Discovering the Untouched Beauty of Arunachal Pradesh: A Tawang Adventure

Introduction

Hey fellow travelers! My name is Bhavini , and I recently embarked on an exhilarating journey to the hidden gem of Arunachal Pradesh – Tawang. Traveling with a local agency and a group of seven strangers, this trip was packed with breathtaking landscapes, unique experiences, and a whole lot of fun. Buckle up as I take you through our adventure from Guwahati to Tawang, with stops at Shergaon, Dirang, Sangti Valley, and Bomdila!

Day 1: Guwahati to Shergaon – The Journey Begins

Our adventure kicked off in Guwahati, the bustling gateway to the North East. I have traveled with strangers before, but this was my first time hosting while collaborating with the agency. Initially, I was curious about how we would all get along, but soon enough, we felt like a family. Being the youngest, I was affectionately treated like a kid. Our first stop? The charming village of Shergaon. The drive was a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun road trip banter.

Shergaon Experience

Shergaon welcomed us with its lush apple orchards and cozy wooden houses. Despite the constant rain, the village had an enchanting vibe. At 4 AM, it was already light outside, and I ventured out for a walk with an umbrella, something I had never done before. The early morning walk was serene, and I stumbled upon a bus stop filled with books – it was so cool! The homestay served typical Arunachali cuisine with rice and other local dishes. The villagers were incredibly welcoming, embodying the spirit of "Atithi Devo Bhava" (Guest is God).

Day 2: Shergaon to Dirang – A Dash of Culture and Nature

The next morning, we set off for Dirang. The highlight of the day was the Dirang Monastery, a peaceful haven nestled in the hills. We soaked in the serene vibes, admired the beautiful architecture, and even joined the monks for a brief meditation session. From there, we headed to the picturesque Sangti Valley.

Sangti Valley Experience

Sangti Valley was breathtakingly beautiful. Staying at a riverside homestay with no network for a day was pure bliss. It was so peaceful that I wished we could have stayed longer. The natural beauty of the valley, combined with the tranquility, made it a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Days 3 & 4: Tawang – The Heart of the Adventure

Tawang was the star of our trip, and it did not disappoint. We spent two magical days exploring this enchanting town. Here are some of the must-do activities in Tawang:

Things to Do in Tawang

Visit Tawang Monastery: One of the largest monasteries in India, the Tawang Monastery is a majestic and spiritual place. The monastery’s serene ambiance, intricate architecture, and vibrant prayer halls left us in awe. Participating in a meditation session with the monks was a peaceful and enriching experience.

Explore Sela Pass: The journey to Tawang includes crossing the stunning Sela Pass, located at an altitude of 13,700 feet. The pass is known for its breathtaking views and the beautiful Sela Lake. It’s a perfect spot for photography and soaking in the majestic Himalayan landscape.

Nuranang Waterfall: This was one of the most memorable parts of my time in Tawang. The Nuranang Waterfall felt like a scene from a movie – unreal and magical. The sheer force of the water made me feel like a kid again. Despite the cold, I got wet, jumped around, and laughed with pure joy.

Madhuri Lake: Named after the Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit, this lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush greenery. Although it rained during our visit, the weather cleared up, revealing the lake’s serene beauty.

Bum La Pass: Located at the Indo-China border, Bum La Pass is a place of historical significance. The high altitude and cold weather added to the adventure. The pass offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Taktsang Gompa: Also known as the Tawang Monastery, Taktsang Gompa is perched on a cliff and offers panoramic views of the Tawang Valley. The monastery is a serene place for reflection and offers insights into Buddhist culture and traditions.

Local Markets: Exploring the local markets in Tawang was a delightful experience. I picked up some beautiful souvenirs and fridge magnets. The markets are a great place to buy traditional handicrafts, woolen clothes, and local artifacts.

Tawang’s Unpredictable Weather

Tawang’s weather is known for being unpredictable. During our stay, it rained occasionally, but we were lucky to have clear skies most of the time. Bum La Pass was particularly cold due to its high altitude, and the rain at Madhuri Lake added a touch of drama to the beautiful scenery.

Day 5: Bomdila – A Night of Fun

Our return journey began with a stop at Bomdila. This quaint town offered stunning views of the Himalayan ranges. We visited the Bomdila Monastery and the local market, where I picked up some beautiful souvenirs and fridge magnets. Our night in Bomdila was filled with fun activities. We played games, enjoyed delicious local dishes, and had a blast at a traditional dance party organized by our hosts.

Conclusion: The Journey Back to Guwahati

As we made our way back to Guwahati, we couldn’t help but reminisce about the incredible journey we had. Arunachal Pradesh had won our hearts with its untouched beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. This trip was a reminder of how rewarding it is to explore the less-trodden paths and embrace new experiences.

Must-Try Food and Cafes in Tawang

One of the best parts of traveling is trying local cuisine, and Tawang did not disappoint. Here are some food and cafes you must try:

Dharma Coffee House and Library: A cozy spot perfect for unwinding with a book and a hot cup of coffee. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it an ideal place to relax after a day of sightseeing. Prices are reasonable, and the coffee is top-notch.

Gam’s Delicacy Restaurant in Guwahati: If you're starting or ending your trip in Guwahati, don't miss this restaurant. It offers a variety of traditional Assamese dishes that are flavorful and satisfying. Prices are moderate, and the ambiance is welcoming.

Local Food in Homestays: Many homestays in Tawang offer authentic Arunachali cuisine. At our homestay in Shergaon, we enjoyed home-cooked meals featuring rice, local vegetables, and traditional meat dishes. The simplicity and freshness of the food were a highlight.

Street Food: While exploring Tawang, don’t miss the street food. From momos to thukpa, the flavors are vibrant and unique. Prices are very affordable, making it easy to try a variety of dishes.

Overall Reflection

This trip changed my perspective on travel. Arunachal Pradesh is so underrated, and I’m excited to visit more places in the North East. In my opinion, it's even better than Himachal and Uttarakhand. The raw, untouched beauty with fewer tourists and its accessibility challenges make it a real and virgin experience.

Travel Tips

If you're considering a similar trip, be a responsible traveler and respect the local culture. Sangti Valley is a place I wish I had more time to explore, and it’s definitely on my bucket list for a future visit.

So, if you're looking for a fun-filled adventure, pack your bags and head to Tawang! Trust me, this hidden gem in the North East will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.