Tawang Tour - Budget Package

Tawang Tour Package Overview

Tawang, the land of the Lamas, is a beauty that you could never miss in your lifetime. Situated at 10,000 feet above sea level, this paradise of a place is all the beautiful landscapes that you have seen in movies and paintings. The largest Buddhist monastery in the country is situated here, with a 28 feet tall Buddha statue in gold.

Monks on Wheels in association with Muddie Trails takes you to a remote and picturesque town situated in the state of Arunachal Pradesh offering breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan mountain range.

Tawang is known for the high passes it has, which are home to calming and soothing glacial lakes. One of the highest passes in the world located close to international borders can be found here, the Sela pass, which has to be crossed to reach Tawang. This is at an altitude of 13,700 feet. Here, travelers can take in the breathtaking views as well as lots of Army vehicles.

Apart from Sela pass, the Bumla pass, at an altitude of 15,200 feet, is also an added attraction to Tawang. You will be filled with a sense of patriotism and nationalism, seeing our brave soldiers protecting our country in the harshest climates and terrains. The Bomdila town, full of apple orchards, and the stone village of Dirang also will give you experiences that you have never felt before. Being the least densely populated state of India, the serenity and peace the state has to offer accompanied by the unmatching scenic beauty, are indeed pure and unpolluted.

The state, most commonly being the followers of Buddhist culture, is also home to colorful and vibrant architecture, which adds richness to the monasteries and stupas that can be found there. The warmth and hospitality of the people are overwhelming.

Join us on this trip of a lifetime to the “silent paradise” Tawang.

Highlights of the Tawang Trip:

Tawang Monastery

Bum La Pass (India China Border Post)

The Paradise Lake of Sela Pass

Jang Waterfalls

Dirang Monastery

Madhuri Lake

Tawang War memorial

High Mountain Passes – Bomdila & Sela

Sela Tunnel – one of the world’s highest tunnels

Giant Buddha Statue of Tawang

Captivating sights of the North Eastern Himalayas

Café run by Indian Army at 13000 ft above sea

Short Itinerary

Day 1: Guwahati to Tezpur/Bhalukpong

Travelers arriving by flight will be picked up and assisted by our team at the Guwahati Airport around 12.30- 1.00 PM.

The first stop is Tezpur, the highway to which runs parallel to the mighty Brahmaputra river, filling in the air of enthusiasm in you.

The journey generally takes around 5 hours, including a lunch break, and covers about 200 Km.

We will then directly check in to the guest houses, either at Tezpur or Bhulukpong, as per availability, late in the evening.

After checking in, you may go out to the market for a walk, shopping for things and items required for the trip.

After dinner, let us rest for the day to get ready for the big day ahead.

Day 2: Bhalukpong to Dirang, Orchid Center, Waterfalls, Dirang Monastery

Check out of the stay after Breakfast.

The BRO (Border Roads Organization) have done such a tremendous job with the roads that most of the time, one wouldn’t even feel that we are passing through mighty Himalayas.

Along the way, we will stop by at Tippi Orchid Research center, a seasonal waterfalls, beautiful view points to appreciate the sights of free flowing Tenga and Kameng rivers of Arunachal.

Take a Lunch break close to Bomdila pass.

After a pit stop at Bomdila view point, we will move towards our next destination for the day – Dirang and explore the colorful Dirang monastary.

Reach Dirang guest house by late evening, social gathering, Dinner and rest.

Day 3: Dirang to Tawang, Sela Pass, Indian Army Canteen at 13000 feet, Paradise Lake

Have Breakfast and check out of the stay.

Today we will head to our next destination Tawang by passing via one of the highest motorable roads in Himalayas called Sela pass.

One of the attractive things today is the Cafe run by Indian Army at Sela pass and their warm hospitality. One can have different snacks here and a hot Tea is sponsored by the Army

We will witness Paradise lake of Sela Pass at 13,700 feet above sea level to soak into the serene setting. The Sela lake is surrounded by snow most part of the year.

After a Lunch break, we will continue our descend to reach the land of Lamas – Tawang.

Owing to the proximity of border with China, one can find large swathes of Army vehicles all around. It really feels safe and secure out there, and a sense of pride.

Check into our Tawang guest house and refresh.

Dinner and socialize. Sleep on the cozy beds in the chilling weather.

Day 4: BumLa Pass Day Trip, Madhuri Lake, Tawang War Memorial, Market

Start the day with Breakfast in the tranquil town of Tawang.

Today is an interesting day where we will go on a special permit road trip to the highest point of the trip – BumLa pass. Our tourist vehicles are not allowed to go there, and hence we will take a special cab from Tawang.

The journey takes us along the scenic glacier lakes straight to the Indo-China border post.

Along with peeking into the Chinese side, visitors can also view beyond the border by a few binoculars.

One can get refreshed at the Army canteen that serves hot snacks, tea and desserts.

On our way back, we will take a stop at picturesque Sangetsar lake (famously called as Madhuri lake).

Have Lunch at a local restaurant.

Give a visit to the 1962 Tawang War memorial and salute to the sacrifices of Indian soldiers who bravely defended our mother land.

Take an evening walk in the Tawang market to shop some souvenirs before wrapping up things for the day.

Finish Dinner and take good rest at our Tawang guest house.

Day 5: Tawang Monastery, Giant Buddha, Jang Falls, Journey to Bomdila

Today we shall wake up early to explore every nook and corner of mesmerizing Tawang Monastery, the largest of its kind in India. Tawang monastery is second only to the biggest monastery in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. The colorful architecture and peaceful surroundings inspired by Buddhist way of life will touch your soul and heart.

Have Breakfast, pack your bags & check out of the stay.

Visit giant Buddha statue of Tawang located on a hill where we get panoramic views of Tawang.

Stop by at towering Jang falls (also called Nuranang waterfalls) and take some pictures. On a sunny day, one can even spot a rainbow at this gushing waterfall which is usually gushing during rains.

Continue journey towards mountain town Bomdila traveling through dense forest.

Take an evening stroll around the Bomdila market.

Gather at a common area to socialize one last time during the trip.

Finish Dinner & rest for the night.

Day 6: Bomdila to Guwahati

Pack your bags, check out after Breakfast and say goodbye to Arunachal Pradesh.

With all the spectacular images of Tawang valley, Buddhist culture and sweetest people fresh in our mind, we will take our return journey back to the planes of Assam. It feels like leaving a part of paradise and coming back to earth.

You may book flights after 9 PM or we shall help you with pointing a guest house in Guwahati for the night so that you could leave the next day.

Note:

If you wish to visit the Kaziranga National Park in Assam by extending your stay, our team can lend assistance in guiding you.

For booking tickets at discounted rates also, you could contact our team.

Price Includes

Travel for 6 days (Guwahati to Guwahati)

Stay for 5 nights

5 Breakfasts

Inner Line Permit (ILP) charges

Special vehicle for BumLa pass

Entry tickets for Tawang War Memorial, Jang Waterfalls, Orchid Park​

Trip Guide* (for a group of above 6 members)

Airport pickup and drop (fixed timings)

Once in a lifetime experience visiting all places mentioned in Highlights section

GST

Price Excludes

Lunches & Dinners

Any additional snacks, drinks ordered at the stays

Any kind of activities other than mentioned above

Any kind of insurance, shopping, party, medical expenses

Any misc. expenses that are not in inclusions above

Any extra cost arising due to any change in the itinerary/stay/route on account of bad weather, traffic-congestion, landslides/roadblocks, natural calamities, political disturbances and/or any other factors beyond our control.

Advisory

About Trip:

This trip involves basic facilities in terms of food, travel, and stay without any luxury, whatsoever.

This is a group trip with shared model. It may not suit everyone – especially for those expecting privacy and comfort. It best suits for people who wish to socialize.

Please do not book this trip if you are not okay with above points.

Travel:

Trip starting/ending point: Guwahati

Pick up and drop at Guwahati Airport

Tempo, SUV or similar tourist vehicle (6 days journey)

Start time: First day, 1 PM (afternoon)

End time: Sixth day, 9 PM

You can book flights to/from Guwahati based on the above timings.

Note: Our team can also assist you in booking your flight tickets.

There is no night journey on this trip. All travel is during day time.

Stay:

Comfortable Guest Houses / Homestays

2 or 3 sharing rooms (based on group combination).

Tawang: Homestay for 2 nights.

Dirang/Sangti: Homestay/Camping for 1 night.

Bomdila: Guesthouse for 1 night.

Tezpur/Bhalukpong: Hotel for 1 night.

Food:

Breakfasts are included.

Lunches & Dinners are self-sponsored.

Most homestays at Tawang provide pre-set food for dinner or take orders as per menu.

How much you have to spend for good food?

200 – 250 per meal

Misc. info:

Batch size: 3 to 12

Trip guide included for Tempo. Not for smaller vehicles.

Trek Difficulty: No trekking

Max altitude: BumLa pass at 15,200 feet above Sea level

Climate:

Very cold at Tawang

Cold at Dirang, Bomdila

Warm at Tezpur/Bhalukpong

What’s next after booking your trip:

Organizers will get in touch with you, or vice versa. After the confirmation, you may book your flights up and down.

A Whatsapp group will be created for all the registered folks 5 days before the event

You may discuss many things in the group and get prepared for the trip

Special Notes:

Expect seasonal variations and unpredictable weather in Arunachal depending on the month we are travelling

Travelers are expected to come with an open heart by appreciating the complexities of mother nature based on seasonal variations, monthly or even daily weather conditions.

There is no luxury involved in any part of this trip. This is a backpacking trip with basic facilities.

Seasonal Variations:

Mid Mar to June: Summers are pleasant in Tawang which pull tourists in good numbers.

Jul to mid Sept (monsoons): The rains hit the eastern Himalayas starting from mid June. Journey would be tough during this time. We usually avoid traveling to Arunachal in these months.

Mid Sept to Nov (Post monsoon): Another good season to travel before extreme winter sets in. One can expect high tourist footfall in these months.

Dec to mid Mar: Temperatures will drop below 0 degrees towards the end of the year with the onset of snow fall covering the entire valley. It will be very difficult to travel and important roads will be closed by Indian Army.

Things to Carry

Things to pack for Tawang Trip:

Toiletries, moisturizer, light towel, lip balm, wet wipes, toothbrush, toothpaste etc.

A lightweight large Backpack for the entire trip (50-60 liters). Strictly no trolleys. Remember this is a Backpacking trip.

A small backpack for basic items (to carry valuables, water bottle, snacks, etc. for outdoor activities).

Photo identity proof with address (Aadhar/Passport/Voter ID).

2 Passport size color photographs (important for permit).

Thermal inners and warm clothes (cold climate).

A rainproof jacket with a hood (to protect from cold winds, sudden rain).

Thick socks, track pants, full sleeve t-shirts (to keep your body warm).

Cap/Hat/Sunglasses (to protect from harmful sun rays).

Sunscreen (SPF 50 or more).

Power bank, charger, camera, binoculars (if you wish to).

Hand sanitizer and liquid hand wash for outdoors.

Proper water bottle for your trip. You may fill at our stays.

Disposable garbage covers (to separate used/unused clothes).

Water-resistant good grip shoes for travel, extra slippers to use at stays.

Personal medications, any drugs that you may feel necessary (remember ghat roads, cold climate), basic first aid kit.

No need to carry snacks/chocolates. You may buy at local shops to support local people in Arunachal Pradesh.

COVID Safety & Guidelines

Double dose vaccination of COVID-19 or RTPCR Test report of COVID-19 less than 72 hours is mandatory for all participants.

General FAQs

What is Partial Payment? If partial payment is done, how to pay the remaining amount?

Partial payment is an advance paid to block your slot for a particular event. Remaining amount of the event to be paid online/cash on the day of the trip.

What kind of transport will be arranged by Monks on Wheels?

Monks on Wheels will be arranging an Non – AC tempo traveller or a mini bus depending on the group size.

From where will the transportation be arranged?

The transport will be arranged from Bengaluru.

After booking a trip, when will I receive further updates?

Our trips would get confirmed 2-3 days before the event date and you’ll be added to the trip’s WhatsApp group where you’ll receive further necessary information.

Where should we join, in case we are coming by our own transport arrangements?

Once your registration is confirmed, Monks on Wheels shall provide the exact location of our venue 2-3 days before the event.

Is there any age limit for Monks on Wheels’ trips?

Monks on Wheels do not restrict on the age as each individual has their own capabilities. But we would strongly recommend you to contact us so that our travel expert can give you a better idea of the trip.

What kind of events are these?

These are group events open to all categories of people.

How safe is it for women travelers?

Yes, It is completely safe for women travelers. Monks on Wheels events are done keeping certain standards and safety measures. We will always send a minimum of two trip organizers for all our events. For better understanding on how we manage trips, read these reviews by our solo women travelers.

Review link: https://www.facebook.com/pg/Monksonwheels/reviews/

What is the ratio of Men & Women in your events?

Monks on Wheels usually have more women travelers joining our trips. However, sometimes the ratio will be almost equal.

Do you have women trek organizers in Monks on Wheels?

Yes, Monks on Wheels has women trek leads.

What type of venue will it be for the overnight stay? Whether accommodation will be separate for men and women?

Monks on Wheels keeps certain quality standards where we provide venues like home stays or campsites that are good and hygienic with neat and clean washrooms. And yes, we always provide separate accommodation for men and women.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

For cancellation done by the customer: 1. 80% refund if a cancellation request is sent 30 days before the trip start date. 2. 50% refund if a cancellation request is sent between 30 to 15 days before the trip start date. 3. An email has to be sent to vida.b2b@gmail.com to raise a cancellation request. 4. No refund within 15 days of the event start time whatever is the reason (Health, COVID, Accident, Family crisis, Office issue, or anything else). 5. No refund during/after the event. 6. No refund on the partial payment (advance) done to block your seat for the trip. For cancellation due external forces: Monks on Wheels may have to cancel the event in case of external factors that are beyond our control like Natural Disasters, Extreme Weather Conditions, Red Alerts, Political Disturbances, Bandh/Curfews, Local Issues, Road Blocks, Train cancellations, Covid-19 or any other disease outbreaks etc. In these scenarios: 1. No Refund is allowed. 2. 100% trip amount can be used for any other new trip of the same weekend or future weekends. The difference amount will be collected from you or paid back according to the new trip cost. 3. Once you confirm your participation on the new trip, all the above Cancellation policies will apply for the same.