Tawang in Arunachal: A Defence Traveller’s Bucket List Destination

Key Highlights

• Visit the grand Tawang Monastery, a major Buddhist landmark in Northeast India.
• Pay tribute at Tawang War Memorial and Jaswant Garh.
• Cross the majestic Sela Pass with snow views even in summer.
• Explore hidden gems like Sangetsar Lake and Zemithang Village.
• Use practical tips to make your Tawang journey smooth, safe, and cost-effective.

Dreaming of the untouched beauty of Northeast India? Tawang should be high on your list. From majestic Buddhist monasteries to stories of unmatched bravery, this town has something for everyone. Whether you are a serving member of the armed forces, a history buff, or a nature lover, this Tawang travel itinerary will help you experience the best of the region.

Ready to explore one of the most breathtaking offbeat destinations in Arunachal Pradesh? Let’s dive into this unforgettable journey.

Why Tawang Should Be on Your Travel Radar

• Rich military history that inspires pride.
• Home to one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Northeast India.
• Stunning valleys, lakes, and snow-covered passes.
• Pleasant summers, perfect for sightseeing.
• A peaceful yet adventurous escape from the usual crowded spots.

Best Time to Visit Tawang

• Summer (April to June): Best weather for travel, with clear skies and manageable temperatures between 5°C and 22°C.
• Autumn (September to November): Ideal for witnessing festivals and enjoying the landscape’s golden hues.
• Avoid: Winter (December to March) unless you love extreme snow and harsh conditions. Many roads may be blocked.

Your Tawang Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Local Sightseeing

• Reach Tawang via Tezpur or Guwahati (by road or helicopter).
• Rest and acclimatise. Tawang is over 10,000 feet high.
• Visit the stunning Tawang Monastery, the largest in India and second-largest in the world. Founded in the 17th century, it holds priceless Buddhist scriptures and paintings.
• Explore Urgelling Monastery, the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama.

Tip: Move slowly to avoid altitude sickness. Drink plenty of fluids.

Day 2: Explore Military History and Nature

• Start your day at the Tawang War Memorial. Built by the Indian Army, it honours soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 1962 Indo-China War. The memorial overlooks the town and offers a moving experience with its eternal flame and detailed stories of bravery.
• Drive to Pangateng Tso (P.T. Tso) Lake, a pristine high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
• Visit the Gorsam Chorten in nearby Zemithang. A peaceful drive, this stupa is said to resemble the Boudhanath Stupa of Nepal.
• Return to Tawang town for a relaxed evening.

Hack: Hire a local taxi for the day instead of multiple trips. It is more economical.

Day 3: High Passes and Hidden Gems

• Head to the iconic Sela Pass. At over 13,700 feet, it connects Tawang to the rest of Arunachal Pradesh. Snow remains almost year-round here.
• Stop by the Jaswant Garh War Memorial, built in honour of Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, who fought valiantly during the 1962 war. His story of bravery is legendary in the Indian Army.
• Visit Nuranang Falls (also known as Jang Falls), one of the most beautiful and less crowded waterfalls in Northeast India.

Hidden Gem:
Explore Sangetsar Lake (also called Madhuri Lake), formed after an earthquake. Surrounded by dead tree trunks and snow, it is one of the most surreal sights you will ever see.

Tawang Travel Tips for an Easy Journey

• Permit Required: Obtain the Inner Line Permit (ILP) before entering Arunachal Pradesh. You can apply online or through designated offices.
• Cash is King: ATMs are limited. Carry sufficient cash.
• Layer Up: Weather changes quickly. Pack warm clothes even in summer.
• Altitude Care: Acclimatise properly to avoid sickness.
• Mobile Networks: Limited coverage. BSNL and Airtel work best.

Military History in Tawang: Stories That Inspire

Tawang played a key role during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The bravery shown by soldiers at Sela Pass, Jaswant Garh, and the surrounding areas is still celebrated today. The town and its memorials stand as silent witnesses to one of the most heroic chapters in Indian military history. Visiting these sites is a moving experience for anyone with a connection to the armed forces.

Hidden Gems You Must Not Miss

• Sangetsar Lake: Perfect for a peaceful picnic amidst surreal surroundings.
• Gorsam Chorten: Ideal for those who love spiritual and architectural beauty.
• Zemithang Village: Remote and untouched, offering a glimpse of Monpa tribal life.

What to Avoid in Tawang

• Avoid rapid ascent to high altitudes without acclimatisation.
• Do not litter, especially around sacred sites and natural spots.
• Avoid night driving. Roads can be tricky and poorly lit.

Plan Your Budget Trip to Tawang

For a smooth and budget-friendly Tawang tour, you can explore udChalo’s holiday packages and flight bookings. They offer curated experiences designed for defence personnel and their families, helping you save time and money. From comfortable stays to convenient transport, everything is taken care of—so you can focus on making unforgettable memories.

Explore udChalo Holiday Packages Here

FAQs

1. How can I reach Tawang easily?
You can reach Tawang by road from Tezpur or Guwahati. Helicopter services are also available but weather dependent.

2. Is Tawang safe for families and solo travellers?
Yes, Tawang is safe. The military presence ensures high security.

3. What permits are needed for Tawang?
An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is needed for Indian citizens travelling to Arunachal Pradesh.

4. When is the best time to visit Tawang?
April to June and September to November offer the best weather.

5. Are there direct flights to Tawang?
There are no direct flights. The nearest airport is Tezpur or Guwahati, from where you continue by road.

6. What is special about Tawang Monastery?
It is the largest monastery in India and houses over 450 monks. It is a spiritual and architectural wonder.

7. What is Sangetsar Lake famous for?
Also called Madhuri Lake, it offers hauntingly beautiful views and is a must-visit hidden gem.

8. Where can I learn about military history in Tawang?
The Tawang War Memorial and Jaswant Garh War Memorial are the best places.

9. How many days are enough for Tawang sightseeing?
Three to four days are ideal to explore Tawang and nearby areas comfortably.

10. Does udChalo offer travel packages for Tawang?
Yes, udChalo offers curated holiday packages and flight bookings for Tawang, perfect for defence personnel and their families.