What to See
Tawang Monastery: As mentioned earlier, Tawang Monastery is the largest in India and the second largest after the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet. This sprawling monastery is truly a sight to behold. Established during the 17th century, the Tawang Monastery is an important site for Buddhism and its followers. This is a centre for Buddhist learning and features manuscripts and other artefacts which makes it all the more special.
Sela Pass: Driving through Sela Pass is the only way to enter Tawang by road. It is a high-altitude motorable mountain pass that is also the moat-visited tourist destination in Arunachal Pradesh. If you visit Sela Pass during winter, you will come across Paradise Lake that would be mostly frozen but you can still take in the splendid views of Tawang from the Pass.
Shonga-tser Lake: Popularly known as Madhuri Lake, The Shonga-tser was formed after an earthquake hit the area in 1971. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and mesmerizing surroundings which makes this spot perfect for photo-ops and picnics.
Nuranang Waterfall: Tawang is a feast to the eyes where nature is concerned. The Nuranang Waterfall is a 100-metre high wonder that originates at the northern slopes of the Sela Pass. It then cascades into the Tawang River and the falls are quite a beautiful sight.
Gorichen Peak: If you love adventure, Gorichen Peak is the right place for you to test your grit and gumption. This is the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh at 22,500 ft and is quite a challenge to trekkers. But the peak affords gorgeous views of the surroundings so whether you trek the peak or not is irrelevant; the sights are too good to be missed by anyone.
Taktsang Gompa: The Taktsang Gompa is believed to have been graced by the visit of Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century. The gompa, surrounded by mighty mountains and dense forests, is enough to make you feel humbled and one with nature, peace and spirituality.
Bumla Pass: Bumla Pass at 16,000 ft is the Indo-China border that offers spectacular views and history. This was the pass that was said to have been used by the Dalai Lama to flee Tibet and enter India. Not only is this pass one of the mightiest in India, but it is also a delightful snowy spot that is perfect for adventurers and photographers.
Jaswant Garh: Jaswant Singh Rawat of the Indian army fought a valiant, one-man battle against the Chinese during the Indo-Chinese war of 1962. he didn't vacate his post for 3 days at an altitude of 10,000 ft and didn't give up till his last breath. This very post that Jaswant Singh held against the invading Chinese army, some 21 kms from Sela Pass, is named Jaswant Garh in his memory.
Top Hotels in Tawang
Top Landmarks in Tawang
- Hotels Near Madhuri Lake
- Hotels Near Tawang Monastery Gate
- Hotels near Bhumla China Border
- Hotels near Craft Center Emporium
- Hotels near Dungyurmani Budhhist Religious Monument