Tawang is also known as the number one tourist destination in Arunachal Pradesh. This beautiful town, near the borders of Bhutan and China feels like a secret place, hidden by the mountains. If you’re planning to explore this heavenly location, here’s what you need to know before you pack your bags.
Where is Tawang Located?
Tawang is located in the western side of Arunachal Pradesh. The altitude of Tawang is about 3,048 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level. Bordering Bhutan to the west and Tibet (China) to the north, Tawang is part of India’s strategically vital frontier. Tezpur to Tawang distance is roughly 320 km and Guwahati to Tawang distance is roughly 450 km, making it a long but memorable journey through some of the Northeast’s most beautiful landscapes.
What is the History of Tawang?
Tawang holds deep historical and spiritual roots in Tibetan Buddhism. Tawang has a legend surrounding its name, Ta means “horse” and wang means “chosen”. So, the word Tawang means “chosen by horse”. As per legend, the monastery is believed to have been chosen by a horse owned by Mera Lama Lodre Gyatso.
Tawang has the second-largest monastery in the world — the Tawang Monastery, founded in 1680 by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso with the blessings of the 5th Dalai Lama. Tawang is also the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, whose poetry and spiritual contributions can still be seen in the monastery walls. The region gained international attention during the 1962 Sino-Indian War.
How to Reach Tawang?
Getting to Tawang is part of the adventure Let’s break it down for you:
By Air
To reach Tawang by a plane, first you have to fly into Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, which is the nearest major airport to Tawang. From Guwahati, you can continue the journey to Tawang by road. A smaller airport, Salonibari Airport in Tezpur is the nearest airport to Tawang but has limited and less reliable flight schedules.
By Helicopter
Pawan Hans Helicopter Services provides Guwahati to Tawang helicopter services, depending on weather and government scheduling. These chopper rides reduce travel time but the seats are usually reserved through the Arunachal Pradesh Civil Aviation Department, and early booking is essential, especially during tourist seasons. Keep in mind that the helicopter service prioritizes government officials and emergencies, so consider it a premium option rather than the primary mode of travel.
By Road
The journey by road typically begins from Guwahati or Tezpur. From either city, travelers head towards Bhalukpong, the entry point into Arunachal Pradesh. The route continues through Bomdila and Dirang, gradually passing through Sela Pass, located at an altitude of 13,700 feet, often covered in snow.
The entire drive takes around 12 to 14 hours depending on weather conditions, and it’s best to split it into 2 days with a night stop at Bomdila or Dirang for a more comfortable experience. Roads are narrow, winding, and prone to landslides during the monsoon (June–September), so an SUV is recommended. While the journey is long and challenging, the road to Tawang is as memorable as the destination itself.
Taxi Nation offers car rental from Guwahati to Tawang with experienced drivers who are well-versed with the terrain and weather conditions. This is the safest and most convenient option for a Tawang road trip.
What Permits Are Required to Visit Tawang?
If you’re heading to Tawang, permits are non-negotiable:
Indian Nationals need an Inner Line Permit (ILP). It can be obtained online via the Arunachal Pradesh tourism portal or from offices in Guwahati, Tezpur, or New Delhi.
Foreign Nationals must apply for a Protected Area Permit (PAP) through a registered tour operator and are required to travel in groups of at least two.
What is the Best Time to Visit Tawang?
The best time to visit Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is from March to May and October to early December. During spring (March to May), the weather is pleasant with temperatures between 5°C and 15°C. You’ll see blooming flowers, leftover snow, and clear mountain views—perfect for sightseeing.
From October to early December, the sky stays clear, the air is cool, and you can enjoy local festivals like the Torgya Festival at Tawang Monastery.
Avoid going during the monsoon season as heavy rains can cause landslides and road closures, making travel unsafe. In January and February, Sela Pass, the main route to Tawang, often gets blocked due to heavy snowfall. So, the best time for your Tawang trip is between March–May or October–December when the weather is good and roads are open.
Where to Stay in Tawang?
Tawang offers a range of stay options to suit different budgets, though most accommodations are basic but comfortable. You won’t find big hotel chains here, but the local hospitality makes up for it. Here’s a practical breakdown:
Private Hotels
Tawang has several private hotels located mostly in and around the main town area. These hotels offer basic but comfortable stays with essential amenities like hot water, room heaters, and in-house dining etc.
Popular private hotels in Tawang include:
- Hotel Tawang Inn
- Hotel Dolma
- Hotel Gakyi Khang Zhang
These are ideal for travelers looking for centrally located rooms near the market, taxi stand, and major attractions like the Tawang Monastery.
Government Guest Houses
Operated by the Arunachal Pradesh government, circuit houses and guest houses in Tawang provide affordable and secure accommodation, especially for government officials and domestic tourists.
- Options include the PWD Inspection Bungalow, Circuit House, and Tourist Lodge.
- Facilities are basic and availability is often limited, so advance booking is recommended through the Deputy Commissioner’s office or local tourism department of Tawang.
Lodges
Budget-friendly lodges in Tawang offer affordable accommodation for backpackers and short-stay visitors.
- These usually have limited services, with shared bathrooms or basic rooms.
- Good for budget travelers who prioritize low cost over amenities.
- Most lodges and budget friendly stays in Tawang are located near the Tawang Old Market and the town center.
Home Stays
Homestays in Tawang are a great way to experience Monpa hospitality and local life.
- Typically located in nearby villages of Tawang City like Lebrang, homestays are run by local families and include homemade meals and cultural interactions.
- Rooms are clean, cozy, and simple, often without luxury amenities but filled with warmth.
- Recommended for those looking for an authentic experience in Tawang.
Book early in peak seasons (March–May, October–December), as rooms fill up quickly. If you book with trusted platforms or operators like Taxi Nation, they can suggest and reserve stays based on your preferences and budget.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Tawang
- Tawang Monastery: Overlooking the valley, this spiritual hub is home to over 450 monks.
- Sela Pass: At 13,700 feet, it offers jaw-dropping views and connects Tawang with the rest of Arunachal.
- Sangetsar Lake (Madhuri Lake): A surreal lake surrounded by trees submerged in water, created by an earthquake.
- Tawang War Memorial: A tribute to Indian soldiers who lost their lives in the 1962 war.
- Gyangong Ani Gompa: A serene nunnery located on a hill, lesser-known but spiritually uplifting.
Tawang is not just about visiting; it’s about experiencing. The road might be long, the permits a bit of paperwork, but the reward is an untouched Himalayan sanctuary. With Taxi Nation by your side — offering dependable cab services, permit assistance, and local expertise — you’re not just taking a trip, you’re crafting a journey worth remembering.
