Top things to do in Tawang

Travel Guidelines for Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh (Northeast India) For Indian Travellers Only

1. Place Information

Tawang, nestled in the Himalayas, is renowned for its Buddhist monasteries, scenic beauty, and rich Tibetan culture. Located at an altitude of about 10,000 feet, Tawang holds special significance for Buddhists as it is the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama. The landscape is dotted with monasteries, waterfalls, lakes, and peaks covered in snow for most of the year.

2. Travel Related Information

• By Road: Tawang is connected by road, with the nearest major town being Tezpur in Assam (about 325 km away). The journey involves crossing the challenging Sela Pass.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Salonibari Airport in Tezpur. From there, one would need to continue by road.

• By Railway: The nearest railway station is in Rangapara, Assam. From there, you can continue the journey by road.

3. Visa and Permit Information

Indian citizens don't need a visa to travel within India. However, due to its proximity to international borders, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for Indians to visit Arunachal Pradesh, including Tawang. This permit can be obtained from Arunachal Pradesh state offices in cities like Guwahati, Tezpur, and New Delhi.

4. SIM Card/Network Related Information

BSNL has the most extensive network coverage in Tawang. However, given the region's remoteness, network connectivity can be intermittent.

5. Govt Safety Guidelines

Given Tawang's high-altitude location, it's essential to acclimatize to avoid altitude sickness. Always keep updated with local advisories, especially during the winter months when snow can obstruct roads. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare provides health-related advisories.

6. Internal Transport Related Information

Taxis are the most common mode of transport within Tawang. For those looking to explore the surrounding areas, hiring a taxi or a shared SUV is recommended.

7. Special Mentions

• Tawang Monastery: The largest monastery in India and the second-largest in the world, it offers panoramic views of the town.

• Sela Pass: One of the most visited places in Tawang, it's a high-altitude mountain pass that remains snow-covered for most of the year.

• Nuranang Waterfalls: Also known as the Jang Falls, it's a breathtaking waterfall located some distance from Tawang.

• Madhuri Lake: Named after the Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit, it's a scenic lake located near the Sela Pass.

• War Memorial: A significant landmark dedicated to the soldiers of the Indian Army who lost their lives in the 1962 Indo-China war.