Exploring Tawang in June: A Hidden Gem of the Northeast
Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Exploring Tawang in June—often referred to as the ‘Hidden Gem of the Northeast’—is a place where nature whispers ancient tales through mist-covered mountains, monasteries stand as timeless sentinels, and every sunrise feels like a blessing. Exploring Tawang in June is an experience that offers the perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and culture. If you’re seeking a lesser-traveled path with soul-stirring beauty, Tawang is your calling.
Exploring Tawang in June
Why Exploring Tawang in June?
While most travelers flock to the hill stations of Himachal or Uttarakhand during the summer, Tawang remains relatively untouched, making June one of the best times to visit. The snow begins to melt, the roads open up, and nature awakens in full bloom. With temperatures ranging between 10°C to 20°C, the weather is pleasantly cool, perfect for sightseeing and trekking.
Getting There: The Journey is Half the Adventure
Tawang’s remote location is both its charm and its challenge. The nearest airport is in Tezpur or Guwahati (Assam), and from there, it’s a breathtaking road journey of 12-14 hours via Bomdila and Dirang. Though the roads can be winding and rough in places, the views make every twist and turn worth it. Towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and valleys blanketed in rhododendrons accompany you throughout.
Tip: If you’re prone to motion sickness, come prepared. But trust us—it’s a journey you’ll remember forever.
Must-Visit Places in Tawang
1. Tawang Monastery
The crown jewel of Tawang, this is the second-largest monastery in the world and the largest in India. Perched at 10,000 feet, it’s not just a spiritual haven but an architectural marvel. Watching the morning prayer ceremony here is a deeply moving experience.
2. Sela Pass
One of the highest motorable roads in the world, Sela Pass sits at 13,700 feet. In June, you might still spot patches of snow, and the turquoise Sela Lake is a serene stopover. Make sure to spend a few moments in silence—the peace here is otherworldly.
3. Nuranang Falls
Often called Jang Falls, this magnificent waterfall crashes down with a roar amid lush greenery. It’s a great spot for photos, picnics, or simply soaking in the raw beauty of Arunachal Pradesh.
4. Bum La Pass
Located on the Indo-China border, Bum La is steeped in history and patriotism. Visiting here requires a special permit, but the experience of standing at the border and seeing the Indian Army in action is humbling.
5. Madhuri Lake (Sangetsar Lake)
Named after actress Madhuri Dixit, who shot a scene here for the film Koyla, this lake is hauntingly beautiful. Surrounded by dead tree trunks jutting out of the water, it’s a mesmerizing place shrouded in mist and stories.
Experiencing Local Culture
June is also a great time to interact with the Monpa tribe, who are warm and welcoming. You can visit local villages to understand their lifestyle, taste traditional food like zan (a buckwheat-based dish), thukpa, and enjoy butter tea. Their craftsmanship—especially wood carving and weaving—is exquisite and makes for great souvenirs.
If you’re lucky, you might catch local festivals or traditional dances, especially in smaller villages where the Monpa culture is still deeply rooted.
Adventure Activities
- Trekking: Trails around Tawang are ideal for moderate trekkers. The trek to Gorichen Base Camp is particularly popular among adventure enthusiasts.
- Camping: Lakeside camping near P.T. Tso or the forests around Dirang en route to Tawang offer incredible stargazing opportunities.
- Bird Watching: June is a great time for spotting Himalayan birds in the surrounding forests.
Travel Tips for Tawang in June
- Permits: Indian citizens need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Arunachal Pradesh, which can be applied for online. Foreign tourists need a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
- Clothing: Carry layers. Days are pleasant, but evenings can get chilly, especially at higher altitudes.
- Connectivity: Mobile networks are limited. BSNL and Airtel work best, but expect long stretches without signal.
- Health: Carry basic medicines and stay hydrated. The altitude might cause mild discomfort.
- Respect Local Customs: Always ask before photographing people or religious places. Dress modestly when visiting monasteries.
In Summary: Exploring Tawang in June
Exploring Tawang in June is not just a trip—it’s an awakening. It’s where nature, history, and spirituality converge to create an experience that touches your soul. As clouds drift lazily over snow-dusted peaks and monks chant in ancient tongues, you realize that in the stillness of Tawang, life moves at the rhythm of peace.
So pack your bags, leave behind the noise, and let Exploring Tawang in June show you what it means to truly breathe.
