🌄 My First Glimpse of Tawang
The moment I reached Tawang, I remember feeling like I had wandered into a dream. The clouds were literally brushing past me, the roads narrowed between cliff faces, and prayer flags fluttered everywhere. After the long journey from Guwahati through the snow-kissed Sela Pass, arriving here felt like a reward. There’s a peaceful stillness to Tawang you can’t put into words—it just has to be felt.
🗓️ When’s the Best Time to Visit?
If you love clear skies and cold mountain air, try going between March and June. That’s when I went, and the weather was just perfect—sunny days and cool nights. Winter (November to February) is beautiful too, especially if you want to see snow, but the roads can get tricky.
🚗 How I Got There
I started from Guwahati, took a shared Sumo taxi, and spent a night in Bomdila before reaching Tawang the next day. The drive was long—over 14 hours in total—but absolutely worth it. The changing landscapes, winding roads, and friendly locals made it one of the most memorable road trips of my life. You’ll also need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which I applied for online—it was pretty quick and easy.
🧘♂️ Why Tawang Felt So Special
Unlike popular hill stations, Tawang is incredibly quiet and spiritual. I noticed how everyone speaks gently, and life seems to move slower here. You’ll see Buddhist monks walking barefoot, the scent of incense in the air, and monasteries on every other street. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause and think.
📍 Places That Made Me Stop and Stare
1. Tawang Monastery: Peace in Every Brick
This was the first place I visited—and the one that stayed with me the longest. As the sun rose, I watched monks gather in prayer. I didn’t even pull out my phone. I just sat and absorbed the energy. It’s the largest monastery in India and over 300 years old—but it feels timeless.
2. Sela Pass: A Gateway Draped in Snow
At nearly 14,000 feet, Sela Pass is covered in snow almost year-round. The lake was frozen when I crossed, and the wind was biting cold. But sipping tea in a tiny army-run canteen while overlooking that landscape? Unforgettable.
3. Madhuri Lake: Stillness That Speaks
This lake, named after Madhuri Dixit from her film shoot here, is quiet, untouched, and honestly, a bit haunting—in a good way. The reflection of the bare trees and mountains on the water is something I’ll never forget. There are small stalls where you can warm up with Maggi and chai.
4. Bum La Pass: On the Edge of India
This is close to the India-China border, and it gave me chills—not just from the cold but the sheer importance of this place. You’ll see soldiers standing tall, smiling despite the harsh weather. A permit is needed, but most hotels in Tawang can help arrange it a day in advance.
🛏️ Where I Stayed
I picked Dondrub Homestay, run by a kind local family. It was simple, clean, and warm—and the momos they served in the evening were the best I’ve ever had. I paid ₹1000 a night and felt completely at home.
🍲 Must-Try Local Foods
- Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
- Churpi: Hard yak cheese—it’s tough to chew but oddly satisfying.
- Butter Tea: It tastes unusual at first, but it warms you from the inside.
💰 My Budget Breakdown
- Guwahati to Tawang (Shared Cab): ₹1200
- Homestay: ₹1000 per night
- Food: ₹200–₹300 per meal
- Permits: ₹100 for ILP, ₹50–₹100 for Bum La access
📌 Location Links
🔗 Helpful Resources
👤 About the Author
Hari is a travel blogger who prefers tea over Wi-Fi and homestays over hotels. When he’s not building websites, he’s usually lost in the hills somewhere, sharing stories of real places and the people who make them magical.
Photo by Micah Camper on Unsplash