Sela Pass is the highest motorable mountain pass in the Tawang region of Arunachal Pradesh. Situated at 13,700 feet above sea level, this Pass connects Tawang City and the rest of India. Sela Pass is well-known for its legendary history, high terrains, and lush valleys. An exciting feature of the pass in Tawang is that it is home to about 101 lakes, including the Sela Lake around the pass which further enhances the beauty and allure of the place. Known as the Land of Dawn Lit Mountains and located in North-East India, Arunachal Pradesh has many beautiful tourist destinations. The state is famous for its misty mountains, tranquil lakes, monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes.
Overview
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One of nature’s most beautiful gifts is the Sela Pass in the Tawang region of Arunachal Pradesh. It serves as the state’s lifeline as it is the only pass connecting the Tawang district to the rest of the Indian Subcontinent. Besides its geographical importance, the Pass attracts tourists worldwide due to its striking beauty and enchanting charm. The pass also paves the way to the Tawang City of Arunachal Pradesh, dotted with some of the most impressive tourist spots and offers a surreal experience for tourists.
Due to its proximity to the Himalayan mountains, the rocky Pass is mostly covered in snow. Cold temperatures and a pleasant aura offer an exotic view of the majestic Himalayan peaks in India. Set at an altitude of 4179 meters; the Sela Pass is a gateway to the iconic tourist destinations in Arunachal Pradesh and the Beautiful city of Tawang, which lies 80 km from the pass.
Must Read: Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh
History Of Sela Pass
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The majestic Sela Pass in the Tawang region of Arunachal Pradesh is also associated with a legendary story. According to the legend, Jaswant Singh Rawat, An Indian soldier, fought bravely and alone with the Chinese army at the pass during the Sino-Indian War in 1962. A tribal woman named Sela usually brought him food and water. She killed herself after seeing the mutilated body of the soldier. Jaswant Singh Rawat was later posthumously awarded the Maha Vir Chakra. Thus, the mountain pass got its name as the Sela Pass.
The Indian Army manages and controls Sela Pass. Because it is a sensitive area, tourists need permission from the Inner Line Permit to pass through it in Arunachal Pradesh. Foreign tourists must also gain a Protected Area Permit to visit the Pass and the Tawang region in Arunachal Pradesh.
Local Experiences in Arunachal Pradesh
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The charming beauty of this pass in Arunachal Pradesh is also home to one of Arunachal’s most beautiful and serene lakes, the Sela Lake. Being at Sela Pass and gazing at the Sela Lake proves to be an enthralling experience for tourists in Tawang. The mostly frozen Sela Lake is called Paradise Lake due to its allure and appeal.
The snow-clad mountains and tall Pine trees lining the pass provide nature lovers and adventure seekers with an aesthetically pleasing vision. Tourists cannot stay here without being mesmerized and enchanted by the splendour of the Sela Pass, which also provides some of the most stunning and picturesque views of the mighty Himalayas in Arunachal Pradesh. Another reason to visit the pass is to discover the Tibetan town of Tawang, famous for its Buddhist monasteries, namely the Tawang Monastery, the largest in India and the second largest in Asia. The quiet and undisturbed surroundings, peaceful atmosphere, natural beauty, and exotic cuisines of the Buddhist Town of Tawang and the pass allow tourists to spend some leisure time away from the dazzling streets and bustling cities.
Timings and Tips
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Sela Pass is open 24 hours a day and has no entry fee. However, check the calendars before you visit, as it could be closed temporarily due to landslides or heavy snow. The best months to visit Sela Pass are October, November, March, April, and May. Imagine snow-covered mountains, forests, and frozen lakes. The temperature can range between 20 and 5 degrees Celsius. Carrying warm clothes is advisable.
Further Read: Things To Do In Arunachal Pradesh
Now that you have a complete guide to the famous tourist destination and the highest mountain pass in Arunachal Pradesh, Sela Pass, make sure you plan your next trip to Arunachal Pradesh to enjoy a unique blend of beauty and tranquillity in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Enjoy the allure of this secluded yet stunning mountain pass, that connects Tawang city to the rest of India and offers a glimpse of the snow-covered Himalayan peaks, tall pine trees, and the surreal Sela Lake. Hurry up, plan your trip now.
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Cover Image Credit: Herpking for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Sela Pass:
Which is the nearest airport to Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh?
The nearest airport to Sela Pass, India is the Salonibari Airport in Tejpur, Assam located at a distance of 143 km. Tourists can take a bus or hire private cabs from the airport to get to this pass, which will take about 10-12 hours from the airport. Another nearby airport is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, 166 km from Tawang.
How to reach Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh, India?
By Train- Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh has no railway station. The nearest railway station is at Tejpur, from where you need to take a bus or a taxi for Sela Pass. By road- To reach Tawang, start from Guwahati or Tejpur in Assam, and take a bus or taxi, both will take about 10-12 hours, covering a distance of 320 km to reach Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh.
Which is the best time to visit Sela Pass in India?
Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh is open to tourists throughout the year. The best time to visit Sela Pass in India is between October to May when the weather is pleasant and There is less chance of the roads being covered in snow in Arunachal Pradesh. Avoid visiting during the Monsoon season from July to September as there are chances of heavy rainfalls and the visibility is also low.
What are some nearby sightseeing places near Sela Pass in India?
Some nearby sightseeing destinations include Tawang Monastery, Madhuri Lake, Nuranang Falls, Tawang War Memorial, Gorichen Peak, Penga Teng Tso Lake, Jaswant Garh War Memorial, and more.
What are some budget-friendly and comfortable hotels and accommodations near Sela Pass, Arunachal Pradesh?
Some of the exotic resorts and budget-friendly hotels for a pleasant and comfortable vacation experience for tourists are: Tseten Homestay, HOTEL Mon Valley, Hotel Pinewood Tawang, The Himalayan Nest, Vamoose Buddha Hotel Tawang.
How many days are required for proper sightseeing in Arunachal Pradesh, India?
Sela Pass In Arunachal Pradesh, India requires approximately 1-2 days for proper sightseeing. Other nearby attractions near Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh can be covered in another 2-3 days. A vast state like Arunachal Pradesh, famous for its exceptionally unique diversity, culture, and heritage, requires a tour of 7-10 days for proper hassle-free sightseeing and tour excursions.
What are the entry fees at Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh, India?
Tourists have to pay no entry fee to explore the beauty of the highest mountain Pass in Tawang.
Is Sela Pass in Arunachal Pradesh worth visiting?
Yes, while planning a trip to explore the beautiful state of Arunachal Pradesh, make sure you add Sela Pass and Tawang City to your bucket list. The exceptionally beautiful mountain pass is the only link between Tawang and India. The Pass is also the way to the Tibetan city of Tawang, famous for its Buddhist Monastries and heavenly aura.
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