Tawang & Dirang Explorer, Arunachal Pradesh

Day-by-day itinerary

1. Day 1

   Arrival in Guwahati, drive to Bhalukpong

   Pickup from Guwahati airport or station and a drive of about 230 km (5 to 6 hours) past tea estates to Bhalukpong on the Kameng river, the gateway to Arunachal. Inner Line Permit check at the border. Overnight in Bhalukpong.

2. Day 2

   Bhalukpong to Dirang via Bomdila

   Climb through thick forest to Bomdila for views of the Kameng valley, then down to Dirang, about 140 km in all. Evening by the river and a walk to the old stone Dirang Dzong village. Overnight in Dirang.

3. Day 3

   Over Sela Pass to Tawang

   Cross Sela Pass at 13,700 ft and its frozen lake, often in snow from November to April. Stop at the Jaswant Garh war memorial for tea with the army, then reach Tawang by late afternoon. Overnight in Tawang.

4. Day 4

   Tawang Monastery and the War Memorial

   Morning at Tawang Monastery, the largest in India, with its 8 metre golden Buddha. Visit Urgelling, birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, then the Tawang War Memorial light and sound show at dusk. Overnight in Tawang.

5. Day 5

   Bum La Pass and Madhuri Lake

   Full day by permit to Bum La on the India and China border at 15,200 ft, then the still waters of Sangetsar Lake, known as Madhuri Lake. Road opens subject to weather and army clearance. Overnight in Tawang.

6. Day 6

   Tawang back to Bomdila

   Drive back over Sela Pass with a stop at Nuranang Falls. Afternoon at the Bomdila Monastery and the local market for Monpa shawls and carpets. Overnight in Bomdila.

7. Day 7

   Bomdila to Guwahati, departure

   Early breakfast and the long drive down to the plains, about 280 km (8 to 9 hours), with a lunch stop near Tezpur. Drop at Guwahati airport or railway station. Trip ends.

Timings and stays can be adjusted to your dates on enquiry.