Places to Visit and Things to do in Tawang in February

1. Sangestar Tso (Madhuri Lake)

Sangestar Tso, also called Madhuri Lake, is a high-altitude lake surrounded by mountainous snow. February is similar to January. The lake is still partially frozen, but the ice and the snow covering the ground give the lake a beautiful blue hue. The lake is tectonic and expanded in area by an earthquake, and now it has numerous stumps of trees, contributing to the place’s attractiveness.

It is more favourable for nature lovers and photographers, especially during winter when the freezing environment provides the best backdrop. The clear water of the lake, in combination with the snow and rocky grounds, provides a serene image that gives a rest from the otherwise busy world.

Location:

Sangestar Tso is located approximately 35 kilometers from Tawang, near the Indo-China border.

Timings:

The lake is accessible throughout the day. Early morning visits offer the best light for photography and a peaceful experience.

2. Gyangong Ani Gompa

Gyangong Ani Gompa is located on a hill and is one of the oldest nunneries in Tawang; the site has a magnificent view of the mountains and the valleys. This is especially true in February when Gompa and the rest of the natural area are enhanced with snow, making the place even more appealing. The visitors can talk to the nuns, get more information about monastic life, and join the monastic rites and prayers in a friendly and calm atmosphere.

However, there is a road to the Gompa, but most of the trails, filled with snow, offer a silent and peaceful trek through the mountains to enjoy the natural beauty and learn about the traditions and way of life of the people of the area.

Location:

Gyangong Ani Gompa is situated about 5 kilometers from Tawang town.

Timings:

The gompa is open from early morning until sunset, allowing visitors ample time to experience its tranquility throughout the day.

3. Jaswant Garh War Memorial

Jaswant Garh War Memorial is located in Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh, India. It is dedicated to Rifleman Jaswant Singh Rawat, who fought with extreme courage during the Indo-Chinese War in 1962. At this time, February, the memorial stands buried in snow, which gives the place a haunting and contemplative ambiance.

The memorial honors the contributions made by soldiers, and one can take a tour around the country to understand the various acts of bravery of the soldiers during the war. The view of the surrounding area and the snowy covering contributes to the dynamic nature of the memorial and is appropriate for contemplation or reflection.

Location:

The memorial is located approximately 25 kilometers from Tawang, along the route to Sela Pass.

Timings:

The memorial is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.

4. Nuranang Waterfall

Nuranang Waterfall, also known as Jang Falls, is one of the most enchanting waterfalls of Arunachal. In February, the waterfall gets a thin ice layer around it, producing an optical image of falling water around the frozen body. The environment surrounding the waterfall is very beautiful, supplemented by the fact that the area is normally snowy.

One can only hear the roaring, the water falling, and the fog at the bottom, which is a truly thrilling and enchanting spectacle. People can appreciate the scenery of the falls and use their cameras to capture a memory of this marvel.

Location:

Nuranang Waterfall is located about 40 kilometers from Tawang, near the town of Jang.

Timings:

The waterfall can be visited throughout the day, with afternoon visits offering the best light for capturing its beauty.

5. Tawang War Memorial

The Tawang War Memorial is a 40-foot-high structure built to pay tribute to the soldiers who fought in the 1962 Indo-China war. Even in February, the memorial is decorated with snow, which only enhances the mournful and sacred connotation of the place.

The present memorial complex also consists of a museum exhibit of various belongings and personal effects of the war soldiers, as well as photos and documents. It explains the history of the war and gives people a chance to honor the lost soldiers and heroes. It also has a viewpoint of Tawang Valley; the mountains in the backdrop are crowned with snow and look splendid.

Location:

The Tawang War Memorial is situated near the Tawang town center.

Timings:

The memorial is open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.

6. Tawang Ropeway

The Tawang Ropeway is an adventurous means of transport that ferries people between Tawang town and the Tawang Monastery. The whole trip by cable car is rather breathtaking and provides a view of the valley of Tawang and other mountains.

The journey becomes even more special, especially in February, since the landscape is covered in snow. The ropeway offers a great town view and is an easy way to reach the monastery with such amazing views. It is rather thrilling and quiet when flying above the snowy field.

Location:

The Tawang Ropeway starts from the town center and ends near Tawang Monastery.

Timings:

The ropeway operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, depending on weather conditions.

Things to Do in Tawang in February

1. Snow Trekking

A popular activity in Tawang in February is snow trekking. Some trails, like the one leading to Bum La Pass and Geshila Peak, give an excellent view of the Himalayas and help tourists appreciate the snowy views. When it is done in February, it might be very cold, and some trails will be covered with snow, so the appropriate outfit and equipment must be used.

But the process of trekking through the untouched snowy terrain and observing the untouched beauty of winter is worth it. The condition of the ground and the scenery provide thrill seekers an opportunity to enjoy snow trekking.

Location:

Popular trekking routes include Bum La Pass and Geshila Peak.

Timings:

Trekking can be done throughout the day, with early morning starts recommended for the best experience.

2. Attend Losar Festival

Tibetan New Year, called Losar, is celebrated joyfully in February in Tawang. This fourteen-day celebration and festivity signifies the start of the New Year activity on the Tibetan lunar calendar. Cultural practices involve music, dance, religious novelties, and culturally appropriate meals, which are also a part of the celebrations.

The Tawang people dress up in their best traditional wear and celebrate in monasteries and houses with friends and families. Tourists are welcome to participate in the festivities that portray the rich cultural values of the Monpa society. Visiting the Losar festival is the perfect stage for gaining a cultural experience and seeing the festive atmosphere in Tawang.

Location:

Losar celebrations take place at various monasteries and homes throughout Tawang.

Timings:

The festival is celebrated over several days, with the main events occurring in the mornings and afternoons.

3. Ice Fishing at Shonga-Tser Lake

February is still cold and perfect for ice fishing, allowing visitors to enjoy Shonga-Tser Lake’s beauty. This winter sport takes place on the shores of the lake, which is only half-frozen. Ice fishing is fishing which is done through a hole that is made in ice and waits for the fish to bite.

The calmness of the surroundings, with the mountains blanketed in snow, makes it even more enjoyable. So many types of fish are found in the lake; thus, the activity is both enjoyable and fruitful. The experience of fishing at such a calm and beautiful place is one of the highlights of a winter trip to Tawang.

Location:

Shonga-Tser Lake is located about 35 kilometers from Tawang, near the Indo-China border.

Timings:

Ice fishing is best done during daylight hours when the ice is stable and the weather is clear.

4. Yak Safari

Yak Safari is one of the thrilling activities in Tawang that offers an interesting way of traversing through snow-clad terrains. Yaks, indigenous to the Himalayas region, are hardy animals adapted to cold and mountainous surroundings.

The travelers are taken through beautiful sites, including snow-covered areas and frozen lakes. Yak riding is a traditional and interesting way to travel since guests are offered a close look at the feelings of being in nature and interacting with the locals.

The advantage of a slow-moving safari in contrast with other fast-moving spectacles, such as horseback riding, is that it makes it a much more relaxing experience, and the stunning winter backdrop provides a colorful backdrop to the safari. It is one of the best ways to enjoy the scenery of Tawang and, at the same time, gain insight into the local way of transporting goods and people.

Location:

Yak safaris are available in various locations around Tawang, including near the Tawang Monastery and Sela Pass.

Timings:

The safaris are conducted during the day, with mid-morning to early afternoon being the best times.

5. Visit the Craft Center and Emporium

A visit to the Craft Center and Emporium at Tawang can give you a fair idea about the Monpa handicrafts and even help you purchase them. Exhibits showcased include hand-woven fabric materials, carpets, wooden carvings, and native dresses. Ideally, February is the best time to visit because this center comforts you when the outside world is cold.

To sum up, it is possible to see how masters produce handcrafts, read about making these stunning articles, and purchase souvenirs. The center also gives a perspective of the area’s culture and, therefore, is useful for people who would like to learn more about the traditional way of the region’s artwork.

Location:

The Craft Center and Emporium is located in Tawang town.

Timings:

The center is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Saturday.

6. Relax at a Local Café

With the cold weather in February, spending time in one of the local cafés in Tawang is ideal. There are a couple of rather picturesque locales in the town where you may have a cup of hot beverage, taste homemade pastries, and feel quite cozy—drinking a hot cup of butter tea or relishing Monpa food while watching snow-blanketing streets and mountains.

Most cafés also have a touch of tradition in music playing and offer an opportunity to engage with the people, making them even more culturally encompassing. Visiting a café is always a good thing, especially after a day of touring or moving around within the city to taste the local dishes and have a feel of the social part of the country.

Location:

Local cafés are spread throughout Tawang town.

Timings:

Cafés are open throughout the day, with most staying open until evening.

In February, Tawang defines the true meaning of beauty with snow-clad mountains, colorful festivities, and numerous things to do. Anyone who travels to Bhutan can find something of interest in visitation, ranging from beautiful lakes and old monasteries to festivals and winter activities.

In winter, the main feeling is often connected to fresh air and marvelous views of the snowy landscape, which open up great opportunities for complete relaxation and extreme sports.

The beauty of choice, whether looking forward to the nature presented by Tawag or the historical cultures of the town, is that in February, there is so much to feast on when in the heart of the Himalayas.