Tawang is a land of cultures and an unexplored paradise that offers you just the right break you need. Nestled in the western part of Arunachal Pradesh, the hilly destination is situated at an altitude of 3,048 metres and boasts of natural glacial lakes and awe-inspiring beauty. The majestic mountain-ranges of Gudpi and Chong-Chugmi surround the town and give it a mystical and tranquil feel.
“Close, yet so far,” is the first thought you are bound to have when you step into this region after encountering the bustle of the city life. Even though, numerically, the distance from the cities might not be much; the experience of life could not be more contrasting. It is the place, where time moves slowly and you feel the beauty of every second of the day drag along. The pace of life is modest and relaxing. With its heavenly waterfalls, friendly locals, beautiful lakes and magnificent hilltop views – Tawang has a myriad of its own charms and due to this, the tourism department of Andhra Pradesh has selected this place to play host to the famous ‘Tawang Festival’ every year.
The Tawang Festival is designed to promote tourism in Arunachal Pradesh. There is no lack of tourist attractions in Tawang. From natural scenic beauties, to famous monasteries- Tawang has something to offer to everyone.
Some places you can visit in Tawang to make your vacation truly memorable are:
The Bum La Pass is located about 37 kms away from Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh, at the Indo-China border about 16,500 ft above the sea level. The journey to the Pass is possible only by Sumo Cars as the road is not well made, but the journey is worth taking because of the beautiful view you witness when you look out of the window. On days when the pass is covered with fog, mist and snowflakes- the experience is truly mesmerizing and fairy-tale like.
At 6858 metres, Gorichen is the highest peak in Arunachal Pradesh and is situated on the border with China in Tawang District. Gorichen peak is one of the most popular attractions in Tawang and every year attracts thousands of adventure-seekers. The Monpa tribe that inhabits the villages along the trekking route refer to the peak as “Sa-Nga Phu” or the “Kingdom of Deity.”
The Sangestar Tso Lake is the place where nature-lovers and Bollywood freaks unite. Created by falling rocks, boulders and trees in an earthquake, this picturesque lake is also called the ‘Madhuri Lake’ as it had featured Madhuri Dixit (Bollywood actress) in the movie Koyla.
If you want to get in touch with nature and spot exquisite flora and fauna, backed by some breath-taking photographs- Madhuri Lake is just the right escape for you.
Nuranang Falls, also alternatively known as the ‘Bong Bong Falls’ and the ‘Jang Falls’ feels like paradise on earth. As you stand amidst the mist with a green cover as far as the eye can see, and feel the wind ruffle your hair, it is an experience that will stick with you forever. It’s peaceful, relaxing and your go-to destination for a picnic, en-route halt, rendezvous with nature or just an insta-worthy photography session.
The largest monastery in India, the Tawang Monastery is a cultural gem that has been persevering the Buddhist culture and tradition for many years. Situated on a hilltop, the monastery gives a breath-taking view of Tawang and currently houses more than 400 monks.
Tawang does not have a railhead or airhead. Tezpur (325 km) in Assam is the nearest domestic airport. Guwahati (480 km) is the nearest international airport. From Tezpur, you will get sumos round the clock. It takes around 12 hours from Tezpur to Tawang. For visiting Arunachal Pradesh, you will need Inner Line Permit (ILP).
Venue: All over Arunachal Pradesh
Starting Date: 26 October, 2019
Ending Date: 29 October, 2019
The Tawang Festival is a grand celebration that showcases the rich cultural heritage and tourism potential of Arunachal Pradesh. The traditions of the monastic tribes are depicted through religious functions, folk-performances, dance troupes, art exhibitions and lip-smacking food.
The festival is inaugurated through a religious tradition called ‘Sebang’, that is a religious rally of monks from the Tawang Monastery to the carnival site to formally declare the festival open. In the past, many dignitaries like Richard Varma (former US ambassador to India) and Sarbananda Sonwal (CM of Assam) have graced the event with their presence.
A joyous celebration can be observed in every corner of Arunachal Pradesh during this time. Indigenous games, art exhibitions and film and documentary showcasing keeps the audiences well entertained.
The evening is marked by cultural and musical dance shows that depict the culture of the indigenous tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. It is a time of great cheering, laughter and entertainment. All tourists are welcomed warmly by the tribes and before you know it, the place begins to feel like home.
What is a festival without food! The delicacies of Arunachal Pradesh like Adi, Nyishi, Apatani and Monpa are as much of a treat to your taste buds, as the rest of the carnival is to your other senses. During this time, the beautiful streets of Arunachal Pradesh are adorned with bright hues and even brighter smiles.
The major attractions in the festival that keep everyone enthralled are cultural showcases through artforms like the famous Yak dance and traditional monastic dances. The traditional parade and street performances also grab a lot of attention. Other than this, the Buddhist religious functions and the AJI-LHAMU DANCE is the main attraction of the festival. Projection of the historical movies of the state is another centre of attraction during the festival.
So, the next time you are visiting Arunachal Pradesh, do try to plan your trip around the same time so that you too can become a part of this ecstatic celebration!
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