The Tawang Monastery, also known as the Galden Namgey Lhatse, stands as a testament to the rich spiritual heritage of Buddhism in India. Perched at an elevation of 3000 meters, this grandiose structure is a visual treat and is one of the largest monasteries in India. Founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso in 1681, it belongs to the Gelug sect and has an impressive three-storied assembly hall. The monastery is not just a religious site, but also a repository of ancient books and manuscripts. Its walls are adorned with beautiful thangka paintings and delicate murals that depict various aspects of Buddhist lore. While visiting, one can also stroll through the tranquil monastery gardens and take in the serene environment. The monastery offers an insight into the unique cultural blend of monastic traditions intertwined with the local tribal practices of the region.
Sela Pass is undeniably one of the most visited places in Tawang, where visitors get spellbound by its ethereal beauty. At an altitude of 4170 meters, it serves as a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh, offering them a roadway connected to the rest of the country. Brimming with panoramic vistas, the pass is often blanketed in snow, which makes the journey through it a magnificent experience. While at Sela Pass, travelers can also visit the Sela Lake, which is known as the Paradise Lake due to its enchanting surroundings. Folklore has it that the lake has a hundred other hidden lakes in its vicinity. People come here to pay their respects, find solace, and bask in the overwhelming natural beauty that the site provides. Sela Pass holds a significant place in Indian history and is a site that fills the heart with patriotism.
Gorichen Peak, Arunachal Pradesh's second-highest peak, stands tall at an elevation of about 6488 meters. The peak is often referred to as the 'Abode of the Guardian Deity' and is considered sacred by the Monpa tribe. It's an exhilarating yet challenging trek that attracts seasoned trekkers and adventure enthusiasts from across the globe. As one embarks on the journey towards the summit, the trail unfolds through quaint tribal villages, stunning valleys, and rugged terrains, with breathtaking views that are quintessentially Himalayan. This trek is an opportunity to witness the raw and magnificent beauty of the Eastern Himalayas, replete with a rich variety of flora and faunal biodiversity. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching higher camps or even the summit cannot be overstated, making it a bucket-list adventure for many.
Madhuri Lake, also known as Sangetsar Lake, is a stunning high-altitude lake formed as a result of an earthquake. Widely known for its appearance in the Bollywood movie 'Koyla', the lake was thus nicknamed after the lead actress Madhuri Dixit. The lake's surreal beauty is enhanced by the dead trees that stand above its waters, providing an eerie yet enchanting allure to this isolated spot. It's a result of a forested area that got submerged when the earthquake triggered the formation of the lake. Located near the China border, this remote lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and is a haven for nature lovers and tranquility seekers. The journey to the lake itself is a thrilling adventure as the road weaves through mountainous terrains offering spectacular views. The serene atmosphere at the lake can soothe the weariest of travelers, making the arduous journey worthwhile.
Bumla Pass is situated about 37 km away from Tawang and is known for its historical significance as it was one of the battlefields during the 1962 Indo-China war. The pass, at an altitude of 5038 meters, stands as a symbol of peace between India and China and features a 'Peace Gong.' It's a restricted region requiring special permits for tourists to visit because of its proximity to the Chinese border. An excursion to Bumla Pass provides adventurers with a breathtakingly raw landscape dotted with snow-clad mountains, high-altitude flora, and the clear blue skies. Visitors often experience a profound sense of history and the delicate balance of international relations while standing at the border line. Despite its remote and harsh conditions, Bumla Pass has become a place for people to reflect on peace and harmony.
The Losar Festival is one of the most important and celebrated events in Tawang. It marks the Tibetan New Year and is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the region, interwoven with Buddhist traditions. Celebrated for 15 days, usually in the month of February or March, Losar is filled with traditional performances, ceremonial rituals, and the hoisting of prayers flags. Locals wear traditional attire, and there is an air of festivity with dance, music, and prayers. The festival begins with the Lama dances and the burning of incense to ward off evil spirits. Houses are cleaned and beautifully decorated, and families prepare special dishes for the occasion. Attending the Losar Festival is an exceptional cultural experience, giving visitors an insightful glimpse into the spiritual and communal life of the people of Tawang.
The Nuranang Waterfalls, also referred to as the Bong Bong Falls, is a spectacular cascade located about 40 km from Tawang town. Hidden away from the usual hustle, this waterfall is a jewel of nature that is relatively unexplored by mass tourism. The water plummets from a height of about 100 meters into a crystal-clear pool below. The sound of the crashing water amidst the serene forest ambiance creates an unforgettable experience for visitors. There are steps that lead down to the foot of the falls, allowing adventurers to feel the mist on their faces and capture stunning photographs of the powerful cascade. It's an ideal picnic spot for families and groups of friends to spend quality time surrounded by nature's splendor. Nuranang Waterfalls is a refreshingly beautiful getaway that rejuvenates the spirit with every visit.
Urgelling Monastery, a place of profound historical importance, is located approximately 5 km from the town of Tawang. Established in the 15th century, it holds the distinction of being the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso. The monastery exudes a sense of tranquility and is a smaller, more intimate setting compared to the grandeur of Tawang Monastery. It houses several ancient artifacts, manuscripts, and murals that are essential to the Buddhist heritage. The monastery offers a peaceful haven for reflection and meditation amidst the backdrop of the beautiful surrounding landscape. Visitors to Urgelling Monastery can enjoy the simplicity and calmness of this sacred space and learn about the significant historical events that have taken place here. It's a must-visit site for those interested in the religious and cultural tapestry of Arunachal Pradesh.
P.T. Tso Lake, also known as Pankang Teng Tso Lake, is an enchanting high-altitude lake located about 17 km from Tawang. The lake is enveloped by dense forests and craggy mountain ranges, making it a serene picnic spot away from the town's bustle. During the autumn months, the area around the lake is a riot of colors with blooming blue and yellow poppies and rhododendrons. The lake remains frozen during the winters, presenting a different kind of beauty with pristine snow surrounding the ice-covered water body. Birdwatchers may find the spot particularly interesting as migratory birds often visit the lake. An outing to P.T. Tso Lake is refreshing and serves as a beautiful example of Tawang's natural splendor. Please note that a special permit is required to visit the lake due to its proximity to the sensitive border area.
Situated approximately 50 km from Tawang, Taktsang Gompa is an important pilgrimage site that translates to 'Tiger's Nest'. This site is closely associated with Guru Padmasambhava (also known as Guru Rinpoche) and is said to be one of the places where he meditated in the 8th century. The monastery is perched atop a mountainous ridge and is a pristine example of Himalayan Buddhist architecture. The hike to Taktsang Gompa is both spiritually rewarding and visually stunning, offering panoramic views of the valleys and mountains below. The trail weaves through rustic landscapes and is dotted with prayer flags fluttering in the wind, adding to the serene and spiritual ambiance of the trek. Visitors to Taktsang Gompa can immerse themselves in the natural beauty, partake in meditation, and gain an insight into the ascetic lifestyle of Buddhist monks.
Hill Stations (15)
Religious Places (96)
Historical Places (73)
Museums (15)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (19)
National Parks (11)
Forts (4)
Villages (46)
Zoos (7)
Mountains (11)
Island (2)
Gardens (19)
Waterfalls (11)
Dams (3)
Lakes (10)
Trekking Places (4)
