Places to Visit and Things to Do in Tawang in August

1. Sela Pass

Tawang boasts about the Sela Pass, which is regarded as the highest motorable mountain pass in the world, and definitely, it looks best in August. The monsoon rains pour on the region, and the mountains surrounding the plain are covered with fog and a misty aura.

The pass also has the beauty of Sela Lake, which is so captivating, especially when reflecting the cloudy sky and the snow-clad peaks. The way to reach this place, Sela Pass itself, is a beautiful drive, mostly cruising on roads by turning and twisting, where one can get the bird’s eye view of the Eastern Himalayas. There is fresh and clean air, just like in most alpine regions, and the scenery of the pass is very calm and free of human interference.

Although the roads are not great, especially during the rainy season, getting to this out-of-bound place with gorgeous views is such a reward. It is not just a passage to Tawang but a place that is virgin and can provide absolute peace to the wanderer.

Location:

Approximately 78 km from Tawang town

Timings:

Accessible throughout the day, but it’s advisable to visit during daylight hours

2. Jaswant Garh War Memorial

Jaswant Garh War Memorial of Neemuch is dedicated to the brave Indian soldier Jaswant Singh Rawat, who bravely fought the 1962 Indo-China war. This memorial is located at Lumla, about 10 km from Sela Pass and 20 km from Tawang, and the memorial is dedicated to the brave Indian soldiers. August is the time when the site is often surrounded by fog, which gives a totally mysterious atmosphere to the tourists.

It is quite clean, with a statue of Jaswant Singh right in the middle of this park, which has various signs that describe the events of the war. The visitors also can observe a small shrine devoted to him, and people – both inhabitants of the island and the military – come to honor him. It is rather a sad place to visit, yet the simplicity of the environment is rather healing.

The visit to Jaswant is highly inspiring in terms of nationalism and respect for the courage of the officers who fight in the harsh Himalayan terrains.

Location:

Near Sela Pass, around 25 km from Tawang town

Timings:

6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

3. Tawang Monastery

Tawang Monastery, which is the largest in India and second largest in the world, is one of the main attractions of Tawang. In August, there was a great impression because the green environment surrounding the monastery was influenced by monsoon rain, and it also felt more spiritual. Beverly was established in the 17th century as a beautiful monastery that shelters more than 450 monks to date. The main prayer hall, with a towering statue of Lord Buddha in the middle, is possibly stunning.

Tourists can move around the different temples and the library that contains scriptures; the monastic chambers are also open for visitors. It also has a view of the Tawang Valley, where, in August, there is a mysterious haze most of the time. The calmness of the setting in the monastery, the sound of the rain, and the prayer will indeed make the ideal tapestry of the movie to encourage spirituality and the achievement of inner peace.

Apart from being a monastic complex, Tawang Monastery represents the history and culture of the land, revealing the essence of Buddhism that was practiced in the area.

Location:

Tawang town

Timings:

7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

4. Nuranang Waterfall (Jung Falls)

Nuranang Waterfall, also known as Jung Falls, is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Arunachal Pradesh. Located about 40 km from Tawang, the waterfall cascades from a height of 100 meters, creating a breathtaking sight, especially during the monsoon season when the water flow is at its peak.

The surrounding area is lush with greenery, and the sound of the waterfall adds to the tranquil atmosphere. A visit to Nuranang Waterfall in August offers an exhilarating experience as you can feel the cool mist from the waterfall on your face. The area around the falls is perfect for photography, picnics, or simply soaking in the natural beauty.

Despite its remote location, the waterfall is easily accessible and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The raw power and beauty of Nuranang Waterfall make it a must-visit attraction in Tawang during the monsoon season.

Location:

40 km from Tawang town, near the town of Jang

Timings:

Best visited during daylight hours

5. Tawang War Memorial

The Tawang War Memorial is one of the most important places to visit in Tawang, where war martyrs’ Gompa is placed for the visitors to pay their homage. This is a 40-foot-high structure erected in a stupa form with prayer flags flying around the structure, and I found it very calming to sit, stand, or even walk around it.

The memorial is located in a beautiful park, and in the month of August, due to the monsoon rains, it is very green. Exhibits, photographs, documents, and other items are kept here, describing the brave deeds of the soldiers. An advantage of this place is that the surrounding mountains enhance the serenity of the place.

It would be rather emotional to visit the Tawang War Memorial in August as it has a great combination of historical tracing and the possibility of enjoying sightseeing without any disturbing opinions about the current state of the region.

Location:

Near Tawang town

Timings:

7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

6. Pankang Teng Tso Lake

Teng Tso Lake, also known as P. T. Tso Lake, is another fascination of Tawang; this is a beautiful high-altitude lake about 17 km away from Tawang. The lake is located surrounded by alpine meadows, and during the monsoons, the beauty of the place is augmented by the rising mist and the flowers that bloom in this region.

To get to the lake, one has to drive along the beautiful routes, which makes getting there almost equally exciting. There are several things that one can do at the lake: take a walk along the bank, have his or her picnic, or do nothing but just enjoy the calmness of the lake. Hence, the cool and crisp air and relative quiet that surrounds Pankang Teng Tso Lake make it quite ideal to have a feel of life away from busy activities.

There are also several species of birds that can be found around the lake and near its shores. Traveling to Pankang Teng Tso Lake during August offers tranquility amidst the scenic nature and a quiet time of reflection.

Location:

17 km from Tawang town

Timings:

Accessible throughout the day

Things to Do in Tawang in August

1. Go Trekking in the Monsoon

Traveling to Tawang during the rainy time is another exciting trip that provides exciting experiences in touring around this beautiful land. Trekking can be done through the rain-washed slopes, green terrains, and region splotched with wildflowers. The following are Tawang trekking options, both short and long.

These Tawang trekking options are either short or long and have been classified from easy to the most difficult. Probably the most frequently voiced hiking trail is to Gorichen Peak – one of the highest points in Arunachal Pradesh. This trek is, however, tiring, but you will be rewarded with excellent views of the surrounding mountains and valleys – most of which are enshrouded with a cool mist.

Another option is the trek, which enables you to visit Bum La Pass, where you trek through forests, lakes, etc. The presence of monsoon makes these treks interesting as one will have to be very careful when climbing up since the path is slippery and the weather can be unpredictable, but this makes the paths more attractive and full of life.

Visiting Tawang in August could be one of the most adventurous activities with regard to nature for those people who are fond of trekking.

Location:

Various trekking routes around Tawang

Timings:

Early morning to late afternoon (weather dependent)

2. Experience the Local Monpa Culture

There is no better way of learning about the culture of Tawang than to interact with the locals who are the Monpa. The month of August is ideally suited for travelers to interact with the locals and understand how they live, what they believe in, and so on. Due to the relatively low season for tourism, one can easily learn and even participate in some of the customs and rituals of the local people.

You can go to nearby villages where you can see the Monpa people’s homes, which are mainly constructed from timber and stone, and taste the genuine Monpa hospitality. Engage in traditional cooking, which will also introduce you to the foods in the region, including Thukpa and Zan.

You can also listen to and watch the folk dances and songs presented by the Monpa community residing in the area. Nevertheless, the cultural activities are well complemented by the monsoon, and the beautiful surroundings of the village add to its beauty. Familiarising with the Monpa people in August means learning a great deal about the history of the region and the people, which would make your time in Tawang nothing less than rewarding.

Location:

Local villages around Tawang

Timings:

Throughout the day

3. Visit the Handicraft Center

Tawang has a very historical and traditional involvement in the handicraft field, and visits to a handicraft center are a must-go for anyone interested in the art and craft of the region. A trip to the Tawang Handicraft Center, run by the local government, will enable you to see local people at work, and if interested, you can make your purchase.

During August, as the monsoon brings rain to the region, one feels welcomed into the warm handicraft center to watch the artists at work in the creation of Thangka paintings, hand-crafted carpets, and wooden masks, among others. The center, to enhance the visitors’ experience, also provides an opportunity to work on some artifacts and get acquainted with the real craftsmen’s work during the workshops.

Well, it is good to witness how the shoes are being made and, at the same time, fulfill the need to purchase shoes from local industries for those looking for souvenirs to buy or anyone with curiosity about the arts and crafts of Arunachal, Tawang Handicraft Centre is a pleasant visit.

Location:

Tawang town

Timings:

9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

4. Bird Watching at Sangetsar Lake (Madhuri Lake)

Sangetsar Lake, commonly known as Madhuri Lake, is a wonderful tourist place to visit and a heaven for those who are interested in bird watching. Located at an elevation of 4,695 feet, surrounded by snow-clad mountains and virgin forests, the lake is an ornithologist’s delight, particularly during the monsoon months when the countryside comes alive with a beautiful green carpet.

The weather in August also presents the lake and the birds with a mysterious fog that further enriches bird watching. Some of the birds that are easily observed here are migratory birds, aquatic birds, and even birds that are found in the Himalayan region. It is enjoyable because of the calm atmosphere in the park as well as the bird vocalization.

You might want to bring some binoculars and perhaps a bird identification guide to help you enjoy this to the fullest. Whether you are a bird-watching enthusiast or seeking a serene environment to relax in, bird-watching at Sangetsar Lake in the month of August is highly recommended.

Location:

Around 30 km from Tawang town

Timings:

Early morning to late afternoon

5. Enjoy a Traditional Monpa Hot Stone Bath

To complete the day that was spent wandering across Tawang during the monsoon season, the multicultural hot stone bath of Monpa people is just perfect. One of the traditional Chinese treatments still in use today is the tradition called ‘Men-chu,’ which entails bathing in a wooden tub with water heated by stones that have been heated by fire. Some people put herbs into the water, and the water is regarded to have certain medical effects on the human body.

It further pointed out that the hot stone bath soaks one’s muscles and improves blood flow while reducing muscle pain. Some of the local homestays and wellness centers in Tawang for this experience include.

When it comes to choosing the right time for the hot stone bath, it is convenient to mention that in August, when the temperature is caused by monsoon, the water and the atmosphere feel warm. It is also a great way to relax after a day of tourist activities or treks, which could give one an insight into how the Monpa community used to take hot stone baths.

Location:

Available at select homestays and wellness centers in Tawang

Timings:

Late afternoon to evening

6. River Rafting in the Kameng River

The Kameng River that flows through Tawang gives adventure lovers a wonderful opportunity to go river rafting in the month of August. The Kameng River is a river that starts from glacial lakes from the Himalayas and contains rapids that range from those that are easy to those of the expert level. During this time, the river is extended by the monsoon, and the rapids are much more intense, and the experience is all the more of a rush.

During your cruise, with the loud noise of the water, you will come across different fascinating sceneries, such as forests, mountains, and compacted villages. This one is an adventure as it encompasses the actual fight against the rapids while at the same time embracing the stunning waters splashing through the Eastern Himalayas.

As with other adventure tours, safety gear and/or other safety features to be offered in the course of the trip will be provided by local tour operators. The joyous ride in the Kameng River through river rafting is a must-try activity for adventure lovers who are in Tawang during August.

Location:

Kameng River, accessible from Tawang

Timings:

Morning to early afternoon

If you are planning to visit Tawang, then the most suitable time is in August, when tourists can get a glimpse of natural beauty along with the cultural and adventurous features. Indeed, rain is beautiful, and in this part of the world, especially during the monsoon seasons, the region is at its best, with lots of greeneries and tranquility. Be it historical places, cultural encounters, or adventurous activities within nature’s embrace, Tawang has something or the other for every tourist. Therefore, come prepared with your raincoats and umbrellas and learn what makes Tawang special in August.