A Complete Exploration of the Tawang Circuit in Arunachal Pradesh

This is Part 2 of our Arunachal Pradesh Guide where we detail every aspect of planning a trip to the state. For detailed itinerary and places to cover, please refer Part 1.

Overview

The Tawang Circuit in Arunachal Pradesh is one of the most scenic and culturally rich travel routes in Northeast India. From lush valleys and roaring rivers to ancient monasteries perched on misty cliffs, this circuit is an immersive experience into Tibetan Buddhist culture, indigenous tribal life, and Himalayan landscapes.

Suggested Route (7-10 Days)

Guwahati → Bhalukpong → Dirang → Tawang → Bum La Pass → Sangestar Lake → Bomdila → Guwahati

Route Breakdown & Highlights

1. Guwahati to Bhalukpong (Approx. 240 km, 6-7 hrs)

  • Entry Point to Arunachal Pradesh
  • Get your Inner Line Permit (ILP) here
  • Enjoy the lush green Assam plains before climbing into the hills
  • Visit: Tipi Orchidarium, Pakke Tiger Reserve (optional)


 2. Bhalukpong to Dirang (Approx. 140 km, 5-6 hrs)

  • Scenic mountain drive through pine forests and rivers
  • Highlights:
    • Dirang Dzong: 17th-century fort and village
    • Hot water springs
    • Sangti Valley: Idyllic, with black-necked crane sightings in winter
    • Thupsung Dhargye Ling Monastery (TDL Monastery): Modern yet serene, with an adjoining guest house

3. Dirang to Tawang (Approx. 135 km, 6-7 hrs)

  • Cross the majestic Sela Pass (13,700 ft) — snow-covered much of the year
  • Visit Sela Lake en route
  • Also stop at:
    • Jaswant Garh War Memorial
    • Nuranang (Jung) Waterfalls

4. Tawang – The Heart of the Circuit

Spend at least 2-3 days here.


Must-Visit:

  • Tawang Monastery: Largest in India, 2nd largest in the world
  • Urgelling Monastery: Birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama
  • Tawang War Memorial
  • Craft Centre & local markets

5. Bum La Pass & Sangestar Tso (Madhuri Lake)

  • Permit Required from Tawang DC office
  • Bum La Pass: Indo-China border, historic 1962 Indo-China war site
  • Sangestar Lake: Stunning high-altitude lake featured in Bollywood's Koyla
  • You’ll also see:
    • Pangateng Tso (PT Tso) lake
    • Stunning glacial terrain and army camps

6. Return via Bomdila (Approx. 170 km from Tawang)

  • Stop at:
    • Bomdila Monastery
    • Viewpoints and apple orchards
    • Local markets for woolens and handicrafts

Permits Required

  • Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian citizens – apply online at: https://arunachalilp.com
  • Special Permits for Bum La Pass (via DC Office in Tawang)

Where to Stay

  • Dirang: Norphel Retreat, TDL Guest House
  • Tawang: Dondrub Homestay, Hotel Tawang Heights, monastery guesthouses
  • Bomdila: Lungta Residency, homestays with views

 


Local Cuisine to Try

  • Thukpa, Momos, Zan (millet-based dish)
  • Butter tea, Chhurpi (local cheese)
  • Local tribal rice beers (ask permission before trying)

Travel Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: March to June, and October to early December
  • Avoid July–September due to landslides in the monsoon
  • Altitude Sickness: Acclimatize in Dirang before going to Tawang
  • Carry warm clothes, even in summer
  • Offline maps recommended (limited mobile signal)
  • Respect local monastic customs and tribal traditions

Why Tawang Circuit Should Be on Your Bucket List

The Tawang Circuit is not just a trip—it’s a journey through natural wonder, spiritual depth, and untouched Himalayan heritage. Whether you're an adventure seeker, culture buff, photographer, or peace-seeker, this circuit offers something extraordinary at every turn. Read More….

That’s it for now. If you have further queries or have anything to share with us about Arunachal Pradesh, do leave a comment below.

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