Taking a road trip from Guwahati to Tawang is definitely an adventure. Tawang is situated in the eastern Himalayas and is the gateway to Arunachal Pradesh. The journey itself is mesmerising, following the Brahmaputra River, one of India’s longest rivers, up to the majestic mountains of Arunachal Pradesh. We’ll be discussing the entire experience, from planning to arrival and everything in between. So, let’s dive in and learn more about this exciting Guwahati to Tawang Road trip.
Overview of the Road Trip
This guide will provide an overview of the Guwahati to Tawang road trip, a journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes in India. The route takes you through lush green forests, winding mountain roads and breathtaking views of the Himalayas, offering travelers an unforgettable experience.
Starting in Guwahati, the capital city of Assam and one of the fastest growing metropolises in India, travelers can take in all that this vibrant city has to offer. From here, a scenic drive will take you along picturesque routes as you travel through some stunning natural beauty. The route passes by stunning river valleys, ancient monuments and charming villages as you make your way towards Tawang – home to the beautiful 400-year-old Buddhist monastery of Tawang Monastery Monks.
Elevation gain is significant along this route which starts from just 60 meters at Guwahati and culminates at 3490 meters at Bomdila Pass – making it one of the most challenging but rewarding road trips available in India. Along the way travelers can explore areas such as Rumtek Monastery; enjoy stunning views from Bomdila; visit historical towns such as Dirang; get up close with nature at Sessa Orchid Sanctuary or simply relax in between adventures.
This road trip offers travelers an opportunity to explore different cultures and landscapes within India’s remote northeast region while being surrounded by some breath-taking panoramas – providing visitors with truly unforgettable memories that can last a lifetime. Here is the best route according to Google Maps for your reference.
Planning Your Trip
Planning an exciting road trip to Tawang from Guwahati? Having an organized plan is essential to make the most of your experience. From knowing the most scenic routes to making sure essential items are packed, spending some time to map out your adventure will ensure that it is enjoyable and stress free. Read on to learn the essential steps to plan a successful road trip.
Transportation
Planning your transportation is an important part of any road trip, and the Guwahati-Tawang journey is no exception. Before you jump into your car, it’s a good idea to consider the best mode for getting to your destination.
Car: If you have access to a car, driving from Guwahati to Tawang is often the most convenient option. The drive is approximately 380 kilometers (236 miles) via Arunachal Pradesh’s Rongla-Bhalukpong – Lama line which can be completed in about 9 hours. However, depending on weather and traffic conditions, the estimated time can vary drastically.
Travelers should also be aware that sections of this route can be remote and unpaved, with icy conditions present during winter months (October-February). For this reason, it is always best to plan ahead and make sure you are adequately prepared for unexpected delays or difficulties.
Bus/train: Travelling by bus or train can save you time and money compared to driving, but the routes are usually limited in terms of coverage area. There are direct buses available from Guwahati’s Kalabari Bus Deport in Assam that go as far as Bomdila (270 km away) with stops along the way including Bhalukpong and Mongku. From Bomdila onward, passengers must switch to taxi services for further transportation up until Tawang (110 km). Train options might involve travel through nearby towns such as Margherita (Assam), Lidu(Arunachal Pradesh) and Nefra (Arunachal Pradesh). Online booking can be done through IRCTC website.
Planes/helicopters/charter services: If time is an issue or if you prefer air travel over land routes then there are commercial flights available into Tawang airport in Arunachal Pradesh from places like Delhi, Kolkata etc., certain helicopter charter services may also be available at extra cost directly into Tawang airport or nearby helipads located near Bomdila, Tezpur etc. After landing at airport one may hire a taxi service for travelling within 1–3-hour radius around Tawang town depending on weather conditions (depending on operator).
Accommodation
Accommodation is an important part of your Guwahati to Tawang road trip, and there are many options available depending on your budget and preferences. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, you can book a room in one of the many top-notch hotels located throughout the city. For a more economical option, there are several hostels that provide excellent rooms at pocket-friendly rates.
Alternatively, you can opt to stay in one of the camping sites or nature lodges around Guwahati, where you can experience the area’s natural beauty up close. As you move further along on your journey, keep in mind that some places may not have any hotels or guesthouses around them. You can set up camps with tents or sleep under the stars if need be or look out for traditional homestays as they offer great comfort away from home and also open up opportunities for learning and interacting with local families.
Depending on where you’re travelling to, some options for accommodation may also include forest rest houses and wildlife resorts, which are sure to give you an experience like no other!
No matter which option you decide to go ahead with during your Guwahati to Tawang road trip, it’s important that you plan ahead so that all accommodation requirements can be taken care of before time runs out!
Food
Food is a must-have on any road trip and this one is no exception. Especially in the mountainous areas, it can be difficult to find food and places to eat, so having snacks available while traveling will be essential in keeping your energy up. There are plenty of local delicacies to try along the way, so it’s worth taking the time to sample some of the local fare.
There are also many convenience stores that offer packaged snacks like chips, nuts and biscuits as well as hot beverages like coffee and tea. If you’re looking for something more substantial during your journey, there are small restaurants at various points that serve freshly cooked meals such as different varieties of Biryani and Chinese cuisine. Many hotels also have restaurants attached with a fairly extensive menu catering to all tastes. It’s best check online reviews before making any decisions about where to eat along your route.
Safety
When planning a road trip from Guwahati to Tawang, it’s important to keep safety in mind. The route is full of twists and turns that can be challenging to navigate. Here are some tips for ensuring your journey is as safe as possible.
First and foremost, make sure you always obey the traffic laws in India. Always use turn signals when changing lanes, obey speed limits, and drive defensively. It’s also important to never drink and drive, wear your seatbelts at all times, and follow all other safety laws.
In addition, prepare for the road conditions you will encounter throughout the trip since these may vary from place to place. Make sure you have a reliable vehicle with good tires that can handle rough terrain and potholes. Ensure that your vehicle’s brakes work well by having them checked out before leaving Guwahati and packing extra brake fluid if available just in case anything goes wrong along the way. Ensure your vehicle has working headlights so you can see clearly at night on the winding roads ahead of you.
It’s also wise to make sure that there is a fully charged spare tire in your vehicle as well as other necessary items like a car jack or first aid kit in case of an emergency while on the road. Also make sure you carry enough fuel along with some extra food and water so that you are prepared if stuck on long stretches of empty roads with few (if any) amenities available nearby. Planning ahead could help save time if something unexpected happens during your travels. Most importantly, don’t forget about self-care! Take rest stops whenever needed for optimal safety and alertness behind the wheel.
Places to Visit
A Guwahati to tawang road trip is a great way to explore this spectacular part of India. The area has a wide variety of attractions that will leave you wanting more. From ancient Buddhist monasteries and beautiful waterfalls to breathtaking mountain views, there is something here to satisfy everyone’s travel desires. In this guide, we’ll discuss some of the best places to visit on your guwahati to tawang road trip.
Tawang Monastery
Tawang Monastery is the most important historical place in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. Located at an altitude of 3300m, this grand monastery stands tall in its serene beauty. Believed to be the biggest Buddhist Monastery in India, it exudes an aura of holiness as a result of its age-old history.
The monastery was founded by Mera Lama Lodre Gyamtso in 1681 and features a beautiful Potrang Marpo structure that houses 400+ Lamas living inside it along with a stunning library. The main temple inside the Potrang Marpo features amazing murals depicting the life and times of Lord Buddha along with the images of various avatars of Lord Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche- Avalokitesvara), Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and five Dhyani Buddhas (Vairocana).
Another highlight here is the 18-feet gilded statue of Lord Buddha placed within an unassuming chamber on top of a hill overlooking the town. Visiting this place can truly be a spiritual experience, as you take in its immense religious values encapsulated within such serene yet mighty surroundings.
Sela Pass
The Sela Pass is an almost mythical pass located at 4,170 metres above sea level, connecting the towns of Tawang and Bomdila in Arunachal Pradesh. It’s one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world and is popular among bikers and adventurous travelers who are looking to experience its breathtaking natural beauty. The pass offers a great opportunity for trekkers, with snow-capped mountains and virgin forests as far as the eye can see.
Sela Pass is also home to several lakes, making it a spot for campers of all levels from beginner to experienced. Beginner campers can enjoy stunning views from the shores while expert campers can try more challenging trails such as scaling up Talung Peak or trekking through snowcapped forests. Similarly, Sela Pass is great for photographers because it offers some stunning scenic vistas that make for amazing pictures.
The temperatures around this area are often too low even during summer months; hence carrying adequate warm clothing like gloves, jackets, caps can be very helpful here. Additionally, it is recommended to check weather updates before visiting here as sudden rainstorms occur on irregular occasions that might make visibility difficult or even impossible. Lastly, carrying necessary equipment might come in handy due to lack of shops and limited access to medical aid .
Nuranang Waterfalls
Nuranang Waterfalls, also known as Bong Bong falls, is one of the most beautiful places one can visit when travelling on the Guwahati-Tawang road trip. Located in Tawang District of Arunachal Pradesh, India, it is a popular tourist attraction with its spectacular view of the Nuranang River cascading down from a height of 100 meters into deep blue pools below.
The Nuranang Waterfalls is unique in the way that it is visible from the road itself and its perfect location makes it an excellent spot to take pictures and enjoy its beauty. The Nuranang River forms an enchanting backdrop and gives an ethereal feeling to this enchanting place.
Being at a distance of only 3kms away from Tawang Town, it brings forth mesmerizing views of lush green forests and rocky terrain which are often coupled with a heavenly sound of water plunging into deep abysses. The combination makes for a refreshing getaway from daily mundane activities and refreshes one’s mind, body, and soul with its magnificence.
In addition to this spectacle, the area around the waterfalls has various interesting spots such as glaciated lakes, ancient Buddhist monasteries enclosed by scenic mountainside cliffs providing – glimpses into Buddhism culture which enriches visitors’ experiences even further during their road trip journey through this region.
Jaswantgarh War Memorial
The Jaswantgarh War Memorial stands in proud homage to the valiant soldiers of 4/5 Gorkha Rifles regiment of Indian Army. Located at an altitude of around 13000 feet, on the way to Sela Pass and Tawang Monastery, the memorial is a mere 2 Kilometers away from the actual site of combat.
The hallowed grounds commemorate the supreme sacrifice of Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat who single-handedly fought against more than 300 Chinese soldiers during 1962 India-China war in order to defend this post from Ladakh division. His courageous battle and unwavering self-belief earned him a place of honor in history books which are read by generations that followed.
The eponymous memorial is built around five pillars at zero point near Lhou village, showcasing five brave brothers who heroically sacrificed their lives in this legendary battle – Subedar Joginder Sigh, Nb Sub Maj Hangpa Dui Kameng, Nb Sub Manbahadur Thapa and Riflemen Jaswant Singh Rawat, Gaya Prasad Jaisi & Surendra Bahadur Thapa. The forecourt has tanks & monuments as well as a statue depicting four brave Gorkhas paring enemy while guiding Kailash Mansarovar Yatra travelers effortlessly through this hilly terrain with their traditional kukri knives attached to their waistline for a comprehensive visual representation.
Tips and Tricks
Planning a road trip from Guwahati to Tawang? This guide will help you do just that! We will provide you with all the vital information you need to make your road trip experience enjoyable, safe, and hassle-free. We’ll also provide you with some tips and tricks to make sure your journey goes as smoothly as possible. Read on to learn more!
Best Time to Visit
Knowing the best time to visit should be at the top of your priority list. Visiting Tawang during the right time of year can help you make the most of your road trip. The ideal time for a Guwahati to Tawang road trip is from late October until mid-April. This is when there will be snow on the roads, but it won’t be too thick yet, so you can still enjoy scenic drives along mountain passes and through lush valleys.
During this period, temperatures range from 3°C to 15°C during the day and 0°C at night. However, if you plan to visit during peak winter months (December and January) then you must come well prepared as temperatures might dip even further. Additionally, keep in mind that Tawang remains closed for almost a month in summer due to heavy rainfalls in Arunachal Pradesh so try to avoid this period if possible.
Things to Pack
When packing for a road trip from Guwahati to Tawang, it’s important to give thought to what will make your journey more enjoyable and comfortable. Depending on the length of your stay, these items may prove useful.
A smartphone, tablet or laptop: This item is especially useful for searching the best routes and planning exercises. Also, you can use it for entertainment during long drives if you have stored music or videos.
An Internet subscription: This is important, especially if you don’t have access to Wi-Fi along the way. Also consider a GPS navigator app which can be helpful in navigating pitfalls or heavy traffic areas.
Written maps and guidebooks: While GPS seem like a must have nowadays when traveling on highways, downloading some written maps of the route can be just as helpful—especially if your phone stops receiving signals due to unexpected changes in weather or lack of cell service along the way.
Clothes and toiletries suitable for different climates: The climate along Guwahati to Tawang road trip will vary as you move away from sea level and ascend higher altitudes. Make sure that your clothing allows flexibility depending on the prevailing temperatures when you reach various points in your journey.
Emergency kit: Besides carrying necessary documents such as driving licenses, vehicle registration papers and insurance papers; include items such as a tire repair kit with patches covering multiple sizes, extra petrol/diesel containers and refrigerated water bottles with essential medicines in case of an emergency breakdown at any point during the journey.
Extra snacks/food: If your scheduled stops turn out longer than expected, it is always recommendable that one should not rely solely on restaurants / eateries by the road but instead has sufficient snacks and food supplies in between stops. That’s why road trips require enough space to contain provisions when travelling further distances!
Things to Avoid
When it comes to road trips, there are certain things you must avoid in order to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
First and foremost, take your time. Make sure not to rush during your journey, as this can lead to rushing decision-making and potentially missing out on important stops or sights. Plan your route beforehand so that you have an idea of when to arrive at each destination.
When it comes to packing, remember that less is more. Although it is understandable that some people may be tempted to bring more than they need on a trip, try not to overpack; bringing along more things than necessary can become cumbersome and difficult to manage.
Additionally, make sure that you take regular breaks in order for both driver and passengers alike get adequate rest. Drowsy driving can jeopardize the safety of both the driver and passengers on the road as well as other vehicles on the road. Whenever possible, plan ahead for times when fatigue may set in; plan healthy snacks and drinks for those moments when drowsiness hits or when hunger strikes!
Moreover, make sure to remain aware of your surroundings throughout the journey; although it is easy for drivers or passengers of a car become distracted with their smartphones or conversations among one another, keeping track of passing vehicles around you can save you from potential hazards while driving on a highway such as another car suddenly merging unto yours! Properly maintaining speed limits is also essential in order for everyone’s safety; being mindful of speed limits will ensure that everyone stays within legal boundaries while enjoying their road trip experience.
Conclusion
This guide has highlighted the many beautiful attractions between Guwahati and Tawang which make this road trip a must-do for travelers in northeastern India. From the ancient ruins of Bhita to the serene beauty of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, this area is home to many wonderful sights and experiences.
The journey itself contains multiple challenges including treacherous roads, no phone signal in certain areas, and occasional closures due to weather or political turmoil. Therefore, it is essential that travelers plan carefully before embarking on this road trip.
Above all, Guwahati-Tawang is an iconic journey for anyone looking for a taste of tranquility or adventure in Northeastern India. The route provides the perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in the culture of Assam while still having plenty of breathtaking scenery to admire along the way. With seasoned local guides and some caution, it’s definitely worth making this trip!
