Day 20: Tawang – A Walk in the Clouds

Enclosed in the misty embrace of the clouds Tawang lies nestled amidst the hills of eastern Himalayas in the North Eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh in India. Irrespective of its political and geographical boundaries, Tawang is a unique creation of the Supreme Being.

Tawang is inhabited primarily by the Monpa tribe, who can trace their roots to their Mongoloid fore fathers. The traditions and culture practiced by these tribesmen are so unique that the place has been donned with a distinct characteristic typical to itself. This makes it all the more fascinating for travel.

No matter which route you choose, in Tawang, the destination is all that matters. Nevetheless, the elegant Sals of the Nameri National park, the majestic Kameng river, the frothy waters of the Jung falls, the snow cloaked rugged mountain terrain and of course the half frozen waters of the Sela lake glistening in the scorching sun that fall en route do make a memorable trip upto Tawang.

Tawang is dotted with some of the most beautiful lakes. The sparkling waters of the icy lakes are like little sparks of life in the otherwise arid landscape. Pankang Teng Tso (P.T. Tso) lake, the Sangetser Lake and the Banggachang Lake are few of the most popular lakes in the area.

The Tawang Monastery is one of the most popular tourist spots. Built in the 17^th century it is one of the largest Lamaseries belonging to the Mahayana sect. Perched at a height of 3,300 mts it is one of the most magnificent structures towering above the Tawang town. It houses the Parkhang library which holds the 400 year old Kangyur scriptures along with several other valuable manuscripts. The monastery is also known in Tibetan as Galden Namgey Lhatse, which means a ‘celestial paradise in a clear night.’

Tawang is a place which breeds dreams. You can hold discourses with nature, introspect and in the process rediscover yourself all over again. A visit to this glorious place is definitely in my plans.