Sela Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located in Arunachal Pradesh, India. Situated at an elevation of approximately 13,700 feet, it connects the Buddhist town of Tawang with the rest of India. The pass is known for its stunning landscapes, including Sela Lake, which is considered sacred by the local Buddhist community.
Sela Pass can be reached by road from Tezpur in Assam, which is well connected by air and rail. The drive to Tawang via Sela Pass is scenic but can be challenging, especially during the winter months when the pass is prone to heavy snowfall and icy conditions. Hiring a local taxi or taking a shared cab/tour organized by travel agencies are common ways to reach Sela Pass.
The best time to visit Sela Pass is from April to October when the weather is relatively dry and the temperatures are more comfortable for travel. From November to March, the pass often experiences snow, which can lead to road closures and travel disruptions.
Visitors should be prepared for the high altitude and cold temperatures. It’s important to carry warm clothing, and possibly altitude sickness medication, as well as to stay hydrated and acclimatize properly. Additionally, due to its remote location, medical facilities are basic, so travelers should be in good health and carry necessary medications.
Yes, visitors to Sela Pass need a special Inner Line Permit (ILP), as it is located in a sensitive border area. Domestic tourists can obtain the ILP online or from government offices in Arunachal Pradesh, while foreign nationals need to secure a Protected Area Permit (PAP) through the Ministry of Home Affairs or an Indian diplomatic mission.
Near Sela Pass, tourists can visit Tawang Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in India, the War Memorial in Tawang dedicated to the soldiers of the 1962 Sino-Indian War, and the beautiful Nuranang Waterfall. The area is also popular for trekking and exploring the high mountain lakes and landscapes.
Accommodation options near Sela Pass are limited due to its high-altitude and remote location. Most travelers choose to stay in Tawang, which has a range of hotels and guesthouses. Some may also opt to stay in Dirang or Bomdila, which are towns en route to Tawang.
Sela Pass holds strategic importance as it is one of the main roads connecting Tawang to the rest of India. It is also a place of pilgrimage for many Buddhists who visit the Sela Lake. The pass carries historical significance, as it was a battleground during the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
As Sela Pass is near Tawang, which has a predominant Monpa and other tribal Buddhist population, visitors should be respectful of local customs and religious sentiments. Dressing modestly, asking for permission before taking photographs, and not disturbing the natural environment are all highly encouraged.
The region around Sela Pass is rich in biodiversity. Visitors may encounter various species of high-altitude flora and fauna, including Himalayan yaks, mountain goats, and a variety of birds. The region is also home to the rare red panda, although sightings are uncommon.
