Mystic Monasteries & Mountains of Arunachal 8 Nights / 9 Days

Arrive at Guwahati Airport or Railway Station and meet your tour guide. Begin your road trip to Bhalukpong, the beautiful border town between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Enjoy the views of tea gardens, forests, and the Brahmaputra River along the way. Upon reaching Bhalukpong, check into your hotel and relax after the long journey. In the evening, explore the local market or visit the Tipi Orchid Centre, known for its exquisite orchid varieties. The soothing sound of the Kameng River nearby sets the perfect mood for your first night in the hills. Overnight stay at Bhalukpong.;

After breakfast, head towards Dirang, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Eastern Himalayas. En route, stop at the famous Sessa Orchid Sanctuary and enjoy the views of cascading waterfalls. As you approach Dirang, the scenery turns magical with apple orchards, monasteries, and mist-covered mountains. Visit the Dirang Dzong, an ancient fort offering a glimpse into the town’s historical roots, and the beautiful Kalachakra Gompa, known for its peaceful ambiance. Check in at your hotel or cozy homestay. In the evening, enjoy a cup of local tea while soaking in the sunset views over the valley. Overnight stay at Dirang.;

Wake up early and drive toward Tawang, one of the most enchanting towns in Arunachal Pradesh. The route passes through the majestic Sela Pass (13,700 ft), one of the highest motorable roads in India. Stop at Sela Lake — a turquoise-blue wonder surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Continue to Jaswant Garh War Memorial, dedicated to the brave soldier Jaswant Singh Rawat. On arrival in Tawang, check into your hotel and unwind. In the evening, stroll around the local market or enjoy momos and thukpa at a traditional café. Overnight stay at Tawang.;

After breakfast, explore the mesmerizing beauty and spirituality of Tawang. Visit the iconic Tawang Monastery — the largest in India and a 400-year-old seat of Mahayana Buddhism. Later, head to Urgelling Monastery, the birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama. Continue to the Giant Buddha Statue, offering panoramic views of the valley. Visit the Tawang War Memorial, a tribute to soldiers who fought in the 1962 Indo-China war. Evening at leisure — enjoy shopping for Tibetan artifacts or local handicrafts in Tawang’s colorful bazaar. Overnight stay at Tawang.;

Start early for a thrilling excursion to Bumla Pass, located at the Indo-China border (subject to permit). The snow-covered landscapes and patriotic atmosphere here are truly awe-inspiring. On your way back, stop at the stunning Sangetsar Lake, popularly known as Madhuri Lake after the Bollywood movie Koyla. The reflection of dead tree trunks in the icy blue water makes it a surreal sight. Visit PTSO Lake — a tranquil high-altitude lake surrounded by majestic peaks. Return to Tawang by evening. Dinner and overnight stay in Tawang.;

Today, travel to Zemithang, a serene and less-explored village near the Bhutan border. The drive offers spectacular views of terraced fields, pine forests, and small hamlets. Visit the Gorsam Chorten, one of the largest stupas in Arunachal Pradesh, modeled after Nepal’s Boudhanath Stupa. Interact with the Monpa tribe, known for their warm hospitality and traditional crafts. Capture the essence of rural Himalayan life as you stroll through the village. Return to Tawang in the evening. Overnight stay at Tawang.;

After breakfast, check out and head toward Bomdila. Stop again at Sela Pass to admire its beauty from a different perspective. En route, enjoy tea at a roadside stall with mountain views. Upon reaching Bomdila, visit the Bomdila Monastery and the local craft center displaying handmade carpets and thangkas. The town offers stunning views of snow-clad Himalayan ranges. Spend your evening at leisure, perhaps exploring the local market or enjoying a peaceful sunset. Overnight stay at Bomdila.;

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Guwahati Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey. Carry home the fragrance of orchids, the sound of prayer wheels, and the warmth of Arunachal’s people. Though the journey ends, the whispers of the Himalayas and the flutter of prayer flags stay in your heart forever — a reminder that some adventures never truly end.;