Tawang stands as a spiritual and scenic masterpiece in the Himalayas, anchored by the majestic Tawang Monastery which resonates with deep Buddhist traditions and colorful Monpa culture. The region offers a thrilling experience for nature lovers, from crossing the snow-clad, high-altitude Sela Pass to trekking through lush trails to reach the thundering Nuranang Falls. It is a destination where the serenity of ancient heritage perfectly complements the rugged, breathtaking wilderness, creating a profound sense of peace. About
Tawang Monastery (also known as Gaden Namgyal Lhatse) is the largest monastery in India and the second largest in the world. The trek route also includes the scenic Sela Pass and the majestic Nuranang Falls.
Description
The monastery, built in 1681 by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso under the guidance of the 5th Dalai Lama, is a three-storey complex housing a 28‑foot golden Buddha statue, prayer halls, and ancient Buddhist scriptures.
The journey covers Sela Pass (at ~4,200 m) and ends at the beautiful Nuranang Falls (~100 m tall), offering spectacular landscapes and cultural experiences.
Specialty
Largest monastery in India
Sela Pass – high-altitude mountain pass with stunning views
Nuranang Falls – one of the most scenic waterfalls in Arunachal Pradesh
Rich Buddhist culture and Monpa tribal heritage
Address
Tawang Monastery, Tawang District, Arunachal Pradesh, India – 790104
Location (Latitude & Longitude in single line)
Tawang Monastery: 27.58639° N, 91.85750° E;
Nuranang Falls: 27.58954° N, 91.98406° E
Visiting Timings
Tawang Monastery: Sunrise to evening (best in early morning hours)
Nuranang Falls: 08:00 AM – 06:00 PM
Traveling Facilities
Shared taxis, local buses, and private jeeps from Bomdila, Dirang, and Guwahati
Roads can be challenging during winter or monsoon
Food Facilities
Small eateries in Tawang, Jang, and along the route
Traditional Monpa dishes and basic Indian food
Stay Facilities
Guesthouses, budget hotels, and homestays in Tawang town and Jang
Limited basic accommodation near Nuranang Falls
Nearby Visiting Places
Madhuri Lake (Shonga-tser Lake)
Tawang War Memorial
Pankang Teng Tso Lake
Monpa tribal villages
Gorichen Peak (trekking area)
Nearby Railway Station
Tezpur Railway Station (~280 km)
Guwahati Railway Station (~446 km)
Nearby Airport
Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati (~446 km)
Nearby Bus Station
Bomdila Bus Station
Dirang Bus Stand
Tawang local bus and taxi stand
Bus Routes to Destination
Guwahati → Bomdila → Dirang → Tawang
Train Routes to Destination
Major trains to Tezpur or Guwahati → road journey to Tawang
Airways to Destination
Flights to Guwahati → road journey via Bomdila and Sela Pass to Tawang
Preferable Visiting Season
April to October (clear weather, safe road conditions)
Winter (November–March) is scenic but very cold; Sela Pass may be blocked by snow.
Nearby Shopping Famous For
Monpa handicrafts
Woolen shawls and carpets
Buddhist thangkas
Handmade wooden items
Local food products like yak cheese, honey, herbal tea
The Tawang Monastery with Sela Pass and Nuranang Falls trek is a perfect blend of spiritual discovery, high-altitude adventure, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you are a pilgrim, nature lover, or adventure enthusiast, this journey offers a rare and unforgettable experience of Arunachal Pradesh’s beauty and culture.
