Information About Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Altitude | Approximately 3,048 meters (10,000 feet) |
Best Time to Visit | March to October for pleasant weather; winter for snow |
Nearest Airport | Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati |
Nearest Railhead | Tezpur Railway Station, Assam |
Road Connectivity | – National Highway 13 from Tezpur (Assam) to Tawang – Shared taxis, buses, and private vehicles available |
Accommodation Options | – Hotels, guesthouses, homestays, and government lodges available in Tawang town |
Sightseeing Attractions | – Tawang Monastery – Sela Pass – Jaswant Garh War Memorial – Nuranang Falls – Pangateng Tso Lake |
Popular Activities | – Trekking- Visiting monasteries – Exploring lakes and waterfalls |
Local Cuisine | Traditional Arunachali dishes like Thukpa, Momos, Zan, and Marua |
Cultural Heritage | Rich Buddhist culture with festivals like Losar and Torgya |
Weather Conditions | Cold winters with snowfall; cool summers; heavy rainfall during monsoon |
Entry Permits | Inner Line Permit required for Indian tourists; Protected Area Permit for foreigners |
Top Thing To Do In Tawang
Activity | Details |
---|---|
Visit Tawang Monastery | Explore the largest monastery in India, witness ancient scriptures and serene ambiance. |
Explore Sela Pass | Enjoy panoramic views, snow-capped peaks, and the picturesque Sela Lake. |
Pay homage at Jaswant Garh War Memorial | Honor the valor of Rifleman Jaswant Singh and other soldiers from the 1962 war. |
Admire Nuranang Falls | Marvel at the cascading beauty of Nuranang Falls amidst lush greenery. |
Visit Pangateng Tso Lake | Explore the serene lake surrounded by captivating landscapes. |
Trek to Gorsam Chorten | Embark on a trek to the ancient Gorsam Chorten for a spiritual journey. |
Discover Shonga-tser Lake | Enjoy the tranquil settings of Shonga-tser Lake, also known as Madhuri Lake. |
Visit Taktsang Gompa | Experience spiritual tranquility at this secluded monastery. |
Explore Bum La Pass | Witness panoramic views and the strategic Indo-China border area. |
Explore Urgelling Monastery | Visit the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama and immerse in the monastery\’s peaceful aura. |
Nestled amidst the Eastern Himalayas, Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is a paradise for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and spiritual seekers. With its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, here are the top 10 places that make Tawang a gem in the northeastern corner of India.
1. Tawang Monastery
Dominating the skyline, the Tawang Monastery stands as a revered seat of Mahayana Buddhism. Dating back to the 17th century, this imposing structure houses ancient scriptures, thangkas, and a majestic 26-foot-high statue of Lord Buddha, offering spiritual solace and architectural grandeur.
Inforamtion About Tawang Monastery, Arunachal Pradesh
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Founded | 17th century AD |
Founder | Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso |
Affiliation | Gelugpa sect of Mahayana Buddhism |
Altitude | Approximately 3,048 meters (10,000 feet) |
Architecture | Tibetan architectural style with three-storied assembly hall |
Notable Features | – 26-foot-high gilded statue of Lord Buddha<br>- Thangkas, scriptures, and ancient manuscripts |
Festivals Celebrated | Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Torgya Festival |
Historical Significance | Birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso |
Visitor Facilities | – Meditation halls – Prayer wheels and stupas – Souvenir shops nearby |
Conservation Efforts | Restoration and preservation of ancient scriptures and artifacts |
Accessibility | Accessible by road from Tawang town |
2. Sela Pass
Connecting Tawang with the rest of Arunachal Pradesh, the Sela Pass, at an altitude of over 13,000 feet, presents an awe-inspiring vista. The journey through this high-altitude mountain pass treats travelers to panoramic views, snow-capped peaks, and the enchanting Sela Lake.
Information About Sela Pass, Arunachal Pradesh
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Altitude | Approximately 4,170 meters (13,700 feet) |
Connecting Areas | Tawang and West Kameng districts |
Road Conditions | National Highway 13 |
Weather Conditions | Extreme cold, heavy snowfall in winters |
Scenic Views | Panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, Sela Lake |
Flora and Fauna | Rich biodiversity with various species of flora and fauna |
Strategic Importance | Connects Tawang with the rest of Arunachal Pradesh |
Accessibility | Road access; prone to closures during heavy snowfall |
Visitor Facilities | Limited facilities, high-altitude location |
3. Jaswant Garh War Memorial
Honoring the valor of Rifleman Jaswant Singh during the 1962 Indo-China war, this poignant memorial stands as a testament to his bravery. Nestled amidst serene landscapes, it pays homage to the gallant soldiers who defended the nation.
Information About Jaswant Garh War Memorial, Arunachal Pradesh
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Tribute to | Rifleman Jaswant Singh, Indian Army |
Historical Event | Indo-China War of 1962 |
Memorial Establishment | 1971 |
Significance | Commemorates the bravery and sacrifice of Rifleman Jaswant Singh |
Contributions | Singleton defense of the area against Chinese forces |
Memorial Features | – Statue of Jaswant Singh – Bunker used by him during the war – Personal belongings displayed |
Visitor Facilities | Limited facilities, historical site |
Accessibility | Accessible by road; 25 km from Tawang |
Cultural Importance | Honors the valor of Indian soldiers and their sacrifice |
Symbol of Resilience | Represents the indomitable spirit of the Indian Army |
4. Nuranang Falls
The majestic Nuranang Falls, also known as Jang Falls, captivates visitors with its cascading elegance. Plunging from a height amidst lush greenery, this natural wonder creates a mesmerizing spectacle, offering a serene escape into nature’s embrace.
Information About Nuranang Falls, Tawang
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Alternate Name | Jang Falls |
Height | Approximately 100 meters (330 feet) |
Accessibility | Road access; 2 km from Jang Village |
Scenic Surroundings | Surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrain |
Source | Originates from the Nuranang River |
Best Visiting Time | Post-monsoon season for the fullest flow of water |
Nearby Attractions | Tawang Monastery, Sela Pass, Jaswant Garh War Memorial |
Visitor Facilities | Limited facilities, natural site |
Cultural Significance | Local beliefs and folklore associated with the falls |
Photography Opportunities | Offers picturesque views and photo opportunities |
5. Pangateng Tso Lake
A hidden gem off the tourist track, Pangateng Tso Lake offers tranquility and solitude. Surrounded by captivating landscapes, this serene waterbody provides a perfect setting for peaceful contemplation.
Information About Pangateng Tso Lake, Tawang
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Alternate Name | Madhuri Lake |
Accessibility | Road access; 35 km from Tawang town |
Altitude | Approximately 3,780 meters (12,400 feet) |
Scenic Beauty | Serene lake surrounded by picturesque landscapes |
Origin | Formed by landslides and natural barriers |
Historical Significance | Gained fame after being featured in a Bollywood movie |
Best Time to Visit | Post-monsoon for clear views; snow-clad in winters |
Visitor Facilities | Limited facilities, serene natural setting |
Photography Opportunities | Offers stunning views for photography enthusiasts |
Cultural Beliefs | Local beliefs and stories associated with the lake |
6. Gorsam Chorten
Located near Zemithang, the Gorsam Chorten is a symbol of Buddhist religious fervor. This stupa, believed to be around 600 years old, enthralls visitors with its ancient charm and spiritual aura.
Information About Gorsam Chorten, Tawang
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Zemithang, Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Construction Year | Estimated to be around 600 years old |
Significance | Ancient stupa symbolizing Buddhist religious fervor |
Architecture | Traditional Tibetan stupa architecture |
Accessibility | Reached via a trekking route from Zemithang; 4-5 hours trek |
Altitude | Approximately 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) |
Historical Importance | Represents the cultural and spiritual heritage of Buddhism in the region |
Cultural Significance | Draws pilgrims and visitors for spiritual introspection |
Surroundings | Set amidst captivating landscapes with panoramic vistas |
Visitor Facilities | Limited amenities; trekking trail |
Rituals and Practices | Often visited for religious ceremonies and local rituals |
7. Shonga-tser Lake
Also known as Madhuri Lake, Shonga-tser Lake gained fame after being featured in a Bollywood movie. Encircled by hills and forests, its crystal-clear waters against the backdrop of natural beauty create a mesmerizing sight.
Information About Shonga-tser Lake, Tawang
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Alternate Name | Madhuri Lake |
Accessibility | Road access; approximately 30 km from Tawang town |
Altitude | Approximately 3,780 meters (12,400 feet) |
Scenic Beauty | Surrounded by hills and forests, captivating landscapes |
Formation | Formed due to a landslide |
Fame | Featured in a Bollywood movie, \”Koyla\” |
Best Time to Visit | Post-monsoon for clear views; snow-clad in winters |
Visitor Facilities | Limited facilities, natural scenic beauty |
Photography Opportunities | Offers picturesque views for photography enthusiasts |
Cultural Beliefs | Local beliefs and folklore associated with the lake |
8. Taktsang Gompa
Perched atop a hill near Tawang town, Taktsang Gompa offers stunning views of the valley below. This secluded monastery provides a serene ambiance for meditation and spiritual contemplation.
Information About Taksang Gompa, Tawang
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Altitude | Approximately 3,500 meters (11,500 feet) |
Accessibility | Reached via a trekking route from Tawang town |
Significance | Secluded monastery offering serene ambiance for meditation |
Architecture | Traditional Tibetan architectural style |
Visitor Facilities | Basic amenities, meditation halls, serene surroundings |
Scenic Views | Offers stunning views of the valley below |
Historical Importance | Represents the spiritual essence of Buddhism |
Cultural Importance | Attracts pilgrims and visitors for spiritual contemplation |
Surroundings | Set amidst picturesque landscapes |
Rituals and Practices | Hosts religious ceremonies and traditional practices |
9. Bum La Pass
Bordering China, the Bum La Pass offers breathtaking vistas and a sense of awe. Travelers can witness stunning landscapes and experience the strategic significance of the Indo-China border.
Information About Bum La Pass, Tawang
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Altitude | Approximately 4,500 meters (14,600 feet) |
Connectivity | Connects Tawang with Tibet (China) |
Accessibility | Accessed via a road from Tawang; subject to weather conditions and permits |
Strategic Importance | Indo-China border area, strategic location |
Scenic Beauty | Offers panoramic views of snow-clad peaks and valleys |
Best Time to Visit | Summer months for clearer views; closed in winters |
Visitor Facilities | Limited facilities due to its high-altitude location |
Military Presence | Presence of Indian military personnel and border security forces |
Entry Permits | Requires permits due to its proximity to the international border |
10. Urgelling Monastery
The birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, Urgelling Monastery holds immense historical and spiritual importance. Its serene surroundings and spiritual aura attract pilgrims and visitors alike.
Information About Urgelling Monastery, Tawang
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
Location | Tawang district, Arunachal Pradesh, India |
Significance | Birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso |
Historical Importance | Holds significant importance in Tibetan Buddhism |
Accessibility | Accessible by road; approximately 5 km from Tawang town |
Cultural Significance | Pilgrimage site attracting devotees and visitors |
Architecture | Traditional Tibetan architectural style |
Visitor Facilities | Limited facilities; offers serene surroundings |
Surroundings | Set amidst scenic landscapes and peaceful ambiance |
Religious Ceremonies | Hosts religious ceremonies and festivals |
Cultural Festivals | Celebrates Tibetan Buddhist festivals and rituals |
Conclusion: Tawang, with its breathtaking vistas, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual sanctity, offers an unforgettable experience. Whether exploring ancient monasteries, marveling at nature’s wonders, or delving into the region\’s history, each of these top 10 places in Tawang promises an immersive journey into the heart of this Himalayan paradise.