Planning a trip to Tawang but not sure when to go? From snow-covered monasteries to blooming summer valleys, this guide covers everything you need to know about the best time to visit Tawang.
Tawang, a gem in Arunachal Pradesh’s highlands, is a destination that captivates with its ever-changing seasonal beauty.
Whether you’re chasing snow-draped mountains, blooming valleys, or serene spiritual retreats, the best time to visit Tawang depends on the experience you seek.
This guide breaks down Tawang’s seasons to help you plan the perfect trip. From snowy winters to vibrant springs, here’s everything you need to know.
This photo was taken by our founder, Noshad, at Sela Pass (13,700 ft) during a different season. Instagram: @wild9sd
Why Visit Tawang?
Tawang blends natural splendor with cultural richness. Home to the iconic Tawang Monastery, breathtaking Sela Pass, and the adventurous Bumla Pass, it’s a haven for nature lovers, photographers, and spiritual seekers. Each season transforms Tawang, offering unique experiences for every kind of traveler.
When Should You Visit? Best Time to Visit Tawang
November to March – Snowy Winter Wonderland
Dreaming of a winter escape with snow-covered peaks? This is the best time to visit Tawang for snow lovers.
What to Expect:
- Snowfall: Mid-December to March brings heavy snow, especially at Bumla Pass, Sela Pass, and high-altitude areas. Snow lingers until May in some spots.
- Prolonged Snow Views: Snow often graces the high-altitude regions like Sela Pass and Bumla Pass well into May, offering extended opportunities for snow lovers.
- Generally Open Roads: While the roads are mostly open and safe for travel, be aware that Sela Pass might experience temporary closures (1-2 days) during periods of heavy snowfall.
- Chilly Temperatures: Daytime temperatures hover around a cool 5°C, while nights can drop to a frosty -5°C to -10°C. Pack accordingly!
⚠️ Stay Informed: For the latest real-time Tawang road conditions, especially updates on Sela Pass, follow Wild Hill Adventure’s Instagram @wildhilladventure before and during your trip.
A beautiful drone video captured by our founder, Noshad, showcasing Tawang and its surrounding region. It looks heavenly beautiful. Instagram: @wild9sd
🧳 Essential Winter Travel Tips for Tawang:
- Pack Smart: Layering is key! Bring heavy winter gear, including thermal base layers, insulated jackets, waterproof and windproof outerwear, warm gloves, hats, scarves, and sturdy, insulated waterproof boots.
- Comfortable Stays: Ensure your accommodation has a reliable geyser for hot water and a heater to combat the cold. When you travel with Wild Hill Adventure, we prioritize your comfort with well-equipped stays.
- Cautious Driving: Avoid self-driving unless you are highly experienced in navigating snowy and icy roads. Consider hiring a local driver who is familiar with the winter terrain.
- Health Essentials: Carry basic medications for colds, fever, and altitude sickness as a precaution.
April to June: Experience the Blooming Beauty of Tawang's Spring and Early Summer
Considered by many as the best overall time to visit Tawang, spring and early summer bring mild, sunny weather and a vibrant burst of life to the valleys.
✅ What to Expect in Tawang During Spring/Early Summer:
- Clear Roads and Sunny Skies: Enjoy hassle-free travel with clear roads and pleasant, sunny weather.
- A Riot of Colors: Witness the spectacular bloom of rhododendrons and a myriad of other wildflowers painting the hillsides in vibrant hues.
- Ideal for Outdoor Activities: This season is perfect for trekking through picturesque trails, immersing yourself in local village life, and capturing stunning nature photography.
🌿 Must-See Destinations in Tawang During Spring/Early Summer:
- Shergaon: The Lush Orchard Village: Explore the verdant landscapes of Shergaon, famous for its apple and kiwi orchards in full bloom.
- Sela Pass: Floral Paradise with Snowy Peaks: Experience the unique beauty of Sela Pass adorned with colorful flowers, with lingering patches of snow on the higher mountain peaks providing a stunning contrast.
- Sangti Valley: A Dreamlike Green Retreat: Discover the tranquil and almost ethereal beauty of Sangti Valley, with its lush greenery and peaceful ambiance.
- Tawang Monastery: Peaceful Exploration in Perfect Weather: Explore the majestic Tawang Monastery, the largest monastery in India, in the pleasant and comfortable weather.
☀️ Pleasant Temperatures: Expect comfortable daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
🥾 Activity Level: This season is fantastic for all levels of outdoor exploration, from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes and scenic road trips.
Here are some itineraries for Tawang: Best Time to Visit Tawang
Sangti Valley in the monsoon season – captured by Noshad @wild9sd
While the monsoon season blankets Tawang in a vibrant green, it’s generally less recommended for regular tourists due to potential travel disruptions.
⚠️ What to Expect in Tawang During the Monsoon:
Lush Green Landscapes: The monsoon transforms Tawang into a breathtaking sea of greenery. Hills and valleys come alive with vibrant vegetation at their lushest.
Majestic Waterfalls: Rain-fed waterfalls are at their most powerful and awe-inspiring, cascading through the mountains with incredible force and beauty.
Blooming Wildflowers: Monsoon brings a burst of color as wildflowers bloom across the landscape, adding charm to every trail and meadow.
Misty Skies & Serene Atmosphere: While clouds may obscure some views, they also add a mystical, dreamlike quality to the scenery—perfect for photography and reflection.
A True Himalayan Experience: The rain-washed paths, cool mountain breeze, and rhythmic sound of rainfall offer an immersive connection to nature.
🍁 Best Suited For:
Ideal for adventurous travelers, nature lovers, documentary filmmakers, and anyone eager to experience the untamed beauty of Tawang in its most dramatic and green season.
September to November: Discover the Tranquil Post-Monsoon & Autumn Bliss in Tawang
Often an underrated yet truly magical time to visit Tawang, the post-monsoon and autumn months offer a serene and picturesque experience.
🍂 What to Expect in Tawang During Post-Monsoon/Autumn:
- Post-Monsoon Clarity: Enjoy crisp, clear skies and lush green valleys rejuvenated by the monsoon rains. Waterfalls will be flowing in their full glory.
- Golden Hues of Autumn: As Tawang prepares for winter, the landscape takes on a beautiful golden and reddish hue, perfect for photography.
- Perfect Road Conditions: Roads are generally in excellent condition after the monsoon, ensuring smooth and comfortable travel.
- Fewer Tourists: Experience a more peaceful and less crowded Tawang compared to the peak spring/summer season.
🔥 Ideal For:
- Calm and Introspective Explorers: Those seeking a tranquil and less crowded travel experience.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Capture the stunning clarity of the landscapes and the vibrant autumn colors.
- Couples and Solo Travelers: Perfect for romantic getaways or solo adventures seeking offbeat experiences.
Check out this 6-day itinerary video: Best Time to Visit Tawang
Check out this 6-day itinerary video! We also have many more videos related to Tawang and the Northeast on the ‘Northeast Noshad’ 🎬 YouTube channel
If you love culture and festivals, visit during the Torgya or Losar festival
If you love culture and festivals, visit during the Torgya or Losar festival. For more information, watch our Torgya Festival series.
ILP (Inner Line Permit) – Is it Required for Indians to Enter Arunachal Pradesh?
Yes, definitely! Indian citizens need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh.
📝 How to Apply for an ILP:
You can apply for the ILP through both online and offline methods:
🔹 Online:
Visit the official ILP portal of Arunachal Pradesh – [Click here]
🔹 Offline:
You can also apply at the entry gates of Arunachal Pradesh.
🎒 Traveling with Us?
If you’re traveling with us, we’ll handle all the required permits for you — including the ILP and Bumla Pass permits.
📌 Summary: Choosing Your Best Time to Visit Tawang
|
Season |
Best For |
Key Attractions |
|
Nov – Mar |
Snow lovers, winter photography enthusiasts |
Sela Pass (snow), Bumla Pass (snow), Snowy Tawang town |
|
Apr – Jun |
Flower blooms, best overall road access |
Shergaon (orchards), Sangti Valley (greenery), Tawang Monastery |
|
Jul – Aug |
Offbeat explorers, lush green views |
Waterfalls (full flow), vibrant nature |
|
Sep – Nov |
Peaceful travel, post-rain freshness |
Valleys (clear views), Trekking, Autumn colors, Local festivals |
Ready to Experience the Best of Tawang?
When you travel with Wild Hill Adventure, you’re not just booking a tour — you’re connecting with a locally-rooted, authentic travel company that has hosted over 1,000 happy travelers with a consistent 4.9-star rating.
We know Tawang not just as a destination, but as our home — and we bring you the real, raw, and beautiful side of Arunachal that most tourists miss. From seasonal guidance to personalized care, we’re here to make your journey unforgettable.
🎥 Don’t just take our word for it —
👉 Watch our guest review videos here
📞 Have questions? Reach us
on WhatsApp at +91 9365476611
📩 Email: wildhilladventure@gmail.com
📸 Follow daily updates and travel stories on Instagram: @wildhilladventure
Let’s plan your perfect trip — the Wild Hill way 🌄
FAQs for Tawang Tours: Best Time to Visit Tawang
1. Do I need any special permits to visit Tawang?
Yes, Indian nationals require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Tawang. This can be obtained online or at designated entry points.
2. Do you need a permit to visit Bumla Pass?
Yes, a special permit is required to visit Bumla Pass, and only Indian citizens are allowed in this region. The permit must be arranged in advance, usually through a local tour operator or the DC office in Tawang.
3. How do I reach Tawang?
Tawang is accessible by road from Guwahati, Tezpur, or Itanagar.
The nearest airport is in Tezpur, but the largest and most convenient airport is in Guwahati, which offers better connectivity and more frequent flights.
4. How many days are recommended for a Tawang tour?
A 6 to 10-day itinerary is ideal to fully explore Tawang and nearby attractions like Bumla Pass, Sangti Valley, and Madhuri Lake.
5. Are there good accommodation options in Tawang?
Yes, Tawang has a variety of accommodations ranging from budget homestays to comfortable hotels and resorts to suit all types of travelers.
6. What kind of clothing should I pack for Tawang?
Pack warm clothing even during summer, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at high altitudes. If visiting during monsoon, rain gear is essential.
7. Is Tawang suitable for family travel?
Yes, Tawang is family-friendly, but due to its high altitude and mountainous terrain, it’s important to plan carefully—especially if you’re traveling with young children or elderly family members.
8 Day Tawang Itinerary – From Offbeat to Famous Places in One Video | Tips from a Local
🌄 8-Day Tawang Itinerary with Wild Hill Adventure
Explore breathtaking landscapes, rich Buddhist culture, and hidden gems of Arunachal Pradesh
Day 1: Guwahati to Shergaon (210 KM)
✅ Start your journey early from Guwahati toward Shergaon, a charming town on the way to Tawang.
✅ Visit Kamakhya Temple for blessings — a spiritual start to your adventure.
✅ Stop by Bhairabkunda and admire the scenic beauty.
✅ Drive through the Indo-Bhutan mountain road and visit the Indo-Bhutan Friendship Gate.
✅ If time and permissions allow, explore Bhutan Country, Bhutan Village, and Bhutan Café (carry Aadhaar card and Voter ID for entry).
✅ Reach Shergaon and enjoy the serene ambiance in the evening.
✅ Overnight stay in Shergaon.
🕒 The best time to visit Tawang and this region all the year
Day 2: Shergaon to Sangti Valley
✅ Visit apple, kiwi, and orange orchards in the morning.
✅ Drive to Sangti Valley, a hidden gem known for its lush greenery and river views.
✅ Stop at Rupa Town, a picturesque stopover.
✅ Explore Bomdila Viewpoint and Bomdila Monastery.
✅ Reach Sangti Valley and enjoy the evening at a riverside homestay.
✅ Relax by the bonfire at night beside the tranquil Sangti River.
✅ Overnight stay in Sangti Valley.
🌿 Sangti is at its most beautiful during the best time to visit Tawang — late spring through early autumn.
Day 3: Explore Sangti Valley
✅ Enjoy sunrise and breakfast by the riverside.
✅ Soak in the peace of Sangti River and take a gentle walk along the banks.
✅ Visit the scenic Mandala Top.
✅ Explore Dirang Monastery and Dirang Market.
✅ Discover the magical Chug Valley, filled with seasonal wildflowers.
✅ Visit a local sheep farm and interact with the pastoral community.
✅ Overnight stay in Sangti Valley, with another riverside bonfire under the stars.
📸 The best time to visit Tawang and Sangti Valley is between April and June or September to december for ideal weather and natural beauty.
Day 4: Dirang to Tawang
✅ Start your journey to Tawang — the cultural heart of Arunachal Pradesh.
✅ Stop in Chug Valley for scenic beauty and authentic Monpa food at Damu’s Heritage Dine (pre-order required).
✅ Cross Sela Pass (13,700 ft) and visit Sela Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
✅ Enjoy Maggi and tea at high altitude for a cozy experience.
✅ Stop at Jaswant Garh War Memorial, dedicated to a 1962 Indo-China war hero.
✅ Arrive in Tawang by evening, check in, and relax.
✅ Overnight stay in Tawang.
🏔️ Sela Pass is most accessible during the best time to visit Tawang
Day 5: Tawang Sightseeing
✅ After breakfast, visit Tawang Monastery, the largest monastery in India.
✅ Walk across the historic Chagjam Suspension Bridge.
✅ Explore Khinmey Monastery, a lesser-known gem.
✅ Visit the Tawang War Memorial, a tribute to Indian soldiers.
✅ Head to Urgelling Monastery, the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama.
✅ In the evening, shop at the local market for handicrafts and souvenirs.
✅ Overnight stay in Tawang.
Day 6: Tawang – Bumla Pass, Madhuri Lake & Chumi Gyatse
✅ Early morning departure to Bumla Pass (15,200 ft) — located at the India-China border.
✅ Visit Madhuri Lake (Shonga-Tser Lake), made famous by Bollywood.
✅ Stop at PTSO Lake, ideal for stunning photographs and nature walks.
✅ Visit the sacred Chumi Gyatse Falls (Holy Waterfalls), believed to have healing properties and rich spiritual significance.
✅ Optionally, take a short trek to a nearby hot water spring.
✅ Return to Tawang by evening.
✅ Overnight stay in Tawang.
Day 7: Tawang to Bhalukpong/Bomdila/Nameri
✅ Start your journey back after breakfast.
✅ Stop at Nuranang Falls, a breathtaking sight with its rainbow mist.
✅ Visit Jameri Viewpoint en route.
✅ Reach Bhalukpong or nearby areas (Nameri/Bomdila).
✅ Overnight stay in Bhalukpong/Bomdila/Nameri.
Day 8: Bhalukpong to Guwahati
✅ After breakfast, drive back to Guwahati.
✅ Enjoy forest landscapes and lush green tea gardens.
✅ Visit the Tipi Orchidarium, home to over 500 orchid species.
✅ Stop for an authentic Assamese thali at a recommended local restaurant.
✅ Drop-off at Guwahati Airport or city.
🎒 End your journey with memories of one of India’s most enchanting destinations. The best time to visit Tawang ensures you enjoy both nature and culture at their finest.
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