TAWANG Bucket List

[MysteRy]

Tawang - Arunchal Pradesh India

Tawang, located in Arunachal Pradesh at an altitude of around 10,000 feet, is a serene Himalayan town known for its breathtaking landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and deep-rooted Buddhist culture. It is home to the Tawang Monastery, the largest in India and second-largest in the world, making it a vital spiritual center for Mahayana Buddhism. Tawang also holds historical significance due to the 1962 Indo-China war and is dotted with tranquil lakes, waterfalls, and picturesque valleys. With its unique blend of spirituality, history, and nature, Tawang is a gem of Northeast India.

[MysteRy]

📍 Where Is Tawang?

Located at an altitude of about 10,000 feet, in western Arunachal Pradesh, near the India–China border, Tawang is a peaceful mountain town rich in Tibetan Buddhist culture.

🕒 Best Time to Visit:

March to June – Best weather, clear views, and pleasant cold
September to November – Autumn beauty, less crowd
December to February – Snowfall, but extreme cold and road closures possible
Avoid monsoon (July–August) due to landslides

✅ Top Things to Do in Tawang

🏯 1. Tawang Monastery
Largest Buddhist monastery in India, second-largest in the world
Home to over 400 monks
Peaceful atmosphere with stunning views of the mountains

🚩 2. Sela Pass
Gateway to Tawang, at 13,700 ft
Snow-clad mountain pass with turquoise Sela Lake
One of the most scenic drives in India

🏞️ 3. Nuranang Falls (Jung Falls)
100-meter-high waterfall surrounded by pine forests
One of the most beautiful hidden gems of Northeast India

🎖️ 4. Tawang War Memorial
Built in memory of Indian soldiers who died in the 1962 Indo-China war
Emotional, patriotic, and beautifully maintained

❄️ 5. Madhuri Lake (Sangetsar Lake)
High-altitude lake formed after an earthquake
Named after actress Madhuri Dixit who shot here for the film Koyla
Surreal beauty with tree trunks rising out of crystal-clear waters

🙏 6. Visit Gyangong Ani Gompa
A small monastery run by nuns
Peaceful, less crowded, and deeply spiritual

🚙 7. Drive to Bum La Pass (with permit)
Historic Indo-China border pass
Need special permit from Tawang DC office + Army
Snow-covered most of the year

🧳 Travel Tips
Carry warm clothing year-round
Book Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Arunachal (online or at border check posts)
Acclimatize slowly to avoid altitude sickness
Roads are scenic but bumpy — travel with a sturdy vehicle
Network is limited; enjoy the digital detox!

🍜 What to Eat
Thukpa, momos, butter tea
Try local Monpa cuisine if available
Warm soups and fresh mountain veggies are common

🛍️ What to Buy
Handmade woollens
Buddhist souvenirs (prayer flags, bells, beads)
Local herbs and teas