Bordering Tibet and Bhutan, Tawang is not the easiest place to reach. Its remote location, high-altitude terrain, and strategic importance make travel challenging. Yet, the journey itself is part of the adventure. From the tea gardens of Assam to the winding mountain passes of Arunachal Pradesh, every route offers unforgettable views. This guide explains in detail the various ways to reach Tawang, including air, road, and rail connectivity, as well as practical travel requirements such as permits and packing essentials.
Where is Tawang Located?
Tawang lies in the northwestern part of Arunachal Pradesh, close to the borders of Bhutan and Tibet. It is about 450 km from Guwahati in Assam, making Guwahati the primary entry point for most travelers.
| Location Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Altitude | ~10,000 feet (3,048 meters) |
| Nearest Major City | Guwahati, Assam |
| Distance from Guwahati | ~450 km by road |
| Borders | Tibet (China) and Bhutan |
| Accessibility | Only via road and helicopter service (no direct airport/railway station) |
Reaching Tawang requires careful planning as road conditions are unpredictable, and weather can impact travel schedules.
Travel Options to Reach Tawang
Air Travel to Tawang
Tawang does not have its own airport. The nearest major airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati, Assam. It is connected to major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata.
Best Route by Air
- Fly to Guwahati Airport from any metro city.
- From Guwahati, continue the journey either by road or via helicopter service.
Guwahati to Tawang Helicopter Service
A helicopter service operated by Pawan Hans connects Guwahati to Tawang. However, it is weather-dependent and operates only on select days.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Operator | Pawan Hans |
| Route | Guwahati → Tawang (via Tezpur and Dirang stops) |
| Duration | ~1.5 hours |
| Cost | ₹5,000 – ₹6,000 per person |
| Booking | Through arunachalilp.com or local tourism offices |
While convenient, helicopter tickets are limited and must be booked in advance.
Road Travel to Tawang
The most common and scenic way to reach Tawang is by road. Road trips from Guwahati to Tawang pass through lush valleys, high mountain passes, and charming towns like Bomdila and Dirang.
Popular Road Route
Guwahati → Tezpur → Bomdila → Dirang → Tawang
- Day 1: Guwahati to Tezpur (180 km, 5–6 hours)
- Day 2: Tezpur to Dirang (190 km, 7–8 hours)
- Day 3: Dirang to Tawang (140 km, 6–7 hours, via Sela Pass)
The highlight of the journey is Sela Pass (13,700 feet), a snow-covered mountain pass that remains breathtaking but challenging, especially in winter.
Alternative Routes
- Via Bhalukpong: Guwahati → Bhalukpong → Bomdila → Tawang
- Via Seppa (less traveled): Tezpur → Seppa → Tawang (requires local guidance)
Key Tips for Road Travel
- Avoid night driving due to narrow, winding roads.
- Mobile network is weak beyond Bomdila.
- Hiring a local cab or shared taxi with experienced drivers is recommended.
Train Travel to Tawang
Tawang does not have its own railway station. The nearest railheads are located in Assam.
| Railway Station | Distance from Tawang | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Tezpur Railway Station | ~330 km | Limited trains |
| Rangapara North | ~340 km | Moderate connectivity |
| Guwahati Railway Station | ~450 km | Major hub with trains from across India |
From these stations, travelers must continue by road using either private taxis, shared jeeps, or state transport buses.
Public Transport Options
Widely used by locals, shared taxis are available on the following routes:
- Tezpur to Tawang
- Bomdila to Tawang
- Dirang to Tawang
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | ₹700–₹1000 per person |
| Duration | 12–14 hours (Tezpur to Tawang) |
| Advantage | Faster than buses, more frequent |
APSTS Buses (Arunachal Pradesh State Transport)
APSTS runs daily services between Tezpur, Bomdila, Dirang, and Tawang.
- Budget-friendly but basic facilities.
- Bookings are done at counters or APSTS offices.
Permits Required to Visit Tawang
Travel to Tawang requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian citizens.
How to Apply for ILP
- Online: arunachalilp.com
- Offline: At ILP issuing offices in Guwahati, Tezpur, and Dibrugarh
Documents Needed
- Government ID (Aadhaar, Driving License, or Passport)
- Passport-sized photograph
Multiple copies should be carried as they are often checked at military checkpoints.
Travel Essentials and Tips for Tawang
Things to Watch Out For
- Weather Conditions: Sela Pass often closes in winter (Dec–Feb) due to heavy snow. Always check forecasts before departure.
- Altitude Sickness: With Tawang at ~10,000 feet, acclimatization is important. Stay a night at Dirang to adapt before ascending.
- Mobile Network: Jio and BSNL offer the best coverage, though patchy. Airtel has limited service.
- Cash Availability: ATMs are scarce beyond Dirang. Carry sufficient cash as most businesses do not accept digital payments.
Packing Tips
| Season | Clothing & Essentials |
|---|---|
| Winter (Oct–March) | Heavy woolens, thermals, snow boots, gloves, thick jackets |
| Summer (April–June) | Light woolens, raincoat, sunscreen, sunglasses |
| All Seasons | Power bank, torch, basic medicines, valid ID documents |
Travelers should pack for sudden weather changes and prepare for limited facilities in remote areas.
Final Thoughts
Reaching Tawang is not straightforward, but the journey itself is a part of the experience. Whether traveling by road through mountain passes, flying into Guwahati followed by scenic drives, or relying on shared transport, the routes are filled with stunning Himalayan views and glimpses of local life.
The region’s remoteness and challenging terrain may demand patience, but it is precisely this isolation that preserves Tawang’s charm. Once reached, the serenity of monasteries, the grandeur of snow peaks, and the warmth of Monpa hospitality make every effort worthwhile.
For travelers seeking both adventure and cultural depth, Tawang remains one of India’s most rewarding destinations.
Author - Jay
Jay is a passionate traveler and a Digital Marketer, The digital marketer traveler embarks on journeys to explore new cultures, seeking inspiration for creative online campaigns that resonate with diverse audiences worldwide
Dandeli Tour Packages, Munnar Tour Packages, Gokarna Murudeshwar Honnavar Tour, Kodiakanal Tour Packages , Kotagiri and Conoor Tour Packages, Coorg Tour Packages, Ooty Tour packages, Wayand Tour Packages, Chikmagalur 2 days tour packages, Agumbe Tour Packages, Malvan Scuba Diving, Coorg Long Weekend Tour Packages, Mulki Kayaking Packages,
Rama Devara Betta Trek, Revanna Siddeshwara Betta Trek, Nijagal Betta Sunrise Trek, Kudremukh Trek Booking, Kodachadri Trek Package, Kumaraparvatha Trekking, Gudibande fort Trek, Narasimha Parvatha Trek, Kollu Arasinagundi Waterfalls Trek, Makalidurga Day Trek,
Kunti Betta Trek, Coorg Tadiandamol Trek, Uttari Betta Trek, Bheemanakindi Trek, Ballalarayana Durga and Bandaje Waterfalls Trek, Madhugiri Trek, Kodaikanal Tour Package, Gokarna Beach Trek, Netravati Trek From Bangalore, Dudhsagar Trek Package, Gandikota Hike and Camping
Sikkim Tour Packages(6D/5N), Nagaland Tour Packages with Dzukou Valley, Meghalaya Tour Packages(No Trekking), Hornbill Festival Tour With Dzukou Trek- Nagaland (6D/5N), Nagaland Backpacking Trip With Dzukou Valley Trek (6D/5N), Meghalaya Backpacking Trip(6D/5N), Tawang Backpacking Trip (7D/6N), Sikkim Backpacking Trip (6D/5N), Tawang Private Trip, Kaziranga National Park Safari (2D/2N),
