Tawang
Land of Dawn-Lit Peaks

Tawang Monastery is that the social, cultural and spiritual focus of the whole valley. Perched on a hill, about 10,000 ft above water level , this monastery is that the largest in India and overlooks ravines within the south and therefore the west, a narrow ridge on the north and gradual slope towards the east. In winter, it gets covered during snowfall, adding to its beauty. The majestic monastery are often entered from its northern side through the gate ‘Kakaling’, a hut-like structure with walls made from stone.

The ceiling or the inside roofs of the Kakaling are painted with Mandalas or the Kying-Khores, while the within walls are painted with pictures of saints and divinities. After Kakaling, comes the most gate of the monastery on its northern side. Its eastern wall is about 925 ft long. a serious highlight of the monastery may be a 25-ft-high golden statue of Lord Buddha, seated on a lotus throne flanked by his two principal attendants, Maudgalyayana and Sariputra, each with a staff and a bowl in hand. Three storeys high, the Tawang Monastery is surrounded by a 925-ft (282 m)-long compound wall and houses 65 residential buildings. It also boasts a library that houses valuable old scriptures, mainly Kangyur and Tengyur.

The monastery holds an excellent historical significance and was founded in 1681, in accordance with the needs of the 5th Dalai Lama , Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. The word ‘Tawang’ literally translates into chosen by a horse and legend has it that the location of this monastery is believed to possess been chosen by a horse owned by Mera Lama Lodre Gyatso, the founder. The sixth Dalai Lama , Tsangyang Gyatso, was born in Tawang, making it a serious holy site for Tibetan Buddhists. The Tawang Monastery, in Tibetan, is understood as Galden Namgey Lhatse, which translates to celestial paradise on a transparent night. The monastery belongs to the Gelugpa sect.

Gorichen is that the highest scalable peak in Arunachal Pradesh, towering at a height of over 21,300 ft above water level . due to its elevation, Gorichen remains snowbound throughout the year and has captivated the hearts of the many seasoned mountaineers and adventure-loving trekkers. Situated at a distance of 164 km from the most town, this peak is locally referred to as Tsa-Nga-Phu, which translates into kingdom of the deity. one among the higher views of this peak are often seen on the road between Bomdila and Tawang. The Monpa tribe worship this peak as they believe it’s vital for his or her existence and protects them from all evils. Locally, people often ask it because the giant white elephant due to the unmistakable, white carpet of snow that covers it, making it one among the foremost distinctive and simply identifiable peaks during this region. The view is mesmerising as there are patches of green meadows and verdant forests which will be seen within the interlocking valleys below, while the brilliant white snow-capped peaks tower over them, shining within the sun.

The Dirang village is an overnight tourist stopover within the western a part of Arunachal Pradesh. it’s located halfway between Jorhat, in Assam, and Tawang and lies on the banks of the pristine River Kameng. The paradise enjoys pleasant weather because it isn’t at a really high altitude. A hamlet that encompasses the simplest of everything unique to the present region, from landscape to culture to food, it offers a chance to urge familiar with all things of Arunachal Pradesh. one among the oldest monasteries here, the Khastung Gompa, is an uphill trek from the village.

Downhill from the village, accessible through a foot bridge decorated with Himalayan flags, is that the gushing Dirang river. Here, sheep are often seen grazing and sometimes visitors will even find themselves invited to local homes for tea during this village known for its warm hospitality. The village features a market where local handicrafts, which bring perfect souvenirs, are sold. The Dirang Dzong Fort, built consistent with Bhutanese stone architectural design grammar, is found on top of Capitol Hill and is accessible through an extended flight of rock cut, stone studded steps. the planning of this fort was made using some ingenious techniques to guard its residents from the biting cold. Another interesting attraction near the village may be a predicament spring, which is taken into account to be sacred by the native population.

Bumla Pass, situated at an altitude of over 15,000 ft is snowbound for nearly the whole year thanks to its steep elevation and presents a gorgeous view of the Tibetan plateau. The road to the pass takes visitors through many sleepy hamlets and scenic lakes, making the drive memorable. Maintained by the Indian Army, Bumla Pass may be a must for those that want to ascertain how Indian soldiers protect the borders within the harshest of climes. Those arriving here have very warm stories to share of how they were received by the Indian Army and offered refreshments also as recommendations on the way to adapt to the cold and high altitude. Bumla Pass is additionally one among the four officially agreed BPM (Border Personnel Meeting) points between the Indian Army and therefore the People’s Liberation Army of China. On designated dates, cultural programmes also are organised by the 2 sides, which may be witnessed by people. A telescope and a couple of binoculars are kept near the Indian Army check post for visitors who want to understand what lies beyond the border. the military canteen serves hot tea, water and dessert. A special permit is required for visiting the pass and may be obtained from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner in Tawang.

Surrounded by lofty snow-capped mountains, the Shonga Tser Lake may be a beautiful, calm and serene spot, lying on the outskirts of Tawang. Its tranquility makes it a perfect spot for meditation. Tourists can undertake a trek within the surrounding areas of the lake and obtain picturesque views of the valley and evergreen pine forests. Strings of Buddhist prayer flags fluttering within the breeze are often seen tied round the trees and boulders of this lake. The lake also invites birdwatchers who can sight species of Ruddy Shelduck birds (high altitude flight birds mostly seen in winters) while exploring the walkways round the lake. The colloquial name for this bird is that the Brahminy duck. The lake is additionally called Madhuri Lake, because a song from a hindi film called Koyla, starring popular Indian actress Madhuri Dixit was shot here. Tourists also can choose nature walks and explore the natural great thing about the world .

This natural lake was created by a depression that was formed thanks to an earthquake followed by flash floods that hit this region many decades ago. Streams of water from the nearby rivers drained into this depression and filled it with beautiful, mineral rich water from the Himalayas. Some dry tree stumps still remain embedded within the bed of the lake from its pre-earthquake days, giving the landscape a singular look.