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Perched at an altitude of 3048mt is Tawang a scenically blessed town in Arunachal Pradesh. Bestowed with abundance of nature Tawang offers a fine blend of Indian and Chinese tradition. Enclosed by the Skyscraping Mountains Tawang is one of the most visited hill station of Arunachal Pradesh. Being the birth place of 6th Dalai Lama Tsangyang Gyatso Tawang attracts devotee and travelers from far and wide. Tawang is a historically significant town which was once the part of Tibet. Shrouded behind the veil of mysticism the beauty of Tawang cannot be expressed in words. The word Tawang is derived from Tibetan language where “Ta” stands for “horse” and “Wang” for “chosen”. There are many ancient monasteries, natural lake to be seen while traveling to this pictorial hill station in India.
Founded in 17th century by Mera Lama Lodre Gyatso is Tawang Monastery of Tawang. It is the largest Buddhist monastery in India. Tawang Monastery is one of the prime tourist attractions of Tawang. Also known as Galden Namgey Lhatse, Tawang Monastery is a three storey building which represents the Mahayana sect. The white washed walls gives the monastery an idyllic aura while the inner walls which are adorned by the intricate design and paintings of revered saints and Bodhisattvas showcases the skills of craftsman in that era. Surrounded by scenic gorge and meandering river Tawang Monastery is also the venue ground for Tibetan festivals and sacred ceremonies. There is a library called Par Khang in Tawang Monastery which houses numerous sacred scriptures and Buddhist text.
Sela Pass, located at an altitude of 13714ft is a high-altitude mountain pass. Sela Pass is the highest motorable point of Tawang. Located at a distance of 78km from Tawang, Sela Pass is the gateway towards one of 101 sacred lakes. Unlike other mountain pass Sela Pass can be visited throughout the year. Witness the scenic beauty of rugged landscape and pictorial view of emerald blue colored lake in Sela Pass.
Offering the commanding view of snow capped mountains range is Gorichen Peak of Arunachal Pradesh. At an altitude of 22500ft Gorichen Peak is the highest point in Arunachal Pradesh. It is located at a distance of 164k from Tawang. An admirer of Nature touring in the scenic town of Tawang cannot afford to miss this peak. Apart from offering the surreal vista of snow capped Himalayan range, Gorichen Peak trek has hyped the interest of many adventurers. Whether visitors are looking for some adventure or wants to relish the matchless beauty of the majestic peak, Gorichen Peak is the ideal destination for them.
Shonga-Tser is a natural lake in Arunachal Pradesh which was formed in 1971 after an earthquake impact. Shonga-Tser Lake also known as Madhuri Lake is one of the must visit tourist destination of Tawang. It is located at a distance of 42 km from Tawang. Enclosed by lofty hills, the crystal clear water of Shonga-Tser Lake has captivated the minds of many travelers. Decked with vibrant prayer flags, on a clear day visitors can catch the reflection of snow capped mountains in Shonga-Tser Lake.
Surrounded by emerald green forest is Nuranang a majestic waterfall in Tawang. Located at a distance of 40km from the main town, Nuranang Waterfall is one of the major tourist attractions of Tawang. With a spectacular height of 100mts it is originated from the northern slopes of Sela Pass. Nuranang Waterfalls is often referred as Jang Falls due to its proximity with a serene town called Jang. The view of white mist, created by the cascading water, shrouding the lush forest enclosing Nuranang Waterfalls crafts an effect of mysticism which has a captivating charisma.
Tawang Memorial is beautiful structure built to commemorate the spirit of the army men who died in the Sino-Indian war of 1962. Shaped as a chorten Tawang Memorial is also referred as Namgyal Chorten. It is a unique memorial which houses the idols of Buddha and Arya Avlokiteshwara and some holy scriptures. All the sacred statues and artifacts of Tawang Memorial were sent by Dalai Lama. Items like mug, helmets, old rifles and used bullets are on the display for the visitor in Tawang Memorial. Situated atop a hill Tawang Memorial surrounded by prayer wheels is one of the must visit destination of Tawang.
How to reach Tawang: If visitors are looking to board a plane/train to reach this scenic hill station the closest airport/railway of Tawang is located in Tezpur Assam. The distance between Tezpur to Tawang is 147km. Even the state bus network only extend till Tezpur the remaining journey towards Tawang need to be covered in hired taxi or private vehicle. The route from Tezpur to Tawang offers an astounding view of changing landscape.
Best time to visit Tawang: March to October is considered the best time to visit Tawang. During this time the forest bounding Tawang is bursting with the vibrant vista of blooming flowers. But if visitors do not mind the chilly weather they can visit Tawang during November to January when they can enjoy the view of snow capped mountain range.