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Tawang!

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Population

11,000

schedule

Best Time

March to May, September to October

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Time Needed

3-4 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Arunachal Pradesh map Northeast India πŸ—ΊοΈ Offbeat tawang arunachal pradesh monastery buddhist northeast india dalai lama himalayas

Tawang is a high-altitude town in Arunachal Pradesh, known for its prominent Buddhist monastery and stunning mountain scenery. Situated near the border with Tibet, it holds significant religious and strategic importance. The town offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, and serene landscapes.

Tawang is worth visiting for its majestic monastery, breathtaking views, and unique Monpa culture. However, the remote location and challenging road conditions can make it difficult to reach. Altitude sickness is a potential concern, and infrastructure is still developing.

Reaching Tawang requires travel through mountainous terrain, best done via Tezpur. Allocate at least 3-4 days to properly acclimatize and explore the region. Permits are required for entry into Arunachal Pradesh, so plan accordingly.

When To Visit

Best Time

March to May

5-15 degrees C

Pleasant and relatively dry weather makes this ideal for sightseeing. The rhododendrons are in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.

Why Visit:

Clear skies offer stunning views of the Himalayas. The weather is suitable for trekking and outdoor activities. This is also a good time to witness local festivals.

Tip: Book accommodations and transport in advance as this is peak season. Prices tend to be slightly higher.

Shoulder Season

September to October

3-12 degrees C

The monsoon season ends, leaving the landscape lush and green. The weather is generally clear, though occasional showers are possible.

Why Visit:

Fewer tourists compared to peak season. The landscape is at its greenest after the monsoon. Good for photography and enjoying the tranquility.

Tip: Some roads may still be affected by monsoon damage. Check road conditions before traveling.

Avoid

November to February

-10 to 5 degrees C

Extremely cold with heavy snowfall, making travel difficult. Many roads are blocked, and outdoor activities are limited.

Why Avoid:

The extreme cold and potential road closures make it difficult to explore. Some attractions may be inaccessible due to snow.

Note: Unless you are prepared for sub-zero temperatures and potential isolation, avoid visiting during these months.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Tawang Monastery

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Tawang Monastery, also known as Galdan Namgye Lhatse, is the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world after the Potala Palace in...

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Bumla Pass

⏱ 3-4 hours (including travel) Free (permit required)

Bumla Pass is located on the Indo-China border, offering a glimpse into the neighboring country. It's a historically significant site and a meeting po...

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Sela Pass

⏱ 1-2 hours (stopover) Free

Sela Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass that connects Tawang with the rest of India. It's known for its stunning views and the Sela Lake....

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War Memorial

⏱ 1-2 hours β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

The War Memorial commemorates the soldiers who lost their lives in the 1962 Indo-China War. It's a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made....

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P.T. Tso Lake

⏱ 2-3 hours (including travel) Free

P.T. Tso Lake, also known as Penga Teng Tso Lake, is a serene lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It's a popular spot for photography and relaxa...

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Gyangong Ani Gompa

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Gyangong Ani Gompa is a nunnery where Buddhist nuns reside and practice. It offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere....

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Taktsang Gompa

⏱ 2-3 hours (including trek) Free

Taktsang Gompa is a sacred monastery perched on a cliffside, similar to the more famous Tiger's Nest in Bhutan. It's believed to be the place where Gu...

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Things To Do

attractions

Trekking to Gorichen Peak Base Camp

⏱ 2-3 days πŸ’° β‚Ή5000-8000 per person

This challenging trek takes you to the base camp of Gorichen Peak, the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh. You'll travers...

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attractions

Photography Tour of Tawang Valley

⏱ 1-2 days πŸ’° β‚Ή3000-5000 per person

Capture the breathtaking landscapes of Tawang Valley with a guided photography tour. Visit iconic spots like Sela Pass, ...

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attractions

Birdwatching in Tawang

⏱ 1 day πŸ’° β‚Ή1500-3000 per person

Explore the diverse birdlife of Tawang with a guided birdwatching tour. Discover rare and endemic species in the region'...

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attractions

Meditation Retreat at Tawang Monastery

⏱ 3-7 days πŸ’° β‚Ή2000-5000 (donation based)

Participate in a meditation retreat at Tawang Monastery and deepen your spiritual practice. Learn from experienced monks...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Losar Festival

3-5 days | Free

Losar is the Tibetan New Year, celebrated with vibrant processions, traditional dances, and religiou...

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celebration

Torgya Festival

2-3 days | Free

Torgya is a monastic festival celebrated to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity. Monks perfor...

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celebration

Monpa Home Stay

1-2 nights | β‚Ή1500-3000

Experience the hospitality of the Monpa people by staying in a traditional home. Learn about their c...

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celebration

Attend a Butter Lamp Lighting Ceremony

1 hour | Free (donation welcome)

Witness the serene butter lamp lighting ceremony at Tawang Monastery. Thousands of lamps are lit, cr...

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celebration

Learn Traditional Monpa Weaving

2-3 hours | β‚Ή500-1000

Learn the art of traditional Monpa weaving from local artisans. Create your own small souvenir to ta...

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celebration

Visit a Local Monpa Kitchen

1-2 hours | β‚Ή300-500

Experience the flavors of Monpa cuisine by visiting a local kitchen. Learn how to prepare traditiona...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Thukpa
Thukpa

A hearty noodle soup with meat and vegetables (try at Dragon Restaurant)

Momos
Momos

Tibetan dumplings filled with meat or vegetables (available at most restaurants)

Gyapa Khazi
Gyapa Khazi

A traditional Monpa dish made with fermented cheese and vegetables

Zan
Zan

A staple Monpa dish made from roasted barley flour

Butter Tea
Butter Tea

A salty tea made with yak butter (try at a local teahouse)

Where to Eat

Dragon Restaurant

Dragon Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Tibetan, Chinese

πŸ“ Tawang Town

A popular restaurant serving delicious Tibetan and Chinese dishes. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. A great place to try local specialties.

ThukpaMomos

β‚Ή400-600 for two

Hotel Gakyi Khangsar Restaurant

Hotel Gakyi Khangsar Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian, Tibetan, Chinese

πŸ“ Near Tawang Monastery

Offers a variety of Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese dishes. The food is of good quality and the service is efficient. Offers great views.

Indian Dishes

β‚Ή500-700 for two

Street Food Spots

Tawang Market

Tawang Market

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Try the local snacks and be sure to bargain. Check for cleanliness before buying.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Tawang

More restaurants & dishes from Tawang

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Tawang Town

The heart of Tawang, with easy access to the monastery, market, and restaurants. It can get crowded during peak season, but everything is within walking distance.

Best For: First-time visitors

Near Tawang Monastery

Quieter and more scenic, with stunning views of the monastery. Ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat, but slightly further from the town center.

Best For: Spiritual seekers

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1500/night

Hotel Zambala

πŸ“ Tawang Town

A basic hotel offering clean rooms and essential amenities. It's conveniently located near the main market.

β‚Ή800-1500/night

Hotel Tawang Centre

πŸ“ Tawang Town

A simple hotel with comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine. A good option for budget travelers.

β‚Ή1000-1800/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή2000-3500/night

Hotel Gakyi Khangsar

πŸ“ Near Tawang Monastery

Offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and scenic views. The hotel features a restaurant and a travel desk.

β‚Ή2000-3500/night

Hotel Dolma

πŸ“ Tawang Town

A well-maintained hotel with spacious rooms and a restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine. Offers good value for money.

β‚Ή2500-4000/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή4500+/night

Tawang Tourism Resort

πŸ“ Near Tawang Monastery

Offers luxurious accommodation with stunning views of the Tawang Valley. Features a multi-cuisine restaurant and excellent service.

β‚Ή4500+/night

DK Hotel Tawang

πŸ“ Tawang Town

A modern hotel with well-appointed rooms and panoramic views. Boasts a rooftop restaurant and bar.

β‚Ή5000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Tezpur Airport (TEZ), 317km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Rangapara North Junction (RPAN), 300 km from Tawang

Nearest railway station. Connects to major cities in India.

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 30-35 hours (β‚Ή1500-3000)
  • From Kolkata: 25-30 hours (β‚Ή1200-2500)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Tezpur Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Tezpur: 12-14 hours (β‚Ή500-800)

Note: Trains more comfortable.

Getting Around

directions

Shared Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-100 per trip within Tawang town

Best for: Budget travelers

Bargain for the price. Be prepared to share the ride with others.

directions

Private Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή1500-2500 per day

Best for: Comfort and convenience

Book in advance, especially during peak season. Negotiate the price beforehand.

directions

Walking

πŸ’° Free

Best for: Exploring Tawang town

Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven. Be prepared for the altitude.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear warm clothing, including layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1500, Mid: β‚Ή3000, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: Limited availability in Tawang town

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred as card payments are not widely accepted

Bargaining: Expected in markets and with taxi drivers

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid stomach issues.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants to minimize the risk of food poisoning.

Common Issues: Altitude sickness, cold, and stomach problems. Carry necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: BSNL and Airtel have better coverage. Buy a local SIM card for better connectivity.

WiFi: Available in some hotels and restaurants

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English proficiency is limited. Learning a few basic Hindi phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

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