7 Most Amazing Reasons To Plan A Visit To Tawang

Nestled in the unspoiled beauty of North East India, Tawang, located in the state of Arunachal Pradesh, is a mesmerizing destination waiting to be explored. Situated at a breathtaking elevation of 10,000 feet above sea level, this town promises a vacation experience that will stay with you forever.

Tawang boasts an awe-inspiring panorama of majestic mountains, frozen lakes, cascading waterfalls, and high mountain passes, creating a picturesque setting that will take your breath away. However, this town offers more than just natural beauty; it is a place where ancient history comes to life. With its ancient monasteries, vibrant tribal culture, thrilling sports activities, friendly locals, and serene ambiance, Tawang stands out as one of the top choices for a getaway in North East India.

Whether you're seeking a peaceful family retreat, an adventurous escapade, or simply a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, Tawang has something truly remarkable to offer every traveler. Prepare to be enchanted by the enchanting allure of Tawang and create memories that will last a lifetime.

# A Visit to Tawang Monastery

Situated in the picturesque hill town, Tawang Monastery stands as a source of immense pride. It ranks as the second-largest monastery in Asia and the largest in India, overseeing 17 Gompas within the region. This renowned Buddhist monastery, following the Mahayana tradition, was established in the 17th century by Mera Lama Lodre Gyaltso and is affiliated with the Gelukpa sect.

The monastery boasts several remarkable features, including a grand three-story assembly hall, a towering 28-foot golden statue of Lord Buddha, and an extensive library housing an impressive collection of ancient books and manuscripts. Of particular significance are the famed gold-inscribed Buddhist scriptures known as Kangyur and Tangyur, which are well worth exploring.

# Pass through Sela Pass

At an altitude of 13,700 feet, Sela Pass ranks as one of the world's highest drivable mountain passes, making it a compelling incentive to include Tawang in your travel plans. This mountain pass serves as the sole road access to Tawang.

The sight of Sela Pass covered in its pristine snow and the panoramic vistas it offers are nothing short of extraordinary. En route to Sela Pass, make sure to pause and admire the beauty of Paradise Lake. As its name suggests, the lake is truly otherworldly, captivating your heart with its breathtaking charm at first glance.

# Marvel at the beauty of Shonga-tser Lake (Madhuri Lake)

Shonga-tser Lake, more commonly known as Madhuri Lake, stands out as one of the most visually stunning lakes in India, extending its beauty not only to the North East but beyond. It is believed that Shonga-tser was once a verdant grassland, but it transformed into a lake following a seismic event in 1971.

This picturesque setting is among the compelling reasons for your visit to Tawang. Encircled by snow-capped mountains, its beauty is a rarity that few can rival. Spending time by the shores of this lake is unquestionably one of the finest activities you can engage in while in Tawang. Don't forget to capture as many photographs as possible to preserve this mesmerizing experience.

# Urgelling Monastery

Urgelling Monastery stands as a renowned point of interest in Tawang, drawing in numerous tourists. This site holds great religious significance as it is the birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, Tsayang Gyatso. The monastery was originally constructed around the year 1487, but it gained profound sanctity with the birth of the Sixth Dalai Lama, Tsanyang Gyatso, on March 1, 1683. His Holy Highness was a descendant of the revered treasure revealer Pema Lingpa and Tsewang Lhamo, hailing from a royal lineage in Bekhar Village.

# Enjoy delicious local food

Experiencing delectable cuisine is a key ingredient in creating lasting holiday memories. Momos and thukpa are culinary treasures of North East India, and Tawang offers an abundance of these delights. However, the distinctive flavors truly emerge from the traditional Monpa cuisine.

This tribal culinary tradition is notably flavorful and often incorporates a generous use of chili. Be sure to savor the authentic dishes of Tawang, including Zan, Khura, and Gyapa Khazi, to fully immerse yourself in the unique tastes of the region.

# Have a glimpse of their Culture

Influenced by Tibetan culture and the Buddhist way of life, Tawang's cultural richness is a compelling reason to explore this picturesque hill town in Arunachal Pradesh. Among the many festivities, Losar stands out as one of the most significant.

Losar is celebrated as the New Year festival and spans 8 to 10 days, typically occurring in February. The highlight of this celebration includes mesmerizing lion and yak dances. Another important ritual, Torgya, takes place in January and is aimed at warding off malevolent spirits. Tawang also observes several other significant festivals such as Cheokor, Gaden Ngamchoe, Dukpa Tse-She, and Saka Dawa.

Beyond the festivals, the way of life in Tawang encompasses exquisite arts, crafts, dances, and music. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the local craftsmanship, which includes splendid wood carving, Thangka painting, carpet making, weaving, wooden bowls, and bamboo-woven products.

# Marvel or scale the Gorichen Peak

Tawang captivates travelers from across the globe, drawing them in not only with its breathtaking natural scenery but also the exhilarating possibilities for adventure. The crown jewel of this adventure is Gorichen Peak, which stands as the tallest summit in Arunachal Pradesh, soaring to an impressive height of 22,500 feet. This stunning mountain isn't just a visual spectacle; it holds deep spiritual significance for the Mogpa tribe and presents a formidable challenge.

For seasoned climbers, this majestic peak provides a thrilling adventure opportunity, while beginners can explore the surrounding areas through trekking.