Tawang–Bomdila–Dirang Tour – 7 Days
Perched amidst the serene Eastern Himalayas, the Tawang–Bomdila–Dirang circuit in Arunachal Pradesh offers a breathtaking blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. From ancient Buddhist monasteries to snow-covered mountain passes and crystal-clear rivers, this 7-day journey through the mystical land of Monpas is an unforgettable exploration of India’s northeastern frontier.
This route, passing through Bomdila, Dirang, and Tawang, unfolds like a living canvas—where every turn reveals a story of nature’s majesty, cultural richness, and timeless peace. Whether you are a spiritual seeker visiting the Tawang Monastery, a nature enthusiast enchanted by Sela Pass’s frozen lakes, or an adventurer chasing high-altitude trails, this itinerary promises an experience that lingers in the soul.
Overview of the Tawang–Bomdila–Dirang Circuit
The Tawang–Bomdila–Dirang route is one of the most scenic mountain circuits in Northeast India, located in Arunachal Pradesh, bordering Bhutan and Tibet. The journey begins from Guwahati or Tezpur in Assam and winds through verdant valleys, waterfalls, terraced fields, and towering Himalayan peaks. The road ascends to altitudes above 13,000 feet, offering mesmerizing views of snow-capped ranges, fluttering prayer flags, and mystical monasteries.
The circuit follows the route: Guwahati → Bhalukpong → Bomdila → Dirang → Tawang → Sela Pass → Bomdila → Guwahati. Along the way, travelers can enjoy local Monpa hospitality, authentic cuisine, and rich Tibetan–Buddhist traditions.
Day-wise Itinerary – Tawang–Bomdila–Dirang Tour (7 Days / 6 Nights)
Day 1: Arrival in Guwahati – Drive to Bhalukpong (250 km / 6–7 hours)
Begin your journey from Guwahati, the gateway to Northeast India. After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive through lush tea gardens and the foothills of Arunachal Pradesh, crossing into the mountain state at Bhalukpong.
- Bhalukpong: Nestled on the banks of the Kameng River, Bhalukpong is known for its lush greenery and adventure activities. It also serves as the entry point to Arunachal Pradesh (Inner Line Permit required).
- Tipi Orchidarium: Visit the Tipi Orchid Research Centre, home to over 500 species of orchids, including rare Himalayan varieties.
- Fishing and Rafting: The Kameng River offers opportunities for angling and gentle rafting.
Arrive at your resort by evening, enjoy local cuisine, and rest for the night amid forested tranquility.
Day 2: Bhalukpong to Dirang (140 km / 5–6 hours)
After breakfast, drive toward Dirang, a picturesque valley town located at an altitude of 4,900 feet. The drive passes through dense forests, misty hills, and tribal villages, offering postcard-worthy landscapes at every turn.
- Bomdila Monastery: En route, stop at Bomdila to visit its serene monastery, modeled after Tibet’s Tsona Gontse Monastery. The panoramic view of the Himalayas from Bomdila viewpoint is truly breathtaking.
- Dirang Dzong: Explore this centuries-old fortification that once served as a defense post and a monastery. The stone houses and narrow lanes reflect ancient Monpa architecture.
- Hot Water Springs: The natural hot springs of Dirang are believed to have medicinal properties and provide a soothing dip in the chilly mountain weather.
- Apple Orchards and Kiwi Farms: The valley is dotted with plantations, especially in Sangti Valley, where you can interact with local farmers.
Check in to your hotel or homestay overlooking the river. Overnight stay in Dirang.
Day 3: Dirang to Tawang via Sela Pass (140 km / 6–7 hours)
Today’s journey is one of the most scenic and adventurous drives in the Himalayas. The road climbs to an altitude of 13,700 feet through Sela Pass — a breathtaking mountain pass often blanketed in snow.
- Sela Pass: This high-altitude pass is one of the most photogenic spots in Arunachal Pradesh, featuring the tranquil Sela Lake surrounded by snow-covered peaks and fluttering prayer flags. In winter, the lake freezes, creating a magical scene.
- Jaswant Garh War Memorial: Pay homage to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, a brave soldier who fought valiantly against Chinese forces during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The memorial is beautifully maintained by the Indian Army.
- Nuranang Falls (Jung Falls): Stop at this majestic 100-meter-high waterfall near Jung village. The misty cascades amidst pine-covered hills make it a perfect photography stop.
Arrive in Tawang by evening. The drive is long but rewarding, with stunning landscapes at every turn. Overnight stay in Tawang.
Day 4: Exploring Tawang – Monasteries & Cultural Heritage
Spend the day exploring Tawang, a land rich in spirituality and scenic charm. The town sits at an elevation of 10,000 feet and is home to the second-largest monastery in the world.
- Tawang Monastery: Founded in the 17th century by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso, this grand monastery is a spiritual beacon of Tibetan Buddhism. It houses over 500 monks and offers panoramic views of the Tawang Valley. Don’t miss the 8-meter-tall golden statue of Lord Buddha.
- Urgeling Monastery: The birthplace of the sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, this monastery holds immense historical importance.
- Tawang War Memorial: A tribute to the soldiers of the 1962 India-China war, featuring inscriptions, photographs, and a Light & Sound Show depicting the bravery of the Indian Army.
- Craft Centre and Emporium: Explore traditional Monpa handicrafts, hand-woven carpets, and thangka paintings.
Evening free for leisure. Walk through the local markets or try momos and butter tea at a local café. Overnight stay in Tawang.
Day 5: Tawang – Bum La Pass & Madhuri Lake Excursion
After an early breakfast, take a thrilling drive towards the Bum La Pass near the Indo-China border. This excursion (subject to weather and permits) is among the most spectacular parts of the Tawang circuit.
- Bum La Pass: Situated at 15,200 feet, this snow-clad pass was once a route for the Dalai Lama’s entry into India in 1959. The view from the top, with the border gates and vast white landscapes, is mesmerizing. Special permission from the Indian Army is required (available at the Tawang DC office).
- Madhuri Lake (Sangetsar Lake): Popularly called Madhuri Lake after Bollywood’s Koyla movie shoot, this pristine lake is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and submerged tree trunks, giving it a surreal beauty.
- P.T. Tso Lake: A tranquil lake en route to Bum La, ideal for short breaks and photography.
Return to Tawang by evening. Relax and enjoy the warmth of local hospitality.
Day 6: Tawang to Bomdila (180 km / 7 hours)
Bid farewell to Tawang and drive back toward Bomdila, retracing the scenic route through Sela Pass. Bomdila, situated at 8,200 feet, offers sweeping views of the Eastern Himalayas and is known for its monasteries and apple orchards.
- Bomdila Monastery: Visit the serene monastery built by the 12th reincarnate of Tsona Gontse Rinpoche. The monastery’s hilltop location provides stunning views of the valleys below.
- Craft Centre: Shop for woolen carpets, traditional masks, and handwoven shawls crafted by the Monpa people.
- Viewpoint: Enjoy sunset views over the distant snow-clad peaks from the upper Bomdila viewpoint.
Overnight stay in Bomdila.
Day 7: Bomdila to Guwahati (340 km / 9 hours)
After breakfast, begin your descent through the rolling hills and river valleys back toward Guwahati. The drive takes you through small hamlets, lush forests, and vibrant marketplaces of Assam. Stop for tea at local stalls serving freshly brewed Assam tea and traditional snacks.
Arrive in Guwahati by evening. Tour ends with a heart full of memories from the mystical land of Arunachal Pradesh.
Major Attractions to See
- Bhalukpong: Tipi Orchidarium, Kameng River.
- Dirang: Hot Water Springs, Dirang Dzong, Sangti Valley.
- Sela Pass: Sela Lake, snow peaks, and breathtaking views.
- Tawang: Tawang Monastery, War Memorial, Urgeling Monastery, Tawang Market.
- Bum La Pass: Indo-China border view, snowfields, and army base.
- Madhuri Lake & P.T. Tso Lake: Scenic glacial lakes with turquoise waters.
- Bomdila: Bomdila Monastery, apple orchards, local markets.
Major Distances
- Guwahati to Bhalukpong – 250 km (6–7 hours)
- Bhalukpong to Dirang – 140 km (5–6 hours)
- Dirang to Tawang – 140 km (6–7 hours)
- Tawang to Bomdila – 180 km (7 hours)
- Bomdila to Guwahati – 340 km (9 hours)
- Tawang to Bum La Pass – 37 km (2 hours one way)
How to Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is Salonibari Airport, Tezpur (around 320 km from Tawang). The major gateway is Guwahati International Airport, connected to all major Indian cities. From Guwahati, travelers continue by road.
By Train: The nearest railhead is Rangapara Railway Station near Tezpur or Guwahati Railway Station. From there, shared taxis and private vehicles are available.
By Road: Well-maintained mountain roads connect Tawang with Assam and other parts of Arunachal Pradesh via NH 13. Permits (Inner Line Permit) are mandatory for all Indian travelers entering Arunachal Pradesh.
Accommodation Options – Where to Stay
The Tawang circuit offers a range of accommodations, from government lodges to boutique hotels and cozy homestays reflecting the warm hospitality of the Monpa community.
- Bhalukpong: Eco camps and river-view lodges with adventure activities.
- Dirang: Norphel Retreat (luxury riverside resort), Hotel Pemaling, Homestays in Sangti Valley.
- Tawang: Tawang View Hotel, Dondrub Homestay, Hotel Mon Paradise, and luxury resorts overlooking the monastery.
- Bomdila: Bomdila Tourist Lodge, Tsepal Yangjom Resort, and cozy family-run guesthouses.
Best Time to Visit Tawang–Bomdila–Dirang
- March to June (Spring–Summer): Pleasant weather, blooming rhododendrons, and clear skies make it the best time for sightseeing and photography.
- October to February (Autumn–Winter): Snow lovers can enjoy snow-clad passes and frozen lakes. Winter festivals add charm, though roads may be challenging during heavy snowfall.
- Monsoon (July–September): The region becomes lush green but prone to landslides; avoid this season for long drives.
Travel Tips
- Carry valid Inner Line Permits (ILP) for Arunachal Pradesh, available online or from offices in Guwahati and Tezpur.
- Pack warm clothing — temperatures drop significantly at high altitudes.
- Keep some dry snacks, medicines, and cash, as ATMs are limited beyond Bomdila.
- Respect local customs and monasteries — remove shoes before entering and maintain silence.
- Altitude sickness may affect some travelers; acclimatize gradually.
- Photography near army areas or borders is prohibited without permission.
Nearby Extensions
- Ziro Valley: Famous for the Apatani tribe and the Ziro Music Festival (6–7 hours from Bomdila).
- Itanagar: The capital city of Arunachal Pradesh, rich in tribal culture and historical sites.
- Nameri National Park: Located near Bhalukpong, ideal for river rafting and birdwatching.
Conclusion
The Tawang–Bomdila–Dirang Tour is a journey into the soul of the Himalayas — where spirituality meets adventure, and nature embraces culture. From the chants of monks echoing through Tawang Monastery to the whispering pines of Dirang and the snow-laden beauty of Sela Pass, this route captures the heart of Arunachal Pradesh in every frame.
Whether it’s the breathtaking sunrise over Sela Lake or the serene prayers at Bomdila Monastery, every moment spent here feels timeless. For travelers seeking an offbeat Himalayan escape steeped in history and peace, this tour promises memories that transcend the ordinary.
Plan your journey with Nature Craft Tours — where every mountain road leads to a new story, and every journey brings you closer to nature’s divine canvas.