This blog is in continuation of: Falling in love with Anini- A Stunning Remote Haven in Arunachal Pradesh
After exploring the untouched beauty of Anini, we shifted gears and embarked on the second leg of our journey to Tawang. If Anini was about solitude and wilderness, Tawang promised history, spirituality, and snow-covered landscapes.
Best Route for Guwahati to Tawang Road Trip
There are two routes from Guwahati to Tawang. We recommend taking the route via Tezpur, Bhalukpong, Bomdila, and Sela Pass on your way to Tawang. At Bhalukpong, you’ll need to get your ILP checked. This route is well-traveled and offers convenient stops along the way.
For our return journey, we followed the alternate route via Kalaktang and Rupa. While this route is incredibly scenic, it is quite secluded, with fewer amenities and little traffic.
Day 5
We woke up around 9 am in Jorhat, still feeling tired and weak from the long journey. Animesh encouraged me to freshen up, and we set off for Dirang! The drive from Jorhat to Dirang via Kaziranga was beautiful. The charm of a road tri-seeing the sunset over the Brahmaputra River, spotting a one-horned rhino for free, passing through paddy fields, tea estates, and taking in the breathtaking landscapes.
Along the way, we found so many local handcrafted souvenir shops, and we made sure to support the artisans by picking up a few items. We also tried some local sweets- Kalakand, Khaza, and Ghujiya from small shops. It felt like the perfect experience, full of local flavors.
But the journey to Dirang wasn’t easy. We drove through dense fog, feeling like we were in the middle of nowhere. Our eyes were sore from the effort, and honestly, we were losing focus, but we were determined to reach the hotel. We finally arrived around 10:30 pm and checked in.
The caretaker was incredibly sweet and had arranged a simple meal for us in our room-dal chawal and aloo sabzi. It was comforting food by the riverside, just what we needed after a long day. We exchanged some thoughts, and after such an eventful day, we fell asleep peacefully.
Day 6
And it’s my birthday today! 🎂 Woke up at 6:20 am, got dressed, and we set off for Sela Pass. The cold was really starting to bite as we moved higher up, minus 2°C! Yes, you read that right! As we neared Sela Pass, snow sightings started, and it felt like stepping into a completely different world—everything was blanketed in snow ❄️. My sore eyes found peace in this serene landscape, and I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect birthday gift.
We had to stop 700 meters before the pass because some cars were stuck in the snow, but it didn’t stop me from soaking in the beauty. What I learned today? Manifestation works! I wished for snow on my birthday, and here it was, filling my heart with joy ♥️. Then, we reached Sela Pass, and I was left in awe.
I’ve never seen anything so beautiful-so much that I was overwhelmed, overjoyed, and yes, even teary-eyed. We played in the snow, screamed in excitement, and just lived the moment. It was a birthday I’ll never forget.
After a long while, we left for Vivanta Tawang, and we arrived around 4 pm. What a warm welcome! Everyone wished me a happy birthday, and I was blushing, elated- this has never happened before. The place was stunning, every corner was more beautiful than the last. The staff were so courteous, friendly, and made us feel right at home. Our room was decorated with flowers and a cake- such thoughtful gestures! Everything felt personalized just for us.
After freshening up, we were in for a surprise: a wonderful birthday cake and a beautiful platter. We cut the cake, clicked some pictures, and then went down to explore the property. We met Mr. Sandeep, the GM, who shared some fascinating insights about the place, including the replica of the Potala Palace, the birthplace of Dalai Lama, at the entrance.
He also told us about their upcoming New Year celebration, Losar, which begins on 10th February, and how they’ve decorated the place and made offerings to Lord Buddha. It was truly the best time of our lives-insightful, joyful, and filled with love.
Day 7
What a bright, sunny morning! We had an amazing breakfast with a stunning view, and once again, we met Sandeep, who wished we could stay longer. Honestly, we did too, but due to government regulations, extending our stay by three more days wasn’t possible. We had to cancel our visit to Bumla Pass, which was a tough decision, but we understood. As we checked out, everyone chatted with us, and we ended up taking a group photo that will always hold a special place in my heart.
Next, we headed to Tawang Monastery, and I was absolutely stunned. The beauty of the place left me speechless! We met and interacted with the monks, and the little kids smiled at us- such a peaceful and heartwarming experience. We also visited the museum, which was filled with so much history and emotion. It was incredible to see 300-year-old artifacts preserved so well.
After making so many beautiful memories, we headed towards Dirang. We crossed Sela Pass around 5:15 pm, and it was even more breathtaking than before! I can never get enough of those views. The landscapes were so stunning that I just wanted to stop and gaze at them forever. Our hearts were full as we neared Dirang, but unfortunately, the day didn’t end on a high note.
By 7 pm, as we were trying to find our hotel, we realized we had been scammed! It was a panic situation. Thankfully, we quickly found a decent place to stay at Hotel Rigel. Although we were upset by the ordeal, we were grateful to have a safe and comfortable place to rest. We had a delicious meal of egg curry, dal fry, and rice, and after a long day, we went to bed, feeling relieved. The staff here was really nice, and that brought some comfort to the situation.
Day 8
The next day greeted us with a bright, sunny morning-a perfect start to a slow and relaxing day. After a leisurely breakfast, we decided to visit Mandala Top and the Dirang Monastery. It also happened to be Losar, the Tibetan New Year, and the festive spirit was all around. We saw locals cleaning their cars and homes, dressed in traditional attire, and celebrating with joy. The drive to Mandala Top was picturesque, passing by adorable little houses nestled in the hills.
After about an hour, we arrived, and all I could say was wow. Mandala Top was completely covered in snow, and the landscape was a vibrant mix of colors. The place felt quaint and sacred, and we spent a lot of time soaking in the beauty. The prayer flags fluttered everywhere, adding a serene touch to the atmosphere. It was an experience I’ll always treasure.
We then made our way to the Dirang Monastery. On the way, we met two little girls who exchanged Losar wishes with us-such a sweet moment. And then, we arrived at the most beautiful monastery I have ever visited. The locals, dressed in the traditional attire of the Monpa Tribe, looked stunning. Inside, we offered prayers in the serene prayer room. Every corner of the monastery exuded peace and beauty.
We were also fortunate enough to visit His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s Room. The room was simple, calm, and filled with knowledge- a true reflection of the peace that defines the Dalai Lama’s teachings. Outside, little monks played cheerfully, adding to the magical vibe of the place.
I also had the chance to meet and photograph local girls dressed in traditional Shinga, capturing the vibrant cultural essence of Losar. On top of that, we met two adorable munchkins, classmates enjoying their school holidays.
After a fulfilling day, we headed back to our hotel to rest and recharge. As the sun began to set, we enjoyed a relaxing sundowner on our room’s balcony. Later, we had dinner, reflecting on the wonderful memories made here, as we prepared to head back to Delhi the next day.
Day 9
The day began early as we woke up at 5 AM, still enveloped in darkness. By 6 AM, we were ready and on our way to the airport. As we drove, the sun began to rise, painting a picture-perfect scene that felt straight out of a childhood drawing-mountains in the background, a flowing river in front, and the golden hues of dawn. The roads were surrounded by majestic mountains, and there was a delightful nip in the air.
The journey towards Guwahati, via Rupa, unfolded a kaleidoscope of landscapes. Every turn revealed a new kind of gorgeousness, with colorful prayer flags lining the roads. We even stumbled upon a cascading waterfall and gave our car a free wash- nature’s touch of humor!
As we got closer to Guwahati, a surprise awaited us. We spotted the Bhutan border, Bhutanese cars, and even locals from the neighbouring country. It was a surreal moment, being so close to another country. It sparked a new travel idea-visiting Bhutan through a road trip someday!
Driving along NH 715 A was a pleasure, with clean roads bordered by lush palm trees. It was a refreshing end to our adventure, a reminder that the journey is just as beautiful as the destination.
Ah! This journey wasn’t just about exploring places; it was about connecting with nature, people, and ourselves.
While Tawang marked the end of this road trip, the journey through Northeast India felt like the beginning of a love story with the region.
Travel teaches you in ways nothing else can- it humbles you, excites you, and sometimes leaves you speechless. This trip has left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we’re already dreaming of the day we return.
What about you? Have you ever been on a journey that changed the way you see the world?
I’d love to hear your stories, so please share them in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to keep exploring!
