Tawang Valley Road Trip

Located 444 Km from Guwahati, Tawang, the land of Monpas, and beautiful mountains, is both historically and naturally endowed. The name ‘Tawang’ means: ‘Ta’- Horse and ‘Wang’- Green pastures. It is situated in the state of Arunachal Pradesh at an altitude of 3,048 meters above sea level. The Tawang valley road trip and backpacking tour is one of the most adventurous trips you can go on. This bike expedition is the ultimate adventure for all those seeking the thrill of raw roads. The journey from Guwahati to Tawang is full of surprises and attractions. Riding on the mountains and passing by the majestic spectacles will leave you exalted.

Tawang is a treat for nature enthusiasts, photography lovers, and adventurers, making it one of the most sought-after destinations in the Northeast. Ancient monasteries, waterfalls, lakes, and rugged landscapes are only a few of the things that you will be seeing. Since the routes are raw and rugged, it is very famous in India as well as for bikers from around the world. You will ride over the highway, mountains, off-road, and rocks to get to Tawang, the blessed valley of the North East. It takes a certain level of zeal to go biking through the “Land of dawn-lit mountains”.

We start our 7 nights, 8 days bike expedition to Tawang from Guwahati. Guwahati, the capital of Assam, with rich and diverse flora and fauna, is known as ‘the city of Eastern Light’. It stands on the southern banks of the mighty river Brahmaputra and is a gateway to the entire northeastern states.  Dirang, a serene village in Arunachal Pradesh, lies in the West Kameng district on the banks of the Jia Bharali River. While in Dirang, you can take a walk through the peaceful village and take in the beautiful and calm environment.  The PTSO Lake, or Sangestar Tso, is a lake located on the way from Tawang to Bumla pass. This lake has one of the highest altitudes in India and the world at a height of 15,200fts. It remains frozen in winters and becomes a haven for migratory birds during summers.  The Bum La Pass is located about 37 km away from Tawang, at the Indo-China border 16,500 ft above sea level. The roads are mostly covered with snow. The road to Bum La is also a historical route; here in Bum La Pass one of the fiercest battles took place in the 1962 Sino-Indian War.  

Up next is Tawang, which has an unmatched natural beauty that will leave you in awe. Here are some of the quintessential places to visit in Tawang. The Tawang Monastery, the largest monastery in India; the Thembang Heritage village identified by UNESCO as a world heritage site village and so much more.

The ideal time to visit Arunachal Pradesh would be during summers when the valley comes alive with wildflowers and greenery and the weather is pleasant. If you want to experience Arunachal Pradesh during winters, October to February is the best time to experience snow-covered landscapes and mountains. Here is the Tawang Valley Road Trip itinerary with Plan the Unplanned:

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:

1. Meet fellow travellers and kick off your journey from Guwahati.
2. Spot the largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses, as well as many mammals, including tigers, elephants, panthers and bears, and thousands of birds at Kaziranga National Park.
3. Memorable sightseeing of viewpoints and stay.
4. Experience of a proper traditional Monpa house built of stones.
5. Rev your bike through the “land of dawn-lit mountains.”