Sela Pass - The High-Altitude Gateway to Tawang

Tawang, Arunachal PradeshNATURE

A high-altitude mountain pass at 13,700 feet, featuring the beautiful Sela Lake and offering dramatic Himalayan views on the way to Tawang.

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NATURE

Info

1 hour

Accessibility

Not Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

Sela Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located at an elevation of approximately 13,700 feet (4,170 meters) on the road to Tawang. It acts as the primary connecting route between the Tawang district and the rest of India. The journey through the pass is characterized by winding roads and dramatic changes in landscape, moving from green valleys to a stark, alpine environment. The main attraction at the summit is the stunning Sela Lake, which often remains frozen during the winter months, creating a spectacular icy vista. The area is typically cold and windy throughout the year, with snow present for a significant part of the year, even during early summer. Visitors experience panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped Himalayan peaks on clear days. The pass is not just a transit point but a destination in itself, where travelers stop to admire the raw natural beauty, the colorful Buddhist prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the serene atmosphere of the high Himalayas.

Why This Place is Special

• Altitude of 13,700 feet (4,170 meters)
• The scenic and often-frozen Sela Lake
• Strategic gateway to Tawang district
• Connection to the 1962 Sino-Indian War
• Year-round cold weather and frequent snowfall
• Panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayan peaks
• Fluttering Buddhist prayer flags creating a spiritual ambiance

Ideal For

Adventure seekersPhotographersNature loversCouplesSolo travelersGroups

Facilities & Amenities

• Roadside parking
• Food stalls
• Seating areas
• Souvenir shops

Visitor Tips

• Acclimatize properly in Dirang or Bomdila for a day to avoid Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).
• Visit between 10 AM and 2 PM when the sun is brightest and temperatures are slightly higher.
• Carry heavy woolens, thermal wear, waterproof jacket, gloves, and a cap, regardless of the season.
• Spend no more than 30-60 minutes at the pass to minimize the effects of the high altitude.
• Keep camera batteries close to your body or carry spares, as cold weather drains them quickly.
• Before starting your journey, always check the current road status with local authorities, especially from December to March.
• Carry a flask with a hot beverage like tea or coffee, along with some light snacks, as facilities are limited.
• Travel in a sturdy vehicle like an SUV with an experienced local driver who is familiar with the terrain.

Rules & Restrictions

• Photography and videography of army camps, personnel, and military installations are strictly prohibited.
• Do not litter
• carry your trash back with you to maintain the pristine environment.
• Do not venture off the main road into unmarked snowy areas.
• Flying drones is not permitted without prior official permission.

Safety Information

• The primary health concern is Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Acclimatize well and do not exert yourself at the pass.
• Roads can be slippery due to ice and snow, especially in winter. Ensure your vehicle has a skilled driver.
• Carry essential medications, a basic first-aid kit, and any personal medicines you may need.
• There is limited to no mobile network coverage at the pass. Inform your family or hotel of your travel plans beforehand.
• Stay hydrated by sipping water frequently, but avoid alcohol and smoking which can worsen altitude sickness.
• Be aware of changing weather conditions
• a sunny day can turn into a blizzard quickly.
• Do not get too close to the edge of the lake, especially when it is frozen, as the ice thickness can be deceptive.

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Location & Address

Bomdila-Tawang Highway, West Kameng & Tawang District Border, Sela Pass, Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India

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Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sela Pass is from April to May and from October to November. During these months, the weather is relatively stable, with clear skies offering excellent views of the Himalayas. The roads are generally open and accessible. Winter, from December to March, sees heavy snowfall which can lead to road closures, although the landscape is exceptionally beautiful. The monsoon season, from July to September, should be avoided due to heavy rains, fog, and the risk of landslides.
Peak Crowd: May-June and October-November, coinciding with the main tourist seasons for Tawang.
Moderate Crowd: March-April, when the winter snow begins to recede.
Low Crowd: July-September due to monsoon and landslides, and December-February due to extreme cold and potential road closures.

How to Reach

Air

The closest operational airport for tourists is Tezpur Airport (TEZ) in Assam, around 325 km away (10-12 hours drive). The larger, better-connected airport is Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) in Guwahati, 480 km away (14-16 hours drive).

Train

The nearest major railway station is Rangapara North Railway Station (RPAN) in Assam, about 315 km from the pass. Guwahati Railway Station (GHY) offers much better connectivity to the rest of India and is about 475 km away.

Road

Sela Pass lies on National Highway 13 (NH-13), connecting Tawang with Bomdila and Tezpur. The journey requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian tourists. Most visitors hire a private SUV from Tezpur or Guwahati for the multi-day trip to Tawang.

Local Transport

There is no local transport at the pass itself. Transport to the pass consists of hired private vehicles or shared jeeps that travel between towns like Dirang and Tawang. Hiring a dedicated vehicle allows for the flexibility to stop and appreciate the scenery.

Food & Dining

Nearby restaurants near Sela Pass

No restaurants found nearby