm. From April to October, the weather changes from spring to fall and both sun and rain can be expected. The landscape comes alive with a variety of flora in April. The sky is bright in October, making it the greatest time to observe the lakes in all their glory.

Thus, if you want to get away from the stress of your daily routine to a place that offers peace and tranquility to your soul and body, head on to Tawang and have one of the best trips of your life!