Tawang Travel Guide: All You Need To Know

Tawang is a beautiful town located in the western part of Arunachal Pradesh. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture.

Places to Visit in Tawang

Tawang has a lot to offer to visitors in terms of natural beauty, history, and culture. Here are some of the top places to visit in Tawang:

• Tawang Monastery: This is the largest monastery in India and a must-visit when in Tawang. It is over 400 years old and houses a number of precious relics and manuscripts.
• Sela Pass: This is a high-altitude mountain pass located at an elevation of 13,700 feet above sea level. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for trekking.
• Madhuri Lake: This is a stunning lake located near the China border and named after the famous Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit, who shot a film here. The lake is surrounded by picturesque mountains and is a great place for picnics.
• Nuranang Falls: This is a beautiful waterfall located about 40 kilometers from Tawang. It is a great place to visit for nature lovers and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Jaswant Garh: This is a war memorial dedicated to the brave soldiers who fought during the 1962 Sino-Indian war. It is named after Jaswant Singh Rawat, a soldier who fought and died here.
• Bumla Pass: This is a high-altitude mountain pass located at an elevation of 15,200 feet above sea level and is the Indo-China border. It is a popular tourist spot and is only accessible by a special permit.
• Gorichen Peak: This is the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is a popular spot for trekking and mountaineering.
• Tawang War Memorial: This is a war memorial dedicated to the brave soldiers who fought during the 1962 Sino-Indian war. It is a popular tourist spot and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

These are just a few of the many places to visit in Tawang, and there is something for everyone in this beautiful town.

Best Time To Visit Tawang

The best time to visit Tawang is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

In the spring months of March to May, the snow starts melting, and the hills come alive with vibrant flowers and greenery. This time is perfect for trekking, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

From September to November, the monsoon season is over, and the skies are clear. The weather is pleasant, and the landscape is lush and green after the rains, making it a great time for sightseeing.

However, it is worth noting that Tawang is situated at a high altitude, and the winters can be harsh with heavy snowfall, making it difficult to access some of the main attractions. It is also important to keep in mind that Tawang is located in a sensitive border region, and travelers may need special permits to visit. It is recommended to check with the local authorities and plan your trip accordingly. Looking for more places in Arunachal Pradesh? Have a look on our guide to Khonsa here.

Things to Do in Tawang

Tawang offers a range of exciting activities and attractions for travelers. Here are some of the top things to do in Tawang:

• Visit Tawang Monastery: This is one of the largest and most important monasteries in India and a must-visit attraction in Tawang. Built in the 17th century, the monastery is home to over 450 lamas and houses a large collection of rare manuscripts, thangkas, and other artifacts.
• Explore Bumla Pass: This high-altitude mountain pass offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is an important strategic location on the India-China border.
• Visit Sela Pass: This scenic mountain pass is located at an altitude of over 13,000 feet and offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and pristine lakes.
• Trek to Gorichen Peak: This is one of the highest peaks in the region and is a popular destination for trekking enthusiasts. The trek offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and takes around 7-10 days to complete.
• Visit the Tawang War Memorial: This memorial is dedicated to the Indian soldiers who fought and died in the 1962 Sino-Indian War. It is located in the town of Tawang and offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the region.
• Explore the Nuranang Waterfalls: This picturesque waterfall is located in the nearby town of Jang and offers a peaceful retreat amidst the natural beauty of the region.
• Experience the local culture: Tawang is home to a rich and unique culture, with a strong influence from Tibetan Buddhism. Visitors can explore the local markets, sample traditional cuisine, and learn about the local traditions and customs.

How to Get Around in Tawang

Getting around Tawang is relatively easy, with a few different options available to travelers:

• Taxis: Taxis are the most convenient and comfortable option for getting around Tawang. They can be easily booked through your hotel or at the local taxi stand. You can also negotiate a price with the driver beforehand to avoid any confusion.
• Shared Taxis: Shared taxis are a cheaper alternative to private taxis and are available at the local taxi stand. These taxis can be shared with other travelers, which can be a good way to meet new people and save some money.
• Public Transport: Local buses are available to some of the major attractions in the area, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. However, they are an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.
• Motorbike: Motorbikes can be rented from local shops and are a great way to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, be aware that the roads can be steep and winding, so make sure you are comfortable riding a motorbike before renting one.
• Walking: Tawang is a relatively small town, and many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the town and take in the local culture and scenery. However, be prepared for steep hills and uneven terrain, especially in the surrounding areas.

Where to eat in Tawang

Tawang has a number of restaurants and eateries that serve a variety of local and regional cuisine, as well as some popular international dishes. Here are a few options for dining in Tawang:

• Dragon Restaurant: This is a popular restaurant in the heart of Tawang that serves a variety of Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan cuisine. They also have a good selection of vegetarian dishes.
• Orange Restaurant: Another popular restaurant in Tawang that serves a variety of Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
• Tawang Restaurant: This restaurant is located near the Tawang Monastery and serves a variety of traditional Tibetan and Bhutanese dishes. They also have a good selection of vegetarian options.
• Gakyi Restaurant: This is a popular restaurant in Tawang that serves traditional Tibetan and Bhutanese dishes. They also have a good selection of vegetarian options and a cozy atmosphere.
• Monalisa Restaurant: This is a good option for those who want to try some international cuisine. They serve a variety of Italian, Chinese, and Indian dishes, as well as some local specialties.
• Street Food: Tawang also has some popular street food stalls that serve momos, thukpa, and other local snacks. These stalls are located near the market and the Tawang Monastery.

Overall, Tawang offers a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets, and the food is generally of good quality and reasonably priced.

Famous street stalls in Tawang

Tawang is known for its vibrant street food scene, and there are several popular street stalls that you can visit to try some delicious local snacks. Here are a few famous street stalls in Tawang:

• Neha Momos: This is a popular momo stall located in the main market of Tawang. They serve a variety of momos, including chicken, pork, and vegetable, and they are known for their delicious and flavorful filling.
• Thukpa Stall: There are several thukpa stalls located near the Tawang Monastery that serve hot and steaming bowls of this traditional Tibetan noodle soup. They are made with a variety of ingredients, including vegetables, meat, and egg, and they are perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
• Lhakhang Momo Centre: This momo stall is located near the old market in Tawang, and it is known for its delicious momos and friendly service. They serve a variety of momos, including pork, chicken, and vegetable, and they are a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
• Juice Corner: This is a popular spot for fresh fruit juices and smoothies. They use locally grown fruits and vegetables to make their juices and smoothies, and they are perfect for a refreshing break during your day of sightseeing.
• Bhutia Market: This market is located in the heart of Tawang and is known for its street food stalls. You can find a variety of snacks here, including momos, thukpa, noodles, and more.

Overall, Tawang’s street food scene is a must-try for foodies and travelers looking to explore the local cuisine. These street stalls offer delicious and affordable food, and they are a great way to experience the local culture and traditions. Looking for more places in Arunachal Pradesh? Have a look on our guide to Changlang here.

Where to stay in Tawang

Luxury accommodation

Tawang has some luxury accommodation options for tourists who want to experience the beauty of the place in comfort and style. Some of the best luxury hotels in Tawang are:

• Tawang Regency: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Tawang town. It offers well-appointed rooms with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel also has a restaurant serving Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine.
• Hotel Dolma Chhinkar: This is another luxury hotel in Tawang that offers comfortable rooms and modern amenities. The hotel has a multi-cuisine restaurant, a coffee shop, and a bar. It also has a spa and wellness center, where guests can enjoy a range of treatments.
• Tawang Inn: This hotel is located in the heart of Tawang and offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities. The hotel has a restaurant serving Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine, and a bar that offers a range of drinks.
• Hotel Tawang View: This hotel is located on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Tawang valley. The hotel has well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, and a restaurant serving Indian and Chinese cuisine.

These luxury hotels offer great facilities and services, including 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi, travel desk, and more. They are perfect for tourists who want to indulge in comfort while exploring the beauty of Tawang.

Budget accommodation

Tawang has a good range of budget accommodations available for visitors. Some of the popular options for budget accommodations in Tawang are:

• Tawang Tourist Lodge: This is a government-owned lodge that offers basic rooms with essential amenities. It is located near the main market area and is a convenient stay option for budget travelers.
• Hotel Shambhala: This hotel is located in the heart of Tawang and offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel has a multi-cuisine restaurant and provides basic amenities such as hot water, TV, and room service.
• Zambala Inn: This hotel is located on the outskirts of Tawang and provides a peaceful stay option for budget travelers. The hotel has a restaurant and provides basic amenities such as hot water, TV, and room service.
• Hotel Taktsang: This hotel is located near the Tawang Monastery and offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. The hotel has a restaurant and provides basic amenities such as hot water, TV, and room service.
• Hotel Dolma Chhinkar: This hotel is located in the main market area of Tawang and offers basic rooms at affordable prices. The hotel has a restaurant and provides essential amenities such as hot water, TV, and room service.

These are some of the popular budget accommodations in Tawang. It is advisable to make advance bookings, especially during the peak season, to avoid last-minute hassle.

Travel Tips Tawang

Here are some travel tips for Tawang:

• Acclimatize: Tawang is at an altitude of over 10,000 feet, so it’s important to acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and cigarettes, and take it easy for the first couple of days.
• Be Prepared for the Weather: Tawang can be quite cold, even in the summer months. Make sure to bring warm clothes, as well as rain gear, as the monsoon season can bring heavy rains.
• Plan Ahead: Tawang is a remote area, so it’s important to plan ahead. Make sure to book accommodation and transportation in advance, as well as any tours or activities you want to do.
• Respect Local Customs: Tawang is home to many ethnic communities, and it’s important to be respectful of their customs and traditions. Dress modestly and ask for permission before taking photographs.
• Carry Cash: While there are ATMs in Tawang, they can be unreliable. It’s a good idea to carry enough cash to cover your expenses.
• Be Mindful of the Environment: Tawang is a pristine area, and it’s important to keep it that way. Don’t litter, and avoid using plastic whenever possible.
• Stay Safe: Tawang is generally a safe place to travel, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions. Avoid traveling alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Learn Some Basic Phrases: While many people in Tawang speak English, it’s always a good idea to learn some basic phrases in the local language, as it can help you connect with the locals and show your respect for their culture.

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