Situated at a staggering altitude of 15,200 feet near Tawang, Bum La Pass is a strategic border post famously known as the route the Dalai Lama took to seek refuge in India. Steeped in history, it was a critical battleground during the 1962 Sino-Indian War, and today it hosts a "Border Personnel Meeting" point where visitors can witness interactions between Indian and Chinese soldiers. The journey offers mesmerizing views of snow-clad Himalayan peaks and the pristine Sangestar Tso (Madhuri Lake), making it a rugged yet spiritually stirring adventure. About
Bum La Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass on the India–China border at ~15,200 ft (4,600 m), about 37 km from Tawang. It is a historic Indo‑China war location and one of the highest motorable passes in India.
Description
This rugged pass connects India’s Tawang region with the Tibetan plateau. It’s famous for scenic views, glacial lakes, and strategic military presence. The Dalai Lama crossed this pass into India in 1959.
Specialty
One of India’s highest motorable roads.
“Heap of Stones” memorial symbolizing friendship.
Close view of the India–China border.
Permit-required adventure drive.
Address
Bum La Pass, near Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
Location (Latitude & Longitude)
27.7237° N, 91.8916° E
Visiting Timings
Open: May to October (weather permitting).
Closed: Winter months (Nov–Mar) due to heavy snow.
Recommended visit: Early morning (before noon).
Traveling Facilities
Only local registered vehicles allowed (Tata Sumo, Jeep).
Must arrange permits in Tawang through a hotel/tour operator.
Food Facilities
Basic snacks and tea at the Army canteen near the pass.
Full dining available in Tawang town.
Stay Facilities
No stay at Bum La Pass.
Accommodation available in Tawang (hotels, homestays).
Nearby Visiting Places
Sangestar Tso (Madhuri Lake) – Scenic glacial lake.
Tawang Monastery – Largest monastery in India.
Nuranang Falls – Waterfall near Jang town.
Nearby Railway Station
Rangapara North Railway Station (~280 km from Tawang).
Nearby Airport
Tezpur Airport (~300 km from Tawang).
Guwahati Airport (~350 km from Tawang).
Nearby Bus Station
Tawang Bus Stand – connects to Bomdila, Tezpur, Bhalukpong.
Bus Routes to Bum La Pass
No direct buses to the pass.
Buses available to Tawang → hire local jeep to pass.
Train Routes to Bum La Pass
Train to Rangapara North → road trip via Bhalukpong → Bomdila → Tawang.
Airways to Bum La Pass
Flight to Tezpur or Guwahati → road trip to Tawang → jeep to pass.
Preferable Visiting Season
Best time: May–October (clear roads, pleasant weather).
Nearby Shopping – Famous For
Tawang markets – Monpa handicrafts, woolen shawls, wooden masks, prayer flags, traditional jewelry, local tea.
Bum La Pass is not just a geographical location but a blend of history, natural beauty, and adventure. The journey offers a unique combination of scenic landscapes, cultural richness, and a rare glimpse of the Indo‑China border. For travelers seeking high-altitude thrills and breathtaking experiences, Bum La Pass is a must‑visit destination in Arunachal Pradesh.
