Background of Tawang:
Because it is untouched, unspoiled, and unbelievably beautiful. Whether you're meditating in a 400-year-old monastery, sipping butter tea with a local family, or simply watching the clouds drift over the mountains, Tawang offers an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
- Tribe- Monpa
- Religion- Tibetan Buddhism
- festival- Losar The Tibetan New Year, celebrated with dances, prayers, and rituals.
- food-Monpas mainly eat rice, meat, dairy products, and fermented foods, along with butter tea and momos as common delicacies.
🗓️ 5-Day Itinerary: Guwahati to Tawang via Dirang
Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati – Transfer to Dirang
- Arrive at Guwahati Airport or Railway Station.
- (If arriving late, stay overnight in Guwahati and begin your journey the next morning.)
- Begin your scenic drive to Dirang (approx. 7–9 hours).
- En route:
- Stop at Bhalukpong for Inner Line Permit (ILP) check.
- Visit Tipi Orchidarium – home to over 500 species of orchids.
- In and around Dirang:
- Explore Dirang Dzong, a centuries-old fortified village.
- Relax at the hot water springs near Dirang.
- Visit Sangti Valley for riverside views (and black-necked cranes in winter).
- Optional detour to Thembang Village, a UNESCO heritage candidate.
- Overnight stay in Dirang.
Day 2: Dirang to Tawang – Through the High Himalayas
- Drive to Tawang (approx. 3–5 hours).
- En route highlights:
- Cross the spectacular Sela Pass (13,700 ft) – often snow-covered, offering breathtaking views.
- Pay respects at the Jaswant Garh War Memorial.
- Stop at the picturesque Nuranang (Jung) Waterfalls.
- In Tawang:
- Visit the majestic Tawang Monastery – the largest in India and second-largest in the world.
- Explore the Tawang War Memorial and attend the sound & light show in the evening.
- Stroll through the local market and try traditional Monpa cuisine.
- Optional: Visit the Craft Centre and Emporium for local handicrafts.
- Overnight stay in Tawang.
Day 3: Tawang – Bum La Pass & Sangestar Tso (Day Trip)
- Take a day trip to the high-altitude Bum La Pass (permit & separate vehicle required) – located at the India-China border.
- Visit the surreal Sangestar Tso (Madhuri Lake), known for its serene beauty.
- En route, stop at the scenic Pangateng Tso (PT Tso Lake).
- Return to Tawang by evening.
- Optional: Explore the market for souvenirs or enjoy a local cafe.
- Overnight stay in Tawang.
Day 4: Tawang – Zemithang Day Trip (Optional)
- Take an optional day trip to Zemithang, a remote Monpa village near the Bhutan border (approx. 4 hours one way).
- Visit the sacred Gorsam Chorten, a massive stupa in a peaceful valley setting.
- Enjoy scenic river drives and interact with the local Monpa community.
- Return to Tawang by evening.
- Alternative option: Spend a relaxed day exploring more monasteries, cafés, and viewpoints around Tawang.
- Overnight stay in Tawang.
Day 5: Tawang – Return to Guwahati
- Start early for your return drive to Guwahati.
- Depending on your schedule, either:
- Depart from Guwahati (evening flight/train), or
- Stay overnight in Guwahati.
🧭 Travel Tips:
- Best Time to Visit: March to May and October to December.
- Permit Required: Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Arunachal Pradesh – apply online at ilp.arunachal.gov.in.
- Clothing: Carry warm layers, especially for Sela Pass and Bum La.
- Health Tips: Carry motion sickness tablets and consult a doctor for high-altitude medication if needed.
- Connectivity: Limited mobile network in Tawang; carry cash as ATMs may not be reliable.